TTH Attorney Haley Obrzut recently won a defense verdict at a Magisterial District Court hearing in Cumberland County, obtaining a definitive ruling from the bench in a breach of contract action against an insurance company.  The Plaintiff homeowner claimed that his insurer wrongfully denied benefits for roof damage.  He sought payment for a full roof replacement on an aging roof, which allegedly suffered damage due to hail.  The evidence, however, told a very different story.  After a thorough inspection, it was clear there was no hail damage to the roof.  Rather, the only storm-related damage to the home involved limited siding impact caused by fallen tree branches.  The investigation revealed a single roof shingle that had been lifted due to a nail issue, not a hail event.  Despite the lack of covered roof damage, the insurer voluntarily paid for the identified repairs prior to this litigation, which included funds for the minor shingle repair.

The claim escalated only after a storm-chasing contractor approached the homeowner and attempted to inflate the scope of loss for the contractor’s own financial gain, pushing for a full roof replacement unsupported by any evidence.  At the hearing, Haley’s strategic cross-examination dismantled the Plaintiff’s case.  By the conclusion of testimony, even the Plaintiff’s own witness acknowledged that no roof damage was observed.  The Court ruled decisively from the bench in favor of the defense.  The result was so clear that the Plaintiff ultimately thanked Haley for explaining why the claim was not covered, underscoring the firm’s ability to resolve even contentious disputes through meticulous preparation, credibility and courtroom precision.

Questions about this case can be directed to Haley Obrzut at (717) 255-7646 or hobrzut@tthlaw.com