The Cook Group Secures Defense Verdict in Jackson County, Missouri for National Service Companies

The Cook Group is proud to announce that Partner John Beseau along with Associate Tom Wahl secured a complete defense verdict on behalf of their clients following a three-day jury trial in Jackson County, Missouri.

The case involved an elderly couple who brought claims against two national service companies, alleging negligent misrepresentation, fraud, negligence, and violation of the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act (MMPA) related to a September 2022 transaction for a moisture treatment system installed at their residence. The plaintiffs alleged that the defendants misrepresented their services, charged unfair prices, and secured financing without proper consent.

The Cook Group's defense team successfully demonstrated that the clients properly identified the issues at the plaintiffs’ home, proposed an appropriate and necessary solution, performed the work correctly, and charged a fair and reasonable price.

Prior to trial, the plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed several of their claims and proceeded solely under the MMPA, which allows for the recovery of compensatory damages, punitive damages, and attorneys’ fees. Despite the trial court allowing the punitive damages claim to be submitted to the jury, The Cook Group successfully defended the case. On April 2, 2025, after deliberation, the jury returned a complete verdict in favor of the defense.

Reflecting on the victory, John Beseau shared, “We are proud to have successfully defended our clients against serious allegations. This result is a testament to the strength of the evidence, the preparation of our team, and the commitment to ensuring that the truth prevailed.”

Kerryann Cook, Managing Partner of The Cook Group, added, “John and Tom’s exceptional work in this case reflects the very best of our firm’s approach—strategic, thorough, and client-focused. We are incredibly proud of their advocacy and the outcome they achieved.”

The Cook Group congratulates John, Tom, and the entire team for this outstanding result and remains dedicated to providing trusted and effective representation to its clients nationwide.