A slip-and-fall incident at a well-known retail chain has led to a lawsuit alleging negligence and seeking substantial damages. On March 14, 2025, Merlande Joseph filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida, against Wal-Mart Stores East, LP., and an unnamed manager referred to as John Doe.
The case stems from an incident on April 20, 2024, when Joseph visited the Wal-Mart located at 4375 Belvedere Rd, West Palm Beach, FL. According to the complaint, Joseph was injured after slipping on grapes that were negligently left on the floor by the defendants. The plaintiff asserts that Wal-Mart and its manager failed to maintain safe premises for customers. "By carelessly and negligently failing to maintain the grounds of its premises in a reasonably safe condition," reads the complaint, "Defendant created a dangerous condition." Joseph accuses both Wal-Mart and John Doe of not only creating this hazardous situation but also failing to warn her about it or correct it despite knowing—or having reason to know—of its existence.
Joseph's legal action includes two counts of negligence: one against Wal-Mart Stores East, LP., and another against John Doe. She argues that both parties had a duty of care towards business invitees like herself and failed in their responsibilities by allowing unsafe conditions to persist. The lawsuit claims that these failures directly resulted in Joseph suffering significant injuries including bodily harm, mental anguish, loss of earnings capacity, and other lasting impacts on her quality of life.
In terms of relief sought from the court, Joseph is demanding judgment for damages exceeding $50,000 but uncertain if it surpasses $75,000. Additionally, she seeks compensation for medical expenses incurred due to hospitalization and ongoing treatment related to her injuries. The complaint also requests coverage for legal costs associated with pursuing this action along with any further equitable relief deemed appropriate by the court.
Representing Merlande Joseph is attorney Tara M. Roberts from Wolfson & Leon law firm based in Miami. The case is presided over by Judge AK under Case ID 502025CA002420XXXAMB.