Southeast Texas Record -

Legally Speaking: You're Not Going to Wear That in Court, Are You?

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:11:00 CST

Legally Speaking

The old saying "Clothes make the man" (or woman) certainly holds true in the courtroom.

How witnesses and parties present themselves can speak volumes to a judge and jury, whether intended or not.

Famed trial lawyer Gerry Spence once told me how he felt when, during a lawsuit in which he represented a beauty queen who was suing Penthouse magazine for defamation, publisher Bob Guccione showed up for trial in a Wyoming state courtroom.

As soon as the small-town jurors gawked at the flamboyant Guccione wearing a colorful velour suit with shirt unbuttoned to show off his various gold chains, Spence knew he had the upper hand.

Part of the consideration behind choices in courtroom attire involves showing respect for the judge, jury, and the justice system itself.

Dressing appropriately is part of observing the proper decorum; for example, one usually doesn't wear to church what one would wear to a backyard barbecue.

There are good reasons for paying attention to a judge's admonishments about the court's dress code � just ask Kirstie Arnold. The 28year-old Lancaster, Ky., woman had been warned about her clothing during twp previous court appearances, and had even been fined $50.

At a third court appearance in which she wore short shorts, Ms. Arnold was found in contempt of court and ordered to serve three days in jail by Judge Janet Booth.

In the course of my years of trying cases, I've run into some questionable fashion choices by witnesses. I've had to persuade young men that their clubwear and facial piercings might not play as well in rural east Texas (where our jury foreman wore bib overalls each day to court) as in urban Dallas.

I've reminded a beleaguered business owner before a court-ordered mediation with his company's creditors that this was not a good day to wear his Armani suit, Rolex watch and diamond rings.

And when people ask me why I always keep a spare dress shirt at the office, I tell them about the time I defended a construction company whose employee had dumped a load of bricks from several stories up onto an unsuspecting worker down below, leaving the young man paralyzed.

One of the disputed issues in the case was whether or not the operator of the pallet jack was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Despite being forewarned to dress appropriately, the construction company employee showed up for his videotaped deposition in a sleeveless muscle shirt, which proudly showcased his marijuana leaf tattoo. By the time the cameras rolled, he was wearing a long-sleeved button-down dress shirt.

Witness attire horror stories are such an ongoing topic of discussion for lawyers that ABA Journal recently encouraged attorneys to share some of their favorite experiences.

After reading them, I've come up with my own set of guidelines for witnesses to keep in mind as they rummage through their closets for something to wear to court.

Rule No. 1 � Remember Why You're Going to Court

Take a moment and reflect on what brings you before a court in the first place. If you're a defendant up on domestic violence charges, it's probably not a good idea to show up wearing the sleeveless undershirt commonly known as a "wife beater."

If you're facing DWI counts, perhaps you should re-think the Jack Daniels T-shirt, "Coors Racing Team" shirt, or other alcohol-related attire.

If you're contesting a prostitution arrest, you may fare better if you don't wear that "Born for Porn" T-shirt.

Similarly, defendants accused of weapons violations should avoid shirts with pictures of guns, or gangsta rap shirts with illustrations of police in the crosshairs of a gun sight.

And you will probably come across as more credible on your drug-related charges if you don't wear a shirt festooned with the word "Cocaine" in a red and white cursive parody of the Coca-Cola logo, or a T-shirt that reads "Reefer Madness" along with a ballcap that says "Blunt."

It's also important to remember what your clothes do or don't cover up. That's a lesson learned the hard way by a young man facing drug and assault charges who stood to receive probation conditioned upon no gang contact � that is, if he had remembered to wear something that didn't prominently display the brand new forearm tattoos spelling out the name of his gang and "4 Life."

Another defendant charged with stabbing a man to death had to be convinced by his lawyer to wear something that would cover his tattoo. Apparently, displaying the image of a human skull with a knife stuck through the eye socket and coming out the mouth might have made his claim of self defense somewhat less credible.

And yes, if you're wondering, all of these examples were drawn from real life cases. For more examples of criminal defendants with unfortunate tastes in fashion, feel free to check out the "Smoking Gun" Web site.

Rule No. 2: Remember that Your Idea of Appropriate May Not Be The Same As Everyone Else's

I usually tell clients to wear to court what they would wear to church. When I saw one young woman in a motor vehicle accident show up in a tank top, shorts and flip-flops, I realized that we must go to very different churches.

One lawyer, who had only seen his client in jeans, urged her to wear a dress to court. It was a piece of advice he regretted when she appeared wearing the only dress she owned an '80s-vintage prom dress.

Another lawyer recounts the tale of how he instructed his client to wear a suit to court. The man showed up in a tuxedo, which made the judge think he was mocking the proceedings, and threatened contempt charges.

At that point, the witness explained that he didn't own a suit, and tried to rent one at the last minute, only to find that tuxedos were all that was available.

Yet another attorney recalls telling his client to wear a suit, only to see the defendant walk into the courtroom wearing the only suit he owned � a disco-era number described as "Travolta-esque," complete with alligator shoes and a full length beaver fur coat.

