Turner v. Murphy Oil Conference May 12, 2009
Content
MINUTE ENTRY FALLON,J. MAY 12,2009 UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA PATRICK JOSEPH TURNER, ET AL. VERSUS
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CIVIL ACTION NO. 05-4206 CONSOLIDATED CASE SECTION "L" (2)
MURPHY OIL USA, INC.
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THIS DOCUMENT RELATES TO ALL CASES
A conference was held on this date in the Courtroom of Judge Eldon E. Fallon to discuss the out of area claimants. The parties discussed the proposal presented by counsel for Murphy Oil USA, Inc. ("Murphy") for an opt-in settlement program which would include use of up to $2 million of the disputed cy pres fund. Plaintiffs' counsel indicated that they conferred with their clients and the majority of responses provided have been in favor of the proposal. The Court has received several letters from residents of St. Bernard Parish indicating their objection to the proposed use of some of the cy pres funds. It is, therefore, appropriate to convene a hearing to provide individuals who object the opportunity to formally state their objection and explain why they are objecting. Accordingly, IT IS ORDERED that a hearing will be held in the Courtroom of Judge Eldon E. Fallon on May 18,2009 at 9:30 a.m. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the attached e-mail to Plaintiffs'counsel, map, brief by
Murphy to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and list of responses by Plaintiffs' counsel be hereby FILED into the record.
I JS 10(00:30) I
This conference was transcribed by Mr. David Zarek, Official Court Reporter. Counsel may contact Mr. Zarek at (504) 523-6062 to request a copy of the transcript.
-2-
Roberta L. Bums
From: Sent:
Roberta L. Burns Tuesday, April 28, 2009 9:14 AM ([email protected]); ([email protected]); [email protected]); ([email protected]); ([email protected]); Abraham Amador ([email protected]); Amber Cisney ([email protected]); Amy Guidry; Anthony D. Irpino Esq. ([email protected]); Arthur Landry ([email protected]); Benjamin D. Beychok Esq. ([email protected]); Brock Darren Dupre' Esq. ([email protected]); Bruce S. Kingsdorf Esq. ([email protected]); Bryan August Pfleeger ([email protected]); Christine Lynn DeSue Esq. ([email protected]); Christopher T. Castro Esq. ([email protected]); Conrad S. P. Williams III Esq. (duke525 @msn.com); Daniel E. Becnel Jr. ([email protected]); Darleen Marie Jacobs Esq. ([email protected]); Darryl James Becnel Esq. ([email protected]); David Ryan Cannella Esq. ([email protected]); David Scott Scalia Esq. ([email protected]); Dawn M. Barrios Esq. ([email protected]); [email protected]; Erica Curole; Ethel Carroll Rogers Esq. ([email protected]); Frank J. Swarr Esq. ([email protected]); Frank Jacob D'Amico Jr. Esq. ([email protected]); [email protected]; Gordon Crawford Esq. ([email protected]); Greg DiLeo Esq. ([email protected]); [email protected]; Hugh P. Lambert Esq. ([email protected]); Hughes, Jim; [email protected]; Jay Andry [email protected]); [email protected]; Jean Paul Overton; Jeanne Andry Landry [email protected]); Jennifer N. Willis Esq. ([email protected]); Jesse Lee Wimberly III Esq. ([email protected]); John Randall Whaley Esq. [email protected]); John Robert Martzell Esq. [email protected]); John Van Robichaux Jr. ([email protected]); Jonathan D. Orent [email protected]); Joseph Bruno [email protected]); Joseph G. Jevic III Esq. [email protected]); Kara M. Hadican ([email protected]); Leonard L. Levenson ([email protected]); Linda Jane Nelson Esq. (/[email protected]); Lisa Batiste; Madro Bandaries ([email protected]); Mark Glago Esq. ([email protected]); Michael Calogero ([email protected]); Michael G. Stag Esq. ([email protected]); Mickey P. Landry Esq. ([email protected]); Mickey P. Landry Esq. ([email protected]); Nicole Roseberry; Patti Durio Hatch ([email protected]); Philip Bohrer Esq. (phi/@bohrerlaw.com); Phyllis Michon; Rebecca A. Cunard Esq. ([email protected]); Richard Exnicios ([email protected]); Richard J. Arsenault Esq. ([email protected]); Robert M. Becnel Esq. ([email protected]); Robert Marionneaux [email protected]); Roberta L. Burns; Ronnie Glynn Penton Esq. ([email protected]); Russ M. Herman Esq. ([email protected]); Scott R. Bickford Esq. ([email protected]); Sean D. Alfortish Esq. ([email protected]); Sherif K. Sakla Esq. ([email protected]); Sidney Torres, III; Spencer R. Doody Esq. ([email protected]); Stephen J. Herman Esq. ([email protected]); T. Allen Usry Esq. ([email protected]); Val P. Exnicios Esq. ([email protected]); W. Michael Hingle Esq. ([email protected]); Walter C. Dumas; Walter John Leger Jr. Esq. ([email protected]); Wiley J. Beevers Esq. ([email protected]); William E. Bradley; [email protected]; Christine L. DeSue; Daniel E. Becnel, III; Gerald E. Meunier; Joseph M. Bruno; Madra Bandaries; Patti Durio Hatch; Travis J. Turner; W. Michael Hingle Turner v Murphy: OUt of Area Cases 042009 Turner Out-of-Area Settlement Offer.pdf High
To:
Subject: Attachments: Importance: Dear Counsel:
In the class settlement with Murphy Oil, certain funds were earmarked for the compensation of class members. Upon completion of the claims/compensation process, however, approximately $5 million of those funds remains unused.
