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Petsas & Stephens
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The Collateral Source Rule

The "collateral source rule" is a legal rule that prevents a defendant from introducing evidence that a plaintiff has received payment from a third party. For example, a plaintiff is injured in an automobile accident with a defendant.

The Jones Act -- Negligence Claims

An injured seaman may sue his employer for damages under the Jones Act if the employer's negligence contributed to the seaman's injury. Under the Jones Act, the seaman is only required to prove that the employer's negligence was a cause, however slight, of the seaman's injury.

Transferred Intent

In order to prove an intentional tort, such as assault or battery, a plaintiff must show that a defendant intended to commit the tort. Under the doctrine of transferred intent, a defendant's intent to commit a tort against one person may be transferred to another person.

Federal Volunteer Protection Act -- Overview

The Volunteer Protection Act (VPA) is a federal law that was designed to promote volunteerism by granting civil immunity to volunteers under certain circumstances. The VPA was signed into law by President Clinton in 1997.

Automobile Racing

Automobile racing is an inherently dangerous sport due to the high speeds. Crashes on the track can mean serious injuries or even fatalities to participants as well as spectators, which could lead to negligence actions against the racing facility's owner.

San Mateo

Reserved for those who have obtained verdicts or settlements of a million dollars or more.