Preparations for Phase One of Trial & Reversal

A Timeline of the Gallegly Center's Legal Proceedings (2024)

Early 2024

Depositions and Discovery Continue

  • Attorneys on both sides gather further documentation and sworn testimony, including evidence that the Galleglys and Associates continued a coordinated misinformation campaign whose goal was to inflict harm on CLU and Varlotta.
  • The Galleglys and Associates continue fueling the public narrative by having supporters send their ghostwritten to the press to keep the heat up on Varlotta.
  • Text series by Linda Breakstone is notably vicious.
  • Contradictions Surface: Some statements made by Elton and Janice under oath in depositions contradict the email communication that has been documented via the email trail.

Phase One of Trial: Charitable Trust Determination

  • Court hears multiple days of witness testimony to determine if the first cause of action in the Galleglys’ lawsuit - a creation of a Charitable Trust - survives.
  • CLU attorneys submit dozens of public exhibits to present an "unclean hands" defense, arguing that even if the court determines that a charitable trust exists, the Galleglys' "unclean hands" disqualifies them from "relief."

July 15 - Aug 7, 2024

Aug 17 - Sep 15, 2024

Judicial Deliberation Period

  • Judge Henry Walsh reviews evidence and testimony.

Statement of Intended Decision Issued (In Favor of the Galleglys)

  • Judge Walsh issues his Statement of Intended Decision in favor of the Galleglys.
  • His Statement of Intended Decision indicates that CLU has some contractual obligation to display the replica office.

September 18, 2024

Oct-Nov 2024

CLU Appeals Statement of Intended Decision

  • CLU argues that the judge erred in evaluating contract law instead of whether a charitable trust had been established.

Final Ruling Reverses Course in his Statement of Decision

  • Judge Walsh completely reverses his prior ruling, calling it "erroneous."
  • The Statement of Decision finds no charitable trust was created.
  • Judge Walsh ultimately identifies CLU as the prevailing party in Phase One.

December 13, 2024