Jessie Simpson (Image Credit: CFJC Today / File)
JESSIE SIMPSON

Civil trial wraps; Simpson family seeking nearly $6 million in compensation from attacker

Jan 14, 2021 | 1:59 PM

KAMLOOPS — The civil trial to determine compensation for Jessie Simpson has concluded and the family is seeking close to $6 million, most of which is dedicated to cost of care.

The Simpson family’s lawyer, Kelsey O’Bray-Lazar, says the cost of future care is the biggest ask in the civil suit. The family estimates the 23-year-old Simpson will need $3.4 million for the 24-hour care he needs for the rest of his life.

“The cost of future care damages comprise the majority of the entire claim. These are damages to compensate the plaintiff for his future medical costs, which are extensive,” O’Bray-Lazar told CFJC Today. “He requires around-the-clock care, various rehab therapies, aids and medications, and specialized medical equipment and accommodation. The law requires the court to consider this legal principle — the primary emphasis in assessing damages for a serious injury is provision of adequate future care. The award for future care is based on what is reasonably necessary on the medical evidence to promote the mental and physical health of the plaintiff.”

The Simpsons are also seeking compensation for pain and suffering ($392,900), loss of homemaking capacity ($50,000), Jessie’s income loss ($225,000 for past earnings and $1.57 million for the future), aggravated and punitive damages ($80,000), and an in-trust claim for all of Susan Simpson’s efforts ($200,450).

“Because Susan has spent so much time spending care-aid services over the last four years, and her ability to earn income has been decreased as a result, we are claiming that she be compensated for that loss,” said O’Bray-Lazar.

Kristopher Teichrieb (Image Credit: Facebook)

Court heard on Monday (Jan. 11) that Susan’s earning capacity has decreased significantly from the time of the attack in June, 2016. Kristopher Teichrieb chased Jessie, then 18 years old, out of his Clifford Avenue yard and beat him with a baseball bat. Teichrieb pleaded guilty to the attack in 2018 and was sentenced to seven years in jail.

Justice Dev Dley is expected to take about a month to come back with a decision. O’Bray-Lazar says the $6 million the family is asking for is a maximum and the Simpsons may not receive the full amount.

O’Bray-Lazar also said another civil lawsuit against Teichrieb has started, but may take another year. The Simpsons are alleging fraudulent conveyance, accusing Teichrieb of hiding assets. He is alleged to have sold his Brocklehurst home to his parents for one dollar shortly after the assault.

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