According to the stunned lawyer, as the client "pimped his way down the aisle to the witness box, I swear I heard the theme from 'Shaft' in the background."

Rule No. 3: It Helps If the Clothing Actually Covers You

Showing too much skin is generally a bad idea. Countless lawyers have had to remind female clients to avoid skirts that are too short, or tops that display too much cleavage.

Remember, if the attorney advises you to dress as you would for a job interview, he doesn't mean a job at a strip club.

And men have to be reminded of this as well, such as the young man who wore loose jeans that sagged so low that he was inadvertently mooning the jury members whenever he faced away from them.
When it comes to what to wear in court, it's always good to keep in mind that priceless gem of motherly advice � "you never get a second chance to make a first impression".

John Browning is a partner in the Dallas office of Gordon & Rees, LLP. He may be contacted at: jbrowning@gordonrees.com

New business licenses/assumed names issued in Jefferson County

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:51:00 CST

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75157
Assumed Name: P & W PAINTING
Owner Name: JOSHUA RAY PAPE
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 9:23:23 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75158
Assumed Name: GUY'S MOBIL PRESSURE WASHING
Owner Name: WILLIAMS GUY
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 11:52:05 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75159
Assumed Name: R & L INDUSTRIES
Owner Name: MORENO RENE DE LEON
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 12:11:49 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75160
Assumed Name: BAY CITY REGIONAL DIALYSIS CENTER
Owner Name: BAY CITY DIALYSIS CENTER LLP
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 12:38:49 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75161
Assumed Name: LANCASTER CORNWALL APARTMENTS
Owner Name: LANCASTER CORNWALL LP
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 12:54:49 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75162
Assumed Name: LOYA ELECTRIC
Owner Name: LOYA ISMAEL
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 1:08:36 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75163
Assumed Name: MESSENGERBOI
Owner Name: QUEEN ZECHARY
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 1:41:16 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75164
Assumed Name: EMPOWERMENT DELIVERANCE MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
Owner Name: JOHNSON DAVID L
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 2:36:18 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75164
Assumed Name: EMPOWERMENT DELIVERANCE MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
Owner Name: HAWTHORNE ASHLEY N
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 2:36:18 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75165
Assumed Name: ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS
Owner Name: HARTMAN KIRK
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 3:12:08 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75165
Assumed Name: ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS
Owner Name: HARTMAN PEGGY
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 3:12:08 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75166
Assumed Name: QUEEN J
Owner Name: JOHNSON TREVA
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 3:38:56 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75166
Assumed Name: QUEEN J
Owner Name: SYLVESTER MONICA
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 3:38:56 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/29/2009 Certificate #: 75167
Assumed Name: OMEGA HI PRESSURE WASHING SERVICE
Owner Name: HARRISON HUNTER
Expiration Date: 6/29/2019 3:55:36 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/30/2009 Certificate #: 75168
Assumed Name: HOBSON & BRADLEY, ATTORNEYS AT LAW
Owner Name: HOBSON HERSCHEL L.
Expiration Date: 6/30/2019 9:45:37 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/30/2009 Certificate #: 75168
Assumed Name: HOBSON & BRADLEY, ATTORNEYS AT LAW
Owner Name: BRADLEY TINA H.
Expiration Date: 6/30/2019 9:45:37 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/30/2009 Certificate #: 75169
Assumed Name: THE CAGE
Owner Name: CHERRY MELANIE
Expiration Date: 6/30/2019 1:53:48 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/30/2009 Certificate #: 75170
Assumed Name: ASON WHITE
Owner Name: RODRIGUEZ ADAM
Expiration Date: 6/30/2019 3:21:09 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/30/2009 Certificate #: 75171
Assumed Name: PUNKINPAINTS
Owner Name: STRAHAN MICHAEL
Expiration Date: 6/30/2019 3:24:56 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/30/2009 Certificate #: 75172
Assumed Name: GLOBAL
Owner Name: PETROTEX FUELS INC
Expiration Date: 6/30/2019 4:00:47 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/30/2009 Certificate #: 75173
Assumed Name: RE: PLANS
Owner Name: BOUTIN ALEXINE
Expiration Date: 6/30/2019 4:13:13 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 06/30/2009 Certificate #: 75174
Assumed Name: FAMILIAR FRIENDS
Owner Name: JOAO DONNA C
Expiration Date: 6/30/2019 4:37:22 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75175
Assumed Name: COASTAL EMBROIDERY & CAP CO.
Owner Name: KACZYNSKI JOSHUA J.
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 8:57:37 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75176
Assumed Name: HWY 90 NURSERY
Owner Name: CASTANEDA MELISSA
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 9:15:50 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75177
Assumed Name: HONDURAS PARADISE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Owner Name: SOSA ALLAN
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 9:55:35 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75178
Assumed Name: VICTORY INNER CITY MINISTRIES
Owner Name: JACOBS EVELYN
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 10:02:23 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75178
Assumed Name: VICTORY INNER CITY MINISTRIES
Owner Name: JACOBS AUDWIN
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 10:02:23 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75178
Assumed Name: VICTORY INNER CITY MINISTRIES
