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Carrillo Law Firm is proud to announce that Jane Doe et al. v. Mountain View School District has been recognized by the Los Angeles and San Francisco Daily Journal as one of the Top Verdicts of 2025. The firm was featured in the February 25, 2026 supplement highlighting “The Trial Verdicts and Appellate Reversals that Changed the California Legal Landscape in 2025.”
This prestigious recognition underscores the impact of a hard-fought case that delivered justice for six survivors of child sexual abuse and helped drive meaningful change in California law.
A Landmark $48 Million Jury Verdict
In 2025, a Los Angeles Superior Court jury returned a $48 million verdict in favor of six elementary school students who endured years of abuse while administrators failed to intervene.
Filed in 2018, Jane Doe et al. v. Mountain View School District exposed not only the horrific misconduct of a teacher but also systemic failures that allowed the abuse to continue. According to the Daily Journal’s coverage, internal memos and documentation revealed troubling inaction despite warning signs.
For Carrillo Law Firm, the case represented more than a verdict—it was about accountability, transparency, and ensuring that the voices of vulnerable children were heard.
Overcoming Significant Legal Challenges
The path to justice was anything but easy. The case faced years of litigation and delay. During the proceedings, the defense sought to introduce evidence of a subsequent assault involving the lead plaintiff in an attempt to minimize the trauma caused by the defendant’s conduct.
When existing law permitted such evidence, the plaintiffs’ legal team worked beyond the courtroom to advocate for reform. Their efforts contributed to the passage of what became known as “Suzie’s Law,” which barred the use of such evidence in similar cases moving forward.
The Daily Journal recognized this case not only for the size of the verdict, but for its broader legal significance in shaping California law.
A Collaborative Effort for Justice
Carrillo Law Firm tried the case alongside Trial Lawyers for Justice, including Nicholas C. Rowley, Courtney E. Rowley, John A. Kawai, and Keith J. Bruno.
The case was heard in Los Angeles Superior Court.
This recognition reflects the dedication, perseverance, and advocacy of the entire trial team—and most importantly, the courage of the survivors who came forward.
Honored to Be Recognized
Being named among the Daily Journal’s Top Verdicts of 2025 is a significant honor. The annual list highlights cases that changed the legal landscape across California.
Carrillo Law Firm remains committed to holding institutions accountable and protecting the rights of children and survivors of abuse. This award reinforces the firm’s mission: to fight relentlessly for justice, no matter how long the battle.
