(Ontario, CA). (June 16, 2026) — In an exceptional outcome, after a fiercely contested eight-week trial, a San Bernardino County jury returned a defense verdict in favor of our client, rejecting plaintiff's demand for $23 million. WSHB's team was led by trial partner Ranjan Lahiri and associate Cecilia Torello, who worked together to secure this outstanding victory.
The client, a pest control company, was accused of causing a plaintiff's alleged hypoxic brain injury and permanent cognitive impairment following a pesticide application during a cockroach treatment at an apartment complex in Ontario, California. After one day of deliberations, the jury found negligence related to paperwork deficiencies but concluded that the company's conduct was not a substantial factor in causing the plaintiff's injuries-resulting in a complete defense verdict on the critical issue of causation.
The case was heavily litigated and included two mediations. Following the second mediation, plaintiff significantly increased the settlement demand. At trial, plaintiff sought approximately $23.7 million and, during trial, proposed an $18 million/$11 million high-low agreement. More than a year before trial, the defense served a CCP §998 offer of $295,000. With the defense verdict now in hand, the team is actively preparing its cost bill, a second victory that underscores the significance of the result.
"From the outset, this case turned on causation," said Lahiri. "The defense team remained disciplined in focusing the jury on the scientific and medical evidence. Despite the magnitude of the damages sought, the jury carefully evaluated the facts and ultimately concluded that the plaintiff failed to prove the essential connection between our client's conduct and her alleged injuries."
Jurors later praised the defense team's organization, professionalism, and efficiency, and specifically cited the defense's focus on the evidentiary gaps in plaintiff's case.
"This result reflects months of intensive preparation and willingness to try a difficult case," said Torello. "We are grateful the jury gave careful attention to the evidence and reached a verdict consistent with both the law and facts presented at trial."
Wood Smith Henning & Berman: Your Trusted Partner
Experience the power of a proven industry leader in the law. Wood Smith Henning & Berman (WSHB) is renowned globally for our exceptional trial results and expertise in handling complex litigation. With our nationwide network of over 500 lawyers across 43 office locations, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive litigation and counsel to both public and private companies. From start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations, we deliver unrivaled legal representation that consistently achieves favorable outcomes for our clients.
At WSHB, our strength lies in our diverse and accomplished team of attorneys. We boast thought leaders and defense specialists in over 41 fields of practice, covering an extensive range of specialties. Founded in 1997, we are proud to be among the top ten law firms in the nation for diversity, female partners, female lawyers, and Hispanic lawyers. This rich tapestry of diversity forms the foundation of our success when presenting cases to juries of our peers, ensuring we understand the unique nuances underlying each claim.
Our expansive geographic footprint allows us to provide effective and efficient representation to clients nationwide, regardless of their location, background, or legal expertise. By prioritizing strategic and cost-effective approaches to litigation, our dedicated attorneys work tirelessly to protect the interests of our clients. We have a track record of success, securing numerous victories such as summary judgments and defense verdicts on behalf of our clients. As a trial firm, we have taken over 2,000 cases to verdict, making us well-equipped to handle even the most complex and high-stakes litigation matters across the country.
