In the News
Jun 16, 2026

Nearly $80 Million in Damages Awarded to Former Balboa Capital CEO in High-Stakes Contract Dispute Against Ameris Bank

A federal jury returned a sweeping victory in favor of former bank executive Patrick Byrne in his dispute against Ameris Bank.

Following a high-profile jury trial in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, a federal jury returned a sweeping verdict in favor of former bank executive Patrick Byrne in his dispute against Ameris Bank. The jury found Ameris Bank liable on Byrne’s claims, including wrongful termination, whistleblower retaliation, unpaid wages, and breach of contract, awarding approximately $16.5 million in compensatory damages and statutory penalties, as well as approximately $62.9 million in punitive damages. The verdict represents a major victory in a closely watched employment and whistleblower dispute and reflects the jury’s decisive findings on Byrne’s claims.

Congratulations to the trial team at Allen Matkins Leck Gamble Mallory & Natsis LLP on their resounding win on behalf of their client, Patrick Byrne. DOAR was proud to support the trial team with jury research, graphics consulting & design, and evidence presentation.

Read more about the case.

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