WSHB, a leading litigation and trial law firm, is pleased to announce a significant win in a complex transportation case handled by the Michigan office. The litigation involved an unfortunate incident where a vehicle rented by a well-known national overnight delivery service was hit by the Plaintiff, resulting in a series of legal claims.
Plaintiff brought Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claims against multiple insurance carriers, negligence claims against the defendant driver, as well as vicarious liability claims including negligent supervision, negligent hiring/retention, owners' liability, and negligent entrustment against our esteemed client.
Taking a proactive approach, WSHB's legal team, led by partner Michael Spinazzola and senior associate Hass Merhi, strategically moved for summary disposition (Michigan's summary judgment) on behalf of our client. The motion argued several critical points, including that plaintiff's claims of vicarious liability and negligent entrustment were eliminated with minimal discovery. Furthermore, WSHB relied on the Graves Amendment, which precluded liability under the Owners' Liability Statute.
Noting the well-reasoned arguments, the Court granted WSHB's motion on all four counts with prejudice, acknowledging the strength of our arguments and the undeniable facts of the case.
“This victory is a testament to our relentless pursuit of justice and our innovative legal strategies accomplished by attacking unfounded legal theories as early as possible in the life of the case, " explained Michigan’s managing partner, Michael Spinazzola. "We are extremely pleased with the Court's decision, which validates our unwavering commitment to defending our clients' interests."
Senior associate Hass Merhi, responsible for skillfully presenting powerful oral arguments, added, "Our success in this case demonstrates the depth of expertise and dedication within the WSHB team. We are proud to have achieved a favorable result that protects our client's reputation and brings closure to this matter."
This ruling underscores the need to proactively pursue defenses early in discovery and establish key facts that can support summary disposition – usually reserved for ruling until after discovery is complete. WSHB successfully demonstrated to the Court that there was no issue of material fact and thus summary disposition was appropriate early, before extensive litigation costs were incurred.
This win brings the matter to a close for WSHB's client, solidifying their position as a trusted partner in the legal community.
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 almost 500 lawyers across 41 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 40 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.