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In a hard-fought battle in Georgetown, Texas, Chartwell’s Texas team prevailed as the Williamson County District Court granted a motion for summary judgment in favor of our client, a local café. The motion was argued by Allison Vann and authored by Amber Dunten, both of whom demonstrated remarkable insight and skill throughout the case.
The court ruled that a premises owner is not legally responsible for injuries sustained by an independent contractor while performing work within their expertise - an important decision in premises liability law. The case involved a professional plumber who suffered burns when a pressurized hot water line, which he had been hired to repair, burst during his work. Prior to the incident, the plumber had recommended changing the hot water lines from cPVC to copper to prevent leaks.
This outcome was the result of relentless discovery efforts, thorough briefing, and persuasive oral arguments centered on premises liability duties and the necessary use exception. While a few remaining claims are yet to be resolved, this victory significantly narrows the scope of the case and brings our client closer to a favorable resolution.
Congratulations to Allison Vann, Amber Dunten, and the entire Texas team for their hard work and commitment to our clients!
