The Texas Lawbook

Free Speech, Due Process and Trial by Jury

Jury Awards Take-Nothing Defense Verdict in Feud over Houston Family Business

A Houston jury has awarded a take-nothing defense verdict to three brothers who were accused by two of their other siblings of fraud, securities violations and breach of fiduciary duty of their family business.

After a five-week trial in Harris County, jurors ruled on Oct. 4 in an 11-1 verdict that plaintiff brothers David and Bruce Hotze, as well as David’s wife Donna, take nothing. Up to $30 million in damages were at stake for the defendant brothers.

Natalie Posgate

Natalie Posgate covers pro bono work, public service and diversity within the Texas legal community.

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