In a breach of contract case seeking $1.7 million in damages against an inspecting architect, Johnson & Bell Shareholder, Joseph B. Carini, III, secured a defense verdict in favor of his client. In this case, the plaintiffs, who were first-time developers, were converting a three-flat building into condominiums. The “gut rehab” was nearing completion in 2009 when the contractor left the job, and the project was never finished. Shortly thereafter, the development was foreclosed upon by the bank financing the project. The plaintiffs filed lawsuits against the general contractor and the inspecting architect, among others. The lawsuit against Mr. Carini’s client alleged that the inspecting architect approved payment for work that wasn’t done or was done defectively and that these approved payments led to the failure of the development project. Mr. Carini argued that the inspections were not performed for the plaintiffs’ benefit and that there was no breach of contract. In addition, Mr. Carini argued that the foreclosure was caused solely by plaintiffs’ conduct. After a three-week trial, the plaintiffs’ counsel asked the jury for $1.7 million from Mr. Carini’s client. The jury deliberated for 4 hours before returning a defense verdict.
Related Items of Interest:
Carini Secures Defense Verdict in Wrongful Death Case
About Johnson & Bell
Clients rely on Johnson & Bell to defend their interests in court. Since 1975, we have developed a reputation for providing legal counsel that accomplishes our clients’ business objectives. Building on a track record of success handling major catastrophic personal injury cases, Johnson & Bell continues to represent numerous clients across a broad array of business concerns. We work with clients to mediate, settle or litigate their business issues. In addition, our lawyers represent clients in a wide range of commercial transactions and commercial litigation in both State and Federal court, locally and throughout the country.
