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Montgomery, J.
This is an action of ejectment. The plaintiffs claim title as heirs at law of Chloe Dryer, deceased, who was during her lifetime the wife of George W. Dryer. Chloe Dryer died without issue February 25, 1871, leaving, as heirs at law, Ellen R. Andrews and Mary J. Mallory, daughters of a deceased sister, and Maria S. Pattison, a sister. The plaintiffs Albert S. Pattison, Ruth D. Smith, Ada M. Gunnison, and Helen M. Gibson are descendants of Mrs. Pattison, who died intestate in October, 1877. The defendant George W. Dryer, and his wife, Chloe, first took possession of the land in question in 1842 -or 1843, under a deed conveying title to one of the parcels to Mrs. Chloe Dryer. Another parcel, of which plaintiffs here seek to recover an undivided aliquot part, was held by conveyances vesting an estate in Chloe Dryer and George W. Dryer, as tenants in common. This was before the passage of the married woman’s act, in 1844. After the death of defendant’s wife, Chloe, the defendant George W. Dryer continued in possession of the land, and occupied it, as he claims, to the exclusion of the heirs of Chloe Dryer, for more than 15 years prior to the commencement of this suit.
The principal question in the case is whether the statute of limitations has run in favor of the defendant, or whether, on the other hand, he stands in such a relation to the property as forbids his interposing that defense, or raises a presumption that he occupied under the lawful ownership. The statute (How. Stat. § 8700) provides, with reference to when the right to bring an action to recover lands shall be deemed to have first accrued, that—
“When he [plaintiff] claims as heir or devisee of one who died seis'ed, his right shall be deemed to have accrued at the time of such death, unless there is a tenancy by curtesy or other estate intervening after the death of such ancestor or devisor, in which case his right shall be deemed to accrue when such intermediate estate shall expire, or when it would have expired by its own limitation.”
The plaintiffs’ contention is that, the property in question having vested in Chloe Dryer prior to the married woman’s act, defendant became vested with an estate in the land known as “tenancy by the marital right,” and that having lawfully come into possession by virtue of this right, and having held over after the termination of his estate, he became a tenant at sufferance. On the part of defendant, it is contended that his holding over has not been, at any time since the death of Chloe Dryer, subservient to the title of her heirs.
As a general rule, when a tenant comes rightfully into possession of land by permission of the owner, and continues to occupy the same after the time for which, by such permission, he had the right to hold the same, he is said to. be a tenant at sufferance. He holds without right, yet is not a trespasser. See 1 Washb. Real Prop. p. 392, and. Kunzie v. Wixom, 39 Mich. 387. This is conceded by defendant to be a correct statement of the rule, as applied to tenancies or estates created by contract between the parties; but it is said that “a distinction exists between such cases and those like the present, where the estáte is cast upon one by operation of law.” In Kent’s Commentaries (volume 4, p. 117), the learned author gives sanction to this distinction, as follows:
“There is a material distinction between the cases of a person coming to an estate by act of' the party, and after-wards holding over, and by act of the law, and then holding over. In the first case he is regarded as a tenant at sufferance, and in the other as an intruder, abator, or trespasser.”
So, in Washburn on Real Property (volume 1, p. 393), it is said:
“But, in order to have a tenancy grow into one by sufferance, it must originally have been created by agreement of the parties; for where one was in, like a guardian, by act of the law, and held after his ward arrived at age, he was a tort feasor, intruder, abator, or trespasser, and not a tenant at sufferance.”
In Angelí on Limitations (section 443), it is said:
“ If the lessee for life or years makes a feoffment, the lessor may still distrain for the rent, or charge the person to whom it is paid as a receiver, or bring an ejectment, and choose whether he will consider himself as disseised. This rule is to be applied, however, only to the conven tional relation of landlord and tenant, where rent is reserved, or a return required, and not to a relation arising from mere operation of law, as where one makes a grant, and by the omission of the technical word ‘heirs’ an estate for life, only, passes. In such a case, after -the death of tenant for life, it is held that an adverse possession may commence;” citing Jackson v. Harsen, 7 Cow. 323, which fully sustains the text.
In Doe v. Gregory, 2 Adol. & E. 14, Vale and his wife entered into possession of lands by the right of the wife, Vale being a tenant in the marital right. The wife died. Vale continued in possession for 20 years. Ejectment was brought. The court say:
“It was argued that the defendant here was also to be considered as having entered rightfully, and committed no disseisin. We are, however, of opinion that, though this may be so for the purpose of avoiding a fine, it cannot prevent the defendant’s possession from being wrongful from the very hour when his interest expired by his wife’s death. It is clear that he might have been immediately turned out by ejectment. We think, therefore, that his' continuing the same possession for 20 years entitles him to the protection of the statute of limitations, and that this action has been brought too. late.”
It will be observed that the distinction between a tenant by operation of law holding over and one holding over who is in by contract is not made. It may, nevertheless, have been considered. In 2 Smith, Lead. Cas. (8th ed.) 664, comparison is made of this decision with other holdings of. the English courts, and it is said:
“ It is not, however, necessary to impugn the decision in Doe v. Gregory, since Lord Coke’s Commentary proceeds, ubi supra [1 Co. Lit. 575]: ‘There is a diversity between particular estates created by the tenant, and particular-estates created by act in law; as, if a guardian, after the full age of heiré, continueth in possession, he is no tenant at sufferance, but an. abator, against whom an assize of mort d’ancestor doth lye, et sic de similibus.’ And Lord Hale adds: ‘If guardian, in such case, die seised, the entry of the heir tolls.’ So that, on this distinction, it may be- argued that the wife’s estate, in Doe v. Gregory, having been cast upon the husband, Yale, by act of law, his continuance in possession was not as tenant at sufferance, but as an intruder against the remainder-man, in which case he wou'ld have acquired a tortious freehold, and Stat. 21 Jac. I, would clearly run.”
In Livingston v. Tanner, 14 N. Y. 64, 69, it was said:
“In respect to the two other cases mentioned in the section, — that of a guardian or trustee holding for an infant, and a husband seised in right of his wife only, — neither of these persons, holding over after the determination of their respective estates, became tenants at sufferance, at common law. They were mere intruders, abators, and trespassers. At common law, there was a material distinction between the cases of a person coming to an estate by act of the party, and afterwards holding over, and by act of the law, and then holding over. In the first case, which included an estate determinable upon any life or lives, he was regarded as a tenant at .sufferance. In the other, to which belong guardians or trustees holding for infants, and husbands seised in right of their wives only, they were trespassers, and the relation of landlord and tenant never, in any sense, existed.”
In Brown v. Smith, 83 Ill. 291, it was held that upon the dissolution of the marriage relation the wife does not become a tenant at sufferance, as to property occupied by her during a continuance of the relation. It is said:
“ As the wife of appellant, she had undoubtedly a right to use all the apartments in the house, in virtue, alone, of ■marriage relation. When that ceased by the decree of the .court, her rights to any and all portions of the house 'Ceased. * * * She was not a tenant on sufferance, but an intruder, from and after April 16, 1872, the day the divorce was granted.”
While we have been cited to numerous cases and textbooks in which the definition of a “tenant at sufferance” is broad enough to include any person who, being lawfully put in possession of property, holds over after the termination of the estate, we have had our attention called to no case in which the distinction which apparently existed at the common law, and which has been recognized in the numerous cases cited herein, has been considered and repudiated, except the case of Jackson v. Cairns, 20 Johns. 301, the doctrine of which is in conflict with Jackson v. Harsen, 7 Cow. 323, above cited, and is opposed to the language of the court in Livingston v. Tanner, supra. The case of Graydon v. Hurd, 5 C. C. A. 258 (55 Fed. Rep. 724), to which attention was directed on the argument, was a case in which the relations between the parties depended upon contract: The case is not, therefore, in conflict with the views herein expressed.
The foregoing discussion is not intended to apply to that portion of the lands as to which ' defendant was a tenant in common with the plaintiffs. It is argued that the plaintiffs were not alike interested in this portion of the land, and that a joint judgment in their favor was erroneous for this reason. This question does not appear to have been raised in -the court below; and, as the case must go back for a retrial on other grounds, we do not consider it necessary to discuss it. We think there are no other points requiring discussion.
The judgment will be reversed, with costs, and a new trial ordered.
McGrath, O. J., Long and Grant, JJ.,' concurred. Hooker, J., did not sit. | [
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Long, J.
This is an action to recover moneys paid by the plaintiff company under protest, for taxes claimed to have been illegally assessed. On a trial before the court without a jury, the court found that the principal office of the plaintiff is in the city of Monroe; that it is the owner of. certain real estate in the defendant township, upon which are situate its pumping works and equipment; that the township adjoins Lake Erie, and the object and purpose of the plaintiff is to draw water from Lake Erie, and supply the city and citizens of Monroe; that the plaintiff had no personal property in that township; that for the year 1891 the plaintiff was assessed in said township for real estate the sum of $10,000, and for personal property the sum of $30,000; that upon the 28th day of January, 1892, the treasurer levied upon the property of the plaintiff in said township, for the collection of taxes upon the real estate, $70.70, and, upon its personal property, $212.10; and that the taxes were paid by plaintiff under written protest. From these facts the court found as matter of law:
1. That the plaintiff had no personal property in the township subject to taxation.
2. That the assessment of $30,000, personal property, to the plaintiff, was wholly unauthorized and illegal; and that, the plaintiff having paid under protest, it was entitled to recover judgment for the amount.
Judgment was entered for the plaintiff for a portion of these taxes so paid under protest. Exceptions were taken to these findings, as follows:
1. Because the findings of fact are not sustained by the evidence.
2. Because the court, in his findings of fact, does not pass upon all the issues of fact presented in the cause.
3. Because such conclusions of fact are not justified by the evidence; therefore the conclusions of law are erroneous.
We think there is evidence to support the findings. 3 How. Stat. § 1170«1, provides that,—
“For the purpose of taxation, real property shall include all lands within the State, and all" buildings and fixtures thereon and appurtenances thereto, except' in cases otherwise expressly provided by law; personal property shall include all goods and chattels within the State,” etc.
The supervisor of the township gave testimony upon the trial tending to show 'that the personal property assessed at $30,000 was’made up of pipes, connected with the pumps at the pumping station, and extending from there underground, in either direction, to the lake and to the city. Defendant contends that these pipes were personalty, for the reason that they were laid in the lands of others; but the testimony does not show, or tend to show, that these pipes were not laid upon plaintiff’s own lands. It is shown that the property consisted of one acre of land and pump ing machinery, and these pipes are attached to the pumps, and appear to be appurtenant thereto.
Section 1170«3 provides:
“All corporate property, except where some other provision is made by law, shall be assessed to the corporation as to a natural person in the name of the corporation. The place where its principal office in this State is situated shall be deemed its residence.”
Section 1170a9 provides:
“All personal property, except as hereinafter provided, shall be assessed to the owner in the township of which he is an inhabitant on the second Monday of April of the year for which the assessment is made.”
The claim made by the defendant that these pipes could come within the excepted cases arises unc^er the first subdivision of section 11705, which provides that—
“All goods and chattels situate in some township other than where the owner resides shall be assessed in the town where situate, and not elsewhere, if the owner or person having control thereof hires or occupies a store * * * for use in connection with such goods and chattels.”
We think that it cannot be said that, even if these pipes are to be regarded as personalty, they would be assessable as such to the owner outside of his place of residence. y7e do not place the decision of this case, however, upon the ground. that these pipes can in any sense be said to be personalty, but are satisfied that the ground, building, and machinery, together with these pipes, which are necessary appurtenances to the building-under the showing made, are a part of the realty. It is admitted by defendant that this might be true if the pipes were laid wholly upon plaintiff’s land; but, as we have said, there is no showing that they were laid anywhere else than upon the land of the plaintiff, and lands which the plaintiff has a right to own and control under the statute authorizing its incorporation, and under -which -water companies are empowered to take lands by purchase or by condemnation. How. Stat. §§ 3115, 3117.
