Texas man sues Louisiana resident over alleged battery

A Texas man has filed suit after a Jefferson Parish resident allegedly punched him in the face, causing him to fall and hit his head on the concrete.

Jaret Graham filed suit against Brett Lawson July 7 in Orleans Parish District Court.

Graham says that in August 2009, Lawson punched him in the face, causing Graham to fall to the ground, striking his head on the concrete sidewalk. As a result of the alleged battery, Graham says he was rendered unconscious and remained in a coma for four days.

Graham claims he did not provoke Lawson and the force Lawson used was unwarranted and unreasonable.

Graham is seeking damages for bodily injury and physical pain, mental anguish and distress, loss of enjoyment of life, permanent disability, medical expenses, interest and court costs.

He is represented by Carl A. Barkemeyer and E. Scott Hackenberg of Henchy, Verbois & Hackenberg in Baton Rouge. A jury trial is requested.

Judge Ethel S. Julien is assigned to the case.

Case No. 10-6969