Berryhill v. Barnett

Peggy Berryhill filed an action against Alexandra Barnett, owner of Limestone Pawn Shop, alleging the conversion of a gold pocket watch. Barnett filed a counterclaim and added as a counter-defendant Clyde Rouse, Berryhill's father. Barnett alleged in the counterclaim that Berryhill and Rouse entered into a conspiracy to file suit against Barnett knowing that the charge was false.

Following a jury trial, the jury returned a verdict for $3,500 against Berryhill and Rouse. Berryhill and Rouse filed a motion for directed verdict on the conspiracy claim and for judgment notwithstanding the verdict.…