Significant Legal Cases

From time to time a legal case becomes more than just another pile of pages and docket entry in our justice system.  Sometimes, a case comes along that deals with an issue so complex, in such a complete fashion, and regards an area not yet fully defined by the legal system that the case becomes the definition of that particular area of the law.  A prime example is the famous 1984 Wilson v. Wilson case which is widely used as a starting point for the determination of parenting time for divorcing parents.

Below are some such cases which the attorneys of Kinney Mason were a part of - cases which now stand as standards of rule for all such similar cases to follow.

Supreme Court Cases

Zelenka v. Pratte, 200 Neb. 100 (2018) (Supreme Court of Nebraska)



The emotional toll a break-up has an individual can be devastating. We are here to provide a client who is going through the difficult process of separation with advice and representation that is focused on helping our client get back on track to a better life.


Jill M. Mason provided Mr. Zelenka with outstanding representation and actively used her legal expertise to argue an array of legal theories, including conversion, replevin, and inter vivos gift, to provide convincing and thorough arguments to the Nebraska Supreme Court.


Our team at Kinney Mason, P.C., L.L.O. has an overwhelming amount of experience in Divorce and Family Law. This case demonstrates that our firm has the legal sophistication to tackle cases involving a multitude of difficulties, from the separation of cohabitating couples to canine custody disputes. Kinney Mason has the ability to adapt to the facts of any case and work diligently to achieve our client’s objectives.


Learn more about this case here.

Listen to the courtroom audio recording of the case here.



Murdoch v. Bennett v. Bennett, S-15-75 (Supreme Court of Nebraska)


Knowing you have a child and being denied legal rights to that child is unfathomable. Kinney Mason is here to ensure clients maintain proper involvement, parenting time, and rights related to their children.


This case demonstrates that time is of the essence. When in doubt, seek legal advice as soon as you encounter a situation that is out of your hands. Kinney Mason is here to provide assistance in any case.


John A. Kinney put forth a relentless fight in this difficult case. Mr. Kinney argued a multitude of legal theories including statutory, equitable and constitutional arguments.


Learn more about the case here.


Listen to the courtroom audio recording of the case here.



United States District Court

Lewton et al. v Divingnzzo et al. 8:09Cv-02 (United States District Court of Nebraska)


An individual that has had their privacy invaded is left feeling incomprehensibly exposed. In this growing age of technology, Kinney Mason is here to protect individuals who have been victimized by those that are abusing these ever changing technological advancements.


This case demonstrates the versatility of the attorneys at Kinney Mason, P.C., L.L.O. We have the skills to take on privacy claims and know how to deal with the complicated nature of the Federal and State Wiretap Acts.


John A. Kinney and Jill M. Mason teamed closely together on this unique case. Their work on this case was a flawless demonstration of what the hardworking attorneys at Kinney Mason exemplify.


Learn more about this case here.


View the memorandum from the United States' Magistrate Judge here.


View the 05/17/2011 memorandum from the United States' Magistrate Judge here.


District Court of Douglas County NE

Blatherwick v. Hotovy, Doc. 1086 No. 435 (District Court of Douglas County)


The excitement and joy a child can bring to a person’s life is undeniable. Kinney mason is here to ensure a parent has proper rights related to his or her child.


This case demonstrates that life can involve unexpected situations. No matter how overwhelming life may be, Kinney Mason is here to provide practical solutions to any problem that you may encounter.


Learn more about this case here.


View the judgement ordered by Judge James T. Gleason here.