PBS Wins
The judge ruled in favor of George Porter Jr., Russell Batiste, and Brian Stoltz in their lawsuit with their former management.
[Updated] When George Porter Jr. split from PBS in 2009, he set in motion a lengthy legal battle that ended Friday. The band's management, Highsteppin' Productions, sued Porter, Russell Batiste and Brian Stoltz for more than $500,000 it claimed the band owed it from advances, loans, and money spent on behalf of PBS. Band members have been quiet about the suit other than its consequences on advice from their lawyers, but the suit forced Porter and Stoltz to declare bankruptcy, and their part of the publishing for songs they had written - including Porter's for The Meters - were threatened.
Saturday on Facebook, Stoltz reported that they had won:
In a 107 page opinion, a New Orleans Federal Court in Eastern District Louisiana ruled Aug 16, 2013 that in the case of Highsteppin' Productions VS Porter Batiste Stoltz (PBS),Highsteppin's proof of claim against the defenfants [sic] are Disallowed in their Entirety!
Highsteppin's claims for Breach of Contract, violations of MUPTA (unfair trade practices) and nondischargeability are DENIED!
PBS's claim against Highsteppin' for Breach of Contract, Breach of Fiduciary Duty and MUPTA Violations are GRANTED.
PBS owes Highsteppin' Productions nothing!
Additionally, Judge Elizabeth Magner ordered that Highsteppin' pay Court Cost, PBS's Attorney Fees, the cost of PBS amended taxes and that they must pay PBS interest on any refunds due.
At a future hearing the Court will determine damages and injunctive relief for Highsteppin's Breach of Contract, Breach of Fiduciary Duty, Breach of Duties of Loyalty and Standard Care and Violations of MUTPA (unfair trade practices).
Updated August 25, 1:53 p.m.