Owner Name: BROOKS COLEMAN BRENDA
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 10:02:23 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75179
Assumed Name: OLSHAN FOUNDATION REPAIR COMPANY
Owner Name: OLSHAN GOLDEN TRIANGLE, LP
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 10:15:41 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75180
Assumed Name: OLSHAN LANDSCAPING
Owner Name: OLSHAN GOLDEN TRIANGLE, LP
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 10:15:41 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75181
Assumed Name: OLSHAN PLUMBING
Owner Name: OLSHAN GOLDEN TRIANGLE, LP
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 10:15:41 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75182
Assumed Name: JACKSON MOTEL
Owner Name: ALSON ENTERPRISES, INC
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 10:51:11 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75183
Assumed Name: JOEY'S TRACTOR SERVICE
Owner Name: VILLEMEZ JOEY
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 11:47:31 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75184
Assumed Name: THE SOWERS FOUNDATION
Owner Name: BENNETT RICHARD
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 11:48:31 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75185
Assumed Name: GLOBAL DIAGNOSTICS
Owner Name: VALLIER BRANDON J
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 12:50:43 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75186
Assumed Name: TRIANGLE COMPUTER AND TELEPHONE
Owner Name: STRODERD COMMUNICATIONS
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 1:33:51 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75187
Assumed Name: ROXANNE APARTMENTS
Owner Name: KATHY P SCOTT
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 2:00:27 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75188
Assumed Name: CONSOLIDATED BUSINESS VENTURES
Owner Name: CONSOLIDATED BUSINESS VENTURES LLC
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 3:02:02 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75189
Assumed Name: M & L LAWN SERVICE
Owner Name: LORIA DOUGLAS
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 4:20:54 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/01/2009 Certificate #: 75190
Assumed Name: TRI-MART
Owner Name: TRIZONE INVESTMENT INC
Expiration Date: 7/1/2019 4:30:47 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75191
Assumed Name: CHRISTUS OUTPATIENT CENTER
Owner Name: CHRISTUS HEALTH SOUTHEAST TEXAS
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 8:32:40 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75192
Assumed Name: ANOINTED VOICES OF FULFILLMENT
Owner Name: MCCREARY JAMES M
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 10:05:51 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75193
Assumed Name: VERACRUZ AUTO REPAIR
Owner Name: MANSOUR RAOUF A
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 10:48:00 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75194
Assumed Name: CO-OP CLEANING SERVICE
Owner Name: LUCIANO LEEDA M
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 12:28:02 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75195
Assumed Name: CONERS
Owner Name: RAINEY TIFFANY
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 12:57:36 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75195
Assumed Name: CONERS
Owner Name: RAINEY, III JAMES E
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 12:57:36 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75196
Assumed Name: A SORE THUMB CONSTRUCTION
Owner Name: FLANNIGAN BILLY
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 1:08:34 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75197
Assumed Name: MISS G'S BOOKS & MORE
Owner Name: JOHNSON W GAYLE
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 2:35:21 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75198
Assumed Name: DEB'S DESIGNS AND CREATIONS
Owner Name: WIRED INVESTMENTS, INC.
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 2:44:16 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75199
Assumed Name: GROVES COMPUTER SERVICE
Owner Name: PRINCE AUSTIN
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 3:18:40 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75199
Assumed Name: GROVES COMPUTER SERVICE
Owner Name: SALAZAR MARCUS
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 3:18:40 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/02/2009 Certificate #: 75200
Assumed Name: CIRCLE D DRAFT STABLES
Owner Name: SAMS DANIELLE
Expiration Date: 7/2/2019 3:38:05 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75201
Assumed Name: CHOCHO'S TIRE SHOP
Owner Name: FLORES OSCAR
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 8:23:39 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75202
Assumed Name: CLASSIC CAR WASH
Owner Name: WRIGHT DAVID S
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 9:13:21 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75203
Assumed Name: GCR TIRE CENTERS
Owner Name: BRIDGESTONE AMERICAS TIRE OPERATIONS LLC
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 9:47:09 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75204
Assumed Name: MID COUNTY MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION
Owner Name: MID COUNTY LAND COMPANY LTD
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 9:50:17 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75205
Assumed Name: OCCUPATIONAL MEDICAL CARE
Owner Name: LOUIS F PUIG MD PA
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:12:35 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75206
Assumed Name: X-PRESS CARTRIDGE
Owner Name: VENZA JOHN
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:19:58 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75206
Assumed Name: X-PRESS CARTRIDGE
Owner Name: VENZA PRISCILLA
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:19:58 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75206
Assumed Name: X-PRESS CARTRIDGE
Owner Name: DUGAS RICHARD
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:19:58 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75206
Assumed Name: X-PRESS CARTRIDGE
Owner Name: DUGAS SANDY
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:19:58 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75207
Assumed Name: THE HOME AUDIO SHOPPE
