Background:

• 2018: MBT hired Stoneridge for demolition work at a seed processing plant. MBT claimed Stoneridge’s work caused a fire, leading to significant damage.
• 2020: MBT’s damages report estimated costs at $4.963 million. Stoneridge denied liability and disputed the damages.
• 2022: During discovery, MBT indicated damages could exceed $7 million.

Developments:

• February 2023: Stoneridge admitted liability, expecting trial to focus only on damages.
• April 2023: MBT’s new report estimated additional costs, bringing total damages to over $8 million.

Motion:

• August 2023: Stoneridge sought to withdraw its admission of liability, citing the unexpected increase in damages exceeding its $5 million insurance limit.

Court’s Decision:

• Triable Issue: No credible evidence was provided to support a triable issue on liability.
• Explanation for Admission: Stoneridge knew of potential higher damages before admitting liability.
• Prejudice: Withdrawal would delay the trial, prejudicing MBT.
• Interest of Justice: Emphasized timely resolution without unnecessary delays.

Conclusion:

• Motion to withdraw admission of liability denied. Trial to proceed on the issue of damages only.

The document does not specify the final monetary award