Jury Returns Verdict In Favor Of Estate

On July 26, 2006, after a three-week trial, a Chicago jury returned a verdict in favor of Novack and Macey 's client, the Estate of Edith-Marie Appleton. The primary issue in the case was whether Florida State University Foundation could enforce what it claimed was a $2,000,001 charitable pledge made by Ms. Appleton. Florida State University was the original claimant and it also brought a claim against her son, Albert I. Goodman. However, those claims were dismissed earlier in the suit.

The jury heard testimony from numerous witnesses including Florida State University's President, the Foundation's former President, the Foundation's Former Vice-President of Planned Giving and several of Ms. Appleton's friends and family members, including Albert Goodman. After deliberating for one and a half days, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the Estate on the Foundation's claim.

Karen L. Levine and Richard L. Miller II of Novack and Macey tried the case with Sherman C. Magidson. After the trial, Sherman Magidson stated, "I am pleased that we obtained a favorable result for our client, and I especially enjoyed working with the Novack and Macey lawyers. Their skill and energy directly led to this success."

Novack and Macey associates Courtney D. Tedrowe and Joseph S. Nacca assisted in preparing the case for trial.

For further information please contact Don Tarkington, Managing Partner at 312.419.6900.