05-L/~D&-L
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Murphy filed a motion seeking the repayment
of these unused funds, citing Fifth Circuit authority
for the
proposition that a settling defendant has a reversionary interest in such funds when they remain unpaid to claimants after the completion of a negotiated class settlement program. We opposed the motion and argued that the funds should be used for the benefit of the class, perhaps on the basis of the ey pres doctrine. Judge Fallon denied Murphy's motion; but Murphy now has appealed that ruling to the Fifth Circuit. A briefing schedule is expected shortly. As you know, a number of claims remain in litigation for those residents who allegedly had oil damage from the spill, but who were located beyond the class boundaries set by the Court. In order to both address those claims and resolve the pending appeal as to unused class settlement funds, Murphy now proposes to dedicate $3 million of the $5 million to class benefit (ey pres), and use the remaining $2 million to compensate out-of-area property damage claims. As to the latter, Murphy stipulates that each of these out-of-area property damage claimants would receive an amount less than the property damage awards made through the class settlement program. The specifics of Murphy's settlement proposal are contained in the attached document (also posted on Pacer at Document # 2759). I am also attaching Murphy's draft appellate brief regarding the cy pres fund. Following discussions about this proposal at a recent status conference with Judge Fallon, it appears both necessary and appropriate that all PSCmembers be advised of the proposal by Murphy, and called upon to express either support of, or opposition to, the proposal, specifically insofar as it involves disposition of unused class settlement funds. As Liaison Counsel, I favor the Murphy proposal because: (1) the appeal to the Fifth Circuit is uncertain as to outcome, and, if Murphy prevails, this would result in a loss of the entire $5 million; (2) the agreement by Murphy to use $3 million for class benefit is a significant opportunity for the class, given the risk of an adverse appeal outcome; and (3) the use of the remaining $2 million for out-of-area claims does benefit the entire St. Bernard community, including class members. Please respond no later than Monday. May 4. 2009. bye-mail of or your opposition to the Murphy proposal. Sincerely, Sidney D. Torres, III Roberta L. Burns 8301 W. Judge Perez Drive Suite 303 Chalmette, Louisiana 70043 Telephone: (504) 271-8422 Facsimile: (504) 271-1961 Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.torres-Iaw.com
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: INFORMATION IN THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL USE OF THE RECIPIENT(S) NAMED ABOVE This message is sent by or on behalf of a lawyer at the law firm listed above, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. This message contains information and/or attachments that are privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient
to me, clearly expressing either your support
2
or is not the employee or agent responsible disclose this communication immediately
for delivering this message to the intended at 504-217-8421 Thank you.
recipient,
please do not read, copy, use or
to others. Please notify us immediately
if you receive this message in error, and
delete this message and all of its attachments.
3
~'.
WITHOUT PREJUDICE-SETTLEMENT
COMMUNICATION
CY PRES/OUT OF AREA CASES PROPOSAL
$5 million left over in Class Settlement Compensation Program. $3 million dedicated to charitable purposes/cy pres distribution.
Cy Pres Committee will consist of Sidney Torres, Bobby Klees, Danny Dysart and Carl Zornes (Murphy head of community affairs). Committee will make recommendations of potential uses of cy pres funds. Potential uses include:
a. b. c. d. e. f.
Healthcare Recreation Education Wetlands Oil Spill Buyout Zone neighborhood landscaping/beautification (Andre Neff) Recognitionlmemorialization of Murphy oil spill stakeholders, residents, parish officials, attorneys, etc.
2,500 out of area cases (individuals). 3 zones: a. b. c. Kaltofen zone - $1,500 per person Aycock Street-Meraux Pasture - $600 per person Rest of St. Bernard Parish,. $250 per person
Total settlement is $2 million assuming all out of area plaintiffs participate. This $2 million will be paid out of class settlement surplus funds. • To the extent $2 million is not used, that money will revert to cy pres fund. Murphy will contribute up to $800,000 in new funds for attorney fees/costs associated with settlements of out of area claims. These amounts will be paid at contract rates for those out of area claimants who participate in settlement. Murphy will issue offers of judgment for an amount less than the settlement offer for those wishing to litigate. Murphy will seek entry of a Lone Pine Order for those who reject the settlement offer and wish to litigate their out of area claims.
