Richard C. DavisCHARLESTON, S. C. -- Richard C. Davis, creator-writer-co-producer and star of “Flip This
House,” a reality program about real estate and one of cable network
A&E’s most successful series, was awarded $4 Million in damages by a
federal jury yesterday. Davis had claimed that the network had a “50/50”
revenue sharing agreement with him and his company, Trademark Properties,
Inc., and although it was an oral agreement, the jury returned the
landmark decision after only five hours of deliberation.
"I feel personally vindicated by the
jury's verdict finding that I have always had an agreement with A&E.
This victory is much bigger than me. This verdict makes it clear that if
a network uses and profits from someone's concept for a television show,
they need to pay for it. I am thankful that we were able to win one for
the little guy," Davis said.
“I’m very pleased with the verdict,” said Mount
Pleasant attorney Frank M. Cisa, who represented Davis. “These cases are
very tough to prove.”
Brian Wolf, an attorney with the firm of Lavely &
Singer in Los Angeles which also represents Davis said, “This case
reaffirms the enforceability of oral contracts in the television
industry.” A&E’s attorneys declined to comment on the ruling initially.
SOURCE: Trademark Properties, Inc.: (843) 762-0110
