LAS VEGAS, June 10, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Morris Polich & Purdy LLP is pleased to announce that after more than two weeks of trial, a jury returned a unanimous defense verdict in favor of Union Pacific Railroad in a case involving an on-duty injury of an employee. The jury swiftly reached a decision after two hours of deliberation.

Steve Densley of Union Pacific Railroad and John Hunt of Morris Polich & Purdy LLP obtained this defense verdict against Anthony Petru of Hildebrand McLeod & Nelson, who asked the jury to award Ostrovsky upwards of $8.8 million in his closing argument.

Todd Ostrovsky, a system laborer, claimed that he seriously injured his back on October 21, 2009, when he fell from a section truck in Helper, Utah. Ostrovsky claimed to have fallen backward to the ground while dismounting the truck, striking his backside on the hitch of the truck in the process. His accident was not witnessed.

Ostrovsky underwent a number of surgeries; however, significant credibility issues arose regarding his health. The medical records taken shortly after the alleged accident did not support that he had fallen. Surveillance conducted shortly after the accident also showed the claimant lifting and ambulating without difficulty. Questioning the validity of the accident, the jury was first asked on the Special Verdict form to determine whether Ostrovsky had indeed fallen. The jury determined that Ostrovsky did fall but that the company was not negligent.

"This is a tremendous result," said Managing Partner Don Ridge of Morris Polich & Purdy LLP. "Full thanks go to the judge, jury and team both at Union Pacific Railroad and MPP. Congratulations to the entire trial and litigation support team for a job well done."

About MPP

Morris Polich & Purdy LLP is a law firm that works with its clients on a national basis. We represent clients in every state, as well as many U.S. possessions. We also have a wealth of international affiliations. The firm opened its Las Vegas office in 1996 and now has approximately 100 attorneys located in five offices in California and Nevada specializing in over thirty practice areas.

Our dedication to clients, combined with extensive experience, both in the trial and appellate courts, are the qualities that distinguish us from other law firms. Our attorneys are known for their vast experience and success. We provide superior legal services in a manner consistent with our clients' best interests and goals. We are committed to expertise in all our areas of practice, knowing our clients' businesses and providing client service at the highest level.