Gray Reed attorneys Jonathan Hyman, Kelly Leonard, Bill Drabble and Greta Andersen secured a unanimous jury verdict on behalf of longtime client Jani-King in a dispute with franchisees Savino and Mirka Melluzzo, their son Giancarlo Melluzzo, and related businesses.

Following a trial in the 68th Judicial District Court in Dallas County, the jury found that Savino and Mirka Melluzzo breached their Jani-King franchise agreement, and that the Melluzzos and their related businesses tortiously interfered with Jani-King’s commercial cleaning contracts with multiple customers and engaged in unfair methods of competition under the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act. 

“This verdict reflects the strength of Jani-King’s case and the jury’s careful consideration of the evidence,” said Hyman, Partner at Gray Reed. “We are proud of our thirty-year relationship with Jani-King, the result achieved, and appreciate Jani-King’s trust in our team throughout this case.”

The jury awarded Jani-King more than $1.3 million in damages and attorneys’ fees and found by clear and convincing evidence that Savino Melluzzo and Giancarlo Melluzzo acted with malice. The verdict was unanimous, with all 12 jurors agreeing on each of the findings.

About Gray Reed

As a full-service Texas law firm with a comprehensive range of litigation and transactional practice groups, Gray Reed's more than 160 attorneys focus on understanding our clients' businesses and industries. We are equipped to support companies and high-net-worth individuals with sophisticated legal needs. Through our subsidiary, Gray Reed Advisory Services, we extend our support with expert consultants who provide strategic business solutions tailored to each client's objectives. Discover what sets us apart at www.grayreed.com and www.grayreedadvisory.com.