Owner Name: MILLER FRANCIS DUANE
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:40:20 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75208
Assumed Name: ELITE CONSTRUCTION
Owner Name: MILLER FRANCIS DUANE
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:40:20 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75209
Assumed Name: MIKE SONIAT CONSULTING SERVICES (MSCS)
Owner Name: SONIAT MICHAEL M
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:42:33 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75210
Assumed Name: AA WORLD CLASS GLASS
Owner Name: BEAUTEX LLC
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:44:33 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75211
Assumed Name: JESUS' ANGELS
Owner Name: LIGHTNER-LEVY TRACY
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:54:55 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75211
Assumed Name: JESUS' ANGELS
Owner Name: LIGHTNER BRYIA
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 10:54:55 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75212
Assumed Name: VIP SERVICES
Owner Name: CROSSLEY MIKE
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 11:27:04 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75213
Assumed Name: THE HOSPITALITIES GROUP
Owner Name: DIAZ DEREK
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 11:49:59 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75214
Assumed Name: DIAZ SERVICES
Owner Name: DIAZ FLORENTINO R
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 11:58:04 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75215
Assumed Name: CSI INDUSTRIES
Owner Name: DIAZ DEREK
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 12:04:29 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75215
Assumed Name: CSI INDUSTRIES
Owner Name: DIAZ FLORENTINO
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 12:04:29 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75216
Assumed Name: 2747 TWENTY SEVEN FORTY SEVEN DESIGNS
Owner Name: STERLING JR PAUL A
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 1:04:27 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75217
Assumed Name: GULF COAST TRAINING INSTITUTE
Owner Name: FRANCIS DENISE M.
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 3:05:00 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/06/2009 Certificate #: 75217
Assumed Name: GULF COAST TRAINING INSTITUTE
Owner Name: FRANKLIN JACKIE L.
Expiration Date: 7/6/2019 3:05:00 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/07/2009 Certificate #: 75218
Assumed Name: POP-A-LOCK OF BEAUMONT
Owner Name: PAL OF BEAUMONT, INC.
Expiration Date: 7/7/2019 9:14:48 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/07/2009 Certificate #: 75219
Assumed Name: TIP-TOP CLEANERS
Owner Name: AL-AZHAR ENTERPRISES, INC.
Expiration Date: 7/7/2019 3:21:21 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/07/2009 Certificate #: 75220
Assumed Name: TIP-TOP CLEANERS
Owner Name: AL-AZHAR ENTERPRISES, INC.
Expiration Date: 7/7/2019 3:21:21 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/07/2009 Certificate #: 75221
Assumed Name: JEDIDIAH STUDIOS
Owner Name: LOGAN BRANDY L
Expiration Date: 7/7/2019 3:39:56 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75222
Assumed Name: JUNK IN THE TRUNK
Owner Name: TRAHAN LINDSEY L
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 8:27:01 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75223
Assumed Name: TEXAS BUILDING MATERIALS
Owner Name: SILSBEE LUMBER CO.
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 11:01:19 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75224
Assumed Name: A TO Z HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Owner Name: MCMILLAN JAMES J.
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 12:05:49 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75225
Assumed Name: STEPHAN UNDERWOOD KIDNEY FUND
Owner Name: UNDERWOOD STEPHAN
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 1:14:50 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75226
Assumed Name: B F D & ASSOCIATES
Owner Name: BRANDT M D
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 1:35:10 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75227
Assumed Name: M D BRANDT & ASSOCIATES
Owner Name: BRANDT M D
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 1:35:10 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75228
Assumed Name: LA TEE DA
Owner Name: MANUEL MICHAEL
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 2:18:49 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75229
Assumed Name: KARAKE IDLE
Owner Name: HANSON ARTHUR (ART)
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 3:09:00 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75230
Assumed Name: R & J FABRICATION, SERVICE AND SUPPLY
Owner Name: MARTINEZ ENRIQUE
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 3:09:45 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/08/2009 Certificate #: 75231
Assumed Name: MI YUM VIETMANESE CUISINE
Owner Name: TRAN CRYSTAL
Expiration Date: 7/8/2019 4:45:06 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/09/2009 Certificate #: 75232
Assumed Name: HUFCO
Owner Name: STACEY SUPPLY CO.
Expiration Date: 7/9/2019 8:21:16 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/09/2009 Certificate #: 75233
Assumed Name: HOLMES ROOFING & REMODELING
Owner Name: HOLMES JORDON
Expiration Date: 7/9/2019 9:34:54 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/09/2009 Certificate #: 75234
Assumed Name: PANTHER ELECTRIC
Owner Name: VASQUEZ ELECTRIC
Expiration Date: 7/9/2019 9:36:44 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/09/2009 Certificate #: 75235
Assumed Name: AFFORDABLE LAWN & TRACTOR SERVICE
Owner Name: CHRISTIAN LLOYD K.
Expiration Date: 7/9/2019 11:40:53 AM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/09/2009 Certificate #: 75236
Assumed Name: 4TH DIMENSION SOLUTIONS
Owner Name: LAMSON NANCY
Expiration Date: 7/9/2019 12:44:45 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/09/2009 Certificate #: 75237
Assumed Name: KINDERMUSIK WITH MS NISS
Owner Name: MILLS VANISSA
Expiration Date: 7/9/2019 1:40:20 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/09/2009 Certificate #: 75238
Assumed Name: SHOWTOWN GOLF DRIVING RANGE
Owner Name: RICHARDSON STAN
Expiration Date: 7/9/2019 2:31:05 PM Status: Active

