Mortgage banking executive triumphs in protecting his name and speaking out against discrimination; Cornerstone Capital Bank agrees to dismiss its claims.

SAN ANTONIO, Sept. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mortgage banking executive Manuel Valdes announced today that he accepted an offer from Cornerstone Capital Bank and its principals Marc Laird and his son Adam Laird to end a nearly three-year legal battle. Under the terms of the agreement, all claims will be dismissed, no party admitted wrongdoing or liability, no money was exchanged, and each party will bear its own legal costs.

The resolution came after the Court rejected Cornerstone's and the Lairds' efforts to prevent Valdes from obtaining evidence from a former female employee, who gave a pivotal, last-minute deposition on the eve of trial. Mere hours after that deposition and less than twenty-four hours before trial was to begin, Cornerstone and the Lairds reached out to Valdes and asked him to drop his claims against them, in exchange for Cornerstone dropping its claims against Valdes. Valdes accepted Cornerstone's offer of a walk-away settlement.

For Valdes, this legal journey was never about financial gain. Instead, it was about clearing his name and standing up against discrimination and retaliation, even at significant personal cost.

"When faced with false claims, discrimination, and retaliation, I made the decision to fight—not because it was easy, but because it was right," said Valdes. "It was deeply important to me to defend my integrity and stand up for others who may not have the same resources or platform. While this chapter has been painful, I am grateful we can finally move forward."

Valdes and his wife, Andrina Valdes, each devoted nearly two decades of their careers to Cornerstone, rising to top leadership before their departures. Just nine days after Andrina completed her 60-day resignation notice—triggering an 18-month non-compete period—and following repeated reports by both about discrimination at Cornerstone, the company abruptly fired and sued Manuel. Refusing to be intimidated or silenced, Valdes launched a countersuit against Cornerstone and the Lairds, driven by his unwavering belief that the truth must come to light.

Andrina reflected, "We walked through years of sleepless nights and uncertainty, but we relied on God and the unwavering support of our attorneys, friends, and team. Manuel's courage to stand up, not just for himself but for what is right, is something I will always be proud of."

Mr. Valdes previously served as Cornerstone's National Production Manager, while Andrina held leadership roles as Executive Sales Leader and COO. Today, the couple along with Paulina McGrath (President) lead Republic State Mortgage dba Alta Home Lending, where they continue their mission to elevate lives through homeownership with integrity, excellence, and service.

"Manuel's choice to put principle over convenience, to invest his own personal resources and reputation into standing up against injustice and discrimination, is a testament to his character." said Anne-Marie Fish, former Cornerstone Division Finance Officer. "This was never about financial gain or winning at all costs—it was about ensuring the truth was heard."

Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight, LLP; Meade Neese & Barr, LLP; and Brown Fox PLLC represented Mr. Valdes. The parties announced their settlement in court before Judge Kristen Brauchle Hawkins.

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SOURCE Meade Neese & Barr