Again, for those out of area claimants who reject settlement, the amount of their settlement will be directed to the cy pres fund and used for charitable purposes in accordance with the recommendations of the Cy Pres Committee and rulings of the Court. If the proposal is accepted, Murphy will dismiss its Notice of Appeal to the Fifth Circuit on the issue of reversion/reallocation of the entirety of the $5 million in surplus class settlement funds.
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• • USDC Records Tank 250-2
--Roads
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Kaltofen Boundary (5.1 square miles)
. Turner Area Claims (10.7 square miles) Out of Class Boundary (2.6 square miles)
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3
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USDC Records in Saint Bernard Parish
9
•••••••
cr-.y '-'POr_""""",,COllI
801.802.4307
ApdI15, 2000
Roberta L. Burns
From: Sent: To:
Roberta L. Burns Tuesday, May 05, 200910:48 AM Anthony D. Irpino; Betty (Hingle Law); Bruce S. Kingsdorf; Christine L. DeSue; Daniel E. Becnel, III; Daniel E. Becnel, Jr.; Darleen M. Jacobs; David R. Cannella; Dawn M. Barrios; Denise Martin; Dianne Zinc Becnel; E. Carroll Rogers; Frank J. Swarr; Gerald E. Meunier; Gilbert V. Andry, III; Gordon R. Crawford; Jerald N. Andry, Jr.; Joseph M. Bruno; Madro Bandaries; Mark P. Glago; Mickey P. Landry; Nicole Roseberry; Patti Durio Hatch; Phyllis Michon; Rebecca Cunard; Robert M. Becnel; Roberta L. Burns; Sally (Hingle Law); Sidney Torres, III; Travis J. Turner; Val P. Exnicios; W. Michael Hingle; Walter C. Dumas; Walter J. Leger, Jr.; William E. Bradley;.([email protected]); ([email protected]); ([email protected]); ([email protected]); Abraham Amador ([email protected]); Amber Cisney ([email protected]); Amy Guidry; Arthur Landry ([email protected]); Benjamin D. Beychok Esq. ([email protected]); Brock Darren Dupre' Esq. ([email protected]); Bryan August Pfleeger ([email protected]); Christine Lynn DeSue Esq. ([email protected]); Christopher T. Castro Esq. ([email protected]); Conrad S. P. Williams III Esq. ([email protected]); Darryl James Becnel Esq. ([email protected]); David Scott Scalia Esq. ([email protected]); Erica Curole; Frank Jacob D'Amico Jr. Esq. ([email protected]); Greg DiLeo Esq. ([email protected]); [email protected]; Hugh P. Lambert Esq. ([email protected]); Hughes, Jim; [email protected]; [email protected]; Jean Paul Overton; Jeanne Andry Landry ([email protected]); Jennifer N. Willis Esq. ([email protected]); Jesse Lee Wimberly III Esq. ([email protected]); John Randall Whaley Esq. ([email protected]); John Robert Martzell Esq. ([email protected]); John Van Robichaux Jr. ([email protected]); Jonathan D. Orent [email protected]); Joseph Bruno [email protected]); Joseph G. Jevic III Esq. (jjevic@crescentfarm. com); Kara M. Hadican ([email protected]); Leonard L. Levenson ([email protected]); Linda Jane Nelson Esq. ([email protected]); Lisa Batiste; Madro Bandaries ([email protected]); Michael Calogero ([email protected]); Michael G. Stag Esq. ([email protected]); Mickey P. Landry Esq. ([email protected]); Patti Durio Hatch ([email protected]); Philip Bohrer Esq. ([email protected]); Richard Exnicios ([email protected]); Richard J. Arsenault Esq. ([email protected]); Robert Marionneaux ([email protected]); Ronnie Glynn Penton Esq. ([email protected]); Russ M. Herman Esq. ([email protected]); Scott R. Bickford Esq. ([email protected]); Sean D. Alfortish ([email protected]); Sherif K. Sakla Esq. ([email protected]); Spencer R. Doody Esq. ([email protected]); Stephen J. Herman Esq. ([email protected]); T. Allen Usry Esq. ([email protected]); Wiley J. Beevers Esq. ([email protected]) Turner: out of area settlement proposal 050509 Settlement Remaining Federal Court Cases Votes.wpd; 050409 W Duchman flyer. pdt, 050509 Settlement Kleyle Attorneys Votes.wpd; 050509 Settlement PSC Atty Executive Committee VOTES.wpd
Subject: Attachments:
Counsel: The results of our recent survey of all interested counsel concerning the settlement 20, 2009, are attached. proposal made by Murphy on April
The overwhelming majority of attorneys have agreed to recommend the settlement proposal to their clients. This does not mean that plaintiffs' counsel all have obtained consent to the offer from their clients, only that they will recommend the settlement. I have broken out the responses in three categories: (l) the members of the PSCwho have, with a couple of exceptions, voted in favor of accepting the proposal; (2) the Kleyle mass joinder attorneys; and, (3) the other out of area Federal cases, a list of which Murphy provided this office. Murphy has agreed to communicate with all counsel representing clients in State court.
