Melvin Greaves vs. Northeastern Conference Corporation of Seventh-day Adventist

Case Background

On September 24, 2020, Plaintiff Melvin Greaves filed a premises liability and workplace injury lawsuit in the New York State, Kings County, Supreme Court (Case Number: 518040/2020). Judge Devin P. Cohen presided over the case.

Cause

Plaintiff Melvin Greaves, a Kings County, New York, resident, worked for a contractor on a construction project at 1315 Bedford Avenue in Brooklyn. The Defendant, Northeastern Conference Corporation of Seventh-Day Adventist, owned, operated, and managed the property while also overseeing its construction, renovation, and alteration work. On August 10, 2020, Plaintiff performed alteration and construction work on a scaffold at an elevated height when he encountered hazardous conditions. The scaffold was dangerous, defective, and unsecured, lacking proper safety measures and creating significant risks at the worksite.

Injuries

While working at the elevated location, Plaintiff fell from the unsecured scaffold. He suffered severe injuries due to the absence of adequate safety devices, including braces, ties, and other protective equipment. The fall caused serious physical harm that required immediate and extensive medical treatment.

Damages

The accident led to significant medical expenses for the Plaintiff. He experienced physical pain, emotional distress, and a prolonged recovery period. The injuries severely limited his ability to work and perform daily activities, causing financial hardship. Plaintiff sought compensation for past and future medical costs, lost earnings, and the lasting impact on his quality of life.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal representation

  • Plaintiff(s): Melvin Greaves
    • Counsel for Plaintiff: Charles Edward Wisell | Michael A. Marando
  • Defendant(s): Northeastern Conference Corporation of Seventh-day Adventist
    • Counsel for Defendants: John P. Sandercock | Richard Granofsky | Ronald L. Langman | Alfredo J. Alvarado | Kristina Marie Scotto

Claims

Plaintiff alleged negligence and violations of New York Labor Law Sections 200, 240(1), and 241(6). He also cited violations of Rule 23 of the Industrial Code and OSHA regulations. The Defendant failed to provide a safe working environment by not furnishing proper safety devices and scaffolding at the construction site. This negligence directly caused Plaintiff’s fall and injuries. Plaintiff sought damages exceeding the jurisdictional limits of lower courts, along with interest and costs related to the legal action.

Defense

Defendant Northeastern Conference Corporation of Seventh-Day Adventist denied responsibility for the Plaintiff’s injuries. They argued that workers’ compensation coverage was the Plaintiff’s exclusive remedy under the law. Defendant claimed Plaintiff’s own contributory negligence caused or contributed to the accident. They alleged that Plaintiff failed to take necessary precautions while working. Defendant argued that any hazards were open, obvious, and known to the Plaintiff, who assumed the risks. They further contended that third parties might have contributed to the accident. Defendant also asserted that Plaintiff failed to mitigate damages. They sought a reduction in any potential verdict based on collateral source payments and argued that any liability should be limited to their equitable share of responsibility.

Jury Verdict

On February 7, 2025, the jury awarded Plaintiff Melvin Greaves a $14.85 million verdict in his workplace injury lawsuit. The jury found that Defendant Northeastern Conference Corporation of Seventh-Day Adventist’s negligence contributed significantly to the construction site accident.

Court Documents:

Documents are available for purchase upon request at jurimatic@exlitem.com

Press Release:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/lipsig-shapey-manus-%26-moverman-p%2Ec%2E_14850000-verdict-attorneys-charles-e-activity-7293398885857677312-oCAW?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAACahaS8BEfu_JLAdJzyQxts3M2ODqcW-fMQ