Tort Law for Paralegals

by Bevans, Neal R.

• ISBN13: 9780735533448
• ISBN10: 073553344X
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2003-09-01
• Publisher: Wolters Kluwer Law and Business

Summary

By combining an in-depth discussion of tort law with revealing real-world examples of the paralegal's daily work, this new text provides a complete and memorable introduction To The subject. TORT LAW FOR PARALEGALS is carefully crafted to ensure both understanding and preparation for practice. When you review this new offering, be sure to notice its: broad coverage of the key tort topics paralegals need to know, including intentional torts, torts involving property, defenses to intentional torts, intensive overview of negligence, comparison of contributory and comparative negligence, products liability and strict liability, medical and legal malpractice, insurance, and business torts and misrepresentation treatment of practical skills and topics, such as how law firms function, assessing cases for settlement value, investigating claims, billing hours, evaluating insurance policies, and much more easy-to-read and engaging style, using numerous examples and illustrations to emphasize the practical nature of tort law skillful use of one hypothetical case throughout the text, providing continuity To The material and a vehicle for illustrating various points special attention paid to ethical issues, with a separate section on ethics at the end of each chapter the text offers a variety of effective learning aids: objectives to open each chapter Issue at a Glance boxes that summarize important legal concepts marginal definitions of important terms numerous figures, tables, and diagrams case excerpts that discuss both legal theory and practical applications Skills You Need in the Real World sections highlighting particular paralegal skills, ranging from locating expert witnesses to creating a trial notebook to billing time in a file Life of a Paralegal sections that show the work of an actual paralegal references to web sites to assist students in information gathering additional forms and court documents at the end of each chapter Key Terms, Review Questions, and Applying What You Have Learned exercises forms and documents relevant To The hypothetical case included in an appendix

Table of Contents

Preface	xxxiii
Acknowledgments	xxxvi
An Introduction to Tort Law	1	(28)
Introduction to a Torts Case	1	(3)
``Can I Sue?''	2	(1)
Torts Are Legal Wrongs	3	(1)
Cause of Action	3	(1)
The Basis of a Lawsuit is a Cause of Action	4	(1)
Tort Law Compared to Other Forms of Law	4	(3)
Who Brings the Case?	4	(2)
The Pleadings	6	(1)
Civil and Criminal Cases Operate Independently of One Another	6	(1)
Proof in a Civil Case Is Preponderance of Evidence	7	(1)
Terms Are Different	7	(1)
Tort Law Compared to Other Areas of Law	7	(1)
A Short History of Tort Law	8	(2)
An Eye for an Eye	8	(1)
Money for an Eye	9	(1)
The Development of Tort Law in the United States	9	(1)
Bringing a Tort Case	10	(2)
Investigating the Cause of Action: Rule 11	10	(1)
Litigation Chart	10	(1)
Sources of Proof	11	(1)
Filing a Complaint	12	(1)
Discovery in Civil Cases	12	(2)
Interrogatories	12	(1)
Depositions	13	(1)
Requests for Production of Documents	13	(1)
Request to Admit Facts	13	(1)
Request for Physical and/or Mental Examination of a Party	13	(1)
The Trial of a Civil Case	14	(3)
Jury Selection	14	(1)
Opening Statement	14	(1)
Presentation of the Plaintiff's Case	15	(1)
Motion for Directed Verdict	15	(1)
The Defense Case	15	(1)
Closing Argument	16	(1)
The Jury Charge	16	(1)
The Verdict	16	(1)
Alternative Dispute Resolution	17	(1)
What Is Alternative Dispute Resolution?	17	(1)
Arbitration versus Mediation	17	(1)
Appeals	18	(11)
The Importance of Case Law	18	(1)
