After a two-week jury trial in Johnson County District Court, GRSM Partner Vincent Gunter and Senior Counsel Jennifer Tatum, with support from Paralegal Janessa Yardley and Legal Assistant Ana Rojas, secured a significant trial victory for a solo dental practitioner facing more than $1.2 million in alleged damages plus punitive damages.
The plaintiff, a large dental corporation with 12 practices in the Kansas City area, asserted ten claims against GRSM’s client, including trade secret misappropriation, conversion, breach of contract, unfair competition, and defamation. The plaintiff also sought injunctive relief that could have shut down the client’s practice.
Following extensive testimony from experts and patients, the jury rejected seven of the ten claims outright, including trade secret misappropriation, conversion, tortious interference, defamation, violations of the Lanham Act, and computer fraud. The jury also found no basis for punitive damages. While liability was found on breach of contract, the jury awarded zero damages after determining the plaintiff committed a prior material breach. On the remaining claims, the jury awarded $150,000, precisely the amount our client had previously offered to purchase the practice, validating the defense strategy.
“This verdict represents a complete vindication of our client’s professional conduct and her commitment to patient care,” said Vincent Gunter. “The jury recognized that patients have the right to choose their dentist and that our client acted ethically in ensuring continuity of care.”
Senior Counsel Jennifer Tatum added: “The jury’s rejection of punitive damages and most of the plaintiff’s claims demonstrates that they understood this case was about patient choice and professional ethics, not corporate control.”
The verdict allows GRSM’s client to continue operating her thriving practice and protects both her professional reputation and her ability to serve her patients.