The Drama of Document Delivery
In a twist that could only happen in the world of celebrity lawsuits, Shaquille O’Neal’s lawyers recently filed a motion claiming that legal documents intended for the NBA superstar were ineffectively ‘served’ by two process servers. Spoiler alert: nobody gave the ‘service’ an MVP award.
When Tossing Papers Goes Wrong
As per a filing dated May 8 in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, O’Neal’s legal gurus are not too happy about how the documents were handled. Apparently, instead of a gracious hand-off, the servers opted for a more theatrical delivery, tossing the papers in front of O’Neal’s moving car. Talk about a dramatic entrance – or exit, in this case!
What Happened?
According to the filing, O’Neal didn’t even bother to stop and pick up the papers, leaving them lying on the road as he drove away. The legal team argues that this form of ‘service’ is not only inadequate but downright traumatic under both Federal and Georgia law. Who knew delivering legal documents could be so intense?
FTX: The Not-So-Kosher Crypto Exchange
O’Neal is indeed in hot water after endorsing FTX, the now-defunct crypto exchange that filed for bankruptcy in November 2022. He famously proclaimed in commercials that he was “all in” for the exchange, but when things went south, his position shifted. O’Neal asserted he was merely a “paid spokesperson,” as if that absolves him of any responsibility. Ah, the classic “I was just following orders” excuse.
Legal Eagle Tactics
Lawyers are known for pulling out all the stops, and in this case, freshness is key. The Moskowitz law firm, which filed a class-action lawsuit against high-profile endorsers of FTX, attempted to officially serve O’Neal outside his home after several failed attempts. While the documents were technically delivered, they were flung onto the ground, which raises the question of what we consider proper etiquette for serving legal papers.
Rules of Engagement
According to the filing, the method of tossing papers in front of a speeding vehicle leaves much to be desired. The legalese claims such a tactic makes it impossible to confirm if the documents landed close enough for O’Neal to actually receive them. Who needs process servers when you can throw documents like a basketball? Just remember to aim better next time!
Riding the Legal Rollercoaster
The upshot of this awkward legal delivery spectacle? O’Neal is seeking to have the claims against him dismissed thanks to the apparently shoddy service. The stakes are high, and as we follow this saga, it’s clear that high-profile endorsements in the crypto world come with a price. And as for process serving, let’s just say there’s got to be a better way!