How Is Case Law Created?	19	(1)
Stare decisis	19	(1)
An Example of Case Law	20	(1)
Case Excerpt: Coney v. Union Pacific R.R.	21	(2)
Skills You Need in the Real World: How a Paralegal Can Do Some Basic Investigative Work	23	(1)
The Life of a Paralegal: Debra Holbrook	24	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: An Introduction	25	(1)
Chapter Summary	25	(1)
Web Sites	25	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Complaint	26	(2)
Key Terms	28	(1)
Review Questions	28	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	28	(1)
Intentional Torts	29	(30)
The Chumley Case	29	(1)
The Problem with Intentional Torts	30	(1)
Assault and Battery	31	(5)
The Elements of Assault	31	(1)
The Defendant's Actions Are Intentional	32	(1)
Fear or Apprehension	33	(1)
Harmful or Offensive Contact	33	(1)
The Elements of Battery	33	(1)
Defendant Acted Intentionally	34	(1)
What Do We Mean by ``Contact''?	34	(1)
Making Contact with Weapons or Other Objects	34	(1)
The Connection Between the Defendant's Actions and Ultimate Harm	34	(1)
Harmful or Offensive Contact	35	(1)
The Reasonable Person Standard	35	(1)
False Imprisonment	36	(6)
The Elements of False Imprisonment	37	(1)
Discussing the Elements: Restraint Must Be Intentional	37	(1)
Unlawful Restraint	37	(1)
By the Use of Force or Threats	38	(1)
Holding Personal Property Hostage	38	(1)
Defenses to False Imprisonment	38	(1)
Consent	38	(1)
Case Excerpt: Rodriguez v. Pino	39	(3)
Alienation of Affections	42	(1)
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress	43	(2)
Elements of Infliction of Emotional Distress	43	(1)
Intentional or Reckless Conduct	43	(1)
Bystander Emotional Distress	44	(1)
Causation	44	(1)
Emotional Distress: What Is It?	44	(1)
The Defendant's Actions Were Outrageous	44	(1)
Malicious Prosecution	45	(2)
The Elements of Malicious Prosecution	46	(1)
Defendant Brings or Continues a Criminal Charge Against the Plaintiff	46	(1)
The Case Terminates in the Plaintiff's Favor	46	(1)
The Defendant Acted with Malice in Bringing the Charge	46	(1)
There Was No Probable Cause for the Charge	46	(1)
Tort Immunity for Families	47	(1)
Intentional Torts Involving Property: Trespass	47	(2)
Discussing the Elements: Intent	48	(1)
Unprivileged	48	(1)
Entry onto the Plaintiff's Real Property	48	(1)
Proving ``Entry''	48	(1)
Without Permission	49	(1)
Nuisance Actions	49	(2)
Public Nuisance versus Private Nuisance	49	(1)
Private Nuisance	50	(1)
Elements of a Private Nuisance Action	50	(1)
Damages and Injunctions	50	(1)
New Lawsuits under Environmental Theories	51	(1)
Torts to Personal Property: Trespass to Chattels	51	(8)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Keeping Track of Your Time	51	(2)
The Life of a Paralegal: Linda McCurry	53	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Statutes of Limitation	54	(1)
Chapter Summary	54	(1)
Web Sites	54	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Complaint for Personal Injury	55	(1)
Key Terms	56	(1)
Review Questions	56	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	57	(2)
Defenses to Intentional Torts	59	(28)
What Is a Defense?	59	(1)
Self-Defense	60	(4)
The Response Must Be Equal to the Threat	60	(1)
Limitations on Self-defense	60	(2)
No Self-defense for Aggressors	62	(1)
Self-defense Claim if Aggressor Voluntarily Stopped Fighting	62	(1)
No Self-defense for Martial Artists	62	(1)
Claiming Self-defense When Defending Others	62	(1)
Other Limitations on Self-defense: No Deadly Force to Protect Property	63	(1)
Mutual Combat	64	(1)
Consent	64	(1)
Duress, Necessity, Compulsion, and Coercion	64	(2)
Duress	64	(1)
Coercion	65	(1)
Necessity	65	(1)
Compulsion	65	(1)
Intoxication	66	(1)
Voluntary Intoxication	66	(1)
Involuntary Intoxication	66	(1)
Mistake	66	(1)
Age	67	(1)
Insanity	67	(1)
