Bankruptcy filings are never glamorous, but sometimes those involved have themselves spent time in the spotlight for prior events or accomplishments of note. One such entity is the law firm featured in the Julia Roberts film, “Erin Brockovich.” From the WSJ blog:
“The personal injury law firm that handled the water contamination case featured in the movie, Masry & Vitotoe, earlier this month filed for bankruptcy protection.
According to Lisa Cohen, a spokeswoman for the firm, based in Westlake Village, Calif., the filing was the unfortunate result of a squabble for funds after the death of founding partner Edward Masry in 2005 (played in the movie by Albert Finney).
According to a report in the Dow Jones Daily Bankruptcy Review, a number of litigants had come forward alleging that Masry promised them assets and cash from the firm. His own estate and heirs also filed claims. All told, the law firm spent more than $3 million related to the claims and ensuing litigation.”
