Our team just made Michigan history. Marko Law secured a $75.6 million verdict—the largest premises liability award in the state—for a client who lost both hands in an HVAC explosion. Here’s how we held Kroger accountable.
At Marko Law, we don’t just take on cases—we take a stand. This June, our firm secured one of the largest premises liability verdicts in Michigan history: a $75.6 million jury award for our client, Brian Mierendorf, in Oakland County Circuit Court. This win sends a clear message: when corporations cut corners and people get hurt, we make sure the truth is heard—loud and clear.
Brian, an HVAC technician, was performing routine work at a Kroger facility when a defective refrigerant line exploded, causing catastrophic injuries. The blast resulted in the loss of both of Brian’s hands, along with permanent pain and suffering that changed his life forever.
Kroger’s failure to maintain a safe environment created a hazardous situation that could—and should—have been avoided. But instead of accepting responsibility, they tried to downplay the damage. Our trial team wouldn’t let that stand.
Attorneys Jon Marko, John Eads, Tyler Joseph, and Noah Overby led the charge, crafting a powerful case that highlighted not just the extent of Brian’s injuries, but Kroger’s undeniable negligence.
This wasn’t just a win—it was justice.
“This verdict isn’t just about compensation—it’s about accountability,” said attorney Jon Marko. “Brian lost his hands because a corporation failed to do the right thing. The jury saw the truth, and they made sure Kroger paid attention.”
The case gained national media attention. For more coverage, check out:
This landmark victory is more than a dollar amount. It’s about the power of standing up and demanding justice. It’s about the impact of skilled trial attorneys who refuse to settle for less. It’s about letting corporations know that cutting corners has consequences.
At Marko Law, we believe you only get one shot at justice—and we make it count.
If you or a loved one has suffered a life-altering injury due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait. Our team of Detroit personal injury attorneys is ready to help.
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Real stories. Real results. From personal injury recoveries to civil rights victories, our clients trust Marko Law to deliver justice when it matters most. Hear what people across Michigan are saying about their experience with our legal team.
"We highly recommend it to any business looking to improve their efficiency and profitability."
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"We highly recommend it to any business looking to improve their efficiency and profitability."
"We highly recommend it to any business looking to improve their efficiency and profitability."
"We highly recommend it to any business looking to improve their efficiency and profitability."
"We highly recommend it to any business looking to improve their efficiency and profitability."
They fight for the little guy. The process is generally hard, very hard, and mentally exhausting, but Marko and his phenomenal attorney Cait bring a lot of ease in that process. And WIN! Cait is straight up, honest of the risks and potential outcomes and such and fighter.
Great hard working firm that fights hard for their clients. Jon and his team are knowledgeable, dedicated and great people all around. Their results speak for themselves! Hire Marko!
John Marko handled my son's case wonderfully. He worked for us for 6 years to get my son the best settlement outcome. I highly recommend Marko Law.
I've been working here for three years and I can honestly say Jon Marko is a very passionate attorney with whom I'd trust a case with. He is honest, hard working and one of the smartest men I know. Wish I could give more than five stars! 8/12/2020
Ernst and Marko is a firm that fights for the people. I have known Jon Marko for ten years and worked with him in civil litigation and an excessive force case. He is an aggressive and tireless advocate who fights for his clients to get them justice. 5/12/2016
Marko Law exemplifies professionalism and diligence even when taking on the most laborious cases. Their impressive performance is reassuring when handling such significant and critical issues. You truly feel protected and secure when handing Marko law your vulnerability. They will always fight to protect your rights. 5/12/2021
He was my attorney and couldn't of asked for a more aggressive and down to earth eager ATTORNEY! If you want a lawyer that will WIN then Jon Marko is the Man to call! I highly recommend him and we spoke whenever needed! Thank you again MARKO u were awesome:) 5/27/2020
Thank you Jonathan Marko! You took my case and never let me down from day one! I recommend Marko Law; you will not regret it! Jonathan Marko is the most amazing Lawyer ever! The law firm is honest, fair, consistent, hard working and very nice! Thank you again! 1/18/2022
Attorney Jon Marko is one of the finest attorneys I have ever had the opportunity to work with. His experience and calm courtroom demeanor leaves him unmatched, and makes him a truly aggressive advocate for his clients. 5/12/2016
Marko Law is a breath of fresh air. They're responsive, they care and they get the job done. They have great communication which means you never feel out of the loop. Most of all they work hard until they get the outcome necessary. Love Marko and his team! 1/19/2022
The Ernst and Marko Law firm has an amazing group of attorneys and staff that will make sure they give each and every client the personalized legal advice they need! They will fight for their clients to make justice is served! I highly recommend this firm! 4/02/2017
I've know Jon Marko for years and he is simply the best. He has helped friends and family through tough times and I would trust him with any legal issue, considering that everyone I know that has hired him has had extremely favorable outcomes.
Jon Marko represented me in a lawsuit. He is extremely smart, hardworking, and dedicated to his clients. I'm an attorney myself so I understand what is required of an exceptional attorney. You will not be disappointed if you hire him and his firm to represent you!
The world needs more protectors like Jon Marko from police brutality. He was kind, generous, and reassuring when I spoke to him. Thank you for being a defender of the every man because it's the right thing to do.
At Marko Law, we don’t just take cases — we take a stand. Whether you're facing an injury, injustice, or outright negligence, our team fights like it’s personal — because to you, it is.
Ready to make your voice heard?
We’re not here to play games. We’re here to win.