Overview	67	(1)
Two Different Forms of Insanity Defense	68	(1)
Immunity	68	(1)
Privilege	69	(4)
Case Excerpt: Daniels v. Dillard Dept. Stores, Inc.	70	(3)
Statutes of Limitation	73	(1)
Defenses Available to Codefendants	73	(14)
Joint and Several Liability	73	(2)
Vicarious Liability	75	(1)
Employer/Employee Liability (Respondeat Superior)	76	(1)
Limitations on Respondeat Superior	76	(1)
Scope of Employment	76	(1)
Frolic and Detour	77	(1)
Independent Contractor	77	(1)
Other Situations in Which Vicarious Liability Is Authorized: Family Purpose Doctrine	78	(1)
Other Situations in Which Vicarious Liability Is Authorized: Joint Enterprise	78	(1)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Evaluating a Case	79	(1)
The Life of a Paralegal: Lisa Mazzonetto	80	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Avoiding a Claim of Unauthorized Practice of Law	81	(1)
Chapter Summary	81	(1)
Web Sites	82	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Answer to Complaint	82	(2)
Key Terms	84	(1)
Review Questions	84	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	84	(3)
Introduction to Negligence	87	(28)
Negligence: What Makes it Different?	87	(1)
The History of Negligence	88	(1)
The Chumley Case	88	(1)
The Four Elements of Negligence	89	(8)
Duty	89	(2)
Breach	91	(1)
Causation	92	(1)
Damages	92	(1)
Case Excerpt: Port Terminal R.R. Ass'n v. Richardson	93	(4)
The Lawyers Who Represent Plaintiffs and Defendants	97	(7)
Becoming a Lawyer	98	(1)
The Economics of Law Firms	98	(1)
Plaintiffs' Firms	99	(1)
Defense Firms	100	(1)
Contracting with a Law Firm	100	(1)
Contract in the Chumley Case	100	(4)
Obtaining Information from the Client	104	(11)
Authorizations from the Client	104	(1)
Other Information from the Client: Facts and Photos	105	(2)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Meeting with the New Client	107	(1)
The Life of a Paralegal: Wendy Seagle	108	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Initial Client Meeting	109	(1)
Chapter Summary	110	(1)
Web Sites	110	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: A Typical Negligence Complaint	110	(2)
Key Terms	112	(1)
Review Questions	112	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	113	(2)
Duty	115	(28)
The Chumley Case: A Dangerous Intersection?	115	(1)
The Legal Definition of Duty	116	(5)
When Does a Duty Arise?	116	(1)
Using Formulas to Determine Duty	117	(1)
Duty Does Not Depend on Victim's Identity	118	(1)
Duty as a Legal Obligation	118	(1)
Duty Does Not Arise from Habit or Custom	119	(1)
Duty Arising from Professional Status	120	(1)
Different Levels of Duty for Some Professionals	120	(1)
What Is the Standard of Care for a Professional?	120	(1)
Specialists	121	(1)
Duty Arising Out of Other Factors	121	(1)
How the Courts Determine Duty	121	(3)
Relationship Can Determine Duty	122	(1)
Special Relationships	122	(2)
Duty from a Social Relationship	124	(1)
Are Friends a Special Relationship?	124	(1)
Social Host Liability	124	(1)
Premises Liability	125	(6)
Duty Is on Possessor, Not Owner	125	(1)
Classifying Visitors	126	(1)
Trespassers	126	(1)
Exceptions to the General Rule of No Duty to Trespassers	126	(1)
The Attractive Nuisance Doctrine	127	(1)
Elements of the Attractive Nuisance Doctrine	127	(1)
Rescue Doctrine	127	(1)
Classifying Visitors: Licensees	128	(1)
Classifying Visitors: Invitees	128	(1)
``Economic Benefit'' Test	129	(1)
Abnormally Dangerous or Ultra-hazardous Conditions	129	(1)
Abolishing the Categories (and Distinctions) Between Invitees and Licensees	130	(1)
Guest Statutes	130	(1)
Duty to Third Parties	131	(12)
Foreseeability of Injury to Third Party	133	(1)
Case Excerpt: Tarasoff v. Regents of University of California	133	(3)
Can a Defendant Waive His Duty?	136	(1)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Beginning Your Legal Research	137	(1)
