Commercial Disputes

Example cases include:

Representation of a surety bond company in complex litigation against the company by one of its leading agents alleging damages in excess of $10 million. Case involved complex surety bond issues, contracts, and reinsurance, as well as the investigation of numerous underlying surety bond matters. Case settled during jury selection with a successful resolution after several days of hearings on motions in limine.

Representation through arbitration of an investment banking company in an alleged wrongful termination and breach of contract claim by a former officer. After motions in limine were ruled upon, both parties decided to waive jury trial and arbitrate the case. The arbitration ended successfully for our clients.

Defended bank at trial against claims for breach of fiduciary duty concerning a trust investment. The case involved a two-month-long bench trial, two appeals and a retrial following remand as to damages.

Defense of bank in federal class action litigation and 800 individual state court investor actions. Damages were alleged in excess of $200 million. Our client settled on favorable terms.

Representation of a tobacco manufacturer with respect to numerous actions. Our client successfully settled all cases.

Representation of museum in a case involving alleged stolen art work from a foreign country in the possession of a museum. Issues involved inquiry into the provenance and history of the painting, international relations with respect to the patrimony of the artwork, resolution of the matter both with the seller of the painting and with the governments of two countries.

Defended at trial a CPA at large public accountancy firm in class action litigation arising out of losses by numerous commercial real estate limited partnerships.

Defended company and officers in 6-week patent infringement jury trial in federal court.

Resolved civil fraud case against dealers of sports trading cards claimed to have tampered with graded trading cards.

Resolved dispute on behalf of corporation among family members over ownership of corporation.

Obtained judgment of dismissal in favor of manufacturer of coolant systems at San Onofre that was damaged in testing.

Dismissal obtained in favor of meat supplier to fast food vendor following outbreak of
e-coli poisoning.

Obtained dismissal of SDG&E director in class action litigation.

Defended a partner of Big Four accounting firm before the California Board of Accountancy and review before the California Supreme Court and Fourth District Court of Appeal.