Confidential
Settlement – $25,000Judge
Court
L.A. Superior Van Nuys
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Defendant
Experts
Plaintiff
James Craner
(medical)
Facts
The plaintiff purchased her residence in May 2000. Immediately afterwards, she developed skin
lesions, respiratory difficulties, joint pain and constant headaches. Her business fell off due to
repeated medical visits and fatigue. During construction work, a subfloor was removed revealing
black mold, later determined by the plaintiff to be stachybotris. Defendant V and Defendant I
examined the residence before the sale and found no mold. Defendant engineer had inspected
the residence after the plaintiff had become ill but had determined that nothing was wrong.
Settlement Discussions
The plaintiff demanded $400,000 from Defendant V at settlement. A settlement was reached with all parties except the sellers.
Specials in Evidence
Unspecified
Damages
The cost of remediation was in excess of $100,000 (sterilization of personal property and mold removal). The plaintiff contended she had loss of earnings in excess of $400,000, past and future medical expenses, and an increased susceptibility to cancer.
Other Information
Settlement with Defendant I was $8,500 and $25,000 with Defendant V.
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