CHICAGO — A Chicago jury awarded Chance the Rapper $35 in his countersuit against former manager Pat Corcoran on Friday, concluding their five-year legal battle. The musician had filed the countersuit in February 2021 seeking $1 million.

The trial lasted just over two weeks. Corcoran had filed a lawsuit seeking $3.8 million in unpaid expenses and commissions related to touring, merchandise, and other responsibilities.

According to court filings, Chancelor Bennett and Pat Corcoran met in 2012 and reached an oral agreement under which Corcoran would manage Bennett's music career and be compensated with 15% of the net profits earned from the exploitation of his music. Court filings indicate Corcoran was dismissed as Chance the Rapper's manager in April 2020 because Bennett determined that Corcoran's inattention, incompetence, betrayals, and competing business direction made him an increasing liability to Bennett's career.

Chance the Rapper alleged that Pat Corcoran exploited his position as manager, demanded kickbacks, and damaged his reputation. In his suit, Pat Corcoran claimed that Ken Bennett and Taylor Bennett eroded Chance the Rapper's confidence in Corcoran. Chance the Rapper's management team now includes his father, Ken Bennett, and his brother, Taylor Bennett.

"Friday marked an important day in setting a legal precedent for artists everywhere. I'm grateful for the time and care the jury took in reviewing the evidence and reaching their decision. The verdicts in my favor underscore the importance of artists not being locked into terms they did not agree to, and having transparency, respect, and control over their business and work," Chance the Rapper said.

"While only two of my claims were before the jury, my broader case has always been about accountability and protecting the rights of artists. My larger claim remains before the Court, and I will continue to address that claim through the proper process. I'm proud to have stood up for myself and artists everywhere, and I look forward to turning my full attention back to my fans and what's ahead," the musician added.

"We respect the jury's decision, but the message to music managers is clear: Get it in writing. The jury award of $35 speaks to how seriously the jury viewed Chance's case," said Jay Scharkey, a lawyer.

"The jury heard the evidence for more than two weeks and reached the correct conclusion: Mr. Bennett never agreed to pay commissions after his management relationship with Pat Corcoran ended, and Mr. Corcoran's breached their contract. This ruling is not only a victory for Mr. Bennett, it is a victory for independent artists everywhere. And, above all, we are happy for our client who has been standing on principle for years," said Precious Jacobs-Perry, a lawyer.