In article <71d327bb.0212301117.391c121@posting.google.com>, martinottmann@yahoo.com says...
> HR-Defense@aol.com (Shy David) wrote in message news:<3e0fb2a6@news2.lightlink.com>...
> > Perhaps a.r.s. participants care to "wager" on how much the jury will
> > demand Scientology Inc. fork over in total (real damaged and puntative
> > damages) to Ms. McPherson's estate. The person closest to the actual
> > amount earns the respect and admiration of her or his peers. We'd bet
> > in prestige, not in coin.
>
> Shortly before the trial, Scientology will settle for an undisclosed
> sum (= a few million dollars).
I doubt it. I doubt that there will be any 'settlement' that includes a 'gag order', since the parties involved are unlikely to agree on one. Pretty obviously, Lisa's family is not in it for 'the money', although, it's the only possible 'recourse' in a civil suit. Scientology on the other hand, faced with an imminent trial, would very likely be willing to offer 'payments' far beyond what may be possible by statute, but, would consider a 'gag order' absolutely essential.
I *do* think it's possible that the 'Church' might agree to a preemptive large payment/settlement, faced with the fact that the trial *will* happen, and in the hope that, if not gagged, at least that full measure of public scrutiny would be avoided.
My own wish of course, is that the trial goes forward, the evidence to the maximum extent possible becomes public record, and that it results in new filings of criminal charges. No amount of money will save Lisa now, but exposure of the organization that is and should be held criminally responsible for her death might save the next potential victim.
That would be justice for Lisa.
Zinj -- Scientology is the *Cure* for escalating Health Care Costs 'We didn't think it was a big deal' 'She died! People die! - David Miscavige