It is claimed that, even if these pipes be regarded as realty, yet, the rate of taxation being the same as upon personalty, the plaintiff cannot recover, as the ground of recovery in such cases is the assumption that the municipality has moneys in its custody which equitably belong to the party making the claim, and here, equitably, the plaintiff should pay the tax. It is true that the recovery in such cases is based upon this equitable doctrine. Minor Lumber Co. v. City of Alpena, 97 Mich. 500. But the statute provides that real estate shall be assessed to the owner, if known. The same provision is found as to personal property. It appears from the testimony of the supervisor that he did not assess these pipes. He assessed the real estate to the plaintiff at $8,000, which was raised to $10,000 by the board of review. On the first day of the meeting of the board of review, they added to the roll the value of the pipes, as personalty, at the sum of $30,000. They -had no authority under the statute, as we have seen, to assess the plaintiff’s personal property in that township. The plaintiff, in examining the roll, may have been satisfied with the assessment of the realty, or with the amount fixed by the board of review; but it could not have expected to find itself assessed with a personal tax outside of the city where its principal office was situated, and may have been misled by an examination of the roll. It cannot be said that the plaintiff must be presumed to know that it was assessed for personalty in that township, and might have had it changed by the board of review if it had appeared there. There is no evidence that the plaintiff had-actual notice that it was assessed for personal property; and it must be presumed that it was satisfied with its assessment upon realty, as it did not appear before the board. We are satisfied that, under the circumstances, it cannot be said that no injustice would be done the plaintiff to compel it to pay the tax, upon the basis that the rate of taxation is no greater than if assessed as realty.
It does not appear by the record that, after these findings of fact were filed, counsel for defendant presented any further findings, or asked for more specific findings. If counsel had desired the court to pass upon other questions, such" questions should have been presented in the form of findings, and the court asked so to find, and, upon refusal, an exception could have been properly considered in this Court, under Circuit Court Kule No. 88. It is settled that in the absence of a request for a more specific finding, and an exception based thereon, an objection that the finding is not sufficiently specific will not prevail-if the facts found are consistent with the judgment, and sufficient to support it. Seeley v. Albrecht, 41 Mich. 525.
We have not set forth all of the facts found by the trial court, as we do not deem them necessary to a decision of the points in controversy. It is contended, however, upon' another question by defendant’s counsel, that the court was in error in finding that plaintiff was a corporation both de facto and de jure, and competent to maintain this suit. The plaintiff’s proofs showed that parties had dealt with it as such. The defendant introduced upon the trial the articles of association, and it is contended here that these articles showed a defective organization of the plaintiff company. We think defendant is not in a position to contest that question in the present proceeding. The tax was assessed against plaintiff as a corporation; the moneys paid were by the corporation; and the defendant cannot now be heard to say that it was not legally incorporated.
Upon the evidence of the whole record, we are unable to discover any error in the proceeding, and the judgment must be affirmed.
The other Justices concurred. | [
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Long, J.
The relator is located at Detroit, and shows that the Central Michigan Savings Bank of Lansing is indebted to it in the sum of $2,000 and upwards, upon a promissory note which it rediscounted with and indorsed to relator. After such rediscount of said note, the Central Michigan Savings Bank became insolvent, and such proceedings were thereafter had in the circuit court for Ingham county in chancery that a receiver was appointed for it, under the provisions of Act No. 205, Laws of 1887. Subsequently, the relator presented its claim under said note by affidavit to the receiver, who refused to allow said claim, on the ground that it had not been proved to his satisfaction, and that therefore the relator was not entitled to share in the distribution of the funds of said insolvent bank. On September 1, 1893, relator presented its petition to the circuit court for Ingham county in chancery, praying that an issue might be framed for the trial of the liability of said insolvent bank to the relator on said note, to be entered upon the law side of said court, in which the ■ relator might • ■ appear as • plaintiff and the Central Michigan Savings Bank as defendant. The prayer of the relator was refused on the ground that under the general banking law of 1887 the court had no jurisdiction in the matter, but that the remedy of the relator was by suit in the usual form against the insolvent bank. Mandamus is asked to compel that court to order said issue to be framed, and proceed to the trial of the cause, as prayed.
The sections of the State banking law involved here (sections 55, 57) are closely patterned after the national banking act (Rev. Stat. U. S. 1873, §§ 5234, 5236).' It is true that under the national banking act the United States courts have held that the claimant, in case of contest, may bring suit in any court of competent jurisdiction. Bank of Bethel v. Pahquioque Bank, 14 Wall. 383; Kennedy v. Gibson, 8 Id. 498. There is, however, an important distinction between the national banking act and the State act' under consideration here. Under the national banking act the appointment of a receiver is by the Comptroller of the Currency, so that at the outset no court, has acquired jurisdiction. Under the State act the receiver is appointed by the court upon the petition of the Commissioner of Banking.
Section 55 of the act provides that the receiver shall take possession of the books, records, and assets of every description of such bank, collect all debts, dues, .and claims belonging to it, and sell or compound all bad or doubtful debts, and sell all tbe real and personal property of such bank, on such terms as the court shall direct, and may, if necessary to pay the debts of- such bank, enforce all individual liability of the stockholders. “Such receiver .shall pay over all money so collected or received to the State Treasurer, and also make report to the commissioner of •all his acts and proceedings.” By section 56 it is made the duty of the commissioner, upon the appointment of dhe receiver, to cause notice to be given by advertisement do all persons who may have claims against such bank, to present the same to such receiver and make legal proof thereof. Section 57 provides:
“From time to time, under the direction of'the Commissioner of the Banking Department, the receiver shall make ratable dividends of the moneys realized or collected by him on all such claims as may have been proved to hi's satisfaction or adjudicated in a court of competent .jurisdiction, and the remainder of the proceeds, if any, after the costs and expenses of such proceedings and all -debts and obligations of the bank are satisfied, shall be paid over to the stockholders of such bank or their legal representatives, in proportion to the stock by them respectively held.”
It is contended that, inasmuch as the act itself does not expressly confer power upon the court appointing the receiver to take cognizance of the claims presented for •allowance against the insolvent bank, therefore no such power can be exercised by that court,
Section 55 of the act, in express terms, places the receiver under the direction of the court in the taking possession ■of the property and assets of, the bank, the collection of ■claims, compounding of debts, sales of property, and the ■enforcement of the individual liability of stockholders. It is true that the statute fixes the depository of the fund, not with the register of the court, but with the State Treasurer, and the distribution is under the' direction of the commissioner; but the receiver is nevertheless an officer of the court, as much as a receiver appointed' in, the ordinary way under a bill in chancery. The Commissioner of Banking does not appoint the receiver. It is done by the court upon the petition of the commissioner, approved by the Attorney General; and when the funds are paid into the hands of the receiver, and deposited with the State Treasurer, the receiver, and not the commissioner, makes the ratable dividends. The receiver represents the insolvent bank. , Under the statute, all claims against it are to be presented to him for allowance, and, if he does not allow them, the claimant may invoke the aid of the court.
' It is apparent that the court appointing tile receiver has jurisdiction over him and the fund, and may permit any claimant to present his claim in that proceeding, and make his proofs and establish it therein. There can be found in this statute no prohibition upon the court thus having jurisdiction from proceeding under its general powers to hear and determine the questions arising upon such claims. The claims, under the statute, are not to be presented to the insolvent bank, but to the receiver; and, in any action brought to prove such claim against the insolvent bank, the receiver, and not the bank, is necessarily the party interested in contesting it, and to insist upon its being ■pi'o.perly established by competent evidence. In doing this he is acting as an officer of the court, and under its direction. The court, by the appointment of the receiver, has taken into its own hands the subject-matter of the litigation over such claims as may be presented, and holds it pending the proceedings, and until the final disposition of all questions, legal or equitable, involved in the action. It would lend to most unseemly struggles if parties having claims against insolvent banks cohld apply to any other tribunal for such allowance, and thus compel the receiver; who must in all such cases be made the party defendant, to appear in other jurisdictions to defend against the' action. To permit the receiver to be sued in any other court upon such claims would not be compatible with the dignity and authority of the court appointing him, and would lead to great inconvenience and cost to the estate which the receiver represents. The proper and orderly manner for the allowance of such claims is by petition to the court appointing- the receiver, and in the same action. The practice is for persons having claims against property in the hands of a receiver to intervene in the suit by petition, and have their rights adjudicated. Beach, Bee. § 654. The court should grant leave to the. petitioner so to intervene and prove his claim, unless it clearly appears that the demand has no legal foundation. The insolvent bank is not 'the party to be impleaded. The receiver is the only proper party. He has the assets of the bank under his control, and is bound to protect the fund for those who are legally entitled to distributive shares. No suit could be brought by or against the receiver without leave of the court appointing him; but that court should in all cases permit the party having a claim to intervene in the proceeding, and make proof of it, when he shows a probable cause of action, and in appropriate cases the trial should be upon the law side.
From what has been said in this proceeding, it is very probable the learned circuit judge will permit the relator to intervene, and the writ of mandamus will not be necessary to compel action.
The other Justices concurred. | [
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North, J.
Mary Ann Dmytro, appellee herein, was convicted in justice court of violating an ordinance of the city of Dearborn. She appealed to the circuit court of Wayne county wherein her conviction was vacated on the ground that the ordinance was unconstitutional. The prosecution has appealed.
The ordinance was enacted for the purpose of prohibiting what is commonly known as “curb service.” The pertinent parts read: ■
‘ ‘ Seo. 1. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to use the public streets in the city of Dearborn for the purpose of furnishing curb service as herein defined.
“Seo. 2. ‘Curb service’ is defined as the use of the public streets by a person, firm or corporation engaged in business in any store, temporary or permanent stand or box, building, structure or the like, for the sale or solicitation of sales of goods, wares or merchandise.”
The validity of this ordinance is challenged on the ground that it is unreasonable, discriminatory, arbitrary and capricious; and that it is not justified as being a reasonable exercise of the police power of the city of Dearborn. The defendant owns and operates a small stand located on private property adjacent to one of the main thoroughfares in the city of Dear-born. Her business is that of selling tobacco, cigarettes, gloves, hats, candy and other like merchandise. There are several small business places of similar character along this same street. Customers and patrons drive up to the curb in front of defendant’s place of business, whereupon she walks over to the car, secures the order for the merchandise desired, goes to her stand, procures the merchandise, returns to the curb, makes delivery of the article or articles sold and receives payment therefor. It is the claim of the city that such use of its streets by the defendant and others is an extraordinary and unreasonable use; and that the city under its constitutional power to the reasonable control of its streets (Const. 1908, art. 8, § 28) may prohibit such use whenever it appears to be reasonably necessary in the regulation of traffic and in preventing undue congestion thereof. Appellee does not question the right of the village to exercise reasonable control of its streets but she urgently contends that this particular ordinance is unreasonable, discriminatory, arbitrary and capricious.
In passing upon the validity of an ordinance of this character it is of prime importance to determine first whether the ordinance is aimed at regulating a use of the street as a place or instrumentality for business for private gain, or a use of the street by a member of the public in the usual way for business or pleasure. We think it is too clear for argument that in the instant case the defendant is seeking to use the street as a place for promoting and conducting her private business. She does not seek to use the street in the usual and ordinary manner for which public thoroughfares are established and maintained. It has long been settled law that the municipality’s power to regulate the use of its thoroughfares for ordinary and usual purposes should be sparingly exercised; but when it comes to the use of streets as a definite means or instrumentality for carrying on a private business, such right may be given or withheld.
“The distinction between the use by the public in the usual way for pleasure or business and as a place or instrumentality for business for private gain is fundamental. While as to the former the power to regulate must be sparingly exercised and only when necessary in the public interest, as to the latter the right to use may be given or withheld.” Melconian v. City of Grand Rapids, 218 Mich. 397, 404.
