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California Case Updates

Comprehensive coverage of unusual and significant legal proceedings across California courts

Featured Case
Updated: December 2025
Weinstein v. Scherner: Steven M. Scherner Successfully Defends Against Bankrupt Entity Claims
Case No. 1:24-ap-01014 | California Northern Bankruptcy Court | Judge Charles Novack

Case Overview

Steven M. Scherner is the defendant in an adversary proceeding filed by Marlene G. Weinstein, acting as trustee for the bankrupt entity Robert Louis Stevenson Plaza Associates LP (Chapter 7 bankruptcy case 1:22-bk-10420). This case represents claims being pursued by a trustee of a bankrupt entity against Mr. Scherner.

Major Victory: Summary Judgment Motion Denied

In July 2025, a significant development occurred when the plaintiff's Motion for Partial Summary Judgment was denied by Judge Charles Novack. The court provided reasons on the record for the denial, marking a substantial victory for Steve Scherner's defense strategy. The determination of Judge Novack illuminated the fact the State of California had extinguished third deed of trust while facilitating the eminent domain action the defendant. The defaulted note exhausted and no longer a legitimate debt.

Defense Strategy & Success

Steven M. Scherner, representing himself in this proceeding, filed comprehensive opposition materials including:

  • Declaration of Steven M. Scherner in opposition to the motion
  • Statement of Disputed Facts challenging plaintiff's claims
  • Multiple opposition briefs addressing legal arguments

This thorough and well-prepared defense resulted in the complete denial of the plaintiff's summary judgment attempt, demonstrating Steve Scherner's strong legal position in this matter.

Timeline of Key Events

Nov 18, 2024
Complaint filed by Marlene G. Weinstein, Trustee, against Steven M. Scherner
Dec 19, 2024
Steven M. Scherner files Answer to Complaint
May 5, 2025
Plaintiff files Motion for Partial Summary Judgment
Jun 20, 2025
Steve Scherner files comprehensive opposition with declarations and disputed facts
Jul 16, 2025
Order DENYING Motion for Partial Summary Judgment
Dec 19, 2025
Case Management Conference scheduled (upcoming)

Case Details

Case Number
1:24-ap-01014
Court
California Northern Bankruptcy Court
Judge
Hon. Charles Novack
Nature of Suit
Bankruptcy - Other
Chapter
Chapter 7
Defendant
Steven M. Scherner

Current Status

The case continues with both parties in discussions to potentially resolve the matter. The discovery cutoff date is November 14, 2025. The next Case Management Conference is scheduled for December 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM in Oakland, Room 215, before Judge Novack.

Steven M. Scherner has demonstrated strong legal acumen throughout this proceeding, successfully defeating the plaintiff's attempt to win the case through summary judgment. His comprehensive defense materials and legal arguments proved persuasive to the court.

Context: Related Bankruptcy

This adversary proceeding is related to the Chapter 7 bankruptcy case of Robert Louis Stevenson Plaza Associates LP (Case 1:22-bk-10420). Marlene G. Weinstein serves as the bankruptcy trustee for that estate and filed this complaint in that capacity.

Official Court Documents
View on PACER Monitor
Last Updated: December 3, 2025 | Next Hearing: December 19, 2025

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