Hilliard Castilla and Matthew Hurst secure defense verdict in Jasper County
On February 14, 2018, after a three (3) day trial in the Superior Court of Jasper County, Hilliard Castilla and Matthew Hurst successfully secured a defense verdict for their client in connection with an accident that occurred in late 2014.
The lawsuit involved a T-Bone style collision, extensive property damage to both vehicles, and more than $40,000 in medical expenses. The lawsuit involved a disputed fault accident in which plaintiff’s testimony and the police report showed the defendant striking the driver’s-side of plaintiff’s vehicle. During cross examination, Mr. Castilla was able impeach the plaintiff in regards to several crucial details about the accident and his treatment. In doing so, Mr. Castilla was able to show the jury that plaintiff’s testimony was suspect, and should not be believed.
In his closing argument, plaintiff asked the jury to award more than $200,000 in pain and suffering, and future medical expenses. Ultimately, the jury of twelve (12) was unpersuaded, and they returned a defense verdict. The jury found the plaintiff had failed to carry his burden of proof in showing that Mr. Castilla’s client was responsible for the accident.