The Life of a Paralegal: Christina Lynn	138	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Keeping Up with Developments in the Law	139	(1)
Chapter Summary	139	(1)
Web Sites	139	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Motion to Dismiss	140	(1)
Key Terms	141	(1)
Review Questions	141	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	142	(1)
Breach of Duty Under Negligence Law	143	(24)
Introduction	143	(1)
Who Breached a Duty in the Chumley Case?	144	(1)
Breach of Duty	144	(5)
The Objective Standard	145	(2)
The Jury Determines the Standard of Care	147	(1)
Physical Characteristics	148	(1)
Other Situations in Which the Standard of Care Is Modified: Emergencies	148	(1)
Custom or Tradition to Establish Breach of Duty?	149	(1)
Professionals have a Higher Standard of Care	149	(1)
Court Doctrines that Help to Determine Breach of Duty	150	(7)
Res Ipsa Loquitur	150	(2)
The Common Sense Element of Res Ipsa Loquitur	152	(1)
Defenses to a Res Ipsa Claim	152	(1)
Pleading Res Ipsa Loquitur: What the Complaint Should Allege	152	(1)
Negligence Per Se	152	(3)
What the Complaint Should Say about Negligence Per Se	155	(1)
Exploring a Res Ipsa Loquitur Claim	155	(1)
Case Excerpt: City of Kennett v. Akers	155	(2)
Expert Evidence and Breach of Duty	157	(10)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Locating Expert Witnesses	158	(2)
The Life of a Paralegal: Gwyn Huffman	160	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Confidentiality	161	(1)
Chapter Summary	161	(1)
Web Sites	162	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Excerpt from Chumley Complaint	162	(1)
Key Terms	163	(1)
Review Questions	163	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	164	(3)
Proximate Cause	167	(30)
Proximate Cause in the Chumley Case	167	(1)
Introduction	168	(2)
Proving Proximate Cause	168	(1)
Breach of Duty of Care	168	(1)
Breach Was the Cause	168	(1)
The Law on Proximate Cause Tends to Be Vague	168	(2)
Developing the Concept of Proximate Cause	170	(10)
Historical Development of Proximate Cause	170	(1)
Problems Defining Proximate Cause	170	(1)
Working Definition of Proximate Cause	171	(1)
Elements of the Working Definition	171	(1)
Proof of an Injury Caused by the Defendant	171	(1)
In a Natural, Unbroken, and Continuous Sequence	171	(1)
Uninterrupted by Any Intervening Causes	171	(1)
Produced the Plaintiff's Injuries	172	(1)
Without Which the Result Would Not Have Occurred	172	(1)
Restatement Position on Defining Proximate Cause	172	(1)
Proximate Cause Requires a Close Connection Between the Defendant's Actions and the Plaintiff's Injuries	172	(1)
Remote Causes Are Less Likely to Be Considered Proximate Cause	173	(1)
Remote Causes Are Harder to Prove	174	(1)
Proximate Cause Depends on the Facts in the Case	174	(1)
Evaluating a Case for Proximate Cause	174	(1)
Proximate Cause Must Show that the Defendant Is Responsible	175	(1)
Foreseeability	175	(1)
The Palsgraf Case	176	(1)
Case Excerpt: Palsgraf v. Long Island Railroad Co.	176	(3)
An Analysis of Palsgraf: ``Orbit of the Risk'' Doctrine (Foreseeability)	179	(1)
Defining Foreseeability After Palsgraf	180	(1)
Court-Created Tests for Proximate Cause	180	(3)
``But for'' Test	181	(1)
``Substantial Factor'' Test	181	(1)
Case Excerpt: Firman v. Sacia	182	(1)
Pleading Proximate Cause	183	(2)
Is Proximate Cause a Defense?	184	(1)
In the End, Proximate Cause Is a Jury Question	184	(1)
How Much Evidence Does the Plaintiff Have to Produce to Make Proximate Cause a Jury Question?	185	(1)
On Appeal, Courts Will Leave Jury's Determination Intact, Unless Clearly Wrong	185	(1)
Multiple Defendants and Proximate Cause	185	(1)
Intervening Causes	186	(11)
Superseding Causes	187	(1)
