Brief Fact Summary. Snyder, a nurse, (Plaintiff) brought an action against Turk, a doctor, (Defendant) for intentional infliction of emotional distress, civil battery, and slander. The trial court (Ohio) dismissed her complaint with prejudice and granted a directed verdict. The Plaintiff sought review.
Synopsis of Rule of Law. An actor is subject to liability to another for battery if (a) he acts intending to cause a harmful or offensive contact with the person of the other or a third person, or an imminent apprehension of such a contact, and (b) an offensive contact with the person of the other directly or indirectly results.
Issue. Could a reasonable jury conclude that there was intent to commit a battery?
Held. Yes. Since a reasonable mind could infer intent on the Defendant’s part, the issue was one of fact for a jury. The lower court thus erred in its directed verdict. The court reversed and remanded the lower court’s order.
Concurrence. The concurrence merely summarizes the majority’s reasoning, stating: “I believe the evidence in the record was sufficient for a reasonable juror to conclude that the Defendant had committed a battery when he allegedly grabbed the Plaintiff and brought her down to within twelve inches of the surgical wound.”
Battery is defined as an intentional, unconsented-to contact with another.
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