1
I am also attaching for your information circulated by Mr. Duchmann. Thanks you, Roberta
a flyer we received yesterday from a St. Bernard resident and apparently
being
Roberta L. Burns 8301 W. Judge Perez Drive Suite 303 Chalmette, Louisiana 70043 Telephone: (504) 271-8422 Facsimile: (504) 271-1961 Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.torres-Iaw.com
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: INFORMATION IN THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL USE OF THE RECIPIENT(S) NAMED ABOVE This message is sent by or on behalf of a lawyer at the law firm listed above, and is intended the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. This message contains information and/or attachments only for that are
privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient or is not the employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, please do not read, copy, use or disclose this communication to others. Please notify us immediately at 504-217-8421 if you receive this message in error, and immediately delete this message and all of its attachments. Thank you.
2
NOTICE TO CLASS MEMBERS
A ') 4 f)(\\\~
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1.,"",.\
...·PATRICK JOSEPH TURNER, ET AL VS. MURPHY OIL USA NO.05-4206 . : Excerpt from the Minute Entry of April 20, 2009 in U.S. District Court:
Attorneys for Murphy Oil proposed Out-of-Area cases would
use $5 million in surplus money for Class Action Settlement
Compensation Program. 3 Zones: A. Kaltofen Zone - $1.500 per person
8. Aycock Street -Meraux Pasture -$600 per person C. Rest of St. Bernard Parish-$250 per person
Murphy will contribute up to $800.000 in new funds for attomey fees/costs associated with settlements of out of area claims. These amounts will be paid at contract rates for those out of area claimants who participate in settlement.
1 am opposed to this agreement
1. First Patrick Joseph Turner lives at 2001 Landry Court, Meraux t LAt 2.4 miles outside of the court's designated class boundary and he is not a class member.
2. The settlement agreelnent VI(S), at p. 16 uNon-reversion - All future payments under the Buyout and Compensation Programs
will be spent for the benefit of Class Members ..." 3. I am opposed to any class money being spent outside of the
designated Class Action boundary. 4. The agreement was that any leftover funds would be .dispersed to
class members; not to those who are not part of the lawsuit.
A hearing has been set in the courtroom of Judge Eldon Fallon for May 12th, 2009 at 4 p.m.
Wayne
PAID FOR BY WAYNE J, DUCHMANN & FRIENDS
J. Duchmann,
252Sl.£8t>0S
610-8320
Turner Out-of-Area Settlement Offer (Remaining Federal Court Cases) Docket # clients with his tally
.
counsel James Guest Mark Michael no Gutierrez, Darleen Plaisance Various Meisner ChalmetteTammy, etSr., Adam Lambert Scott Caillouet, Retail Diaz, Henry, Anthony, Center Peter EricProvo Kleyle, Raul, Bell, Jp Yea Anita Morgan Emerald LLC Lloyd Frischhertz Chase Helmke,Cynthia, etal EricA. B.noWilliams, Salvador B. attached E. separate Livaudias,Cindy,etetMaas, Paul Mayeaux Crocker,Marcus etalM. JonathanDorsey Eugene, al Val Bouvier, Jr., Aisola,Darleen andetalet Nay al M. see response Caption Levy, William, Bischoff,Brian, Jacobs al AttorneyBoppAndryLandry) al Aguilar,Karen Eugene,aletet& P.BickfordX styis Jr.Jr. Guidry, Randall al Hugh S. D. Stag (defers Exnicios Mickey Crane, Richard, Tammy & D. Jacobs Arbon,Dr.BernaletL.,BankXHenryP.Hutton Kirk &G. response Michaeltosee Ferachi Gagliano, Tony, Lynn
consulting
9209
4606 4696
Navaille,Linda, et al; VanderHoff, J.Spencer Perez, Brian Kathleen alJesse CoutureX Connors Tarver, Zelaya, Mary Terrebonne, Darleen Clayton could Christine S. response Luthjens,Carlos, et al et XKeith L. noLevy not Mendoza, David Anthony, Gregory G. Duhy Michael Morris Gaffney 06-5309 Darleen J. Levy Alice & Barreca, Wimberly, III contactWarren; Johannessen, David Cleland, Wiles Debra; Vidrine Brenda Stephen Roy & Michael
.
Yea Travis Turner (29462) N. MadroA.Becnel Jr.(20154) Bandaries(9471) Daniel Robert (20692) RebeccaM. Meunier (14072) Cunard (2926) Gerald E. Becnel, III (25339) Val P. Exnicios (19563)
Turner Out-of-Area Settlement Offer (KLEYLE) Nay
X no response
Darleen her clients matter; offer R. Marie Jacobs (7208) Jacobs suit, Docket Ms. individualthe however, the Kleyle as toCannell (26231) not06-3198 No. accept David indoes Walter John Leger, Jr. (8278)
X as X her to
TURNER PSC ATTORNEYS & EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ATTORNEYS Attorney Yea Nay
X X, in part no response
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CIVIL ACTION NO. 05-4206 CONSOLIDATED CASE SECTION "L" (2)
MURPHY OIL USA, INC.