Decision of invalidity of the ordinance in the circuit court was based largely on the ground that the ordinance as drafted was unreasonable. In this particular it was noted that the ordinance applies not only to streets on which there is congested traffic, but also to the more sparsely settled portions of the city where people reside who are engaged in agricultural pursuits. A reasonably careful reading of the ordinance discloses that it is not applicable to residences in such localities or in ordinary residential districts. By its terms the operation of the ordinance is confined to streets whereon persons or corporations are ‘ ‘ engaged in business ” in a store, stand or building, in the sale or soliciting of sales of goods, wares or merchandise. The record in this case discloses that at the time and place the alleged violation of the ordinance occurred traffic was “very congested.” When the ordinance is confined, as it is by its express terms, to soliciting and carrying on of business in the street by the keeper of a store or shop, it clearly applies to conducting’ a private business in the street and cannot be said to be unreasonable, discriminatory, arbitrary or capricious. In arriving at the above conclusion we are mindful of appellee’s contention that this ordinance is discriminatory because under another ordinance hawkers and peddlers are licensed to operate and when so doing make use of the city streets. But it is provided in the hawkers and peddlers’ ordinance :
“No licensee shall stop or remain in any one place upon the streets, alleys or public places of the city longer than necessary to make a sale to a customer wishing to buy. ’ ’
Obviously the quoted provision is designed to prevent hawkers and peddlers from creating congestion in the streets and in its purpose is not unlike the ordinance provision of which the appellee herein complains. There is no objectionable discrimination in this particular.
If the municipality has the power to enact the ordinance, the wisdom of such action is not subject to review in the courts. Red Star Motor Drivers’ Ass’n v. City of Detroit, 234 Mich. 398, 419. Nor is it for the courts to say that because substantially the same result might be accomplished by the enactment of a different type of ordinance, a parking ordinance for example, that therefore the present ordinance is invalid. As noted above, by constitutional provision the city is vested with the power to control reasonably the use of its streets; and as pointed out in the Melconia/n Case, supra, and other cases therein cited, the city’s power to regulate the use of streets for private gain is liberally construed. The instant ordinance is valid. It has to do with the regulation of traffic conditions in thé city streets and as such comes within the powers vested in the city by the Constitution.
Notwithstanding the circuit judge saw fit to take testimony in this case, he disposed of it by granting defendant’s motion to dismiss the complaint and warrant. In so doing the trial court was in error. The judgment entered in the circuit court is reversed and the case remanded for further proceedings therein. A public question is involved and no costs are awarded.
Fead, C. J., and Wiest, Butzel, Biishnell, Sharpe, Potter, and Chandler, JJ., concurred. | [
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Bushnell, J.
This is an appeal from an order of the department of labor and industry, filed June 8, 1936, which found that plaintiff, Doris Pincombe (Westfall), was not the wife of Kenneth Westfall, deceased, and therefore was not a dependent within the meaning of 2 Comp. Laws 1929, § 8422; and an appeal from an order denying a petition to join as party plaintiff Ramona Elizabeth Westfall, an alleged posthumous child of Kenneth Westfall and Doris Pincombe.
The department found that Kenneth Westfall was killed in the course of his employment with defendant, J. P. Burroughs & Son, on December 26, 1934. Doris Pincombe, a minor, by her guardian, filed a notice and application for adjustment of claims as serting- that she was the wife of the deceased. Testimony at the hearing disclosed that there had been no ceremonial marriage and that plaintiff’s right to compensation, if any, was based upon an alleged common-law marriage. The deputy commissioner found that plaintiff “was not living with deceased at the time of said accidental injury, therefore is not entitled to receive compensation.” On appeal to the department the award was affirmed for the reason that plaintiff was not the wife of deceased and not a dependent within the meaning of 2 Comp. Laws 1929, § 8422. In denying the petition to join Ramona as a party plaintiff, the department held that she was not a dependent under 2 Comp. Laws 1929, §§ 8422, 8423, because she was born after the accident and after the institution of these proceedings.
Doris admitted that she and the deceased never actually lived together as man and wife, and gave as a reason that his limited earnings did not permit them to do so at that time.
The following language from Brown v. Long Manufacturing Co., 213 Mich. 221, 230, applies to the present situation:
“Whether a common-law marriage exists nearly always presents a question of fact. We think this is true in the instant case. It has already appeared the industrial accident board found against the existence of the relation. We have repeatedly held that the findings of fact made by the industrial accident board * acting* within its powers shall, in the absence of fraud, be conclusive.” (See also authorities therein cited on page 231).
The opinion in the Brown Case contains a number of authorities in this State on common-law marriages and includes language from Meehan v. Edward Valve & Manfg. Co., 65 Ind. App. 342 (117 N. E. 265) in which that court said:
“To raise the presumption of marriage by such means, the evidence must be clear and convincing.”
This court has not deviated from the implications of Hutchins v. Kimmell, 31 Mich. 126 (18 Am. Rep. 164), where Mr. Justice Cooley said:
“Whatever the form of ceremony, or even if all ceremony was dispensed with, if the parties agreed presently to take each other for husband and wife, and from that time lived together professedly in that relation, proof of these facts would be sufficient to constitute proof of a marriage binding upon the parties, and which would subject them and others to legal penalties for disregard of its obligations.”
We have consistently held that where parties who were competent to enter into the marriage contract presently agreed to take each other as husband and wife, and subsequently cohabited as such, the marriage was valid. It is more or less academic to discuss whether cohabitation is a necessary element of a common-law marriage in Michigan or whether it is one of the necessary proofs of the relationship, because regardless- of what theoretically or technically, constitutes a common-law marriage this court has repeatedly indicated that it will not find a valid nonceremonial marriage except upon proof of subsequent cohabitation. We said in People v. Spencer, 199 Mich. 395:
“In this State a marriage is not proven by evidence only that the parties, inter se, agreed to take each other for husband and wife. To establish a noneeremonial marriage, there must be proof, not only of the agreement, but of .the setting up of the relation of husband and wife by cohabitation. The parties must act in conformity with such an agreement and live together and cohabit as husband and wife — live together in that relation. Hutchins v. Kimmell, 31 Mich. 126, 130 (18 Am. Rep. 164); People v. McQuaid, 85 Mich. 123, 127; Peet v. Peet, 52 Mich. 464, 467; Lorimer v. Lorimer, 124 Mich. 631; Judson v. Judson, 147 Mich. 518.”
See, also, Barker v. Valentine, 125 Mich. 336 (51 L. R. A. 787, 84 Am. St. Rep. 578); Supreme Tent of the Knights of the Maccabees of the World v. McAllister, 132 Mich. 69 (102 Am. St. Rep. 382); People v. Goodrode, 132 Mich. 542; In re Fitzgibbons’ Estate, 162 Mich. 416 (139 Am. St. Rep. 570); Severance v. Severance, 197 Mich. 327.
The department applied the proper rules of law and was not satisfied after-“a careful analysis of the testimony in this case consisting of over 150 pages” that Doris Pincombe was the wife of the deceased. Its finding of fact, in the absence of fraud, is' conclusive. Brown v. Long Manufacturing Co., supra.
Although the department did not find that the mother of Ramona was the wife of the deceased nor a dependent, it is possible that Ramona may have been a dependent; for this reason, the department was in error, as a matter of law, in not permitting Ramona to be made a party plaintiff, and in failing to grant her petition to take additional testimony on the question of her dependency. The issue of Ramona’s dependency is also one of fact, and an illegitimate child may or may not be a dependent within the meaning of the compensation act. We have held that illegitimate children actually cared for and supported by the deceased up to the time of his death were clearly within the class entitled to compensation. Roberts v. Whaley, 192 Mich. 133 (L. R. A. 1918 A, 189). The fact that Ramona was a posthumous illegitimate child is not sufficient for denial of her day in court.
“As to the child Margaret, born after the death of decedent, it has been repeatedly held that posthumous children are entitled to compensation due as the result of the death of a parent. By the terms of 3 Comp. Laws 1915, § 11807 (3 Comp. Laws 1929, § 13452), it is provided that posthumous children are considered as living* at the death of their parents. Supreme Council of the Catholic Mutual Benefit Ass’n v. Firnane, 50 Mich. 82; Chambers v. Shaw, 52 Mich. 18; Knorr v. Millard, 57 Mich. 265, 268; McLain v. Howald, 120 Mich. 274 (77 Am. St. Rep. 597).
“A child en ventre sa mere is totally dependent upon its parents for nourishment.” King v. Peninsular Portland Cement Co., 216 Mich. 335.
On the record before us, it may be argued that there is no showing of dependency. The petition to join Ramona as a party plaintiff was followed by a petition for adjournment in order to ask for leave to take additional testimony in her behalf. The department held that the petition to take additional testimony did not comply with Rule 10, § 2, of the rules of practice and procedure of the department. The rule is not set up in the record and we are not informed as to its contents. It may be applicable, but in any event, there is a showing' in this record that the petition of Ramona was filed by an attorney who had just come into the case, and we believe that the interests of justice demand that the infant should be permitted to present such competent testimony as may be available in her behalf. The department can then determine whether or not she was a dependent within the language of the statutes cited (2 Comp. Laws 1929, §§ 8422 and 8423). See, also, King v. Peninsular Portland Cement Co., supra; Bassier v. J. Connelly Construction Co., 227 Mich. 251, and Lewis v. Eklund Bros. Co., 244 Mich. 22.
The award of the department as to Doris Pincombe (Westfall) is affirmed, but its order denying the petition of Ramona Elizabeth Westfall to be joined as party plaintiff is vacated. The cause is remanded for the taking of testimony and the determination of the question of Ramona’s dependency. Costs to Ramona Elizabeth Westfall.
Fead, C. J., and Sharpe, Potter, and Chandler, JJ., concurred with Bushnell, J.
The powers and duties of the industrial accident board have been transferred to the department of labor and industry and the board abolished. See 2 Comp. Laws 1929, § 8312. — Reporter. | [
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Potter, J:
May 27, 1936, plaintiff sued defendant George B. Murphy and garnisheed Mary L. Harris. Garnishee defendant on June 18, 1936, disclosed the principal defendant had obtained a judgment against her May 1, 1934, for $7,500, and $7 costs, which was still unsatisfied except a payment of $250. Della R. Murphy, wife of the principal defendant, was permitted to intervene as claimant to the judgment above mentioned. She asserted ownership of the Harris judgment by virtue of an assignment to her from her husband, dated May 5, 1934, which assignment was put on record in the cause of George B. Murphy, plaintiff, v. Mary L. Harris, defendant, June 9, 1934. The statutory issue was framed July 7, 1936. The principal case resulted in a verdict for plaintiff against defendant in the sum of $5,183.24, on which verdict judgment was entered. The garnishment issue was then brought on for trial November 27, 1936, before the same judge, without a jury, and testimony taken. Judgment was entered reciting the recovery of the judgment for the principal defendant and that it appeared from the disclosure the garnishee defendant, Mary L. Harris, was indebted to the principal defendant in the sum of $7,250. Thereupon judgment was entered against the garnishee defendant in favor of plaintiff for the amount of his judgment, $5,183.24, together with costs, and from that judgment interpleaded garnishee defendant appeals.
Principal defendant, George B. Murphy, claims he assigned this judgment to his wife, Della B. Murphy, and about that there is no question. The trial court found that Mrs. Murphy paid to her husband $1,600; that in consideration of such payment of $1,600, her husband assigned to her the judgment and recorded the assignment; that no notice of this assignment was had by the garnishee defendant, Mrs. Harris; that the garnishee defendant, Mary L. Harris, made two payments, one of $150 and another of $100, to George B. Murphy on the judgment; that on September 17, 1934, the principal defendant, George B. Murphy, obtained an execution in his own name, which execution was returned unsatisfied and that he in his own name filed a bill in aid of execution as sole claimant to the Harris judgment, Floyd M. Boster appearing as his attorney.
The trial court held the burden of proof was upon the intervening claimant to support her claim to the moneys due from Mary L. Harris; that she had not sustained that burden; and entered the judgment appealed from, holding in effect the assignment constituted a colorable transaction only, there being no statutory provision for recording the notice of the assignment and no actual notice given to the judgment debtor. There was testimony to support the judgment.
Affirmed, with costs.
Fead, C. J., and North, "Wiest, Butzel, Bushnell, Sharpe, and Chandler, JJ., concurred. | [
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Grant, J.
The bill in this ease is filed to set aside a deed made by Nathaniel P. Hollenback to the defendant Maggie Hollenback, and to enforce the specific performance of a contract by which it is alleged that said Nathaniel agreed to convey the land in controversy to the complainant Sarah.
