FRESNO – An Illinois company that provided consulting services is alleged to have cost a joint powers authority millions.
San Joaquin Valley Insurance Authority filed a complaint on May 11 in the Fresno County Superior Court against Gallagher Benefit Services Inc. alleging breach of written contract, professional negligence/malpractice and other counts.
According to the complaint, the plaintiff alleges that between 2010 and 2015, plaintiff entered into a consulting agreement with the defendant to provide consulting and actuarial services. The plaintiff claims that the company went through significant changes at defendant's recommendation but was damaged and experienced a funding deficit of more than $20 million due to critical errors in monitoring, reporting, projections and strategy recommendations.
The plaintiff holds Gallagher Benefit Services Inc. responsible because the defendant allegedly failed to perform the services set forth in the consulting agreements in the manner of recognized specialist; failed to provide accurate and reliable data, consulting, and actuarial services; and failed to exercise due care in performing the services set forth in the consulting agreements.
The plaintiff requests a trial by jury and seeks award for compensatory damages in an amount no less than $20 million, award of restitution, award of pre- and post-judgment interest, costs, attorneys' fees and such other and further relief as the court deems just and proper. It is represented by Richard T. Egger and Lauren M. Strickroth of Best Best and Krieger LLP in Ontario.
Fresno County Superior Court Case number 17CECG01632