Nuccio v. Chou
The Supreme Court, New York County, initially awarded plaintiffs significant compensatory and punitive damages against Catherine Chou, alleging she deliberately damaged their building through excavation to compel a property sale. However, the appellate court reversed this judgment, finding insufficient evidence to support the jury's 67% liability apportionment to Chou, as her husband, Robert Chou, primarily controlled the construction. The trial also suffered from errors, including the denial of a 'missing witness' charge and improper questioning. Additionally, misconduct by the plaintiffs' counsel contributed to an unfair trial. Consequently, the judgment was reversed, causes of action for several liability against Catherine Chou were dismissed, and a new trial was ordered.