Chikodi Chima has filed a lawsuit against John David Perkins, alleging multiple causes of action including professional negligence and breach of professional duty. The complaint was filed on December 9, 2024, in the San Francisco Superior Court. Chima accuses Perkins, a licensed marriage and family therapist, of failing to adhere to professional standards which resulted in significant harm.
The case unfolds with Chikodi Chima claiming that John David Perkins breached his duty as a therapist by not following professional protocols and violating therapeutic boundaries. According to the complaint, Perkins made improper declarations and provided negligent testimony intended to influence legal proceedings affecting Chima. These actions allegedly caused damages exceeding $6 million. The lawsuit details five causes of action: professional negligence, breach of professional duty, negligent infliction of emotional distress, insurance bad faith, and unfair business practices.
In particular, the complaint highlights that Perkins' conduct led to severe emotional distress for Chima—a foreseeable consequence of the alleged negligence. Furthermore, it accuses Perkins' insurance carrier of acting in bad faith by refusing to provide policy information and failing to investigate claims properly. This lack of cooperation reportedly compounded the damages suffered by Chima.
Chikodi Chima is seeking various forms of relief from the court. The plaintiff requests general and special damages according to proof presented during the trial, as well as punitive damages aimed at punishing Perkins for his alleged misconduct. Additionally, Chima seeks restitution and injunctive relief for unfair business practices that purportedly violated ethical duties and professional standards.
The case is being handled without legal representation for the plaintiff—Chikodi Chima is proceeding "in pro per," meaning he is representing himself in this legal matter. No specific attorneys or judges are mentioned in the document beyond this self-representation status. The case ID associated with this filing is CGC-24-620428.