McGrath Family Pursues Civil Justice After Valle Acquitted in Stabbing

# McGrath Family Pursues Civil Justice After Not Guilty Verdict in Fairfield Prep Student’s Death

After a shocking verdict in one of Connecticut’s most closely watched criminal cases, the family of slain Fairfield Prep student James McGrath is turning to civil court. A jury found Raul Valle not guilty of murder and first-degree manslaughter in the 2022 stabbing death of 17-year-old McGrath.

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The victim’s family has vowed to keep fighting through multiple civil lawsuits against Valle and others allegedly involved in the tragic incident. This case has shaken communities across Fairfield County.

Understanding the Criminal Verdict and Civil Strategy

The criminal trial captivated residents from Stamford to New Haven. Valle admitted to stabbing McGrath but said he acted out of fear and self-defense—apparently, jurors bought the argument.

The McGrath family feels “terribly upset,” according to their attorney, Michael J. Rosnick. They’re now focusing on several civil lawsuits that use different legal standards than criminal proceedings.

Different Standards of Proof

Civil cases only require a “preponderance of evidence,” not proof “beyond reasonable doubt” like in criminal trials. This lower threshold could mean a different outcome for the McGraths as they seek accountability for their son’s death in Shelton.

“The burden of proof in a civil case is much different than in a criminal case,” Rosnick said. His law practice serves clients throughout Bridgeport and nearby communities.

Multiple Lawsuits Target Various Parties

The civil legal action goes well beyond Valle. The McGrath family has filed lawsuits against several former St. Joseph High School students who were there that night, as well as their parents.

These cases paint a broader picture of responsibility than what came up in the criminal trial. The wrongful death lawsuit against Valle claims his actions were “willful, wanton and malicious,” which could open the door to punitive damages if the court agrees.

Residents of Trumbull and Fairfield, where many involved parties lived, have followed these developments closely.

Parental Liability and Alcohol Claims

Some of the most serious allegations target the parents of teens present that night. One lawsuit alleges that Tyler DaSilva’s parents provided alcohol to minors, possibly fueling the chaos that led to McGrath’s death.

These cases have been consolidated with separate lawsuits from three other teens stabbed during the same incident. All are seeking damages for injuries suffered during what started as a typical weekend gathering in Stratford before spiraling into violence.

One Settlement Already Reached

One civil case has already wrapped up with a substantial settlement. Paul and Susanna Leifer, who owned the property where a party took place earlier that evening, settled for about $1.5 million.

This resolution has led some in Greenwich and Westport to wonder if other civil cases might also end in settlements.

Looking Ahead to Future Proceedings

The criminal case ended with a not guilty verdict on the major charges. Prosecutors now plan to refile several lesser charges where the jury couldn’t agree.

The McGrath family’s attorney thinks the civil cases will move faster now that the criminal trial’s over. “We will hold all responsible parties accountable,” Rosnick said, showing just how determined the family feels about finding justice through other legal routes.

Here is the source article for this story: James McGrath’s family seeks civil justice after Raul Valle found not guilty in son’s stabbing death

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