HP Civil Appealed Award for Former CEO

The Salem-based construction firm has challenged a court judgment requiring it to pay $739,363 in legal fees.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Human Resources

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a solitary stone column base, representing institutional legal structures. — HP Civil Inc. has filed an appeal in Marion County Circuit Court to challenge a $739,363 judgment for attorney fees awarded to former CEO Roger Silbernagel. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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HP Civil Inc. has filed an appeal following a Marion County Circuit Court decision that ordered the company to cover $739,363 in attorney fees for its former CEO, Roger Silbernagel. The dispute stems from a jury verdict that found the company and its partners liable for shareholder oppression and breach of fiduciary duty.

Why it matters

The appeal marks a new stage in a high-stakes business dispute that centered on Silbernagel's termination in 2022 and claims of internal misconduct. The case highlights the legal complexities that can arise when internal leadership conflicts lead to a forced corporate exit.

A Marion County judge ordered the payment of $739,363 in attorney fees after a jury found the firm liable for shareholder oppression. Former CEO Roger Silbernagel held a 44.44 percent ownership stake in the firm founded in 2013.

The players

Roger Silbernagel

He is the former CEO of HP Civil Inc. who was terminated from his position in 2022.

HP Civil Inc.

This is a construction company based in Salem that was founded in 2013.

Larry Gescher

He is a partner at HP Civil Inc. who was found at fault in the shareholder litigation.

Josh Smith

He is a partner at HP Civil Inc. who held an 11.12 percent ownership share in the firm.

The details

After terminating Silbernagel in May 2022, HP Civil Inc. faced a jury trial where it was found at fault for breach of fiduciary duty and specific performance. While the firm and partners Larry Gescher and Josh Smith prevailed on other claims including retaliation, the court mandated the significant fee payout to the former executive.

HP Civil Inc. was founded in 2013.
Roger Silbernagel was terminated in May 2022.
A jury delivered a split verdict in the case last year.
A judge awarded $739,363 in fees in August 2026.
HP Civil Inc. filed an appeal in late September 2026.

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Market Landscape

This litigation follows the pattern of internal corporate governance disputes that often lead to a business divorce. The case underscores the volatility that can occur when majority partners exclude minority stakeholders like Silbernagel, who held 44.44 percent of the company.

For stakeholders and business owners in the area, this case serves as a reminder of the high costs associated with internal corporate disputes and fiduciary failures. The pending appeal means that the final financial impact on the company's operational budget remains subject to change.

The takeaway

This case illustrates the significant financial liability companies face when corporate governance procedures are ignored or disputed. Shareholders should prioritize clear communication and formal resolution processes to avoid costly litigation that can threaten a firm's long-term stability.