Wednesday, April 4, 2001
John M. Gouty v. J. Alan Schnepel

no. 00-1853

Duval County


Schnepel negligently shot a gun manufactured by the Glock company, injuring Gouty. Prior to trial, Gouty settled with Glock for $137,500, but Glock admitted no liability. Schnepel admitted liability, but also contended that Glock was partially at fault. At trial, the jury was asked to apportion liability between Schnepel and Glock, and it found Schnepel 100 percent liable. It awarded total damages of $250,000. Schnepel asked that this award at least be partially offset by the Glock settlement, but the trial court refused. On appeal, the First District Court reversed but certified the question to the Supreme Court.