Former partners' dispute over $16,500 in settlement fees still in play

Former partners of a formerly powerful Madison County law firm have yet to settle their differences.

SL Chapman is asking that attorney Craig Jensen and his attorney Lee Barron be ordered to show cause why they should not be held in contempt for failing to abide by terms of an arbitration award.

Attorney Robert Schmieder, for SL Chapman, claims that neither Jensen nor Barron have paid $16,500 as directed by a St. Louis arbitrator in October 2013, and confirmed by Madison County Circuit Judge Barbara Crowder in July.

The figure was derived from settlement proceeds in a case identified as "McCurter" which Jensen was ordered to pay SL Chapman within five days of the arbitrator's decision, according to Schmieder.

In addition to his move for an order to show cause, Schmieder also asks for immediate remittance of the $16,500 and interest and attorneys' fees.

Jensen sued SL Chapman last year seeking to vacate the $16,500 award, claiming that USA&M arbitrator Seth Albin engaged in misconduct, exceeded his authority and ruled on matters not subject to arbitration during a hearing in St. Louis in September 2013.

Jensen had been employed by the firm originally named Lakin Law Firm of Wood River, which was renamed LakinChapman in 2009 and then to SL Chapman in 2011 when the firm downsized and underwent a restructuring.

On July 21, Crowder denied Jensen, finding no basis to remand the arbitration award for modification.

Crowder will hear SL Chapman's motion on Dec. 5.

Madison County case number 13-L-1800.