Lipe Lyons Shareholder James Whalen and Associate Elise Ruff achieved a not guilty verdict in Arbitration
Lipe Lyons Shareholder James Whalen and Associate Elise Ruff achieved a not guilty verdict in Arbitration for the property owner in a premises liability case. Plaintiff alleged that an unnatural accumulation occurred which resulted in Plaintiff sustaining permanent injuries. The underlying case involved a slip and fall that occurred at a gas station. Plaintiff claimed over six figures in damages. During arbitration Plaintiff attempted to raise issues on missing evidence and spoliation. However, Lipe Lyons limited the matters to be arbitrated to those contained within Plaintiff’s complaint. The Arbitrator determined that although Plaintiff sustained injuries from the fall, there was no evidence to suggest that an unnatural accumulation existed. Thus Plaintiff failed to meet his burden of proof to show that Defendant breached his duty of care to Plaintiff.
Lipe Lyons is delighted to announce that Associate, Alejandra Barcenas was recently appointed to the Latina Commission of the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA) for the 2021-2022 HNBA Association year
The Latina Commission serves the community and the legal profession by identifying and studying barriers to the professional development and advancement of Latina lawyers. The Commission develops programs and strategies for Latina lawyers and students to overcome barriers to entry and advancement into the profession. The Commission seeks to inform and shape the policies and priorities that affect women lawyers and the legal culture in which they practice, creating forums for the exchange and expression of the views of Latina lawyers, and serving as a voice to advocate for these views.
Alejandra was selected for the position based on her outstanding achievements and dedication to the HNBA.
Partner Amanda Zink and Associate Elise Ruff defeat Motion for Summary Judgement in Prisoner Pro Bono case in the Southern District of Illinois
Congratulations to Partner Amanda Zink and Associate Elise Ruff who successfully defeated a Motion for Summary Judgement in a Prisoner Pro Bono case in the Southern District of Illinois. The Prisoner’s case was previously dismissed due to a determination that the Prisoner failed to exhaust his administrative remedies. The case went up on appeal to the 7th Circuit, who determined that the District Court Judge was required to hold a new evidentiary hearing when declining to follow the Magistrate Judge’s recommendations. A new Pavey hearing was conducted. Following direct and cross-examination by Ms. Zink, the Court determined that the Prisoner exhausted his available administrative remedies and in turn denied Defendants’ Motion for Summary Judgement.
