Franceschi

FACTS

Plaintiff sued Christopher Baldwin and his mother, Gloria Baldwin, alleging several causes of action including extortion. Plaintiff, who is an attorney, alleged he had represented Christopher Baldwin in two lawsuits in which Mr. Baldwin’s father funded the upfront payments. Plaintiff alleged Mr. Baldwin, with Ms. Baldwin’s encouragement, refused to settle or mediate the lawsuits, and plaintiff withdrew as counsel. After that, Christopher Baldwin sent an e-mail to plaintiff stating plaintiff failed to provide receipts for the monies paid to him and demanding return of the funds under threat of reporting plaintiff to the IRS and the State Bar. Plaintiff alleged Ms. Baldwin “conspired with, aided and abetted, provided material encouragement to Christopher, and was a driving force behind the extortionate email.” Ms. Baldwin filed a motion to quash service, contending the court lacked both general and specific jurisdiction over her. The motion was accompanied by Ms. Baldwin’s declaration stating, among other things, that her permanent residence is in New Mexico, where she was born and lived her entire life; she is registered to vote in New Mexico; she has never resided in…