*
* * * * * ** * * * * * * ** *** *** * * * * * * * *** **
THIS DOCUMENT RELATES TO ALL CASES
A conference was held on this date in the Courtroom of Judge Eldon E. Fallon to discuss the out of area claimants. The parties discussed the proposal presented by counsel for Murphy Oil USA, Inc. ("Murphy") for an opt-in settlement program which would include use of up to $2 million of the disputed cy pres fund. Plaintiffs' counsel indicated that they conferred with their clients and the majority of responses provided have been in favor of the proposal. The Court has received several letters from residents of St. Bernard Parish indicating their objection to the proposed use of some of the cy pres funds. It is, therefore, appropriate to convene a hearing to provide individuals who object the opportunity to formally state their objection and explain why they are objecting. Accordingly, IT IS ORDERED that a hearing will be held in the Courtroom of Judge Eldon E. Fallon on May 18,2009 at 9:30 a.m. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the attached e-mail to Plaintiffs'counsel, map, brief by
Murphy to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and list of responses by Plaintiffs' counsel be hereby FILED into the record.
I JS 10(00:30) I
This conference was transcribed by Mr. David Zarek, Official Court Reporter. Counsel may contact Mr. Zarek at (504) 523-6062 to request a copy of the transcript.
-2-
Roberta L. Bums
From: Sent:
Roberta L. Burns Tuesday, April 28, 2009 9:14 AM ([email protected]); ([email protected]); [email protected]); ([email protected]); ([email protected]); Abraham Amador ([email protected]); Amber Cisney ([email protected]); Amy Guidry; Anthony D. Irpino Esq. ([email protected]); Arthur Landry ([email protected]); Benjamin D. Beychok Esq. ([email protected]); Brock Darren Dupre' Esq. ([email protected]); Bruce S. Kingsdorf Esq. ([email protected]); Bryan August Pfleeger ([email protected]); Christine Lynn DeSue Esq. ([email protected]); Christopher T. Castro Esq. ([email protected]); Conrad S. P. Williams III Esq. (duke525 @msn.com); Daniel E. Becnel Jr. ([email protected]); Darleen Marie Jacobs Esq. ([email protected]); Darryl James Becnel Esq. ([email protected]); David Ryan Cannella Esq. ([email protected]); David Scott Scalia Esq. ([email protected]); Dawn M. Barrios Esq. ([email protected]); [email protected]; Erica Curole; Ethel Carroll Rogers Esq. ([email protected]); Frank J. Swarr Esq. ([email protected]); Frank Jacob D'Amico Jr. Esq. ([email protected]); [email protected]; Gordon Crawford Esq. ([email protected]); Greg DiLeo Esq. ([email protected]); [email protected]; Hugh P. Lambert Esq. ([email protected]); Hughes, Jim; [email protected]; Jay Andry [email protected]); [email protected]; Jean Paul Overton; Jeanne Andry Landry [email protected]); Jennifer N. Willis Esq. ([email protected]); Jesse Lee Wimberly III Esq. ([email protected]); John Randall Whaley Esq. [email protected]); John Robert Martzell Esq. [email protected]); John Van Robichaux Jr. ([email protected]); Jonathan D. Orent [email protected]); Joseph Bruno [email protected]); Joseph G. Jevic III Esq. [email protected]); Kara M. Hadican ([email protected]); Leonard L. Levenson ([email protected]); Linda Jane Nelson Esq. (/[email protected]); Lisa Batiste; Madro Bandaries ([email protected]); Mark Glago Esq. ([email protected]); Michael Calogero ([email protected]); Michael G. Stag Esq. ([email protected]); Mickey P. Landry Esq. ([email protected]); Mickey P. Landry Esq. ([email protected]); Nicole Roseberry; Patti Durio Hatch ([email protected]); Philip Bohrer Esq. (phi/@bohrerlaw.com); Phyllis Michon; Rebecca A. Cunard Esq. ([email protected]); Richard Exnicios ([email protected]); Richard J. Arsenault Esq. ([email protected]); Robert M. Becnel Esq. ([email protected]); Robert Marionneaux [email protected]); Roberta L. Burns; Ronnie Glynn Penton Esq. ([email protected]); Russ M. Herman Esq. ([email protected]); Scott R. Bickford Esq. ([email protected]); Sean D. Alfortish Esq. ([email protected]); Sherif K. Sakla Esq. ([email protected]); Sidney Torres, III; Spencer R. Doody Esq. ([email protected]); Stephen J. Herman Esq. ([email protected]); T. Allen Usry Esq. ([email protected]); Val P. Exnicios Esq. ([email protected]); W. Michael Hingle Esq. ([email protected]); Walter C. Dumas; Walter John Leger Jr. Esq. ([email protected]); Wiley J. Beevers Esq. ([email protected]); William E. Bradley; [email protected]; Christine L. DeSue; Daniel E. Becnel, III; Gerald E. Meunier; Joseph M. Bruno; Madra Bandaries; Patti Durio Hatch; Travis J. Turner; W. Michael Hingle Turner v Murphy: OUt of Area Cases 042009 Turner Out-of-Area Settlement Offer.pdf High
To:
Subject: Attachments: Importance: Dear Counsel:
In the class settlement with Murphy Oil, certain funds were earmarked for the compensation of class members. Upon completion of the claims/compensation process, however, approximately $5 million of those funds remains unused.
