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Personal Injury
Premises Liability
Dangerous Condition of Public Property

Arturo Patino v. Los Angeles Unified School District

Published: Jan. 11, 2005 | Result Date: Sep. 13, 2004 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: BC293715 Bench Decision –  $0

Judge

Alan G. Buckner

Court

L.A. Superior Central


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Ramin R. Younessi
(The Law Offices of Ramin R. Younessi)


Defendant

Gary A. Bacio
(Bacio & Associates)


Facts

In April 2002, plaintiff Arturo Patino, age 14, left a class at Wilson High School in Los Angeles to splash water on his face because he had a headache. He claimed that in order to get to a sink, he had to climb a 7.5 foot chain link fence. When he got to the top, he jumped off the fence instead of climbing down. The tip of his right middle finger got caught in the fence and was severed at the knuckle.

Settlement Discussions

The plaintiff demanded $5,000 after opening statements. The defendant's offer was $5,000, withdrawn when voir dire began.

Damages

The plaintiff sought damages for future loss of earning capacity.

Injuries

The plaintiff's fingertip could not be reattached, and he required appropriate treatment. He sought medical expenses damages of $6,000. He claimed the loss of his fingertip made him self-conscious and caused him psychological injuries. The plaintiff also sought damages for pain and suffering.

Result

The case was dismissed as a nonsuit on the first day of trial.


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