Courtland Keith Smith has filed a lawsuit against The Manor at Jersey Village, Ltd. and Artisan Realty Co., claiming negligence after sustaining injuries on their premises. The complaint was lodged in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, on January 10, 2025.
The case centers around an incident that occurred on November 14, 2024, when Smith was visiting The Manor at Jersey Village as a business invitee. During his visit, he unexpectedly encountered a hazardous condition on the floor that caused him to trip and fall, resulting in significant injuries. Smith alleges that the defendants were negligent in maintaining a safe environment for visitors by failing to identify and rectify the dangerous condition or provide adequate warnings. According to the filing, "Defendants’ managers and employees either directly or negligently created such hazard and/or had actual and/or constructive knowledge thereof because such hazard had existed for a sufficient time."
Smith's legal action accuses the defendants of breaching their duty of care by not ensuring their premises were safe for invitees like himself. He argues that they failed to inspect their property adequately and did not follow established safety protocols. As a result of this alleged negligence, Smith claims he suffered physical pain, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and other damages. He is seeking monetary relief exceeding $250,000 but not more than $1 million.
In addition to compensatory damages for his injuries and suffering, Smith is also pursuing pre-judgment interest at the highest rate allowed by law as well as post-judgment interest until any awarded judgment is fully paid. His complaint emphasizes the need for accountability from The Manor at Jersey Village and Artisan Realty Co., asserting that they are liable under Texas common law for both premises liability and active negligence.
Representing Courtland Keith Smith is attorney Jeffrey N. Todd from The Todd Law Group PLLC based in Houston, Texas. The case has been assigned Case ID 2025-02171 with proceedings set to take place in front of the presiding judge at Harris County's 127th District Court.