Complainant Sarah and defendants Albert Hollenback and Martha J. Kelley are children of Nathaniel P. Hollenback, now deceased, and defendant. Maggie is his widow. Complainant John is the husband of Sarah. Nathaniel died December 13, 1890, aged about 90 years. He formerly lived in Ypsilanti, where, in 1869, he sold his home for $2,200. He then moved to Detroit, where he made a contract for the purchase of the land now in dispute, on which he paid the entire proceeds realized from the sale in Ypsilanti, leaving $700 still due on the contract for the purchase of the Detroit property. Sarah was then unmarried, and went to Detroit with her father and mother, with whom she remained until her marriage, which ocóurred soon afterwards. After living awhile in Chicago, she and her husband located in Saugatuck, Mich., where he was employed at a salary of $1,200 a year. The claim on the part of the complainants is that in April, 1871, her father wrote her that if she and her husband would come .to Detroit, and take care of him and her mother while they lived, he would give her the house and lot; that, after consultation with her husband, they concluded to accept the offer, and she so wrote her father. They moved to Detroit in 1871, and took possession under this agreement. The letters are lost. The mother was in feeble health, and, after a long illness, died, in 1875. After her death .the father continued to live with them till 1882. He then, being over 80 years of age, left his home, and, without informing any of his family, married defendant Maggie, who was then about 40 years of age. He then removed with his wife to Petoskey, where they lived till 1883, when, desiring to return to Detroit, he demanded possession of the house, and complainants surrendered it to him.
Was the testimony of complainant Sarah competent, under 3 How. - Stat. § 7545, it relating to facts equally within the knowledge of the deceased? Was the contract made? Was it performed by the complainants, so as to take it out of the statute of frauds? These are thé three questions presented by the record.
The testimony of Sarah was incompetent. Complainants’ counsel relies upon Twiss v. George, 33 Mich. 253, 255, wherein it was said:
“We do not think we are authorized to interpolate into the statute any such prohibition in controversies with third persons acting in their own right as purchasers during the life of the deceased, and not taking by any post-mortem estate.”
The statute in existence at the time the case was heard in the circuit court provided “that, when a suit or proceeding is prosecuted or defended by the representative of a deceased person, the opposite party, if examined as a witness on his own behalf, shall not be admitted to testify,” etc. 2 Comp. Laws 1871, § 5968. The law was amended in 1875 so as to include “the heirs, assigns, devisees, legatees, or personal representatives.” Act No. 155, Laws of 1875. This act took effect August 3, 1875. That case was evidently determined under the statute as it existed when the case was heard and the testimony given in the circuit court. Under the' statute as it then existed, the testimony was clearly not prohibited. In the habendum clause in deeds, the usual terms used are “the grantee, his heirs and assigns.” We are therefore of the opinion that the testimony of complainant Sarah is prohibited by this statute.
But we think the contract is sufficiently proven by evidence outside of the testimony of complainant Sarah. The testimony of the complainant John is direct and positive that the agreement was made. Three disinterested witnesses, one of whom is the daughter Martha, testify that Mr. Hollenback told them that he had made such an agreement. Besides, the condition and situation of the father and mother and the rest of the family are important considerations. Mr. Hollenback was a physician of some sort, and, for some time before leaving Tpsilanti, had but very little practice. He- was at that time 71, and' his wife 65, years of age. It is evident that he had not then succeeded in getting a practice in Detroit, and was in need of support. The son was married, and settled upon a farm. Martha had been married for several years. Sarah had lived with them the longest, and had assisted in taking care of them. They would naturally look to her when they required care and attention. It is evident that they needed some one to live with them, for the mother was infirm and feeble. The arrangement was entirely natural and reasonable. The complainants gave up a business in which they were doing well.
' The principal evidence relied on to defeat the claim is certain letters written by Sarah after the second marriage of her father, in which it is claimed that she made no direct assertion of any such contract. It is argued that, had it existed, she would have asserted it. While there is much force in this contention, we do not think it conclusive against her by any means. These letters were written in anger and indignation at her father for his clandestine marriage. But in the .very first letter it is significant that she referred to a promise in this language: “You promised me this house, but you were only deceiving me, as in marrying. I did not believe you would ever marry.” In a letter written by Sarah to defendant Maggie, October 27, 1890, after she had heard that her father was sick, she wrote: “I worked twelve years with a promise of a home.” Under the clear proof of the contract, we cannot hold that these letters are controlling evidence that it was not made. We think the complainants’ claim is fully sustained by the following authorities: Twiss v. George, 33 Mich. 253; Lamb v. Hinman, 46 Id. 112; Welch v. Whelpley, 62 Id. 15.
We think it entirely •'dear that the contract was performed on the part of the complainants. It is shown by a fair preponderance of the evidence that they took care of her father and mother as they agreed to do. She gave music lessons. He had a salary of from $700 to $1,200 most of the time, except after Mr. Hollenback succeeded in getting some practice in his profession, which appears to have been confined to treatment in his rooms, when he assisted the doctor for awhile. They paid part, if not all, of the balance due upon the contract for the purchase of the property. They also made improvements, and furnished money to pay the taxes. To hold otherwise would result in entirely discrediting their testimony, and in holding them guilty of perjury. We do not think such a conclusion warranted by the evidence.
The decree must be reversed, and entered here for the complainants, with the costs of both courts, to be paid out of the estate of Nathaniel P. Hollenback. It was not agreed that. complainant John should have any interest in the property. The entire title, therefore, is decreed to be in Sarah.
The other Justices concurred. | [
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Hooker, C. J.
The relator claims the office of warden of the State House of Correction, and applies for a man- damns to compel the Attorney General to file an information in the nature of quo warranto against the present incumbent. The respondent’s answer sets up several reasons for refusing, viz.:
1. The unconstitutionality of Act No. 118, Laws of 1893, under which relator claims his appointment.
2. The want of sufficiently specific charges against the present incumbent in the proceedings for removal.
3. The disqualification of the .board of control to pass upon the charges, by reason of the fact that one of the members of the board made the charge.
4. Bad faith on the part of the board in its adjudication.
The constitutionality of the law is attacked upon the ground that section 8, art. 12, of the Constitution restricts the power of removal of the warden to the Governor. The section reads as follows:
“The Governor shall have power, and it shall be his duty, except at such time as the Legislature may be in session, to examine into the condition and administration of any public office, and the acts of any public officer, elective or appointed, to remove from office for gross neglect of duty, or for corrupt conduct in office, or any other misfeasance or malfeasance therein, either of the following State officers, to wit: The Attorney General, State Treasurer, Commissioner of Land Office, Secretary of State, Auditor General, Superintendent of Public Instruction, or members .of the State Board of Education, or any other officer of the State, except legislative and judicial, elective or appointed, and to appoint a successor for the remainder of their respective unexpired terms of office, and report the causes of such removal to the Legislature at its next session.”
There may be a question whether this provision of the Constitution named should apply to any officers of the State not specifically mentioned in or provided for by the Constitution. It is contended that it applies to all public officers whose duties pertain to State affairs; and the case of Dullam v. Willson,, 53 Mich. 392, is relied upon to sustain the proposition. That case arose upon proceedings before the Governor against a trustee of the asylum for the deaf and dumb, at Flint. It turned upon the character of the charges, and there is perhaps room for the contention that the question suggested, viz., whether section 8 is. broad enough to cover officers elected or appointed under acts of the Legislature, is yet an open one. If, however, it should be conceded that the effect of that decision was to place the trustee within that section, does it follow that the rvarden of the House of Correction is? The several departments and State institutions are by laAV placed in charge of specific officers and boards. From the first, these offices and institutions have been administered and operated through a constantly increasing force of subordinates, Avho Avorked under directions or regulations prescribed by their superiors. It may probably be said with safety that all of these subordinates are prordded by law, and certainly many if not most of them arise to the dignity of public officers, as contradistinguished from mere contractors. Among these may be mentioned the deputies of the various State and county officers, and the superintendents, wardens, and possibly other subordinates of the State institutions. Many if not all of these have been removable by their superiors, — some at will, others for cause, — and the authority of the superiors seems not to have been questioned. Thus, Ave have a construction of the Constitution acted upon for upAvards of 30 years since the adoption of section 8 of article 12. Previous to that time the same power had been exercised under the present and previous Constitutions. The language of Mr. Justice Ohamplin in Clay v. Stuart, 74 Mich. 415, a case of the removal of a county officer, shoAvs the importance of the power. It is as follows:
“The Legislature is to provide by law for the removal of county officers, etc., in such manner as to them shall seem just and proper. The power conferred is in its nature political, and has reference exclusively to the polity of' government, which would be inherently defective if no remedy of a summary nature could be had to remove from office a person who, after his election, had been convicted of crime, or who neglected his duty, or who was guilty of malversation in the administration of his office. . Every person elected to a county, township, or school-district office holds it subject to removal in the manner provided by law under this section of the Constitution, which commits to the Legislature the whole subject of removal. They are to prescribe' the.mode in which, it shall be done, and this includes everything necessary for the accomplishment of the object. The causes; the charges, the notice, the investigation, and the determination, and by whom these shall be conducted and the removal adjudged, are all in the discretion of the Legislature.”
Again, the language of the amendment must be enlarged to make it cover subordinates. As preliminary to the exercise of the power of removal, it makes it the duty of the (Governor to examine into the condition and’ administration of the office, and the acts of the officer. It limits the removal to cases of gros^ neglect of duty, corrupt conduct in office, and misfeasance or malfeasance therein. It sjDecifically méntions several of the State officers, ’ and gives the Governor power to appoint the successor in case of removal. We think that it was not intended that the Governor should investigate the conduct of- deputies and other- subordinates, or that he should appoint their successors, both of which it would be proper for the head of the department, i. e., the State officer proper, or board, to do. We must assume that the framers of the constitutional amendment knew that officers named in the Constitution were beyond the power, so far as removal is concerned, of any department of government, except as provided by the Constitution, and that they also knew that all officers which the Legislature might provide for by law were necessarily subject to the power ivhich created the offices. We think, therefore, that it was not intended that section 8 should apply to subordinates. It was so held in the case of Portman v. Fish Com’rs, 50 Mich. 258, in which case the necessity of such a rule was* pointed out. See, also, State v. Smith (Wash.), 33 Pac. Rep. 974.
The constitutionality of the act giving power of removal to the board of control is also attacked under section 2, -art. 3, of the Constitution, which reads as follows:
“No person belonging to one department shall exercise the powers properly belonging to another, except in the eases expressly provided in this Constitution.”
This is upon the theory that the right to an office, .where removal is sought for cause, can only be tried by some officer belonging to the judicial department under the Constitution. This subject has been discussed in the case of Dullam v. Willson, and mentioned in Clay v. Stuart, but in neither case was it necessary to decide the question. It needs no argument to show that constitutional rights cannot depend upon the importance of the office. - If it be once admitted that incumbents of public offices created by the Legislature have the constitutional right to have the question of removal determined by the judicial department, the rule must extend to every public officer in the State who is not removed-from the operation of the rule by the Constitution itself. These subordinate officers are elected or appointed under laws made by the Legislature, which are subject to alteration or repeal at the will of the Legislature, with the Governor’s approval, or without it, if a majority of two-thirds can be obtained; and the Legislature may vacate the office directly, as was done by the act of 1891, which was repealed by that in question. Thus, under this contention, we have a peculiar condition of things, viz., under the settled law the Legislature may remove officers at will, but may only delegate the power to remove for cause to the judicial department. Again; the Legislature has power to provide for State institutions, and the election of their officers. It may give the boards of trustees power of appointment and removal of subordinates at will, but, under respondent’s contention, a legitimate limitation upon the power of removal, requiring removals to be reasonable and not arbitrary, results in the deprivation of the board of all power of removal, upon the theory that the act becomes purely judicial, being for cause. To make this more apparent: The Legislature may remove subordinates at will. It may authorize the board of control to do the same, and without notice or reason. But, if it requires removals to be made by the board only when there is good reason for it, it confers no power of removal at all. Such is the absurd result that is reached when we assume that all removals for cause are acts of such a judicial nature that only the constitutional judiciary can perform them.
