Florida Partner Prevails on Summary Judgment in Premises Liability Suit

Tampa Partner A. Michael Perotti recently obtained a defense verdict in a Manatee County, Florida, premises liability matter in and for the Twelfth Judicial Circuit on behalf of our restaurant client.

In 2021, Plaintiff was a patron at our client’s restaurant. As Plaintiff exited near closing time, an altercation broke out between his group and another group nearby. During the incident, Plaintiff sustained a facial injury caused by a razor blade, resulting in permanent scarring and nerve damage. In 2023, Plaintiff filed suit against the restaurant and the property owner/landlord. As discovery progressed, Plaintiff also named the adjacent parking lot owner, where parts of the altercation occurred.

Mike Perotti defended the case based on applicable premises liability law, arguing the altercation was not foreseeable and that Plaintiff and his group bore comparative responsibility for the incident. The defense further asserted that Plaintiff was not on property owned or controlled by our client at the time of the incident.

Following discovery and depositions, the Circuit Court entered a Final Order of Summary Judgment, securing a complete defense victory on behalf of our Client.

Mike concentrates his practice on litigating high-exposure general liability matters. He defends third-party insurance claims with a focus on premises liability, as well as commercial disputes, breach of contract, personal injury and wrongful death.