Opinion ID: 4544175
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Settlement Conference Terms

Text: On October 21, 2014, McKenna attended a settlement conference with Defendants. At the close of the conference, the parties went on the record, acknowledged that they had reached a settlement, and described the “essential terms” of the agreement. McKenna agreed to the terms in the following exchange: THE COURT: Okay. And my understanding is that the parties have reached a settlement agreement in this case. That the terms of the settlement include – the essential terms of the settlement agreement are that the defendants shall pay plaintiff $60,000 in cash. The Association of Apartment Owners of Elima Lani will also release any lien and outstanding amounts owed by Ms. McKenna to the association. That there be – it’s a general-damages-only release, and that the parties will execute a settlement agreement with mutual releases and standard settlement terms and a dismissal of the case. Have I accurately stated the settlement agreement from the perspective of the plaintiff, [McKenna’s counsel]? 2 The Honorable Melvin H. Fujino presided over entry of the Final Judgment. The Honorable Elizabeth A. Strance presided over all other proceedings. 5  FOR PUBLICATION IN WEST’S HAWAIʻI REPORTS AND PACIFIC REPORTER  [MCKENNA’S COUNSEL]: Yes, your Honor. THE COURT: And Ms. McKenna, do you agree to the terms of the settlement? MS. MCKENNA: Yes. THE COURT: Okay. And [Wells Fargo’s counsel], have I accurately stated the settlement agreement from the perspective of your client, Wells Fargo? [WELLS FARGO’S COUNSEL]: Yes, your Honor. THE COURT: And do you have authority on behalf of your client to enter into the settlement agreement? [WELLS FARGO’S COUNSEL]: I do, your Honor. THE COURT: Okay. And [AOAO’s counsel], have I accurately stated the settlement agreement from the perspective of the association and of Certified Management? [AOAO’S COUNSEL]: One clarification, your Honor. It’s a dismissal with prejudice. THE COURT: Yes. The parties agreed that Wells Fargo’s counsel would draft a written settlement agreement reflecting the terms described and circulate it within fourteen days. All parties stipulated that the circuit court could retain jurisdiction to enforce the settlement agreement.