Although each case is given individual attention and the unique approach it requires, here are a few recent representative litigation cases our firm has handled.

• Rhyne v Mart Corporation Our client was falsely accused of shoplifting and physically assaulted by security guards, resulting in warrants sworn against our client. We defended our client against the criminal charges and got them dismissed. We pursued civil lawsuit as remedy for malicious prosecution, abuse of process, and emotional distress. Once the jury found K-Mart responsible, we then tried the case for damages. When the corporation expressed no remorse and stated they would not change the actions if the situation occurred again, the jury awarded our client $23 million.  The trial lasted 5 weeks and went to the court of appeals challenging the punitive damages cap.  This case has since been cited and studied and referenced in recent punitive damages cases.

• Cowell v Gaston County Our client secured a mortgage to build a home. The general contractor failed the first inspection- the foundation. Rather than curing the defect and calling for re-inspection, the contractor proceeded with the build. The bank kept approving the loan increments, and the county kept passing all other inspections.  When the house was finally finished, it would not pass its final inspection and the client could not get a certificate of occupancy, leaving them with a house (and a mortgage) that they could not live in. It took 2 trips to the Court of Appeals, 3 attempts to pick a jury, and almost 6 years before a jury sided with our client.  The trial itself took 2 weeks.

• Varney v Novant Wrongful termination case against a major medical corporation, resulting in a settlement agreeable to our client.