Bell Nunnally, led by partners Brent A. Turman and T.J. Hales and Associate Meredith N. Palmer, secured a federal jury verdict for the Estate of Melvin Noble, Jr., known globally as multi-platinum recording artist “Mo3,” in a lawsuit against former sound engineer Ray Gene Bollin, Jr., doing business as Absolut Production Recording Studios.
Heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, the case concluded with a decisive ruling in favor of the Mo3’s estate on all claims, including copyright infringement, conversion and tortious interference with contract. After a week-long trial and under two hours of deliberations, the jury affirmed Mo3’s sole ownership and control over his vocal recordings and rejected all claims by Bollin to co-ownership or co-authorship.
In addition to monetary damages, the judgment mandates the cancellation of all copyright registrations previously filed by Bollin that included Mo3’s vocal performances.
In a press release issued by Mo3’s estate, the family thanked Bell Nunnally for its efforts, “[T]he Estate expresses profound gratitude to its trial team, comprised of Brent A. Turman, Troy L. Hales, and Meredith N. Palmer of Bell Nunnally’s Entertainment Litigation practice… Their dedication and expertise were instrumental in achieving this remarkable victory for Noble’s children.”