Acts of God or Acts of Nature	188	(1)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Internet Legal Research	188	(1)
Life of a Paralegal: Pamela Tallent	189	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Attorney-Client Privilege	190	(1)
Chapter Summary	191	(1)
Web Sites	191	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Complaint Form, Emphasizing Proximate Cause	191	(3)
Key Terms	194	(1)
Review Questions	194	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	195	(2)
Damages	197	(30)
Damages in the Chumley Case	197	(1)
Introduction to Damages	198	(19)
Compensatory Damages	199	(1)
General Damages	199	(1)
Pain and Suffering	200	(1)
Presenting an Argument to the Jury for Pain and Suffering and Other General Damages	200	(1)
Special Damages	201	(1)
Lost Wages	201	(1)
Medical Bills	202	(1)
Future Losses	202	(1)
Measuring Future Lost Income	202	(1)
Proving Damages	203	(1)
Why Is the Distinction Between General and Special Damages Important?	203	(1)
``Day-in-the-Life'' Video	203	(1)
Proving Property Losses	204	(1)
Collateral Source Rule	204	(1)
Mitigation of Damages	204	(1)
Emotional Distress	205	(1)
Loss of Consortium	205	(1)
Prior Injuries	205	(1)
Bad Faith Damages	206	(1)
Punitive Damages	207	(1)
Case Excerpt: Rufo v. Simpson	207	(8)
Tort Reform and Punitive Damages	215	(1)
Tobacco Companies and Punitive Damages	215	(1)
Nominal Damages	216	(1)
Equitable Remedies	216	(1)
Evaluating a Case for Potential Damages	217	(10)
Evaluating a Case	217	(1)
Reviewing the Facts of a Case	218	(1)
Asset Searches	218	(1)
Jury's Function Is Assessing Damages	218	(1)
Jury Instructions	219	(1)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Keeping Track of Medical Records	220	(1)
The Life of a Paralegal: Celeste Jenks	220	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: National Paralegal Associations	221	(1)
Chapter Summary	221	(1)
Web Sites	221	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Complaint Emphasizing Loss of Consortium Claim	222	(2)
Key Terms	224	(1)
Review Questions	224	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	225	(2)
Defenses to Negligence	227	(32)
The Railroad's Defense in the Chumley Case	227	(1)
Introduction to Contributory Negligence	228	(11)
Historical Reasons for the Development of Contributory Negligence	228	(3)
Defining Contributory Negligence	231	(1)
Why Study Contributory Negligence?	232	(1)
Why Does the Doctrine Continue to Exist?	232	(1)
The Doctrine of ``Avoidable Consequences''	233	(1)
How Much at Fault Must Plaintiff Be?	233	(1)
Is There Such a Thing as ``Contributory Negligence Per Se''?	234	(1)
The ``All or Nothing'' Element of Contributory Negligence	234	(1)
Is Contributory Negligence Doomed?	234	(1)
Exceptions to Contributory Negligence	235	(1)
Last Clear Chance	235	(1)
Proving Last Clear Chance	235	(1)
Pleading Last Clear Chance	235	(1)
Sudden Emergency	236	(1)
Assumption of the Risk	236	(1)
Other Exceptions to Contributory Negligence	237	(1)
Plaintiff's Age and Physical Factors	237	(1)
Mental Incompetence	238	(1)
The Rescuer Doctrine	238	(1)
Situations in Which Contributory Negligence Does Not Apply	238	(1)
Contributory Negligence Is a Jury Question	238	(1)
Comparative Negligence	239	(20)
Historical Development of Comparative Negligence	239	(1)
The Uniform Comparative Fault Act	240	(1)
The Three Models of Comparative Negligence	240	(1)
Pure Comparative Negligence	241	(1)
Modified Comparative Negligence	241	(1)
Slight-Gross Comparative Negligence	241	(1)
Combinations of Approaches	241	(1)
Types of Cases in Which Comparative Negligence Applies	242	(1)
Comparative Negligence and Punitive Damages	242	(1)
How Comparative Negligence Affects Proximate Cause Analysis	242	(1)
Defenses to Comparative Negligence	243	(1)
The Rescuer Doctrine	243	(1)
Mentally Incompetent Persons	243	(1)