Orig. Filing Date: 07/09/2009 Certificate #: 75238
Assumed Name: SHOWTOWN GOLF DRIVING RANGE
Owner Name: WHITE MARK
Expiration Date: 7/9/2019 2:31:05 PM Status: Active

J&J wins record setting $1.6B in patent case against Abbott

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:34:00 CST

A unit of Johnson & Johnson recently won what some experts are saying is the biggest award for patent infringement ever issued by a jury.

A federal jury in Marshall awarded $1.6 billion to the Centocor Ortho Biotech division of Johnson & Johnson on June 29 over a patent dispute with Abbott Laboratories.

The jury determined that Abbott had infringed a Centocor patent in the making of its arthritis drug Humira. Bloomberg called the $1.16 billion in lost profits and $504,128,000 in reasonable royalties the "largest patent verdict in U.S. history."

At issue was U.S. Patent No. 7,070,775 for a Recombinant A2-Specific TNF Specific Antibodies issued July 4, 2006. The technology was developed by New York University and Centocor and assigned to Centocor as exclusive licensee.

The '775 Patent covers the use of antibodies and antibody fragments that bind Tumor Necrosis Factor in the therapy of a number of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

In a suit filed April 16, 2007, in the Marshall Division of the Eastern District of Texas, Centocor alleged Abbott's medication Humira, a monoclonal antibody that binds the TNF protein, infringes the '775 Patent.

A trial began June 22 in Marshall, with U.S. District Judge T. John Ward presiding. Centocor asked the jury to award $2.1 billion in royalties and lost profit.

Jurors deliberated about five hours on June 29. It answered that Centocor proved by a preponderance of evidence that Abbott infringed claims of the '775 Patent and that the company proved by clear and convincing evidence that Abbott's infringement was willful.

Abbott had argued that Humira was completely different from Centocor's product Remicade, and also contended that the '775 Patent did not cover the specific antibodies that are used in Humira.

Furthermore, Abbott said the patent was invalid because scientists were not even able to create the antibodies against TNF in a laboratory in 1994, which was established by the court as the date of the invention covered by the '775 Patent.

Attorneys for plaintiff Centocor include Dick Sayles, Dianne Elderkin, Barbara Mullin and Steven Maslowski.

Defense attorneys for Abbott included David Beck, William Lee, Gil Gillam, Amy Wigmore and Bill McElwain.

J&J has said it isn't seeking to block sales of the drug, only to get a share of the sales, Bloomberg reported.

According to Bloomberg data, the previous record for a patent verdict was a 2007 decision in which a federal jury told Microsoft Corp. to pay $1.52 billion over a patent owned by Alcatel-Lucent SA. A judge later threw out the verdict, and an appeals court upheld that decision.

Centocor Inc. vs. Abbott Laboratories, Case No. 2:07-cv-139-TJW

This Just In: Recent civil suits filed in Jefferson County District Courts

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:57:00 CST

June 29

Versey Richard vs.Voyager Indemnity Insurance Co.

PA - Clint Brasher, J - Bob Wortham

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

A184-413

Lou Tran et al vs.Texas Windstorm Insurance Association

PA - Ken Lewis, J - Milton Shuffield

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

D184-417

Neil Spiller vs. Lewis Hiltpold

PA - James Harris Jr., J - Milton Shuffield

On July 5, 2007, the plaintiff was a passenger in the defendant's vehicle, when the defendant drove his car into a ditch.
The suit does not state where the incident occurred.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant driver negligently failed to keep a proper lookout and is suing for past and future mental anguish, pain, impairment, lost wages and medical expenses, plus attorney's fees.

D184-418

Donald Lee Duron vs. Lenore Burton

PA - Wyatt Snider, J - Donald Floyd

The plaintiff is the holder of a deed dated April 28, 2003, executed by the defendant for $57,000.

The plaintiff alleges $47,320.97 is due on the contract and $9,873.80 is due in back taxes. He is suing for actual and consequential damages.

E184-419

June 30

Charles Youngblood vs. Letourneau Lifelike Orthotics & Prosthetics

PA - Jesus Garcia, J - Gary Sanderson

The plaintiff, an elderly amputee, alleges he has suffered many problems and unnecessary hassles since becoming a customer of the defendant.

He alleges his prosthetic leg has never fit right and has had to been worked on several times, inflicting upon him great mental anguish and pain, for which he now sues.

