Judge Trial Referee Edward T. Krumeich initially ruled on whether Tow could exercise Connecticut’s PJR statute, a question based on the forum and law selection clauses in the arbitration agreement. Tow’s age, 95, was cited as a possible reason for Frontier’s appeal by the former CEO, who maintained that Frontier’s move was merely a delay tactic.
Frontier Communication Appeal of Trial : Long-Standing Dispute
The legal dispute between Tow, who served as CEO of Citizens Communications, a predecessor to Frontier, from 1990 to 2004, and Frontier revolves around life insurance policies totaling nearly $96 million, which both parties shared the costs and benefits of.
For years, Frontier reimbursed Tow for taxes on these policies. However, the company halted these payments in 2021, alleging excessive costs. Tow asserts that Frontier ceased payments simply because he outlived the company’s expectations.
Tow is seeking $17.7 million, along with 9% interest, attorney fees, and additional costs. His PJR request is focused on securing a court-ordered fee on $21.8 million of the company’s assets.
Frontier Communication Appeal of Trial : An Ongoing Battle
Frontier conducts business in Connecticut, although it recently relocated its headquarters from the Constitution State. Despite these significant developments, the legal battle between Tow and Frontier continues to captivate legal observers.
Legal Teams Unresponsive
At the time of this article’s publication, legal representatives for both Tow and Frontier had not responded to inquiries from Law360.