I too am mixed w/ emotion. I understand all the pros and cons that come w/ a lawsuit and settling the matter or taking it to trial.
As for the comment that it is up to the client. Truthfully, a good lawyer will lead the client in the direction they want them to go. So I disagree w/ this comment. We are advocates for the client and often times we convince a client to take or turn down an offer. I am sure there was much consideration before the offer of settlement was accepted.
As for people being conflicted I understand that completely. I may understand the system and how it works, but that does not mean that I do not wish for a person to have their day in court.
As for JWs and how they will see it. They will see it however the WTBTS decides to spin the tale. I would not be surprised if the JWs have NO CLUE of what transpired.
As a small note to Kimberly Norris. I give you much credit. I have been on the losing side of a civil rights violation case. It was pending in the south. The black man was pulled over for speeding, kept over night w/o his meds. When he returned to Chicago, he was hospitalized for 13 days and has never been the same. But it was his word against the white officers. And we did not have ONE person of color even to pick from during vior dire. One guy even asked the judge to speak w/ him privately and was excused early during the process and we later found out because he admitted he hates blacks and could not be fair. But I was always afraid of the ones who were not willing to admit their bigotry. Yes, you take your chances if you take a matter to trial. It is a 50/50 chance of losing/winning. Needless to say we lost. I have worked hard on cases and lost. So I understand the position you were in. You worked hard and spent much of your own time and money in the process. Good on you for all your hard work. It is a less then appreciate profession and job. But for one to another, I recognize what you have gone thru and good for your and your firm.