New! H2O now has access to new and up-to-date cases via CourtListener and the Caselaw Access Project. Click here for more info.

Main Content

Zittrain Torts Playlist Spring 2013

Murrell v. Goertz

Defendant was collecting monthly payments for newspaper subscriptions. Plaintiff, a subscriber, questioned defendant about damage to her screen door due to newspapers being thrown at it. An argument ensued, in which plaintiff slapped the defendant, who then struck back. This case discusses the circumstances which render the determination of independent contract status a question of law, and not a question of fact.