05-L/~D&-L
1
~' \
Murphy filed a motion seeking the repayment
of these unused funds, citing Fifth Circuit authority
for the
proposition that a settling defendant has a reversionary interest in such funds when they remain unpaid to claimants after the completion of a negotiated class settlement program. We opposed the motion and argued that the funds should be used for the benefit of the class, perhaps on the basis of the ey pres doctrine. Judge Fallon denied Murphy's motion; but Murphy now has appealed that ruling to the Fifth Circuit. A briefing schedule is expected shortly. As you know, a number of claims remain in litigation for those residents who allegedly had oil damage from the spill, but who were located beyond the class boundaries set by the Court. In order to both address those claims and resolve the pending appeal as to unused class settlement funds, Murphy now proposes to dedicate $3 million of the $5 million to class benefit (ey pres), and use the remaining $2 million to compensate out-of-area property damage claims. As to the latter, Murphy stipulates that each of these out-of-area property damage claimants would receive an amount less than the property damage awards made through the class settlement program. The specifics of Murphy's settlement proposal are contained in the attached document (also posted on Pacer at Document # 2759). I am also attaching Murphy's draft appellate brief regarding the cy pres fund. Following discussions about this proposal at a recent status conference with Judge Fallon, it appears both necessary and appropriate that all PSCmembers be advised of the proposal by Murphy, and called upon to express either support of, or opposition to, the proposal, specifically insofar as it involves disposition of unused class settlement funds. As Liaison Counsel, I favor the Murphy proposal because: (1) the appeal to the Fifth Circuit is uncertain as to outcome, and, if Murphy prevails, this would result in a loss of the entire $5 million; (2) the agreement by Murphy to use $3 million for class benefit is a significant opportunity for the class, given the risk of an adverse appeal outcome; and (3) the use of the remaining $2 million for out-of-area claims does benefit the entire St. Bernard community, including class members. Please respond no later than Monday. May 4. 2009. bye-mail of or your opposition to the Murphy proposal. Sincerely, Sidney D. Torres, III Roberta L. Burns 8301 W. Judge Perez Drive Suite 303 Chalmette, Louisiana 70043 Telephone: (504) 271-8422 Facsimile: (504) 271-1961 Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.torres-Iaw.com
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: INFORMATION IN THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL USE OF THE RECIPIENT(S) NAMED ABOVE This message is sent by or on behalf of a lawyer at the law firm listed above, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. This message contains information and/or attachments that are privileged, confidential and exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient
to me, clearly expressing either your support
2
or is not the employee or agent responsible disclose this communication immediately
for delivering this message to the intended at 504-217-8421 Thank you.
recipient,
please do not read, copy, use or
to others. Please notify us immediately
if you receive this message in error, and
delete this message and all of its attachments.
3
~'.
WITHOUT PREJUDICE-SETTLEMENT
COMMUNICATION
CY PRES/OUT OF AREA CASES PROPOSAL
$5 million left over in Class Settlement Compensation Program. $3 million dedicated to charitable purposes/cy pres distribution.
Cy Pres Committee will consist of Sidney Torres, Bobby Klees, Danny Dysart and Carl Zornes (Murphy head of community affairs). Committee will make recommendations of potential uses of cy pres funds. Potential uses include:
a. b. c. d. e. f.
Healthcare Recreation Education Wetlands Oil Spill Buyout Zone neighborhood landscaping/beautification (Andre Neff) Recognitionlmemorialization of Murphy oil spill stakeholders, residents, parish officials, attorneys, etc.
2,500 out of area cases (individuals). 3 zones: a. b. c. Kaltofen zone - $1,500 per person Aycock Street-Meraux Pasture - $600 per person Rest of St. Bernard Parish,. $250 per person
Total settlement is $2 million assuming all out of area plaintiffs participate. This $2 million will be paid out of class settlement surplus funds. • To the extent $2 million is not used, that money will revert to cy pres fund. Murphy will contribute up to $800,000 in new funds for attorney fees/costs associated with settlements of out of area claims. These amounts will be paid at contract rates for those out of area claimants who participate in settlement. Murphy will issue offers of judgment for an amount less than the settlement offer for those wishing to litigate. Murphy will seek entry of a Lone Pine Order for those who reject the settlement offer and wish to litigate their out of area claims.
