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CONFIDENTIAL

Jan. 9, 2001

Torts
Fraud
Conversion

Confidential

Verdict –  $0

Judge

William G. Willett

Court

L.A. Superior Torrance


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Eric M. St. John


Defendant

Robert L. Waddell


Facts

According to the defendant: The plaintiff brought an action against the defendant based upon theories of fraud,
deceit and conversion regarding the birth of their child in 1989. The plaintiff contended that the defendant
raped him, stole his sperm and had it artificially implanted in her by use of assisted reproduction technology
thereby leading to the birth of their child.
The plaintiff claimed that he and defendant were casual friends who periodically slept together in the same bed
but did not have sexual intercourse at any time in the five years prior to the childÆs birth.
The defendant contended that she and plaintiff were lovers for 18 months preceding the birth of their child and
that the plaintiff was merely an unwilling and disgruntled father who had suffered multiple setbacks in family
court and was unwilling to accept the responsibilities of fatherhood.

Damages

The plaintiff claimed that he sustained damages of at least $60,000 for child support previously paid and additional $60,000 for attorney fees paid throughout the paternity proceedings.

Other Information

The defendantÆs nonsuit motion was granted as to the plaintiffÆs fraud cause of action and the matter went to the jury on the conversion cause of action only.

Deliberation

two hours

Poll

12-0

Length

three days


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