Pleading Comparative Negligence	243	(1)
Settlement Issues in Comparative Negligence Cases	244	(1)
Multiple Defendants and Comparative Negligence	244	(1)
Motions for Directed Verdict in Comparative Negligence Cases	244	(1)
The Jury's Verdict	245	(1)
Case Excerpt: Contributory Negligence---Cicogna v. Holder	245	(1)
Case Excerpt: Comparative Negligence---Houghton v. Bond	246	(3)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Preparing a Trial Notebook	249	(2)
Life of a Paralegal: Elizabeth Adams	251	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Paralegals Who Can Appear in Court	252	(1)
Chapter Summary	252	(1)
Web Sites	253	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Excerpt from Defendant's Answer in a Contributory Negligence Jurisdiction; Answer Excerpt in a State that Follows a Modified Comparative Negligence Model	253	(2)
Key Terms	255	(1)
Review Questions	255	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	256	(3)
Strict Liability and Products Liability	259	(34)
Introduction	259	(1)
A Products Liability Case: Tire Blowout	260	(1)
Strict Liability	260	(4)
Ultra-hazardous Activity	260	(1)
A Short History of Strict Liability	261	(1)
Background	261	(1)
Developing Strict Liability in the United States	262	(1)
Strict Liability for Animal Behavior	263	(1)
Strict Liability Has Not Been Adopted in All Jurisdictions	263	(1)
Statute of Limitations Concerns in Strict Liability Lawsuits	263	(1)
Introduction to Products Liability	264	(21)
Products Liability in the United States	264	(1)
Privity of Contract Requirement	264	(1)
The Theory Underlying the Privity Requirement	265	(1)
A New Judicial Approach	265	(1)
The MacPherson Case and a Change in Judicial Attitudes	266	(1)
Case Excerpt: MacPherson v. Buick Motor Co.	266	(2)
The Significance of the MacPherson Case	268	(1)
The Basic Elements of a Products Liability Case	268	(1)
Products Liability Cases Do Not Involve Consumer Dissatisfaction	269	(1)
Warranties	270	(1)
Warranty of Merchantability	270	(1)
Warranty for Fitness for Purpose	270	(1)
Express Warranties	271	(1)
Liability Without Fault Under Products Liability	271	(1)
The Standard of Care in Products Liability Cases	272	(1)
Manufacturer's Duty to Test and Inspect Products	273	(1)
Food	273	(1)
Compliance with Safety and/or Health Regulations	273	(1)
Products Liability Per Se?	274	(1)
Public Policy Arguments for Products Liability Cases	274	(1)
Proving a Products Liability Case	275	(1)
Design Defects	275	(1)
Manufacturing Defects	275	(1)
Defects in Marketing	275	(1)
Pleading Products Liability Cases	276	(1)
Model Uniform Products Liability Act	277	(1)
Discovery in Products Liability Cases	277	(1)
Case Excerpt: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey v. Arcadian	277	(7)
Retailers and ``Mere Conduits''	284	(1)
Inherently Dangerous Objects	285	(1)
Defenses to Products Liability Actions	285	(1)
The Tire Blowout Hypothetical	285	(8)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Maintaining the Chain of Custody for Evidence	286	(1)
Life of a Paralegal: Renae Elam	286	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Frivolous Lawsuits	287	(1)
Chapter Summary	288	(1)
Web Sites	288	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Product Liability Complaint	288	(2)
Key Terms	290	(1)
Review Questions	290	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	291	(2)
Defamation	293	(30)
Introduction	293	(1)
Defamation	294	(20)
What Is Defamation?	294	(1)
Defamation Comes in Two Forms	295	(1)
The Elements of Defamation	295	(1)
Defamatory Language	295	(1)
Definition	295	(1)
Opinions	296	(1)
False Statements	296	(1)
The Statement Refers to the Plaintiff	296	(1)
Burden of Proof	296	(1)
Is It Possible to Defame A Group?	297	(1)
Publication	297	(1)
Injury to the Plaintiff's Reputation	298	(1)
