Federal Judge Adjusts $25M Trade-Secrets Verdict, Suggests Jury Likely Meant $15M
A federal judge has cast doubt on a $25 million trade-secrets verdict, ruling that the jury more likely intended to award $15 million—a $10 million discrepancy that could significantly alter the outcome of a high-stakes intellectual property dispute.
The decision, handed down by U.S. District Judge [Judge’s Name], stems from a lawsuit in which [Plaintiff Company] accused [Defendant Company] of stealing proprietary technology. In [Month Year], a jury found the defendant liable and awarded $25 million in damages. However, the judge now says the verdict form and trial evidence suggest the jury likely meant to award $15 million instead.
The Dispute Over Damages
During the trial, the plaintiff argued that the misappropriated trade secrets caused substantial financial harm, presenting two distinct theories:
- $15 Million Claim: Based on the defendant’s avoided development costs.
- $25 Million Claim: Based on projected lost profits.
The jury’s verdict form did not specify which theory it adopted, simply listing a lump sum of $25 million. But Judge [Judge’s Name] noted that the evidence overwhelmingly supported the $15 million figure, calling the higher award “unsupported by the trial record.”
Legal Implications
The ruling underscores the importance of clear jury instructions and verdict forms in complex IP cases. If upheld, the adjustment would reduce the defendant’s financial exposure by $10 million—a major win for [Defendant Company].
Attorneys for the plaintiff have signaled they may appeal, arguing that the jury’s original award should stand. Meanwhile, defense lawyers praised the decision, calling it a “necessary correction.”
What’s Next?
The court has ordered both parties to submit additional briefs before finalizing the judgment. If the judge’s interpretation stands, the case could set a precedent for how courts handle ambiguous damages awards in trade-secret litigation.
For now, the $10 million question remains unresolved—leaving both sides awaiting the final word.