B184-421

July 1

David Mehl vs. Melody Humphrey

PA - Jonathan Juhan, J - Milton Shuffield

On July 6, 2007, the plaintiff was traveling on Hwy. 69 in Lumberton when the defendant, who was driving erratically in the south bound lane, entered the north lane and struck the defendant head on.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant driver negligently failed to keep a proper lookout and is suing for past and future mental anguish, pain, impairment, lost wages and medical expenses, plus attorney's fees.

D184-426

Theresa Johnson vs. Cody Cox

PA - Rocky Lawdermilk, J - Milton Shuffield

On May 5 the plaintiff was a passenger in a vehicle traveling north on South Main Street in Vidor when she was rear-ended by the defendant.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant driver negligently failed to keep a proper lookout and is suing for past and future mental anguish, pain, impairment, lost wages and medical expenses, plus attorney's fees.

D184-431

July 2

Lisa Matthews vs. Texas Windstorm Insurance Association

PA - Steve Mostyn, J - Bob Wortham

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

A184-432

Mary Mayfield vs. Voyager Indemnity Insurance Co.

PA - Steve Mostyn, J - Donald Floyd

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

E184-443

Alton Borel et al vs. Texas Windstorm Insurance Association

PA - Steve Mostyn, J - Milton Shuffield

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

D184-434

Jimmy Cantue et al vs.Capitol County Mutual Fire Insurance

PA - Steve Mostyn, J - Donald Floyd

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

E184-435

Kevin Haack et al vs.Texas Windstorm Insurance Association

PA - Steve Mostyn, J - Bob Wortham

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

A184-436

Donald Sostand et al vs.Capitol County Mutual Fire Insurance

PA - Steve Mostyn, J - Bob Wortham

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

A184-437

John Richard vs.Texas Windstorm Insurance Association

PA - Rocky Lawdermilk, J - Gary Sanderson

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

B184-441

Jesus Gutierrez vs.Texas Windstorm Insurance Association

PA - Rocky Lawdermilk, J - Gary Sanderson

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

B184-442

July 6

Todd Wilson vs. Hydraulic and Air Repair

PA - Clint Brasher, J - Donald Floyd

The plaintiff, who was an employee of the defendant at the time of the incident, was working at a job site on College Street on Aug. 27, 2008, when another employee drove a cherry picker into him, pinning him againsnt a pole.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant negligently failed to provide him with a safe work place and is suing for past and future mental anguish, pain, impairment, lost wages and medical expenses, plus attorney's fees.

E184-448

Anh Nguyet Pham vs. Texas Windstorm Insurance Association

PA - Scott Renick, J - Milton Shuffield

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its agents for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant is guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

D184-450

Texas tobacco lawyers now file class action in Arkansas over light cigarettes

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:30:00 CST

Walter Umphrey

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. � Some of the attorneys known as the Texas Tobacco 5 are now involved in new litigation in Arkansas over tobacco company claims regarding light cigarettes.

Beaumont attorney Walter Umphrey and Houston lawyer John Eddie Williams Jr. made millions in legal fees representing the state of Texas against tobacco companies in 1998.

This month they joined Little Rock attorney Thomas P. Thrash as plaintiffs' counsel on a proposed Arkansas class action against several tobacco companies alleging the companies falsified the benefits of smoking light cigarettes.

The proposed class is represented by Little Rock resident David Hunter Williams, who says he switched from regular to light cigarettes as an alternative to quitting smoking. He claims he believed the light cigarettes were less harmful and delivered less tar and nicotine.

David Williams says current attempts to stop smoking altogether are difficult because of his addiction to the nicotine found in the light cigarettes.

The suit, filed July 6 in the Little Rock Division of the Western District of Arkansas, alleges cigarette makers Philip Morris USA, Altria Group Inc., R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. and Reynolds American Inc. participated in a "scheme of deception."

The consumer class action will include all Arkansas residents who from July 1, 2004, until the end of the litigation, purchased cigarettes labeled as "light" or "ultra-lights."

The lawsuit seeks economic damages arising from their purchases and does not seek damages for personal injury or health care.

The suit alleges that the defendants knew that their representations that light cigarettes delivered less nicotine and were less harmful were false, deceptive, misleading and unfair.

In addition, the suit alleges the defendants designed their light cigarettes to register lower levels of tar and nicotine when tested than the levels actually delivered to consumers.

The plaintiff argues that the defendants intentionally manipulated the design and content "by modifying the tobacco blend, weight, rod length, and circumference, using reconstituted tobacco sheets and expanded tobacco; and by increasing the smoke PH levels of the cigarettes through chemical processing and the use of additive such as ammonia, resulting in the delivery of great amounts of tar and nicotine."

The defendants are accused of breaching express and implied warranties, violating the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, unjust enrichment, and fraudulently concealment.

According to court documents, the National Cancer Institute states that smokers will compensate for the lower level of nicotine in light cigarettes by inhaling more deeply, taking larger, more rapid, or more frequent puffs, and smoke extra cigarettes each day.

The National Cancer Institute also states that, "researchers also found that the strategies used by the tobacco industry to advertise and promote light cigarettes are intended to reassure smokers, to discourage them from quitting, and to lead consumers to perceive filtered and light cigarettes as safer alternatives to regular cigarettes."

