$6.3 Million Verdict Granted to Parent Company After Entrepreneur Passes Away Without Will

Stone Ash LLC v. Stone Ash LLC, et al. (San Diego Super Ct. No. 37-2018-00003662-CU-BT-CTL): Following a five-day bench trial, on February 22, 2024 a $6.3 million verdict was issued in favor of cross complainant Stone Ash LLC, arising out of a case where a successful local entrepreneur passed away in an automobile accident without a will. This estate litigation matter arose out of a dispute concerning $4.6 million in cash and a $1.7 million yacht being held in control by the deceased entrepreneur’s employee sister-in-law. The parent company demanded that the sister-in-law return the assets, and she refused, claiming that they were a gift made to the deceased entrepreneur’s family made just weeks prior to his passing. Following the five-day bench trial, the court ruled that there was no gift, and that the $4.6 million in cash and the yacht belong to the parent company. Plaintiff was represented by M. Cris Armenta PC. Defendant/cross-complainant was represented by Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP.