Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California
Defendant Backing Off From Settlement
During pre-trial settlement conference, I reached a settlement with the defendant. Despite the settlement, the judge put back the case on the court calendar to be dismissed in January 2009. The defendant's attorney is now not honoring the terms of the settlement.
How can I remedy the situation?
Given the strength of my case, can I ask the court to cancel the settlment and put back my case for trial?
Thank you.
4 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Defendant Backing Off From Settlement
Ofcourse...inform the Judge that there is no setttlement and give you a trial date.
Re: Defendant Backing Off From Settlement
Usually not. If you stated in front of the judge in open court that you agreed to the terms of the settlement, such a statement may be considered to be as good as a judgment. But even if you did not state such in open court, you still have entered into a binding contract, which would put you in breach once you seek to put the case back on for trial. Having said that, an attorney may be able to find some ambiguity or problem with your "settlement" such that there are still some issues left unresolved that still need to be clarified through a trial. But it is likely you are going to be stuck with the settlement you agreed to.
Re: Defendant Backing Off From Settlement
File a statement with the court stating that defendant is not complying with the settlement agreement. Then ask that the matter be set for trial. Or as was otherwise file a motion to enforce the settlement agreement. You should consult with either your present attorney or another attorney about the case and you options.
Re: Defendant Backing Off From Settlement
If the settlement were recited in open court, or if you have a written agreement, you may file a motion with the court to enforce the settlement.