“It kind of begs credulity to suggest that when there are hundreds of contacts over a period of time that they had no relationship,” Judge Smith said. “It just doesn’t make any sense.”
Barama’s counsel likened their relationship to that of a financial advisor and a client, but Judge Smith appeared unconvinced.
Panel Deliberation
The appellate panel, consisting of Judges Milan Dale Smith, Jr., Eric D. Miller, and Patrick J. Bumatay, took the matter under advisement. A ruling is expected at a later date.
