(Los Angeles, CA.) (February 6, 2025)- In a high-stakes personal injury case involving multiple alleged defendants and complex discovery battles, the legal team at Wood Smith Henning & Berman, led by partner Keith Smith, secured a decisive resolution in favor of the client on the footsteps of the courthouse just prior to the commencement of trial. The defense successfully dismantled the plaintiff's claim resolving the original $1.5 million claim to a settlement of only $50,000, and less than a previously issued 998 offer to compromise in the case.
The case stemmed from a car accident in which the plaintiff, a passenger, alleged negligence against several parties, including the car's owner and father, who was falsely accused of driving the vehicle. Despite repeated policy limit demands by the plaintiff, the defense's strategic approach to discovery, expert witness depositions, and motions in limine, revealed critical weaknesses in the plaintiff's case.
"Our relentless pursuit of the truth, challenging plaintiff's medical causation arguments, plaintiff's changing story of the incident, and commitment to uncovering the facts ultimately exposed the flaws in the plaintiff's allegations," said Smith. "This case reinforces the importance of rigorous preparation and digging into the details on behalf of the client, and being willing to take difficult cases to trial."
Throughout the case, the defense team successfully filed multiple motions to compel discovery, leading to sanctions against the plaintiff. They also demonstrated that the plaintiff's verified discovery responses were false, resulting in the dismissal of one defendant and a $13,000 judgment against the plaintiff for costs. Furthermore, the defense secured key rulings excluding the testimony of three of the plaintiff's expert witnesses, including their accident reconstructionist, medical billing expert, and lead orthopedic surgeon.
"By systematically challenging the credibility of the plaintiff's claims and exposing procedural missteps, we were able to protect our client's interests and achieve a favorable outcome," added Smith. "This resolution underscores the value of meticulous litigation strategy and determination in the face of aggressive demands and discovery abuse."
On the first day of trial, following a series of favorable rulings on motions in limine, the plaintiff's counsel sought to revisit an earlier defense 998 offer to compromise of $85,000. However, the defense stood firm, resulting in a final settlement of $50,000, with the plaintiff required to pay previously imposed sanctions before receiving the settlement payment.
Wood Smith Henning & Berman: Your Trusted Partner
Experience the power of a proven industry leader in the law. Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is renowned globally for our exceptional trial results and expertise in handling complex litigation. With our nationwide network of over 500 lawyers across 42 office locations, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive litigation and counsel to both public and private companies. From start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations, we deliver unrivaled legal representation that consistently achieves favorable outcomes for our clients.
At WSHB, our strength lies in our diverse and accomplished team of attorneys. We boast thought leaders and defense specialists in over 41 fields of practice, covering an extensive range of specialties. Founded in 1997, we are proud to be among the top ten law firms in the nation for diversity, female partners, female lawyers, and Hispanic lawyers. This rich tapestry of diversity forms the foundation of our success when presenting cases to juries of our peers, ensuring we understand the unique nuances underlying each claim.
Our expansive geographic footprint allows us to provide effective and efficient representation to clients nationwide, regardless of their location, background, or legal expertise. By prioritizing strategic and cost-effective approaches to litigation, our dedicated attorneys work tirelessly to protect the interests of our clients. We have a track record of success, securing numerous victories such as summary judgments and defense verdicts on behalf of our clients. As a trial firm, we have taken over 2,000 cases to verdict, making us well-equipped to handle even the most complex and high-stakes litigation matters across the country.