Wirtz v. Orr

CORNELIUS, Chief Justice.

This is a suit by Orr against Wirtz to recover damages for breach of contract and for fraud allegedly perpetrated in an exchange of real estate. Trial was to a jury which found in Orr’s favor. Actual damages of $47,500.00 and punitive damages of $15,000.00 were awarded for fraud, together with an additional $31,832.27 for breach of contract.

Orr owned a 49-unit apartment complex in Irving, Texas, worth $350,000.00, but encumbered with a $168,000.00 mortgage. He needed cash to pay certain debts, including a $37,000.00 debt to his ex-wife who had been awarded an interest…