Legal Case Summary

CARSON HARBOR v. UNOCAL CORP.


Date Argued: Mon Oct 17 2005
Case Number: 04-55024
Docket Number: 7857571
Judges:Hall, O'scannlain, Paez
Duration: 39 minutes
Court Name: Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

Case Summary

**Case Summary: Carson Harbor Village, Ltd. v. Unocal Corp.** **Docket Number:** 7857571 **Court:** [Assumed Name of Court; specific court details would usually be included] **Date:** [Year of Decision] **Background:** Carson Harbor Village, Ltd. (Plaintiff) initiated legal action against Unocal Corporation (Defendant) in this environmental law case, concerning the alleged contamination of property owned by Carson Harbor. The complaint focused on environmental damage resulting from hazardous substance releases at the site, which were purportedly linked to Unocal's operations. **Facts:** Carson Harbor Village is a mobile home park located in Carson, California. The plaintiff claimed that the defendant, Unocal, was responsible for the release of hazardous materials that contaminated its property. The alleged contamination included petroleum hydrocarbons and other pollutants, which impacted the health and safety of the residents and decreased property values. The plaintiff sought damages for the cost of remediation, loss of property value, and other related injury claims. The case highlighted issues involving state and federal environmental regulations, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). **Issues:** 1. Whether Unocal was liable for the contamination of the plaintiff's property. 2. The extent of damages caused by Unocal's activities. 3. The criteria for determining liability under environmental laws. **Ruling:** The court ruled in favor of [Plaintiff/Defendant], finding that [insert ruling details here, e.g., Unocal was found liable for contamination or that Carson Harbor Village did not provide sufficient proof of Unocal’s responsibility for the contamination]. **Outcome:** As a result of the court’s decision, [the plaintiff was awarded damages amounting to XYZ, or the defendant was cleared of liability]. The ruling set a precedent for future cases involving environmental contamination and liability, emphasizing the responsibilities of corporations regarding hazardous waste management and the protections owed to neighboring property owners. **Implications:** This case is significant in the realm of environmental law, particularly in its interpretation of liability under hazardous waste regulations. It serves as a critical reference for similar disputes and reinforces the importance of compliance with environmental standards by corporations. **Conclusion:** Carson Harbor Village, Ltd. v. Unocal Corp. underscores the complexities associated with environmental liability and the ongoing challenges faced by property owners in seeking justice for contamination issues. The ruling reflects the court's engagement with environmental law and the balance between corporate responsibility and community protection. **Note:** [Additional comments about potential appeal, public interest, and related environmental cases may be included for completeness.]

CARSON HARBOR v. UNOCAL CORP.


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