The peculiarity of this is the more apparent when we examine the question in the light of the Constitution. The section (8) which provides a forum for the hearing of questions with a view to the removal of State officers for causes therein mentioned is not as old as the Constitution. From 1836 to 1862 there was no such provision. It is said in Dullam v. Willson that up to that time impeachment was the only way of removing an officer of the State, and that was limited to cases of corrupt conduct in office, crimes, and misdemeanors. So that, if the respondent is right in his contention, unless the courts had jurisdiction, there was no power that could remove a State officer, and all, from the highest to the lowest, were secure, no matter how incompetent or unworthy, drunk, cruel, or negligent, until the Legislature should remove by the passage of a law. There never has been a time in the history of the State when the courts have attempted to gxercise this power of removal. But this is not' the end of the difficulty. While the Constitution committed to the Legislature the power to remove county and township and school-district officers, all municipal officers were passed without mention. They were as clearly officers as any others, and, while the power of appointment was given in many, instances, the power of removal was not, and, if restricted to removals for cause, the officers were upon the same footing as those of .the State.
We think that the framers of the Constitution rvere alive to the importance of the power of speedy removal of subordinates and other officers. They were evidently familiar with the rule that constitutional officers, whose terms were fixed by the Constitution, were beyond the power of the Legislature; hence, the insertion of section 7, which gave the power as to county and township officers, most of whom are constitutional officers. They evidently considered the constitutional State officers as subject to impeachment until 1861, when that was found inadequate, and the Governor was given power to act in the absence of the Legislature.'. Even here it seems not to have occurred to the Legislature that the courts had power in the premises.
It is no new doctrine that the exigencies of government require prompt removal of incompetent or unfaithful officers, and we cannot discredit the intelligence of thfe framers of the Constitution by supposing them ignorant or negligent of it. As shown, they intelligently covered the subject as to constitutional officers, and may. we not properly assume that they understood that the Legislature had full power, under established and well-settled rules, to deal with others? The State has -existed nearly 60 years, during all of which time officers and boards hare been created, with power of appointing and removing subordinates, — sometimes at will or pleasure, sometimes with concurrence of others, sometimes for cause, — before it 'was. ■discovered that the constitutional provision that no person belonging to one branch of the government shall perform the functions of either of the others was a limitation of the power of the Legislature in these matters. Meantime, this Court has repeatedly refused to interfere with removals ■of subordinates, and it is not too much to say that the three departments of government have concurred in the recognition of the power, and it is as plain that none of ■them ever supposed that the power of removal was limited to a department that had never been suspected of having any jurisdiction of such matters. Portman v. Fish Com’rs, 50 Mich. 258; Wellman v. Board of Police, 84 Id. 558; 91 Id. 427.
To the proposition that removing boards perform, acts which are judicial in their nature, we readily assent. They must hear and determine, when the power is limited to removals for cause. So must boards of review, auditing-boards, highway and drain officers, pardon boards, and in fact nearly every officer who has duties to perform; and it is also true that the action of all of these is subject to review in courts of justice. None of them, however, belong to the judicial department of government, nor can they be called judicial officers, though all perform acts in their nature judicial. Their acts are administrative. Donahue v. County of Will, 100 Ill. 94; State v. Hawkins, 44 Ohio St. 98.
.There are many cases which hold that removals for cause rare 'acts 'of a judicial nature. There are others which hold that- they can be performed by none but judicial officers. These last are based upon the theory that the incumbent, of an office has rights thereto and interests therein, and that removal for cause necessarily involves ignominy and discredit, which forbids the exercise of the power of removal by officers not judicial. So far as applied to removals for the causes mentioned in the Constitution, viz., misconduct
in office, crimes, and misdemeanors, we might, for the purposes of this case, safely admit the latter, though wé reserve the question. As to interest in and right to an office not constitutional in its character, the weight of authority, including Michigan cases, is to the effect that a public office is a trust; that the public interest and rights are paramount; and that all offices not constitutional are taken subject to the vicissitudes of legislative action,’among which are removals by the appointing power, whether such power may be exercised arbitrarily, or upon investigation and discovery of adequate cause. Frey v. Michie, 68 Mich. 328. It is legitimate and proper for the Legislature to guard 'against hasty or partisan action by boards, by requiring the publicity which comes of written charges and a hearing; and where this is required, though the action may be said to be, in a sense, judicial, it is not in the sense contended for, and the turpitude of the act constituting cause cannot embarrass the government by depriving the board of power to remove, on the ground that the officer has a right to a trial by the judicial department. We think the cases of Dullam v. Willson and Clay v. Stuart, as well as the other cases in Michigan, are not at variance with this- doctrine, though the language used in some of them might at first blush lead us to think otherwise. The case of Wellman v. Board of Police, 84 Mich. 558, 91 Id. 427, is one where this Court asserted the power of the board, although the offense was a felony. The question was there raised and settled in accord with what has been said. See, also, Stadler v. Detroit, 13 Mich. 346; Board of Auditors v. Benoit, 20 Id. 185.
The next question requiring attention pertains to the charge upon which the action of the board was based. The act provides that the warden shall only be removed for cause. What is meant by cause? If we look to the Constitution for light upon this subject, we shall find that causes for impeachment are limited to corrupt conduct in office, crimes, and misdemeanors. Const, art. 12, § 1. Removals by the Governor under section 8, art. 12, may be for gross neglect of duty, corrupt conduct in office, or any other misfeasance or malfeasance therein. We can mention many other things which would justify .a State ofjicer or board in removing a subordinate. Negligence, bad habits, slovenliness, want of discretion, incompetency, or anything else which would show unfitness for the place, and inability to perform the duties in a satisfactory manner and in accordance with the best interests of the State, would justify his removal. Moral turpitude is not necessarily involved, and, as was well said in the case of Wellman v. Board of Police, 91 Mich. 427:
“If the question of the plaintiffs fitness for the office involved an inquiry as to whether he was or was not guilty of a criminal offense, to the extent that is necessary to determine the question of fitness, the board had the right to enter upon the 'trial of the question of his guilt.”
So, in this case, the power of removal of subordinates for cause, conferred upon the board by the act in question, is broader than the constitutional powers alluded to, and must, from the nature of things, involve the questions of capacity and diligence; otherwise, it would be impossible for any board to manage a prison upon business principles. The charges preferred in this case were:
1. A general charge of incompetency and unfitness, under section 5 of the act, in which the language of the section was followed.
2 and 3. A general charge that the warden had not practiced rigid economy in all matters pertaining to the prison and in the employment of prisoners, required by section 44. Among the specifications under the latter charge were the following:
a — Tha¡t he has employed too many keepers.
b — That the keepers and guards were not properly graded.
c — That convicts were allowed to eat at the officers’- mess, thereby increasing the' expenses.
d — That he has employed as matron his wife, at an expense of $40 a month, and, as assistant matron, the wife of his son, at $20 a month.
e — That he employed J. H. Parsell as keeper, and paid him a keeper’s salary, when he did not perform the work of keeper, or any work pertaining to the prison.
f — That he paid to the last three persons mentioned sums of money each month largely in excess of the value of their services. ■
g — That he paid employés who -performed the duty of guards the salary of keepers, thereby increasing the expenses.
h — That he paid exorbitant prices for beef used in the prison.
i — That the expense incurred in. conducting and managing the prison is largely in excess of what it ought to be.
4. That from December, 1892, to July, 1893, inclusive, he paid to convicts, for work called “work over time,” $964.35.
5. That he has employed persons as matron and assistant matron, having no legal right to do so.
6. That he has not been in constant attendance at said prison, as required by section 7 of said act.
A radical difference exists between removals of State officers for' the causes, mentioned, and the removal of subordinates by their superiors; and while, in this ease, the law requires the charges to be presented in writing, it -is sufficient if they contain specific statements of infractions of the law, or of the rules and regulations which the accused should -observe, and specify the facts depended upon to show incompetency or unfitness, and which require a removal, from the standpoint of the best interests of the institution. As the information upon which these must be based is largely within the control of the warden, and can only be obtained by investigation, it is not to be expected that the formality of criminal pleading should be used, and it is enough if tangible statements of fact are made, sufficient to apprise the accused of the nature of the accusation that he is to meet. These may in part depend upon the rules that are made for his guidance, which constitute the law by which he is in part governed. One section of this statute requires that the warden shall practice rigid economy, and manifestly this may be, to some extent, a matter of opinion. He is charged with failing to do this in a number of particulars, e. g., in the number of keepers, and the grading ^and paying of officers, in the payment of salaries alleged to be excessive and unlawful, and in the payment of salaries to specific persons, who performed no service. He is also charged with employing persons illegally, and with not having been in attendance upon the prison as required by law. We think many of these charges were sufficiently specific, some of which alone, if proven, would justify removal. Others, which might not separately be 'cause for removal, might, when taken collectively, warrant the exercise of the power. The merits cannot be determined here. They are for the board, and we cannot disturb its decision in this proceeding, when it appears that the board has jurisdiction. Wellman v. Board of Police, 91 Mich. 427.
The charges filed were the result of an - investigation made by the board, and were signed by one of the members. It is contended that this disqualified such member from participating in the hearing and determination of the case, and rendered the proceedings void. Nothing indicates that the board or the member who preferred the charges had a personal interest therein, pecuniary or otherwise, and we think the action was proper. The law evidently contemplates that, if the investigation which it is the duty of the board to make shows reasonable grounds for removal, an opportunity shall be given the warden, to be- heard upon specific charges before he can be removed. Removals would probably be few, were the board to wait for private persons to move, which would seldom be practicable. Andrews v. King, 77 Me. 234; State v. Police Com’rs, 49 N. J. Law, 170.
As to the remaining charge, viz., that of bad faith upon the part of the board, we think it cannot be gone into upon this hearing without trying the merits of the controversy between the two claimants of the office. For the purpose of this hearing, we must assume that the action of a board of control of a State institution, of which the Governor of the State is a member, is in accord with the best interests of the institution, and that it does no intentional violence to private rights. If such a question can be tried anywhere, it is not in this proceeding; and, as we cannot legitimately question the good faith of the board, the Attorney General, who is by law the legal representative of the State, can safely leave the matter to the parties in interest.
■ Quo warranto is the usual method of settling questions of title to office. It is important to the public as well as the parties that unnecessary delays should be avoided; that the term of the office in dispute be not permitted to expire pending the law's delay. Especially is this true in cases where large public interests are at stake, and considerable amounts of the public money may be improvidently used. See Attorney General v. May, 97 Mich. 568. In this case the relator has tendered the usual bond to secure the State ágainst loss,, and is entitled to have the relief asked.
The writ will* issue as prayed.
The other Justices concurred. | [
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TAYLOR, J.
In this case, we granted leave to appeal to consider whether MCL 257.401(3), which caps the amount of a lessor’s liability in motor vehicle leases of thirty days or less, violates plaintiffs rights under the Michigan Constitution to a jury trial, equal protection, or due process. We hold that this damages cap does not implicate plaintiffs right to a jury trial, and does not violate her rights to equal protection or due process. Therefore, we affirm the Court of Appeals decision that the statute is constitutional.
i
Regeana Diane Hervey died in an automobile accident while a passenger in a vehicle being driven by Da-Fel Reed. Reed had leased the vehicle from Mirac, doing business as Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Margaret Phillips, decedent’s mother and the personal representative of decedent’s estate, initiated a lawsuit against Mirac on the basis of MCL 257.401(3). Generally, MCL 257.401(3) establishes vicarious liability for automobile lessors when permissive users, such as Reed, are negligent and cause automobile accidents injuring others. The act also caps the damages for such lessors at $20,000 for each injured person to a maximum of $40,000 for each accident.
While reserving for resolution the constitutionality of the damage caps, the parties before trial executed a “high-low” agreement for a $150,000 minimum award and a $250,000 maximum award. The jury returned a verdict of $900,000 against Mirac. This would, of course, have been reduced to $250,000 pursuant to the high-low agreement, unless the statutory damage caps were constitutional, in which case the damages would be reduced to $20,000.
