Awards

Jury Awards $6.2 Million to Black SMUD Employees in Landmark Racial Discrimination Verdict

by

Sacramento, California — In a significant legal decision, four current and former Black employees of the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) were awarded a $6.2 million verdict by a jury. The case, centered on claims of racial discrimination, concluded after the plaintiffs provided compelling evidence that their employer had engaged in discriminatory practices impacting their careers. The plaintiffs, all of whom have either previously worked or are currently working for SMUD, detailed a work environment marred by racial bias. They alleged that this discrimination hindered their professional advancement and created a hostile working atmosphere. The … Read more

Court Awards Over $1 Million in Unique Case Evaluating Emotional and Financial Impact of Unexpected Parenthood

by

In a recent verdict, a jury has awarded substantial sums to Megan and Steven Szlachtowski for various damages related to an unexpected pregnancy, culminating in a trial that not only weighed the fiscal costs but also delved into the emotional repercussions of unplanned parenthood. The couple, who attended the six-day trial, faced numerous discussions about the emotional and physical impacts of their situation, including Megan’s recovery post-pregnancy and the surprise surrounding the conception. The verdict detailed compensation amounts for both past and future expenses and emotional damages. Notably, Megan Szlachtowski was awarded $450,000 for her … Read more

Jury Awards $129 Million in Landmark Case After Child Fatally Struck at School Running Club

by

Slidell, LA — A St. Tammany Parish jury has awarded a staggering $129 million in damages to the family of six-year-old Emma Savoie, who tragically lost her life after being struck by a car during a school-run club activity in 2022. The incident, which occurred at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, has ignited a serious conversation regarding traffic safety practices in school zones. In an emotional account, Amy Savoie, Emma’s mother, described the award as a form of “validation.” She expressed relief that the jury recognized her daughter could not be blamed for the … Read more

Jury Awards $42 Million to Abu Ghraib Detainees in Landmark Verdict Against Defense Contractor CACI

by

A federal jury in Virginia made a seminal decision by ruling against defense contractor CACI International Inc, awarding nine million dollars each in compensatory and punitive damages to three former prisoners of Abu Ghraib. The case emerges 20 years after the infamous abuse incidents at the Iraqi prison became public through disturbing photographic evidence. This verdict is significant as it marks the first U.S. jury to assess claims from survivors of the abuses during the U.S. occupation of Iraq. The plaintiffs — Suhail Al Shimari, Salah Al-Ejaili, and Asa’ad Al-Zubae — testified they suffered from … Read more