Capobianco Law is pleased to announce that it has obtained a significant arbitration award of $121,282,236 in favor of the firm’s client in a financial elder abuse matter. Retired California Court of Appeal Justice David A. Thompson served as arbitrator and issued the award on February 14, 2026. This award is one of the largest of its kind in California.

The dispute involved claims by Cynthia D. Finerty, a professional fiduciary and the court-appointed estate conservator for Robert S. Howard, Jr., against Joseph Duerr, Christopher Duerr and RAAM Realty Advisors and Asset Managers, Inc. The arbitration, administered by JAMS in Orange County, arose from allegations that between 2007 through 2021, the defendants misappropriated substantial funds from Mr. Howard through undue influence, fraud, forged documents and unlicensed professional activities.

Following a multi-week trial, the arbitrator found in Ms. Finerty’s favor on her claims for financial elder abuse, breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, violations of California Penal Code Section 496 and other wrongful acts. In addition to $121,282,236 in monetary damages, the arbitrator determined that Mr. Howard had the right to reimburse his attorneys’ fees and costs and issued a permanent injunction barring the defendants’ further contact with Mr. Howard.

The Capobianco Law trial team consisted of Anthony Capobianco, Derek Wallen and Caitlyn Kretzschmar, with substantial assistance from Jacqueline Graves and Juan Flores. They worked closely throughout the case with Julia Burt, Mr. Howard’s guardian ad litem, of Burt + Clerc in Palm Desert.

If you are a fiduciary, family member, or professional seeking guidance regarding financial elder abuse, fiduciary duties, fraud, or disputes involving vulnerable adults, Capobianco Law provides strategic counsel through investigation, litigation, and arbitration.

Disclaimer: This recognition does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of any legal matter. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the State Bar of California.