Facts

Ruth McClamma Stueve and the heirs to the Alta-Dena dairy empire filed suit against attorney Raymond Novell and his firm, Novell & Associates, in relation to the representation of the family's estate planning.

PLAINTIFFS' CONTENTIONS: Plaintiffs alleged that defendants engaged in various forms of misconduct relating to plaintiffs' estate plan resulting in damages in the range of over $150 million. Plaintiffs also alleged a violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act by defendants.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS: Defendants alleged that they were guilty of no wrongdoing and that the estate plan was created several years before the defendants represented the plaintiffs.

Settlement Discussions

Plaintiff sought 150 million in damages, as well as punitive damages, and treble damages.

Result

Jury verdict in favor of defendants.

Deliberation

two days

Length

16 days