Judge: Daniel M. Crowley, Case: 22STCV10330, Date: 2023-04-11 Tentative Ruling

Case Number: 22STCV10330    Hearing Date: April 11, 2023    Dept: 207

Background

This case arises out of Plaintiff Ginger Drinkwater’s sale of her residential real properties to Palms Blvd. Venice Beach, LLC in January 2020. Ms. Drinkwater alleges she was defrauded into selling the subject properties and, accordingly, has commenced this civil action against various defendants, including Stewart Title of California, Inc. (“Stewart Title”). Stewart Title has in turned filed a Cross-Complaint for declaratory relief against several individuals and entities, including Cross-Defendant Jafiel D. Drinkwater (“Cross-Defendant”). Cross-Defendant was previously represented in this action by Jeffrey F. Sklan, who has filed a motion to be relieved as counsel for Cross-Defendant. Counsel’s motion is unopposed.

Analysis

In his declaration filed in support of his motion, Mr. Sklan states the instant motion was necessitated because Cross-Defendant’s newly-retained substitute counsel, Thomas Sands, had not filed a substitution of attorney form. The instant motion was filed on February 28, 2023. On March 10, 2023, this substitution of attorney form was filed with the Court and Mr. Sands assumed the representation of Cross-Defendant in this action. As Mr. Sklan’s is no longer acting as counsel for Cross-Defendant in this action, his motion to be relieved as counsel is moot.

Conclusion

The motion to be relieved as counsel filed by Jeffrey F. Sklan is DENIED as moot.