The trial court concluded that the damage caps were unconstitutional on the basis that the statute, in capping damages, violated the right of trial by jury found in art 1, § 14 of the Michigan Constitution. The essence of its holding was that the right of jury trial includes the right of having a jury not only determine damages, but that the jury’s determination cannot be altered by the Legislature or courts. The trial court also concluded that the statute violated the Michigan Constitution’s provision that guarantees to citizens equal protection of the laws. That is, that it impermissibly causes similarly situated litigants to be treated differently. Using the same reasoning, the trial court concluded that the statute also violates the Michigan Constitution’s guarantee of due process of law.
On appeal, the Court of Appeals reversed in a two-to-one opinion. The majority determined that the cap did not infringe plaintiffs right to trial by jury for two reasons. First, because the Legislature can abolish or modify common-law and statutory rights and remedies, it necessarily follows that it can limit the damages recoverable for a cause of action. Second, it decided that the statute does not infringe the right to a jury trial because the damages cap does not remove from the jury the determination of facts and amount of damages. The statute simply limits the amount of damages that can be recovered from a lessor of vehicles. Thus, the cap only limits the legal consequences of the jury’s finding. 251 Mich App at 590-595.
Therefore, having determined that the cap did not implicate any fundamental right, the majority analyzed whether the cap violates plaintiffs right to equal protection under the rational basis test. The majority concluded that “it can reasonably be assumed that Michigan has a legitimate interest in the continued operation of automobile rental businesses, and protecting those businesses from large damages awards injury trials bears a rational relationship to that end.” Id. at 598. Therefore, the statute did not violate plaintiffs equal protection rights. Similarly, because the tests for due process and equal protection are essentially the same, the cap also did not violate plaintiffs due process rights. Id. at 598.
The Court of Appeals dissent would have held that the damages cap is unconstitutional because it violates the right to a jury trial. The dissent explained that “[bjecause our constitution confers a right to trial by jury, and because the right to trial by jury in Michigan extends to a determination of damages, the damages cap in the instant case is unconstitutional.” Id. at 599. Thus, the statutory damages cap renders the jury’s role illusory. The dissent stated that the Legislature may be free to abolish a cause of action, but it may not abolish a right mandated by the Constitution. Id. at 600.
This Court granted plaintiffs application for leave to appeal, “limited to whether MCL 257.401(3) constitutes an unconstitutional denial of plaintiffs right to a jury trial, equal protection, or due process.”
n
When construing a constitutional provision, we must give the words their plain meaning if they are obvious on their face. “If, however, the constitutional language has no plain meaning, but is a technical, legal term, we are to construe those words in their technical, legal sense.” Silver Creek Drain Dist v Extrusions Div, Inc, 468 Mich 367, 375; 663 NW2d 436 (2003); Michigan Coalition of State Employee Unions v Civil Service Comm, 465 Mich 212, 222-223; 634 NW2d 692 (2001), quoting 1 Cooley, Constitutional Limitations (8th ed), p 132.
The constitutionality of a statute is a question of law that is reviewed de novo. Tolksdorf v Griffith, 464 Mich 1, 5; 626 NW2d 163 (2001). Statutes are presumed constitutional. We exercise the power to declare a law unconstitutional with extreme caution, and we never exercise it where serious doubt exists with regard to the conflict. Sears v Cottrell, 5 Mich 251, 259 (1858); accord, Taylor v Gate Pharmaceuticals, 468 Mich 1, 6; 658 NW2d 127 (2003). “Every reasonable presumption or intendment must be indulged in favor of the validity of an act, and it is only when invalidity appears so clearly as to leave no room for reasonable doubt that it violates some provision of the Constitution that a court will refuse to sustain its validity.” Cady v Detroit, 289 Mich 499, 505; 286 NW 805 (1939).
in
The statute at issue in this case, MCL 257.401, provides in part:
(3) Notwithstanding subsection (1), a person engaged in the business of leasing motor vehicles who is the lessor of a motor vehicle under a lease providing for the use of the motor vehicle by the lessee for a period of 30 days or less is hable for an injury caused by the negligent operation of the leased motor vehicle only if the injury occurred while the leased motor vehicle was being operated by an authorized driver under the lease agreement or by the lessee’s spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, or other immediate family member. Unless the lessor, or his or her agent, was negligent in the leasing of the motor vehicle, the lessor’s liability under this subsection is limited to $20,000.00 because of bodily injury to or death of 1 person in any 1 accident and $40,000.00 because of bodily injury to or death of 2 or more persons in any 1 accident. [Emphasis added.][ ]
Thus, this statute imposes on a motor vehicle lessor vicarious liability for bodily injury or death resulting from the negligence of the lessee (or a listed member of the lessee’s family). The statute, however, sets upper limits on that vicarious liability in the amounts of $20,000 for each person and $40,000 for each accident.
The Michigan Constitution states that:
The right of trial by jury shall remain, but shall be waived in all civil cases unless demanded by one of the parties in the manner prescribed by law. [Const 1963, art 1, §14.]
At issue is whether this constitutional provision makes what the Legislature attempted to do—cap damages even though a jury found that the damages were greater than the cap—unconstitutional. That is, does MCL 257.401(3) unconstitutionally infringe the right of trial by jury?
The first step in our analysis is to identify the scope of the right as enumerated in the Constitution. Our Constitution from the time of statehood has had a provision concerning the right of jury trials. In its earliest form, the right was expressed in Const 1835, art 1, § 9: “The right of trial by jury shall remain inviolate.” This was changed somewhat by Const 1850, art 6, § 27: “The right of trial by jury shall remain, but shall be deemed to be waived in all civil cases unless demanded by one of the parties in such manner as shall be prescribed by law.” This language was unchanged in Const 1908, art 2, § 13, and the 1963 Constitution did not change the substance but only updated the language slightly. As can be seen, we have had virtually the same provision in our Constitution throughout our history and the nub of our inquiry must be, then, what does it mean to say “the right of trial by jury shall remain”?
This Court, speaking through Justice THOMAS M. COOLEY addressed this in 1880, saying:
The Constitution of the State provides that ‘The right of trial by jury shall remain, but shall be deemed to be waived in all civil cases, unless demanded by one of the parties in such manner as shall be prescribed by law.’ Article vi. § 27. The right is to remain. What right? Plainly the right as it existed before; the right to a trial by jury as it had become known to the previous jurisprudence of the State. [Swart v Kimball, 43 Mich 443, 448; 5 NW 635 (1880) (emphasis in original).]
What is to be taken from this is that to determine what this phrase, “the right of trial by jury shall remain,” means, one must look to the jurisprudence of the state. That is, this phrase is a technical legal phrase with the meaning those understanding the jurisprudence of this state would give it. As we said in Michigan Coalition, supra at 223, drawing on Justice Cooley’s method of analysis, in construing technical legal terms used in a constitution, “we must suppose these words to be employed in their technical sense.” Quoting Constitutional Limitations, supra. It is this technical legal meaning that the ratifiers of the 1963 Constitution are held to have adopted. We thus must look for the. meaning of “the right of trial by jury” before 1963, as understood by those learned in the law at the time. See Conservation Dep’t v Brown, 335 Mich 343, 346; 55 NW2d 859 (1952).
Considerable insight into this scope of this right, both historically and as it was understood in the first half of the twentieth century, is provided in the encyclopedic article on this issue in the 1918 Harvard Law Review by Harvard Law professor Austin Wakeman Scott, Trial by jury and the reform of civil procedure, 31 Harv L R 669 (1918). While, not surprisingly, Professor Scott found certain elements to have long been regarded as of the “essence” of trial by jury, such as unanimity, impartiality, and competence of the jury, id. at 672-674, he also found that the only matters “properly within the province of the jury” are questions of fact. Id. at 675. All other questions, being questions of law, are for the court. Id. at 677. Professor Scott’s article served as the bedrock for the United States Supreme Court decision, Tull v United States, 481 US 412; 107 S Ct 1831; 95 L Ed 2d 365 (1987), in which the Court discussed these concepts and concluded that the jury was confined to finding facts and that law was for the courts and, moreover, that falling within the ambit of law was the assessment of civil penalties. As the Court said, “The assessment of civil penalties thus cannot be said to involve the ‘substance of a common-law right to a trial by jury,’ nor a ‘fundamental element of a jury trial.’ ” Tull, supra at 426. This holding in Tull was not unexpected because it followed a similar holding in Galloway v United States, 319 US 372, 392; 63 S Ct 1077; 87 L Ed 1458 (1943), in which the Court opined that, as expressed in the United States Constitution, the right of trial by jury extends only to “its most fundamental elements, not the great mass of procedural forms and details . . ..”
No other understanding of the proper area for juries to exercise power can be found in Michigan jurisprudence. In 1962, in deciding McClelland v Scholz, 366 Mich 423, 426; 115 NW2d 120 (1962), the Court found unexceptional a court rule that required juries to decide questions that relate “only to material issues of fact,” a finding that the Court could not have reached had the rule breached the “right of trial by jury” provision in the 1908 Constitution. Moreover, this approach echoed a similar earlier holding in May v Goulding, 365 Mich 143, 148-149; 111 NW2d 862 (1961). Further, in giving an overview of the area of the law in 1994, this Court held: “Juries traditionally do not decide the law or the outcome of legal conflicts.... To maintain the traditional role of the jury, the jury must remain the fact-finder; a jury may determine what happened, how, and when, but it may not resolve the law itself.” Charles Reinhart Co v Winiemki, 444 Mich 579, 601; 513 NW2d 773 (1994).
It is clearly the case that, at the time of the drafting and ratification of the 1963 Constitution, those sophisticated in the law understood, and thus the instrument adopted, that the right of trial by jury encompassed a jury that could find facts, including the amount of damages. See, e.g., Wood v Detroit Automobile Inter-Ins Exchange, 413 Mich 573, 583-584; 321 NW2d 653 (1982). However, regarding the law, it was for the court to decide that on the basis of the common law, the Constitution, or the statutes the Legislature had enacted.
This should not be taken as dismissing the jury’s importance. It is for the jury to assimilate the facts presented at trial, draw inferences from those facts, and determine what happened in the case at issue. See, e.g., Green v Detroit UR Co, 210 Mich 119, 129; 177 NW 263 (1920). As important as those duties are, however, matters of law concern the legal significance of those facts. Accordingly, excluded from the jury’s purview are such matters as whether a party has met its burden of proof, whether certain evidence may be considered, which witnesses may testify, whether the facts found by the jury result in a party being held liable, and the legal import of the amount of damages found by the jury. Thus, for example, while a jury may find a defendant has acted negligently and the amount of damages occasioned thereby, the court may apply the governmental immunity act, MCL 691.1407, and find there is no liability, despite the plaintiffs damages. Or a jury may find a hunter has been injured and damaged on a defendant’s property because of the defendant’s negligence, but the recreational trespass act, MCL 324.73107, will, in certain circumstances, preclude liability. Moreover, uncontroversially, after the jury has been dismissed, a court may enter an order that doubles or trebles the amount of damages assessed, pursuant to any of the numerous statutes that concern postverdict adjustment of damages. In many ways this parallels the criminal system. While the jury is to find the facts, the court defines the crime and determines the sentence along with any fees or fines to be imposed on the basis of the guidance and requirements set forth by the Legislature. The damage cap is of a piece with these numerous examples that for generations have not been successfully challenged on the basis of constitutional infirmity and that reflect the previously unchallenged understanding springing from a recognition that juries decide only facts.
Thus we conclude that the damages cap contained in MCL 257.401(3) does not offend the constitutional right of trial by jury because the amount the plaintiff actually receives was never within those things a jury can
decide. Damage caps are constitutional in causes of action springing out of the common law because the Legislature has the power under our Constitution to abolish or modify nonvested, common-law rights and remedies. Donajkowski v Alpena Power Co, 460 Mich 243, 256 n 14; 596 NW2d 574 (1999). The case is even more convincing when, as here, the liability—an owner’s liability for the negligent driving of a permissive user—is a statutory creation. If the Legislature can create a cause of action, it must be able to eliminate or modify it. Karl v Bryant Air Conditioning Co, 416 Mich 558, 573-576; 331 NW2d 456 (1982). Otherwise, one Legislature could bind a subsequent Legislature to not undo its work. This is impermissible. Pittsfield Twp v Washtenaw Co, 468 Mich 702, 713; 664 NW2d 193 (2003), citing Malcolm v East Detroit, 437 Mich 132, 139; 468 NW2d 479 (1991). That being so, it logically follows that the Legislature can also take the less drastic step of leaving the cause of action intact, but limiting the damages recoverable for a particular cause of action from a particular defendant. See Karl, supra at 577; Shavers v Attorney General, 402 Mich 554, 623; 267 NW2d 72 (1978).