On Dec. 15, 2008, the U. S. Supreme Court decided in a 5-4 ruling that federal labeling laws did not protect cigarette manufacturers from lawsuits accusing them of deceptive marketing and defrauding consumers by describing cigarettes as "light" or "low tar."

The Supreme Court also ruled that the Federal Trade Commission's oversight of cigarette testing did not preclude those lawsuits.

The FTC withdrew its support of the testing in November 2008 and said the testing methods are "confusing or misleading to consumers."

The lawsuit seeks a restitution of money paid at retail for light cigarettes, disgorgement of profits, and the establishment of a constructive trust to reimburse the class for economic damages and to establish a smoker cessation program.

Seeking punitive damages, the plaintiffs argues that the defendants actions were "willful and malicious, and were of such a depraved nature as to evince a wanton disregard for the lives and health of Plaintiff and the class."

U.S. District Judge James M. Moody will preside over the litigation.

Case No: 4:09cv00471

This Just In: Recent civil suits filed in Orange County District Courts

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 09:35:00 CST

June 10

Marcelino Lopez Jr. vs. Fire Insurance Exchange

PA - Steve Mostyn, J - Pat Clark

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its adjusters for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendants are guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

A090327-c

C.D. Woodard vs. The Ohio Casualty Insurance Co.

PA - Rocky Lawdermilk, J - Dennis Powell

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its adjusters for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendants are guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

B090328-c

Richard Taylor vs. Allstate Texas Lloyd's et al

PA - Steve Mostyn, J - Pat Clark

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its adjusters for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendants are guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

A090330-c

June 11

Aron Vasquez vs. Arthur Hawthorne

PA - Joseph Legere, J - Buddy Hahn

On July 25, 2007, the plaintiff was parked on the shoulder of Texas 62 when the plaintiff rear-ended him.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant driver negligently failed to keep a proper lookout and is suing for past and future mental anguish, impairment, lost earnings and pain, plus attorney's fees.

D090332-c

June 12

Judy Garcia vs. Allstate Texas Lloyd's

PA - Steve Mostyn, J - Dennis Powell

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its adjusters for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendants are guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

B090334-c

June 18

Angela Thibodeaux vs. Delta Downs casino

PA - John Morgan, J - Pat Clark

Angela Thibodeaux is suing the Delta Downs casino, claiming "uneven cement" caused her to trip while traversing the parking lot.

Thibodeaux is suing for past and future mental anguish, medical expenses and lost wages.

A090345-c

June 19

Michael Chatagnier et al vs. Allstate Texas Lloyd's

PA - Daivd Dies, J - Dennis Powell

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its adjusters for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendants are guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

B090346-c

June 22

Gene Ricks vs. State Farm Lloyd's

PA - Jeffrey Raizner, J - Dennis Powell

The plaintiff is suing the insurance company and several of its adjusters for denying at least a portion of the plaintiff's Hurricane Ike policy claim.

The plaintiff alleges the defendants are guilty of several Texas Insurance Code violations and of violating the DTPA.

The plaintiff is suing for actual and consequential damages, plus attorney's fees.

B090349-c

June 24

Pleas Hyatt vs. Jacob Buffington

PA - Blair Bisbey, J - Pat Clark

On Dec. 8, 2008, the plaintiff was a passenger in a vehicle traveling in the 1800 block of MacArthur Drive in Orange when the plaintiff rear-ended him.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant driver negligently failed to keep a proper lookout and is suing for past and future mental anguish, impairment, lost earnings and pain, plus attorney's fees.

A090357-c

June 25

Misty Fruge vs. Keith Bloomer

PA - Douglas Sikes, J - Dennis Powell

On Jan. 17 the plaintiff claims she was walking down N. Main Street in Vidor when the defendant ran over her and then fled the scene of the accident.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant driver negligently failed to keep a proper lookout and is suing for past and future mental anguish, impairment, lost earnings and pain, plus attorney's fees.

B090358-c

June 26

Clint Sergrist vs. Janie Goins

PA - Tommy Yeates, J - Buddy Hahn

On Jan. 31 the defendant suddenly stopped while traveling on N. Main in Vidor, causing the plaintiff to law down his motorcycle to avoid striking her.

The plaintiff alleges the defendant driver negligently failed to keep a proper lookout and is suing for past and future mental anguish, impairment, lost earnings and pain, plus attorney's fees.

D090359-c

Suit claims no love for band on rock bus

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 09:15:00 CST

A Los Angeles band claims their tour bus left them in the middle of Texas and took off with their equipment over a lease agreement.

Soren Sarkisyan says in mid-April he leased a touring bus and driver from Tourdog Entertainment and Leasing and its founder, Dave Mabry, to transport him and his fellow Spineshank band members around the country.

In return for the transportation, Sarkisyan made partial payments to Tourdog and Mabry, but still owed a balance on the agreed-upon lease price, according to the complaint filed June 26 in Jefferson County District Court.

