GRSM San Diego Partners Will Coggshall and Jackie DuBois, alongside Las Vegas Partner Brian Walters, obtained a complete defense jury verdict after a three-week trial in Las Vegas District Court.
The plaintiffs, a husband and wife, alleged that GRSM’s client, a national automotive parts retailer, was vicariously liable for the actions of a now-former employee who physically assaulted a customer inside the store. They also brought separate negligence claims against the company.
According to the plaintiffs, the altercation caused a traumatic brain injury resulting in permanent impairment and a need for lifelong care. They also alleged the plaintiff would require future neck and shoulder surgeries. In addition to holding the employee accountable, the plaintiffs argued that the company bore liability because a nearby store manager allegedly failed to intervene as a loud argument escalated. The plaintiffs asked the jury to award more than $10 million in compensatory damages.
GRSM’s defense team countered that the incident occurred after the employee had completed assisting the customer and was preparing to clock out, placing the act outside the scope of the employee’s official duties. The defense further argued that the store manager was actively assisting other customers and had no reasonable opportunity to intervene before the incident occurred. Once the physical altercation began, the manager responded immediately and restrained the employee.
Following deliberations, the jury concluded that GRSM’s client bore no fault and that the former employee’s conduct did not fall within the scope of the law governing vicarious liability.
This case highlights GRSM’s extensive trial capabilities and its proven track record of successfully defending clients before juries nationwide. With experienced trial attorneys licensed across all 50 states, the firm delivers consistent, strategic representation in high-stakes litigation across a wide range of industries.