The Andrew’s Story: Midwest City Sewer Backup Case Ends in $540,000 Verdict

Midwest City, Oklahoma:

After purchasing their home in 2021, our clients began experiencing something no family should have to deal with — repeated sewage backups into the place they were supposed to feel safest.

The backups were caused by a defective municipal sewer line owned and operated by the City of Midwest City. Evidence also showed that the property had experienced sewage backups even before our clients purchased the home.

When our clients sought accountability, the City argued that their private sewer connection was illegal because historical permitting records could not be located. Our clients maintained that the sewage was coming from the City’s sewer main and that they should not be the ones left dealing with the damage and disruption it caused.

The trial court initially ruled in favor of the City of Midwest City.

But our clients did not give up.

Jim Buxton and Spencer Habletzuel continued fighting on their behalf, successfully appealing that decision and giving the homeowners the opportunity to finally present their case to a jury.

As Buxton explained after the verdict, “These homeowners didn’t cause the problem, but they were the ones forced to live with the consequences. They deserved better.”

For years, our clients lived with more than just property damage. They lived with the uncertainty of wondering whether sewage could come backing up into their home again.

“A home is supposed to be a place where people feel safe and comfortable,” Buxton said. “Nobody should have to live with the fear that sewage may come backing up into their home again.”

After years of litigation and a successful appeal, our clients finally had their day in court.

On October 8, 2026, an Oklahoma jury returned a $540,000 verdict against the City of Midwest City in favor of our clients.

For this family, the verdict represented much more than a dollar amount. After being denied, challenged, and forced to keep fighting, they were finally heard.

They stood their ground, told their story, and won.

We are proud to have stood beside them throughout that fight.

Click Here To: Read the full $540,000 Midwest City jury verdict press release

Also you can read more about the case filings and proceedings here: 

https://www.oscn.net/dockets/GetCaseInformation.aspx?db=oklahoma&number=CJ-2023-3324&cmid=4205435

Has your home been flooded by sewage? Are you seeking answers and justice? Contact Oklahoma Sewer Lawyers today!

Office: (405) 604-5577
Email: oksewerlawyers@gmail.com