Mirabito
Mirabito v. Liccardo
Opinion
Opinion
Peterson, J.
Kathleen Liccardo, in her capacity as executrix of the will of Leonard J. Liccardo, appeals from a civil judgment entered after a jury verdict awarding damages to respondent Edmond Mirabito. Appellant presents several arguments on appeal, but maintains primarily that the trial court erred when it allowed the jury to consider the Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar when reaching its decision. We disagree and affirm.
I. Factual and Procedural Background
Edmond Mirabito (hereafter Edmond) operated a shoe shop in San Francisco for over 41 years. An astute investor, Edmond placed the proceeds of his endeavors into a number of successful investments, including income property in San Francisco, raw land in Santa Rosa, and various stocks.
Leonard J. Liccardo (hereafter Leonard) was Edmond’s second cousin. Edmond had known Leonard since he was born and had helped him through law school. Edmond attended Leonard’s moot court hearings and was proud of his accomplishments. After Leonard completed law school, Edmond employed him as his attorney on numerous occasions, having him draft leases and prepare legal documents.