From $50K Offer to $185K Verdict: A Case Built on Facts

At Witherite Law Group we know that even the toughest cases can be won with preparation, strategy, and teamwork. In Rockwall County, our trial team delivered a result that far exceeded expectations, proving that persistence and precision matter most.

Turning Low Property Damage into a Strong Verdict: A Rockwall County Win

This case involved a collision between our client, Latonya Powell, and an 18-wheeler at an intersection. Liability was disputed, and the defense argued that minimal property damage meant minimal injury. With $138,000 in medical bills and complex causation issues, the stakes were high.

The Challenges

  • Property Damage: Both vehicles showed minimal damage, making injury claims harder to prove.
  • Medical History: Our client had prior complaints of back pain and continued working overtime after the crash, which the defense used to question causation.
  • Defense Strategy: Opposing counsel hammered prior issues and secured concessions from treating physicians.

The Strategy That Worked

  • Biomechanical Expertise: Dr. Z explained torsion and shearing forces, helping jurors understand how serious injuries can occur even in low-damage crashes.
  • Focus Group Insights: Early testing helped us identify jurors likely to dismiss injury claims based on property damage and eliminate them during voir dire.
  • Theme Planting: Miguel used voir dire to challenge the “low damage = no injury” assumption from the start.
  • Strong Medical Testimony: Dr. Indresano and Dr. Vu educated the jury on facet pain, injections, and why MRI findings do not tell the whole story.

Trial Execution

Miguel led voir dire, opening, closing, and key witness examinations, presenting a clear and compelling narrative. Rabia’s direct of Dr. Vu was pivotal in explaining complex procedures like a Medial Branch Block (MBB) and a Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). Together, they dismantled the defense’s arguments and kept the jury focused on the facts.

Behind the scenes, the team delivered flawless support:

  • Javier Rangel: Pre-trial filings and motions.
  • Tiela Smith: Organized trial folders and exhibits, earning praise from the court coordinator.
  • Laura Guzman: Managed expert scheduling and payments in her first month.
  • Suzanne Davis: Provided focus group postmortem slides that guided voir dire strategy.

The Outcome

The jury awarded full past medicals and $50,000 in future medicals, assigning 90% liability to the defendant and 10% to our client. Total verdict: $185,000, compared to a pre-trial offer of $50,000. This result speaks volumes about preparation and teamwork.

This case is a testament to what sets Witherite Law Group apart: strategic thinking, relentless preparation, and collaboration at every level.  

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