Landmark $35 Million Verdict for Client Injured at Church Camp

Fadduol, Cluff, Hardy & Conaway Law Firm, recently completing a record-setting civil verdict out of Tierra Amarilla, has just weeks later achieved another record milestone by obtaining another one of the largest personal injury verdicts in the history of New Mexico.  A Santa Fe County, New Mexico, jury awarded $35 million to an injured client after a week-long trial conducted by firm attorneys Carlos Sedillo and Matthew Heape. 

The case involved an individual who attended a church camp in 2021 and was injured when he used their 65-foot rock wall and camp employees failed to secure him properly.  

Church Camp Practices Deemed Unsafe

Due to the camp’s failures, the client fell 65 feet injuring both legs and is now suffering from lifelong consequences such as drop foot. The camp, Bonita Park,  is located outside of Ruidoso, NM.  The camp is owned and operated by The New Mexico District Church of the Nazarene.  FCHC lawyers argued that due to years of training issues at the camp, the camp was negligent in keeping the man safe while performing activities.     

Client Shows Bravery, Courage in the Face of Life-Altering Injuries

Mr. Carlos Sedillo, lead trial counsel and attorney at Fadduol, Cluff, Hardy & Conaway, P.C., expressed his profound gratitude to the courageous client who placed his trust in him and his legal team during the litigation process. He stated, “The jury’s verdict was genuine justice for two compelling reasons. First, the jury’s verdict demonstrates their recognition and valuation of our client and his significant injuries. Secondly, the jury spoke through their verdict that if companies are paid to provide safe services, then safety should be their top priority, always. We are honored to have worked to represent our client to such a just result, and this verdict will serve as a reminder to all that justice can and will be achieved.”

Matthew Heape, another FCHC attorney who served as co-counsel for the trial with Mr. Sedillo, echoed the sentiments and reiterated that it was truly an honor to represent the remarkable young man injured in this incident. He stated, “Too often we see news where those who are most vulnerable are taken advantage of or ignored by the powerful. The beauty of the American civil justice system is that it provides a way for those who are wronged to stand up, even against the biggest corporations, and demand justice. I am thankful to both our client, the jurors, and the Court for allowing that process to play out to its fullest extent.”

Fadduol, Cluff, Hardy & Conaway, P.C. Advocate Fiercely

Throughout the trial, Fadduol, Cluff, Hardy & Conaway, P.C., passionately advocated for their client, highlighting the undeniable importance of valuing and safeguarding individuals who have placed their trust in the hands of those responsible for their welfare during dangerous activities. The jury’s decision sends a strong signal supporting this. 

Let Our Law Firm Help During This Difficult Time

If you intend to file a wrongful death action, you’ll need to act quickly. In New Mexico, you have three years to file wrongful death claims, and in Texas, you have two years. To start your case for wrongful death in Texas or New Mexico, contact Fadduol, Cluff, Hardy & Conaway, P.C. at 800.433.2408 today.

Case Information:
State of New Mexico, County of Santa Fe, First Judicial District Court
The Case No. D-101-CV-2021-02576