Ashley Chinn

Representation of minor and family in high-stakes residential construction defect matter involving catastrophic injuries

Represented a minor and his family who sustained serious and severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, as a result of falling from a residence’s second story window that lacked proper fall protections and was not compliant with relevant building regulations and statutes. Served as the lead associate in handling all stages of discovery, motion practice and settlement.  Successfully obtained a $24 million settlement.

Defense of structural engineering firm in complex, multi-party construction defect matter

Represented a structural engineering firm in a complex, multi-party construction defect matter involving asserted damages of $86 million, and claims for professional negligence and indemnity arising out of the design and construction of the foundation for a major airport.  Handled the matter’s voluminous discovery needs and obligations, compliance with the court and arbitrator’s procedural orders, and analysis of complex questions of law surrounding the involved parties’ indemnity obligations and validity of waiver of consequential damages.  Reasonable settlement for the client was obtained in light of the exorbitant alleged damages.

Representation of subcontractor in contentious contract dispute for unpaid fees on construction of apartment projects

Represented framing subcontractor in highly contentious contract dispute to recover almost $700,000 in unpaid fees and interest for services provided on apartment projects against general contractor and developer. General contractor and developer counterclaimed for purported defect claims. Defeated motions to compel discovery responses requesting $25,000 in sanctions, which positioned the case for a settlement where subcontractor successfully recovered its unpaid fees and interest.

Defense of corporate employers in wage-and-hour class actions and PAGA representative actions

Represented corporate employers in class actions and PAGA representative actions involving alleged wage-and-hour violations including missed meal and rest breaks, and failure to pay minimum and overtime wages. Handled all aspects of discovery, working with experts, assessing the employers’ exposure, and advising the employers for mediation and settlement. Successfully achieved settlements on favorable terms that limited the employers’ financial exposure.

Representation of personal representative of estate in creditor’s claim for repairs provided to decedent’s residence

Represented a personal representative of an estate for his creditor’s claim to recover repairs provided for the decedent’s residence. The claim was highly contested by decedent’s significant other, and involved complex tax implications and emotions. Prepared a motion for summary judgment that clarified the disputed issues between the parties, and positioned the case for a successful settlement that addressed the tax consequences and emotional needs of all involved parties.