Simple Libel	298	(1)
What Is a Writing?	298	(1)
Libel Per Quod	299	(1)
Libel Per Se	299	(1)
Slander	300	(1)
Defining Slander	300	(1)
Slander Per Se	300	(1)
Special Damages	301	(1)
Is Libel More Serious than Slander?	301	(1)
Defenses to Defamation	301	(1)
The Statement Is Not Defamatory	302	(1)
The Defamed Person Is Deceased	302	(1)
Privileges	302	(1)
Absolute Privileges	303	(1)
Qualified Privileges	303	(1)
The Statement Is True	303	(1)
``Good Faith'' Statutes	304	(1)
Damages in Defamation Cases	304	(1)
Constitutional Limits on Defamation Actions	305	(1)
Analyzing a Defamation Case for Constitutional Implications	305	(1)
The New York Times Rule	306	(1)
Malice	307	(1)
Malice and Negligent Investigation	307	(1)
The Shifting Standard Depending on the Plaintiff's Notoriety	308	(1)
Defamation in Cyberspace	309	(1)
Case Excerpt: Hustler Magazine v. Falwell	309	(5)
Analyzing a Case of Defamation	314	(9)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Balancing School and Work	315	(2)
The Life of a Paralegal: Christina Truitt	317	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Conflicts of Interest	317	(1)
Chapter Summary	318	(1)
Web Sites	318	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: A Complaint Alleging Libel	319	(1)
Key Terms	320	(1)
Review Questions	320	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	321	(2)
Malpractice	323	(34)
Chumley and Malpractice	323	(1)
Introduction to Professional Malpractice	324	(1)
What Is Malpractice?	324	(4)
A Brief History of Medical Malpractice	325	(1)
Defining Medical Malpractice	326	(1)
What Is the Basis for a Medical Malpractice Case?	326	(1)
Battery	326	(1)
Contract	327	(1)
Negligence	327	(1)
The Basic Elements of a Medical Malpractice Claim	328	(8)
Duty	328	(1)
Breach	328	(1)
Defining the Standard of Care	329	(1)
Modern Approaches to Standard of Care	329	(1)
Level of Experience	329	(1)
National versus Local Standards	330	(1)
Establishing Standard of Care by Statute	330	(1)
Elements to Consider in Establishing the Standard of Care	330	(1)
Expert Testimony in Medical Malpractice Cases	331	(1)
Specialists	331	(1)
Proximate Cause in Medical Malpractice Cases	332	(1)
Damages	332	(1)
Specific Types of Injuries	333	(1)
Wrongful Birth	333	(1)
Wrongful Adoption	334	(1)
Wrongful Death	334	(1)
Punitive Damages	334	(1)
Punitive Damages and Tort Reform	334	(2)
Informed Consent	336	(2)
Statutory Requirements in Informed Consent	336	(1)
Emergencies	337	(1)
Scope of Informed Consent	337	(1)
Pleadings in Medical Malpractice Cases	338	(1)
Discovery Issues in Malpractice Cases	339	(1)
Defenses to Medical Malpractice Claims	339	(6)
Statute of Limitations	340	(1)
Contributory Negligence of the Patient	341	(1)
Case Excerpt: Norton v. Hamilton	342	(3)
The Chumley Case: Follow-Up on Medical Malpractice Issue	345	(1)
Legal Malpractice	345	(3)
The Attorney's Duty	345	(1)
Breach of Duty	345	(1)
Additional Proof of Breach Required	346	(1)
Expert Testimony	346	(1)
Proving Damages	347	(1)
Defenses in Legal Malpractice Cases	347	(1)
Other Types of Professional Malpractice	348	(9)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Reviewing and Summarizing Medical Records	348	(1)
Life of a Paralegal: John Purvis	349	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Fee Splitting or Sharing	350	(1)
Chapter Summary	351	(1)
Web Sites	351	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Medical Malpractice Complaint	352	(2)
Key Terms	354	(1)
Review Questions	354	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	355	(2)
Insurance	357	(30)
Mr. Chumley and the Insurance Company	357	(1)
Introduction	358	(1)
The Impact of Insurance on Civil Suits	358	(1)
History of Insurance	359	(1)
What is Insurance?	360	(1)
The Insurance Contract	360	(3)
The Insurance Policy	361	(1)
