Question: Are there people in our society that are not required to testify as to communications with another person? Answer: Yes, but they are limited and may be waived by certain conduct. Under India...
Are photos of injuries always admissible in civil cases?
Question: Are photos of injuries always admissible in civil cases?Answer: Usually yes, but a trial court judge may rule that a photo is inadmissible when it is found to be irrelevant, immaterial and/o...
What is the statute of limitation for a childhood sexual abuse case?
Question: What is the statute of limitation for a childhood sexual abuse case? Answer: There are three (3) different statutes of limitations. Under Indiana’s discovery rule, a cause of action ac...
How does breaking news affect the “Bystander Rule”?
Question: How does breaking news affect the “Bystander Rule”? Answer: The “Bystander Rule” allows recovery for negligent infliction of emotional distress if a claimant can esta...
Can you overturn a default judgment?
Question: Can you overturn a default judgment? Answer: Yes, when there is a showing of excusable neglect and a meritorious defense. When a law suit is filed and a defendant fails to timely answered th...
Jury deliberations relating to the removal of a juror
Question: Can a party invite error during jury deliberations relating to the removal of a juror and then appeal after the verdict does not go their way? Answer: No. At trial, a defendant argued that t...
What does an “Act of God” mean in civil cases?
Question: What does an “Act of God” mean in civil cases? Answer: Acts of God may negate liability. An act of God is the manifestation of a superhuman power which breaks the chain of causat...
Can a suspended attorney’s staff continued to carry on the business of law?
Question: Can a suspended attorney’s staff continued to carry on the business of law? Answer: No. To practice law is to carry on the business of an attorney at law. The practice of law is not de...
What exposure is there for carrying out an “inherently dangerous activity”
Question: What exposure is there for carrying out an “inherently dangerous activity”? Answer: Strict liability for damages caused. See below. This doctrine, provides: (1) One who carries o...
Can an insurance company require an insured to go through arbitration?
Question: Can an insurance company require an insured to go through arbitration instead of having their case filed in a trial court and heard by a jury? Answer: Yes, if policy allows for arbitration. ...