Vincent F. Lavorgna v. John Eaton David Nicholson
Motion to Stay
Motion type
Causes of action
Parties
Ruling
Vincent F. Lavorgna v. John Eaton David Nicholson, 26CVP-0031
Hearing: Motion to Stay
Date: July 14, 2026
Vincent Lavorgna (Lavorgna) filed this malpractice action against John Nicholson on January 26, 2026. The dispute concerns Nicholson’s representation of Lavorgna in a family law matter (Case No. FL05-1110). Lavorgna has not submitted proof of service of the summons and complaint and now seeks to stay the action pending resolution of the underlying family law matter. The family law action is now on appeal.
“[T]rial courts have inherent authority to stay malpractice suits, holding them in abeyance pending resolution of underlying litigation. [Citations.]” (Adams v. Paul (1995) 11 Cal.4th 583, 593.) Plaintiff argues the issues litigated in the family law matter are central to Plaintiff’s claimed damages in this malpractice action.
ORDER (PROPOSED)
The motion to stay is granted.
1
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