Again, for those out of area claimants who reject settlement, the amount of their settlement will be directed to the cy pres fund and used for charitable purposes in accordance with the recommendations of the Cy Pres Committee and rulings of the Court. If the proposal is accepted, Murphy will dismiss its Notice of Appeal to the Fifth Circuit on the issue of reversion/reallocation of the entirety of the $5 million in surplus class settlement funds.
•..
~
--..coo.
• • USDC Records Tank 250-2
--Roads
13
Kaltofen Boundary (5.1 square miles)
. Turner Area Claims (10.7 square miles) Out of Class Boundary (2.6 square miles)
•
"
",Jr" &
o
0.5
2
3
•
5
8
7
a
USDC Records in Saint Bernard Parish
9
•••••••
cr-.y '-'POr_""""",,COllI
801.802.4307
ApdI15, 2000
Roberta L. Burns
From: Sent: To:
Roberta L. Burns Tuesday, May 05, 200910:48 AM Anthony D. Irpino; Betty (Hingle Law); Bruce S. Kingsdorf; Christine L. DeSue; Daniel E. Becnel, III; Daniel E. Becnel, Jr.; Darleen M. Jacobs; David R. Cannella; Dawn M. Barrios; Denise Martin; Dianne Zinc Becnel; E. Carroll Rogers; Frank J. Swarr; Gerald E. Meunier; Gilbert V. Andry, III; Gordon R. Crawford; Jerald N. Andry, Jr.; Joseph M. Bruno; Madro Bandaries; Mark P. Glago; Mickey P. Landry; Nicole Roseberry; Patti Durio Hatch; Phyllis Michon; Rebecca Cunard; Robert M. Becnel; Roberta L. Burns; Sally (Hingle Law); Sidney Torres, III; Travis J. Turner; Val P. Exnicios; W. Michael Hingle; Walter C. Dumas; Walter J. Leger, Jr.; William E. Bradley;.([email protected]); ([email protected]); ([email protected]); ([email protected]); Abraham Amador ([email protected]); Amber Cisney ([email protected]); Amy Guidry; Arthur Landry ([email protected]); Benjamin D. Beychok Esq. ([email protected]); Brock Darren Dupre' Esq. ([email protected]); Bryan August Pfleeger ([email protected]); Christine Lynn DeSue Esq. ([email protected]); Christopher T. Castro Esq. ([email protected]); Conrad S. P. Williams III Esq. ([email protected]); Darryl James Becnel Esq. ([email protected]); David Scott Scalia Esq. ([email protected]); Erica Curole; Frank Jacob D'Amico Jr. Esq. ([email protected]); Greg DiLeo Esq. ([email protected]); [email protected]; Hugh P. Lambert Esq. ([email protected]); Hughes, Jim; [email protected]; [email protected]; Jean Paul Overton; Jeanne Andry Landry ([email protected]); Jennifer N. Willis Esq. ([email protected]); Jesse Lee Wimberly III Esq. ([email protected]); John Randall Whaley Esq. ([email protected]); John Robert Martzell Esq. ([email protected]); John Van Robichaux Jr. ([email protected]); Jonathan D. Orent [email protected]); Joseph Bruno [email protected]); Joseph G. Jevic III Esq. (jjevic@crescentfarm. com); Kara M. Hadican ([email protected]); Leonard L. Levenson ([email protected]); Linda Jane Nelson Esq. ([email protected]); Lisa Batiste; Madro Bandaries ([email protected]); Michael Calogero ([email protected]); Michael G. Stag Esq. ([email protected]); Mickey P. Landry Esq. ([email protected]); Patti Durio Hatch ([email protected]); Philip Bohrer Esq. ([email protected]); Richard Exnicios ([email protected]); Richard J. Arsenault Esq. ([email protected]); Robert Marionneaux ([email protected]); Ronnie Glynn Penton Esq. ([email protected]); Russ M. Herman Esq. ([email protected]); Scott R. Bickford Esq. ([email protected]); Sean D. Alfortish ([email protected]); Sherif K. Sakla Esq. ([email protected]); Spencer R. Doody Esq. ([email protected]); Stephen J. Herman Esq. ([email protected]); T. Allen Usry Esq. ([email protected]); Wiley J. Beevers Esq. ([email protected]) Turner: out of area settlement proposal 050509 Settlement Remaining Federal Court Cases Votes.wpd; 050409 W Duchman flyer. pdt, 050509 Settlement Kleyle Attorneys Votes.wpd; 050509 Settlement PSC Atty Executive Committee VOTES.wpd
Subject: Attachments:
Counsel: The results of our recent survey of all interested counsel concerning the settlement 20, 2009, are attached. proposal made by Murphy on April
The overwhelming majority of attorneys have agreed to recommend the settlement proposal to their clients. This does not mean that plaintiffs' counsel all have obtained consent to the offer from their clients, only that they will recommend the settlement. I have broken out the responses in three categories: (l) the members of the PSCwho have, with a couple of exceptions, voted in favor of accepting the proposal; (2) the Kleyle mass joinder attorneys; and, (3) the other out of area Federal cases, a list of which Murphy provided this office. Murphy has agreed to communicate with all counsel representing clients in State court.
