Court Opinion

ID: 9769182
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-29 14:37:11.149108+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T07:30:56.994208
License: Public Domain

BENAVIDES, Justice,
concurring.
I concur with the majority that Hofer v. Lavender, 679 S.W.2d 470 (Tex.1984), strikes at the underpinnings of Celotex’ due process argument thus preventing a proper review; however, unlike the majority, I would not categorize Celotex’ due process argument as compelling and would also reject it on other grounds. Celotex’ argument is based upon the jury’s inadvertent (rather than knowing and intentional) assessment of punitive damages, allegedly subjecting it to a cumulative damage award. I find this contention unpersuasive.
At trial, Celotex was free to inform the jury of prior punitive damage awards assessed against it. Celotex chose not to do so. It, and it alone, made a calculated decision to keep this information from the jury. Now, on appeal, Celotex complains of the jury’s inadvertence — the same inadvertence that it created at trial. Because Celotex had the means and opportunity before the factfinders to combat the cumulative effect of another punitive damage award and did not avail itself of this opportunity, I would find its complaint without merit. If the jury room was dimly lit, it was because Celotex saw to it that the lights were not turned on.
In all other respects, I join in the opinion of the majority.