On April 28, I reported on a 2022 lawsuit Jeff Lewis filed a lawsuit against United Indian Health Services, Inc. That is a civil unlimited employment case alleging wrongful termination. Lewis worked as a drug and alcohol counselor for UIHS at the Potawot Health Clinic in Arcata.
Lewis is represented by Mr. Benjamin K. Karpilow and Mr.Lewis Brown, attorneys with Meechan, Rosenthal & Karpilow law firm from Santa Rosa. UIHS, Inc. by Ms. Brittany S. Greenhill, an attorney with Gordon & Rees Scully Mansukhani which is a law firm in San Francisco.
Former Deputy District attorney Jane Mackie is assisting one of the law firms with the case. I believe local attorney Neal Latt testified. I have to go back and read court minutes for last week about Mr. Latt which I only had time to glance at quickly.
This civil trial has been assigned to Judge Steven Steward. There are court documents in my April 28 case. There are 11 causes of action. On May 5, there was a partial dismissal requested by Mr. Karpilow for the 5th cause of action which is Retaliation and it was granted.
I watched motions in limine. Unlike some Humboldt lawyers in criminal and civil attorneys, there is civility and professionalism of these lawyers even though they are on opposing sides. I saw the same demeanor from Mr. Rick Richmond and Mr. Johnny Rundell, both from Los Angeles law firms.
Closing arguments were given this morning. Prior to this attorneys agreed that Judge Steward could let jurors know of the stipulation that Lewis was terminated by UCSF.
I watched part of the closing arguments. Mr. Karpilow told the jury, " you know about my eyesight" as he described his experience in downtown Eureka. I had only recently noticed him using a cane when he was walking from the lobby to the second floor.
Anyone who lives, works and like me walks frequently around Eureka, especially the Courthouse has seen what Mr. Karpilow described to the jurors.
Two blocks from courthouse, as Mr. Karpilow walked towards a Mexican restaurant, " I see something crawling from a grate. I get closer and realize it is a man. I was told by someone at the Chevron station that he is 18 months sober. This is "two blocks from my hotel." Someone else told Mr. Karpilow "he found salvation." Mr. Karpilow described another 20 year old he saw come in at the gas station.
"You live in Humboldt County, I dont have to tell you Humboldt County has a serious drug addiction problem. This is not about blame; it is about a solution. UIHS exists to help."
Jury was sworn in and read closing instructions by Judge Steward at the end of the day.
5/12/25: Jury is deliberating. Attorneys went into the courtroom at 1:32 p.m. Verdict. Jury finds in favor of UIHS on all claims.
May 5 dismissal:
5/9 court minutes:
Verdict:
Previous post:
https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2025/04/united-indian-health-services-sued-by.html?m=1
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