Two years after a Miami-Dade jury awarded a Washington state woman more than $10.2 million in a lawsuit against Carnival Cruise Lines, a Florida judge submitted a final judgment order for more than $12 million, including about $2 million in prejudgment interest.

Attorneys speculate that the defense's delay tactics might have ultimately cost the client, landing the plaintiff what lawyers say is a record verdict.

Daniel W. Courtney. Courtesy photo