MLS Attorneys Prevail in Tenth Circuit Appeal Concerning Shareholder Liability

Chris Taravella, Michael McCormick, and Christopher Carry successfully defended an appeal on behalf of a commercial landlord before the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. Oral argument was held on November 15, 2017. The appeal primarily concerned whether there was sufficient evidence to support the district court’s judgment in favor of the firm’s client, which was in excess of $700,000.  This judgment involved piercing the veil of a corporate defendant in order to hold its controlling shareholder liable for the conduct and actions of the corporation.  Prior to trial, the firm also prevailed on a summary judgment motion against the corporation in the amount of $2.4 million.

Chris Taravella is a shareholder and trial attorney who focuses his practice on complex commercial and employment litigation. Mr. Taravella has tried more than 100 cases during his career in the United States Air Force and private practice.

Michael McCormick is a shareholder who defends professionals, including attorneys, appraisers, and real estate brokers, against professional liability, malpractice and disciplinary actions. He also represents clients in real estate and eminent domain litigation.

Christopher Carry is an associate attorney who focuses his practice on commercial litigation and appeals. Prior to joining MLS, Mr. Carry was a judicial law clerk for the Colorado Court of Appeals.