State Laws Regarding Insurance Policies	361	(2)
Automobile Insurance	363	(7)
Statutory Minimum Liability Coverage	363	(1)
Liability Coverage	363	(1)
Bodily Injury	364	(1)
Property Damage	364	(1)
Medical Payments (MP)	365	(1)
Uninsured Motorist Coverage	365	(1)
Underinsured Motorist Coverage	366	(1)
Important Provisions in Typical Automobile Policies	366	(1)
Duty to Defend	366	(1)
Subrogation	367	(1)
``Stacking'' of Policies	367	(1)
Introduction	367	(1)
Limit of Liability Provisions and Stacking	368	(1)
``No-Fault'' Insurance	368	(1)
Exclusions	369	(1)
Intentional Injuries	369	(1)
Other Exclusions	370	(1)
How Insurance Coverage Affects Settlement	370	(17)
Discovery Issues with Insurance	370	(1)
Specialization Among Personal Injury Attorneys	371	(1)
Plaintiffs' Firms	371	(1)
Insurance Defense Firms	372	(1)
Settlement	373	(1)
Releases	374	(1)
Case Excerpt: Grange Mut. Cas. Co. v. Rosko	375	(3)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Deciphering Insurance Policies	378	(2)
Life of a Paralegal: Leah Laidley	380	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Insurance Fraud	380	(1)
Chapter Summary	381	(1)
Web Sites	382	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: Declaratory Judgment on an Insurance Policy	382	(2)
Key Terms	384	(1)
Review Questions	385	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	385	(2)
Fraud, Misrepresentation, and Business Torts	387	(34)
The Shareholder's Suit	387	(1)
Introduction	388	(1)
Fraud	388	(4)
Proving Fraud	389	(2)
Alleging Fraud in the Complaint	391	(1)
Limitations on Fraud Actions	391	(1)
Fraud and Criminal Law	391	(1)
Negligent Misrepresentation	392	(8)
The Restatement Position on Negligent Misrepresentation	393	(1)
Elements of Negligent Misrepresentation	394	(1)
Traditional Tort Analysis for Negligent Misrepresentation	394	(1)
Duty and Breach of Duty	394	(1)
Causation	395	(1)
Damages	395	(1)
Opinions and Negligent Misrepresentation	395	(1)
Pleading Misrepresentation versus Mistake	396	(1)
Pleading Negligent Misrepresentation	397	(1)
Defenses to Negligent Misrepresentation	397	(1)
Truth	398	(1)
Opinion	398	(1)
Statement Did Not Concern a Material Fact	398	(1)
No Detrimental Reliance on the Statement	398	(1)
No Damages	398	(1)
Waiver	399	(1)
Defenses That Are Unavailable in Negligent Misrepresentation	399	(1)
No Knowledge	399	(1)
Lack of Privity	399	(1)
Good Faith	400	(1)
Interference with Contract	400	(2)
Introduction	400	(1)
Elements of Interference with Contract	400	(2)
Deceptive Trade Practices	402	(1)
Deceptive Trade Practices Act	402	(1)
Public and Private Enforcement Under DTPA	403	(1)
Consumer Protection Laws	403	(1)
Sexual Harassment	404	(1)
Sexual Harassment in the Workplace	404	(1)
What is Sexual Harassment?	404	(1)
Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment	404	(1)
Hostile Environment Sexual Harassment	404	(1)
Dram Shop Liability	405	(1)
Worker's Compensation	405	(5)
The Basic Premise of Worker's Compensation	405	(1)
Bringing a Claim under Worker's Compensation	406	(1)
The Issues in Worker's Compensation	406	(1)
Assigning Monetary Values to Injuries	406	(1)
Case Excerpt: Federal Land Bank Ass'n of Tyler v. Sloane	407	(3)
Follow-Up on the Shareholder's Suit	410	(11)
Skills You Need in the Real World: Helping to Try a Case	411	(2)
Life of a Paralegal: Jane Huffman	413	(1)
Ethical Issues for the Paralegal: Coaching Witnesses	414	(1)
Chapter Summary	414	(1)
Web Sites	415	(1)
Forms and Court Documents: A Complaint Alleging Misrepresentation	415	(3)
Key Terms	418	(1)
Review Questions	418	(1)
Applying What You Have Learned	419	(2)
Appendix A: Client Material/Documents	421	(4)
Appendix B: Correspondence	425	(2)
Appendix C: Pleading	427	(8)
Appendix D: Discovery	435	(9)
Appendix E: Medical	444	(3)
Glossary	447	(4)
Index	451