Sarkisyan claims Mabry seemed to be fine with the partial payments until May 29 when he refused to transport members of Spineshank any further and evicted them from the bus, the suit states.

When they were kicked off the bus at Jersey Village in Harris County, the band members asked Mabry to at least let them unload their band equipment, but Mabry refused and drove away, the complaint says.

"On information and belief, Mabry stopped later that day in Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas, and offloaded the items belonging to Plaintiff and Spineshank, at the Uncle Bob's storage facility located at 250 S. Dowlen Road," the suit states. "It is believed that these items remain there to the date of this filing."

Even though Sarkisyan claims that in spite of sending Mabry a demand for return of his property, the equipment has not yet been returned.

As a result of the incident, the band members claim they incurred additional costs to rent transportation to their remaining scheduled events and lost money from their inability to reach some of their scheduled events.

Sarkisyan is seeking damages in excess of the minimum jurisdictional levels of Jefferson County District Court, plus costs, attorney's fees, pre- and post-judgment interest and other relief to which he may be entitled.

He will be represented by Lionel J. Castro of The Law Office of Lionel J. Castro in Houston.

The case has been assigned to Judge Gary Sanderson, 60th District Court.

Jefferson County District Court case number: B184-411.

Orange County woman sues Louisiana casino over trip in parking lot

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:59:00 CST

Playing her hand at jackpot justice, Angela Thibodeaux is suing the Delta Downs casino, claiming "uneven cement" caused her to trip while traversing the parking lot.

Although the casino is located in Louisiania, Thibodeaux filed her suit in Orange County District Court, claiming Delta Downs had knowledge of the "dangerous" crack which caused her injury.

According to her suit, on Feb. 19 Thibodeaux was exiting the casino "when she tripped and fell on uneven cement in the parking lot."

"There were no signs or barriers warning of the hazardous cement," the suit states. "Plaintiff was severely injured."

The suit does not describe her injuries.

Thibodeaux is suing for past and future mental anguish, medical expenses and lost wages.

She is represented by attorney John Morgan of the Harris, Duesler & Hatefield law firm.

The case has been assigned to Judge Pat Clark, 128th Judicial District.

Case No. A-090345-c

Woman sues over fall at grocery store

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:53:00 CST

A Jefferson County woman is suing a local grocery store chain, alleging she fell due to a dangerous condition on the companies' premises.

Kim Renee Relford filed a lawsuit June 26 in Jefferson County District Court against Retail Investors of Texas, doing business as Market Basket; TSTL Investments, doing business as Market Basket No. 2; and Market Basket No. 43.

Relford says she was shopping at the Market Basket located at 5690 FM 105 in Beaumont on July 3, 2007, at about noon when she fell due to "unsafe and dangerous conditions."

Although Relford does not specify what the unsafe and dangerous conditions were, she does blame the companies for failing to warn her about the dangerous conditions, for maintaining an area that was not safe, for failing to provide adequate warnings about the dangerous condition and for maintaining distractions that diverted Relford's attention away from dangerous condition.

According to the complaint, Relford incurred medical costs, sustained permanent bodily injuries, lost earnings and lost her future earning capacity because of the fall.

She is seeking exemplary damages, plus pre- and post-judgment interest, costs and other relief to which she may be entitled.

Stephen N. Williams of The Williams Firm in Beaumont will be representing her.

The case has been assigned to Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court.

Jefferson County District Court case number: A184-408.

Tourist sues trustees after injury in Galveston park

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:45:00 CST

GALVESTON � A Kaufman County man's visit to a well-known Galveston park two years ago resulted in a lawsuit against the city's Park Board of Trustees.

William Wallace of Terrill claims he got hurt during a trip to Seawolf Park on July 5, 2007.

"On the occasion in question, (the) Galveston Park Board of Trustees of the city of Galveston operated the park or allowed the park to be operated in a negligent manner, and the defendant violated the duty it owed to the plaintiff to exercise ordinary care in the operation of the park," the suit says.

It was filed in Galveston County District Court on July 2.

According to the original petition, the plaintiff was fishing in a particular area of the park, which is operated by the defendant, when he reportedly sustained bodily injuries and property damages.

The suit is mum about the precise circumstances that brought on Wallace's grievances, but attributes the alleged incident to negligence.

"This action is brought under the Civil Practices and Remedies Code Tort Claims Act for the negligence of the defendant charging a recreational fee onto the property of the defendant and maintaining a dangerous condition in the area where fishing was allowed within Seawolf Park," it states.

The Park Board of Trustees is ultimately accused of failing to keep the plaintiff away from the fishing area, which the suit argues is "a known dangerous area."

Wallace says he is unable to work because of his ordeal thus has incurred huge medical expenses.

Consequently, the plaintiff seeks damages for physical pain and disfigurement and mental anguish.

Galveston attorney Jeffrey H. Kilgore is representing the plaintiff.

The litigation has been assigned to Galveston County 405th District Court Judge Wayne Mallia.

Case No. 09CV1125