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I am also attaching for your information circulated by Mr. Duchmann. Thanks you, Roberta
a flyer we received yesterday from a St. Bernard resident and apparently
being
Roberta L. Burns 8301 W. Judge Perez Drive Suite 303 Chalmette, Louisiana 70043 Telephone: (504) 271-8422 Facsimile: (504) 271-1961 Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.torres-Iaw.com
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NOTICE TO CLASS MEMBERS
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...·PATRICK JOSEPH TURNER, ET AL VS. MURPHY OIL USA NO.05-4206 . : Excerpt from the Minute Entry of April 20, 2009 in U.S. District Court:
Attorneys for Murphy Oil proposed Out-of-Area cases would
use $5 million in surplus money for Class Action Settlement
Compensation Program. 3 Zones: A. Kaltofen Zone - $1.500 per person
8. Aycock Street -Meraux Pasture -$600 per person C. Rest of St. Bernard Parish-$250 per person
Murphy will contribute up to $800.000 in new funds for attomey fees/costs associated with settlements of out of area claims. These amounts will be paid at contract rates for those out of area claimants who participate in settlement.
1 am opposed to this agreement
1. First Patrick Joseph Turner lives at 2001 Landry Court, Meraux t LAt 2.4 miles outside of the court's designated class boundary and he is not a class member.
2. The settlement agreelnent VI(S), at p. 16 uNon-reversion - All future payments under the Buyout and Compensation Programs
will be spent for the benefit of Class Members ..." 3. I am opposed to any class money being spent outside of the
designated Class Action boundary. 4. The agreement was that any leftover funds would be .dispersed to
class members; not to those who are not part of the lawsuit.
A hearing has been set in the courtroom of Judge Eldon Fallon for May 12th, 2009 at 4 p.m.
Wayne
PAID FOR BY WAYNE J, DUCHMANN & FRIENDS
J. Duchmann,
252Sl.£8t>0S
610-8320
Turner Out-of-Area Settlement Offer (Remaining Federal Court Cases) Docket # clients with his tally
.
counsel James Guest Mark Michael no Gutierrez, Darleen Plaisance Various Meisner ChalmetteTammy, etSr., Adam Lambert Scott Caillouet, Retail Diaz, Henry, Anthony, Center Peter EricProvo Kleyle, Raul, Bell, Jp Yea Anita Morgan Emerald LLC Lloyd Frischhertz Chase Helmke,Cynthia, etal EricA. B.noWilliams, Salvador B. attached E. separate Livaudias,Cindy,etetMaas, Paul Mayeaux Crocker,Marcus etalM. JonathanDorsey Eugene, al Val Bouvier, Jr., Aisola,Darleen andetalet Nay al M. see response Caption Levy, William, Bischoff,Brian, Jacobs al AttorneyBoppAndryLandry) al Aguilar,Karen Eugene,aletet& P.BickfordX styis Jr.Jr. Guidry, Randall al Hugh S. D. Stag (defers Exnicios Mickey Crane, Richard, Tammy & D. Jacobs Arbon,Dr.BernaletL.,BankXHenryP.Hutton Kirk &G. response Michaeltosee Ferachi Gagliano, Tony, Lynn
consulting
9209
4606 4696
Navaille,Linda, et al; VanderHoff, J.Spencer Perez, Brian Kathleen alJesse CoutureX Connors Tarver, Zelaya, Mary Terrebonne, Darleen Clayton could Christine S. response Luthjens,Carlos, et al et XKeith L. noLevy not Mendoza, David Anthony, Gregory G. Duhy Michael Morris Gaffney 06-5309 Darleen J. Levy Alice & Barreca, Wimberly, III contactWarren; Johannessen, David Cleland, Wiles Debra; Vidrine Brenda Stephen Roy & Michael
.
Yea Travis Turner (29462) N. MadroA.Becnel Jr.(20154) Bandaries(9471) Daniel Robert (20692) RebeccaM. Meunier (14072) Cunard (2926) Gerald E. Becnel, III (25339) Val P. Exnicios (19563)
Turner Out-of-Area Settlement Offer (KLEYLE) Nay
X no response
Darleen her clients matter; offer R. Marie Jacobs (7208) Jacobs suit, Docket Ms. individualthe however, the Kleyle as toCannell (26231) not06-3198 No. accept David indoes Walter John Leger, Jr. (8278)
X as X her to
TURNER PSC ATTORNEYS & EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ATTORNEYS Attorney Yea Nay
X X, in part no response
