Defense Victory in Miami-Dade County: Premises Liability Case at Miami Beach Condominium

CSK Defense Team
Miami Associate Kevin Griffis
Miami Partner Brandon Waas

Case Summary
A recent trial in the Circuit Court of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit for Miami-Dade County centered on a premises liability claim after a serious fall at a Miami Beach condominium. The Plaintiff suffered a hard fall—captured on video—resulting in a fractured shoulder. Due to other health conditions, her injury was deemed inoperable, leaving her to live with a broken shoulder for several years.

The case was heavily litigated for three years, with both sides preparing extensively. The Plaintiff presented expert testimony, whose opinions were considered strong enough that the defense chose not to call any expert or defense witnesses at trial.

Defense Strategy
The CSK Defense Team opted for a bold strategy: relying on cross-examination and the strength of their legal arguments rather than presenting their own witnesses. The defense team decided not to call their expert, believing the Plaintiff’s case could be effectively challenged without additional testimony.

Notably, the defense also advised the Defendant against accepting a “high-low” settlement agreement that was being negotiated and allowed previously offered proposals for settlement to expire. This demonstrated confidence in the defense’s position and the likelihood of a favorable verdict.

Verdict
After a brief deliberation of just 50 minutes, the jury returned a full defense verdict for the Defendant, finding that there was no negligence on their part that was a legal cause of damage to the Plaintiff; as a result, the Plaintiff did not receive any damages for medical expenses or pain and suffering. This outcome was a significant win for the defense, especially for Mr. Griffis, who achieved a defense verdict on his first trial, and the Defendant was thrilled with the result, particularly given the high stakes and the Plaintiff’s substantial resources.