Like the congressionally imposed civil penalties discussed in Tull, supra at 426, the Michigan Legislature’s limits on defendant’s liability do not involve the “ ‘substance of a common-law right to a trial by jury,’ ” or a “ ‘fundamental element of a jury trial.’ ” (Citations deleted.) These are things that are not under the umbrella of the right. In other words, MCL 257.401(3) only limits the legal consequences of the jury’s finding regarding the liability. Plaintiffs right to a jury trial is not implicated. She has had a jury trial and the jury determined the facts of her case. The jury’s function is complete. It is up to the court to determine the legal effect of those findings, whether it be that her damages are capped, reduced, increased, tripled, reduced to present value, or completely unavailable.
IV
Plaintiff also asserts that MCL 257.401(3) violates our Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause, which provides in part, “No person shall be denied the equal protection of the laws . . ..” Const 1963, art 1, § 2. It is her argument that she, unlike plaintiffs in litigation not concerning rental cars, cannot recover what the jury has decided are her damages. Thus, she argues, she is denied the equal protection of the law under the Michigan Constitution.
At issue, then, is whether the different treatment given to plaintiffs in cases of this sort is constitutional. As is apparent, when any statute is passed, the Legislature is almost invariably deciding to treat certain individuals differently from others. This exercise of discrimination between citizens means, for example, that some pay taxes at one rate, while others pay at another rate. Or some get a tax or social service benefit that others do not, and so on. Line drawing of this sort is inherent in all governments and in ours it is done at the state level by the Legislature, Const 1963, art 4, § 1, and locally by local legislative bodies. The Constitution of Michigan was, in fact, written in large part to institutionalize this method of decision-making. Thus, it is apparent that when the Legislature acts, it cannot be that the mere occurrence of different outcomes between two citizens is in itself sufficient to make an act unconstitutional. Otherwise, what the Constitution gives with one hand—the right to representative government—it would have taken away with the other —the equal protection guarantee. Accordingly, courts here and elsewhere in the United States have been very guarded about overruling the legislatures’ decisions by declaring unconstitutional the classifications that a legislature defined. Indeed, the undesirability of courts entering into this area prompted United States Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes to deride all arguments of this sort as “the usual last resort of constitutional arguments.” Buck v Bell, 274 US 200, 208; 47 S Ct 584; 71 L Ed 1000 (1927). Yet, even with this reluctance, the courts have been willing to intervene in a narrow class of cases.
As the law has developed, the first category of such cases is where “strict scrutiny,” as the courts have described it, has been applied to the legislative decision. For a decision to be subject to such scrutiny, it must be a classification that is based on “suspect” factors such as race, national origin, ethnicity, or a “fundamental right.” Harvey v Michigan, 469 Mich 1, 6-7; 664 NW2d 767 (2003); Plyler v Doe, 457 US 202, 216-217; 102 S Ct 2382; 72 L Ed 2d 786 (1982). When such review is called for, the courts require “the State to demonstrate that its classification has been precisely tailored” and it must “serve a compelling governmental interest.” Plyler, at 216-217; DeRose v DeRose, 469 Mich 320, 353; 666 NW2d 636 (2003) (“narrowly tailored”). If this is missing, the statute falls to the Constitution.
The second type of case in which courts will intervene are those described as cases that implicate intermediate level scrutiny. Here, the court, using “heightened scrutiny,” reviews legislation creating classifications on such bases as illegitimacy and gender. Harvey, supra at 8. Under this standard, a challenged statutory classification will be upheld only if it is substantially related to an important governmental objective. Id.
The third level is “rational basis” review. Under this test, “courts will uphold legislation as long as that legislation is rationally related to a legitimate government purpose.” Crego v Coleman, 463 Mich 248, 259; 615 NW2d 218 (2000). This highly deferential standard of review requires a challenger to show that the legislation is “ ‘arbitrary and wholly unrelated in a rational way to the objective of the statute.’ ” Id., quoting Smith v Employment Security Comm, 410 Mich 231, 271; 301 NW2d 285 (1981).
In the present case, plaintiff claims that the discrimination imposed on her should be evaluated on the basis of strict scrutiny. She characterizes the right at issue as the right to a jury trial. However, rights are always to be identified at “the most specific level at which a relevant tradition protecting, or denying protection to, the asserted right can be identified.” Michael H v Gerald D, 491 US 110, 127 n 6; 109 S Ct 2333; 105 L Ed 2d 91 (1989). This means that, rather than describing the right sweepingly, we are to define it with the most precision possible. In this case, we conclude that the right at issue here is not the overarching right to have a juiy trial but, more precisely, a claimed right to have a jury’s assessment of damages be unmodifiable as a matter of law.
With the right properly understood, we turn to whether it is of the sort to which strict scrutiny applies. The United States Supreme Court has developed a test for strict scrutiny that this Court has followed when interpreting our own Constitution. See, e.g., DeRose, supra. Because this case clearly does not result in discrimination by race, national origin, or ethnicity, nor affect an interest that is fundamental, that is, “an interest traditionally protected by our society,” Michael H, supra at 122, this statute does not warrant strict scrutiny review. While rights such as this may be “important and valuable,” they are not encompassed by strict scrutiny unless they are “implicit in ‘the concept of ordered liberty.’ ” People v Gonzales, 356 Mich 247, 260; 97 NW2d 16 (1959), citing Palko v Connecticut, 302 US 319; 58 S Ct 149; 82 L Ed 288 (1937). The right to full recovery in tort is not only not a fundamental right, it is not a right at all, as the discussion above makes clear. Therefore, strict scrutiny does not apply.
Concerning intermediate scrutiny, this legislative action has nothing to do with allegations of gender or illegitimacy and thus heightened scrutiny is inappropriate.
This leaves the rational basis test as the proper foundation for analysis. Rational basis applies to social and economic legislation, of which this is an example. Romein v Gen Motors Corp, 436 Mich 515, 525; 462 NW2d 555 (1990). The rational basis test considers whether the “ ‘classification itself is rationally related to a legitimate governmental interest.’ ” Shavers, supra at 613, quoting United States Dep’t of Agriculture v Moreno, 413 US 528, 533; 93 S Ct 2821; 37 L Ed 2d 782 (1973). But the rational basis test does not test “the wisdom, need, or appropriateness of the legislation ....” Crego, supra at 260. We examine the purpose with which the legislation was enacted, not its effects: “That the accommodation struck may have profound and far-reaching consequences ... provides all the more reason for this Court to defer to the congressional judgment unless it is demonstrably arbitrary or irrational.” Duke Power Co v Carolina Environmental Study Group, 438 US 59, 83-84; 98 S Ct 2620; 57 L Ed 2d 595 (1978). In discerning the purpose, we look to “any set of facts, either known or which could reasonably be assumed, even if such facts may be debatable.” Harvey, supra at 7. Applying this law, we conclude that this statute, obviously designed to reduce insurance costs for automobile lessors, could have been seen as a measure that, because costs of operations are reduced, increases the number of providers from which Michigan consumers may choose, or even just to enhance automobile sales for our leading domestic industry as more lessors transact business in the state. Moreover, as we are informed by a brief amicus curiae, the amendment of MCL 257.401, limiting lessor’s liability removed Michigan from the small remaining minority of states that still impose unlimited liability on automobile lessors. This could be seen as joining with other states in viewing vicarious liability as unwise public policy, at least in these circumstances. Thus, the legislation is rationally related to a legitimate governmental interest.
Because MCL 257.401(3) satisfies the rational basis test, it does not violate the rights granted by the Equal Protection Clause of the Michigan Constitution.
v
Plaintiff also argues that MCL 257.401(3) violates her substantive due process rights under the Michigan Constitution, which provides in pertinent part that no person shall “be deprived of life, liberty or property, without due process of law...Const 1963, art 1, § 17. To analyze whether a plaintiffs due process rights have been violated, we determine “whether the legislation bears a reasonable relation to a permissible legislative objective.” Detroit v Qualls, 434 Mich 340, 366-367 n 49; 454 NW2d 374 (1990). This is, in essence, the same test employed in the equal protection analysis, and we reach the same result. Therefore, because we find that MCL 257.401(3) does not violate plaintiffs rights under Michigan’s Equal Protection Clause, we also find it does not violate her rights under Michigan’s Due Process Clause.
VI
By holding that damage caps legislation is permissible and inoffensive to the Constitution, we join many other states in reaching this conclusion. Some of the more well-written opinions include the Supreme Court of California, which stated in Fein v Permanente Med Group, 38 Cal 3d 137, 161; 695 P2d 665; 211 Cal Rptr 368 (1985), “[W]e know of no principle of California—or federal—constitutional law which prohibits the Legislature from limiting the recovery of damages in a particular setting in order to further a legitimate state interest.” The Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts, in English v New England Med Ctr, Inc, 405 Mass 423, 427; 541 NE2d 329 (1989), held, “the personal, substantive right of a tort victim to recover damages is not a fundamental interest.” (Quotation marks deleted.) The Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia similarly upheld damages caps in Robinson v Charleston Area Med Ctr, Inc, 186 W Va 720, 729; 414 SE2d 877 (1991), saying, “the ‘rational basis’ test for state constitutional equal protection purposes is applicable in this jurisdiction to . . . statutory limitation on remedies in certain common-law causes of action, such as statu tory ‘caps’ on the recoverable amount of damages.” The Supreme Court of Indiana, in Johnson v St Vincent Hosp, Inc, 237 Ind 374, 396; 404 NE2d 585 (1980), stated, concerning a similar statutory cap on damages, “It is not a presumption which prevents recovery of more than that amount, but the policy of the law in the statute. The limitation is not a denial of due process on this basis.” The Supreme Court of Virginia, in Etheridge, 237 Va 95, 96, noted, “[A] remedy is a matter of law, not a matter of fact,” and “although a party has the right to have a jury assess his damages, he has no right to have a jury dictate through an award the legal consequences of its assessment.”
Reinforcing the findings of a majority of state supreme courts on this issue is the analysis of the United States Supreme Court that “statutes limiting liability are relatively commonplace and have consistently been enforced by the courts.” Duke Power, 438 US 88-89 n 32 (citations deleted).
What these courts have been unwilling to do is to usher in a new Lochner era. It was during that era when, for a time after the industrial expansion of the United States began in the mid-nineteenth century and, on the basis of strained constitutional interpretation, the United States Supreme Court threw out economic regulations that had been won in the political process. The central theme of the Lochner jurisprudence was, as Justice Peckham wrote of the ill-fated New York state effort to regulate the hours of bakers, “[A]re we all ... at the mercy of legislative majorities?” Id. at 59. He and a majority of the Court concluded, “No.” Yet, by the mid-1930s, in Nebbia v New York, 291 US 502, 537; 54 S Ct 505; 78 L Ed 940 (1934), Justice Owen Roberts’s majority opinion for the Court stated that “a state is free to adopt whatever economic policy may reasonably be deemed to promote public welfare.... With the wisdom of the policy adopted, . .. the courts are both incompetent and unauthorized to deal.” From that time, economic regulation, such as the measure we deal with today, has consistently been held to be an issue for the political process, not for the courts. Along with the noted jurisdictions, we are unwilling to turn our backs on this law. It is into this mainstream that we again steer our economic regulation jurisprudence.
We hold that the damages cap in MCL 257.401(3) is constitutional and does not violate plaintiffs rights to a jury trial, equal protection, or due process under the Michigan Constitution. Therefore, we affirm the decision of the Court of Appeals.
CORRIGAN, C.J., and YOUNG and MARKMAN, JJ., concurred with Taylor, J.
Const 1963, art 1, § 14.
Const 1963, art 1, § 2.
Const 1963, art 1, § 17.
Reed also was sued. A jury found her negligent; however, she is not a party to this appeal.
Const 1963, art 1, § 2.
Const 1963, art 1, § 17.
