Kelley Kronenberg secured a defense verdict for USAA General Indemnity Company following a contentious five-day jury trial in Miami-Dade County in a breach of contract and declaratory relief action arising from an insurance claim for allegedly stolen jewelry. The team was led by Partner and Business Unit Leader Jake Huxtable and Senior Trial Counsel Ryan Galka, with support from Practice Partner Zachary Schiffman, Partner Melissa Usher, and Trial Paralegal Edwin Principe. 

The plaintiff sought approximately $300,000.00 in damages for jewelry, interest, and attorney’s fees. The case spanned nearly three years, and our team’s commitment to the client never wavered. Upon taking over the case, Jake and Zachary immediately identified it as a trial candidate and wasted no time implementing an updated defense strategy in collaboration with USAA. That strategy involved targeted motion practice, meticulous attention to detail, and thorough preparation at every stage of litigation. 

Jury selection presented the first significant challenge. Miami-Dade County is a notoriously plaintiff-friendly venue, and getting the right jury was critical. Ryan handled voir dire, using real-life examples and relatable communication to build genuine rapport with potential jurors. Jake, Ryan, Zachary, and Edwin worked together in the courtroom to seat the jury. 

The contrast in trial strategy between the two sides told the story of the case. The plaintiff’s team leaned heavily on emotion and took nearly four days to present its case. Our team took a different approach entirely. Ryan delivered the opening statement and presented the entire theory of the case in just three hours, a deliberate choice rooted in confidence, clarity, and respect for the jury’s time. Jake handled cross-examination and then, in closing arguments, methodically exposing the inconsistencies and weaknesses running through the plaintiff’s case. 

After two hours of deliberation, the jury returned a verdict in favor of USAA, finding that the plaintiff failed to comply with his duties after loss under the policy. The plaintiff received nothing. USAA is now positioned to recover its costs from the plaintiff.

Read the Jury Verdict Report here: Verdict Form Signed 

 

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