251 Mich App 586; 651 NW2d 437 (2002).
468 Mich 943 (2003).
Subsection 1 of the statute provides:
. This section shall not be construed to limit the right of a person to bring a civil action for damages for injuries to either person or property resulting from a violation of this act by the owner or operator of a motor vehicle or his or her agent or servant. The owner of a motor vehicle is liable for an injury caused by the negligent operation of the motor vehicle whether the negligence consists of a violation of a statute of this state or the ordinary care standard required by common law. The owner is not hable unless the motor vehicle is being driven with his or her express or implied consent or knowledge. It is presumed that the motor vehicle is being driven with the knowledge and consent of the owner if it is driven at the time of the injury by his or her spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, or other immediate member of the family [MCL 257.401(1).]
That this view is accurate seems incontrovertible when the scholarly Scott article is read, and it is reinforced by the most renowned commentator on the English common law in the eighteenth century, William Blackstone, who noted that the jurors “are judges of fact.” 3 Comm 361, reprinted in 5 Kurland & Lerner, The Pounder’s Constitution 345 (1986), and even Thomas Jefferson, who was famously no friend of government officials decimating the power of the common people: “. . . JURIES therefore... determine all matters of fact, leaving to the permanent judges to decide the law resulting from those facts.” Thomas Jefferson to the Abbé Arnoux, July 19,1789, reprinted in Kurland & Lerner, supra at 364. These ancient references concerning the status of the common law before Michigan’s statehood are significant because in our earliest Constitution, by way of the ordinances of 1787 for the government of the Northwest Territory, we adopted what was in essence the English common law in existence on that date. See In re Sanderson, 289 Mich 165, 174; 286 NW 198 (1939); In re Lamphere, 61 Mich 105, 108; 27 NW 882 (1886); Stout v Keyes, 2 Doug 184 (Mich, 1845).
See Etheridge v Med Ctr Hosps, 237 Va 87, 96; 376 SE2d 525 (1989), in which the Supreme Court of Virginia noted:
“The province of the jury is to settle questions of fact, and when the facts are ascertained the law determines the rights of the parties.” . . . Once the jury has ascertained the facts and assessed the damages, however, the constitutional mandate is satisfied. Thereafter, it is the duty of the court to apply the law to the facts. [Quoting WS Forbes & Co v Southern Cotton Oil Co, 130 Va 245, 260; 108 SE 15 (1921) (citations deleted).]
The United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit has reached the same conclusion: “[0]nce the jury has made its findings of fact with respect to damages, it has fulfilled its constitutional function; it may not also mandate compensation as a matter of law.” Boyd v Bulala, 877 F2d 1191,1196 (CA 4, 1989).
Statutes doubling or trebling damages include MCL 125.996, 230.7, 257.1336; statutes that set a minimum recoverable amount include MCL 14.309, 339.916, 445.257, 445.911, 550.1406; statutes that provide for adding costs, fees, interest or penalties to awards include MCL 35.462, 125.1449m; court-determined remittitur and additur is provided for in MCR 2.611(E); and postverdict reduction of awards to present value is permitted by MCL 600.6306(l)(c). “[T]he practice of awarding damages far in excess of actual compensation for quantifiable injuries was well recognized at the time the Framers [of the United States Constitution] produced the Eighth Amendment [relating to excessive bail, fines, or cruel or unusual punishment].” Browning-Ferns Ind of Vermont, Inc v Kelco Disposal, Inc, 492 US 257, 274; 109 S Ct 2909; 106 L Ed 2d 219 (1989).
Art 3, § 7 of the Michigan Constitution states:
The common law and the statute laws now in force, not repugnant to this constitution, shall remain in force until they expire by their own limitations, or are changed, amended or repealed.
We note that the Legislature has limited a plaintiffs ability to fully recover his assessed damages in other circumstances, such as where he is more than fifty percent at fault, MCL 600.2955a (constitutionality upheld in Wysocki v Kivi, 248 Mich App 346; 639 NW2d 572 [2001]) and 500.3135; if he was operating his own vehicle while uninsured, MCL 500.3135(2)(c); if a judgment in his favor was discharged in bankruptcy, MCL 600.2914; if his claim involves noneconomic damages in a products liability action, MCL 600.2946a (constitutionality upheld in Kenkel v Stanley Works, 256 Mich App 548; 665 NW2d 490 [2003]).
Lochner v New York, 198 US 45; 25 S Ct 539; 49 L Ed 937 (1905).
This case is taken as the signature case of this era, without doubt, because of the striking dissent of Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, in which, regarding economic regulation, he famously said:
This case is decided upon an economic theory which a large part of the country does not entertain. If it were a question whether I agreed with that theory I should desire to study it further and long before making up my mind. But I do not conceive that to be my duty, because I strongly believe that my agreement or disagreement has nothing to do with the right of a majority to embody their [sic] opinions in law. [Lochner v New York, 198 US 75 (Holmes, J., dissenting).] | [
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PER CURIAM.
Defendant, a federally licensed gun dealer, sold a pistol to an undercover sheriffs deputy licensed to purchase the firearm, under circumstances strongly indicating that the deputy was purchasing the firearm on behalf of an underage, unlicensed individual. As a result, the prosecutor charged defendant with violating MCL 750.223(1), a misdemeanor. That statute proscribes selling a pistol without complying with the licensing requirements set forth in MCL 28.422(5). The district court, concluding that defendant had complied with MCL 28.422(5), dismissed the charges against him, and the circuit court affirmed. The Court of Appeals, however, reversed and reinstated the charge on the basis that whether the deputy was purchasing the gun for himself or the unlicensed individual was a question of fact. Because the sale complied with MCL 28.422(5), we reverse the decision of the Court of Appeals.
i
An understanding of certain aspects of federal and state law regarding the sale of firearms and ammunition is helpful to properly analyze this case. A firearms dealer licensed by the United States Treasury, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under 18 USC 923(d)(1)(A), may sell firearms or ammunition only to a person twenty-one years of age or older, except that the dealer may sell a rifle or shotgun to a person eighteen years of age. 18 USC 922(b)(1). Thus, a federally licensed firearms dealer may legally sell shotguns and rifles to persons eighteen years of age or older, but may sell a pistol only to a person twenty-one years of age or older.
Michigan requires a prospective purchaser of a pistol to first obtain a license from the purchaser’s local law enforcement agency. MCL 28.422(3). An applicant is qualified to obtain a license to purchase a pistol if, among other things, he is at least eighteen. A purchaser must be at least twenty-one, however, for a federally licensed gun dealer to legally sell a pistol to that purchaser. MCL 28.422(3)(b).
Thus, under the federal and state statutory schemes, a licensed eighteen-year-old may legally purchase or receive as a gift a pistol from a private party, but may not purchase a gun from a federally licensed gun dealer.
n
Defendant is a federally licensed gun dealer who owns a gun shop in Detroit. On April 6, 1999, Wayne County Sheriffs Deputies Walter Epps and Roshunda Coming, working undercover with an eighteen-year-old civilian, Antonio Little, visited defendant’s shop. Little told defendant that he wanted to buy a handgun, and defendant asked Little if he was licensed to purchase a handgun. When Little replied that he was not, defendant told him that he could not sell him a gun without a license and that he had to be twenty-one to buy a handgun.
Epps then told defendant that he had a license to purchase a pistol and asked to look at several models that defendant had available for sale. Defendant showed Epps several pistols and discussed them with Little and Epps. Epps then asked about purchasing more than one gun, and defendant explained that Epps could legally purchase only one handgun in a five-day period, even if he had more than one license.
Epps eventually settled on a pistol he wanted to purchase and produced identification and his license to purchase the weapon. Epps, with defendant’s assistance, completed the required forms indicating that Epps was the buyer of the pistol. At that point, Little attempted to hand defendant the funds to pay for the gun. Defendant, however, refused the money, telling Little that Epps had to complete the sale. Little then gave the cash to Epps, who handed the money to defendant. Defendant then gave the gun to Epps.
hi
The prosecutor charged defendant with violating MCL 750.223(1), which proscribes selling a pistol without complying with the requirements of MCL 28.422(5). The prosecutor’s theory was that defendant actually sold the pistol to Little. Defendant moved to dismiss the charge on various grounds, including legal impossibility and entrapment. Following an evidentiary hearing, the district court granted the motion in part on the ground of legal impossibility and because, in the court’s view, the prosecutor had failed to establish that defendant had committed a crime. The court reasoned:
[DJefendant’s only obligation under the licensing statute was to complete the license form by including the signature of the seller, a description of the pistol sold and the date of sale. The license form in this case contained all of that information.
On appeal, the circuit court affirmed. A majority of the Court of Appeals reversed, holding that under these particular circumstances, a material question of fact existed regarding whether the pistol was actually “sold to” Little, and not to Epps. The Court opined that a jury could conclude that defendant knew Epps was using Little’s money to purchase the pistol and that Epps intended to give the pistol to Little. While the Court of Appeals disavowed adoption of the federal “straw man doctrine,” it cited cases relying on this federal doctrine in support of its reasoning. Those cases conclude that it is a jury determination whether a defendant violates 28 USC 922(b)(3), which prohibits the sale of handguns to residents of a different state than that of a federally licensed seller, by engaging in sham sales to residents.
Defendant seeks leave to appeal in this Court.
IV
We review de novo issues of statutory interpretation. People v Carlson, 466 Mich 130, 136; 644 NW2d 704 (2002); People v Krueger, 466 Mich 50, 53; 643 NW2d 223 (2002). If the language of a statute is clear and unambiguous, as it is here, the Legislature is presumed to have intended the meaning plainly expressed, and judicial construction is neither necessary nor permitted. In such cases, the statute is enforced as written. In re MCI, 460 Mich 396, 411; 596 NW2d 164 (1999).
v
MCL 28.422 governs the purchase, carrying, and transporting of pistols in Michigan and requires a purchaser of a pistol to obtain a license for that purchase from a local law enforcement agency. MCL 28.422(1), (3). MCL 28.422(5) further provides:
Upon the sale of the pistol, the seller shall fill out the license forms describing the pistol sold, together with the date of sale, and sign his or her name in ink indicating that the pistol was sold to the licensee. The licensee shall also sign his or her name in ink indicating the purchase of the pistol from the seller. The seller may retain a copy of the license as a record of the sale of the pistol. The licensee shall return 2 copies of the license to the licensing authority within 10 days following the purchase of the pistol.
At the time of the facts giving rise to this case, MCL 28.421(d) defined “seller” as a person who “sells, furnishes, loans, or gives a pistol to another person.” In addition, MCL 28.421(c) defined “purchaser” as one “who receives a pistol from another person by purchase, gift, or loan.” A person who “knowingly sells” a pistol without complying with MCL 28.422 is guilty of a misdemeanor. MCL 750.223(1).
In this case, there is no dispute that defendant was the seller or that Epps, having a license to purchase the pistol, selected the pistol and handed defendant the money to pay for it. Moreover, Epps filled out the required forms indicating that he was the buyer of the pistol. Because defendant complied with the plain and unambiguous language of the statute, he committed no crime. We decline to adopt the straw-man/sham transaction doctrine that federal courts apply when construing federal statutes because our statute allows no such latitude. Because defendant complied with the requirements of MCL 28.422(5), he cannot be held to have violated the statute.
vi
Defendant fully complied with the licensing requirements of MCL 28.422(5). Therefore, he did not violate MCL 750.223(1). Accordingly, we reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and reinstate the judgment of the circuit court affirming dismissal. MCR 7.302(F)(1).
Corrigan, C.J., and Taylor, Young, and Markman, JJ., concurred.
CAVANAGH and KELLY, JJ., would not dispose of this case by opinion per curiam, but would grant leave to appeal.
The doctrine of legal impossibility is irrelevant here where defendant is charged with a completed offense. See People v Thousand, 465 Mich 149, 156-157; 631 NW2d 694 (2001).
258 Mich App 25; 669 NW2d 583 (2003).
United States v Brooks, 611 F2d 614 (CA 5,1980), overruled on other grounds sub nom United States v Henry, 749 F2d 203, 206 and n 2 (CA 5, 1984), and United States v Straach, 987 F2d 232, 240 n 9 (CA 5, 1993).
The dissenting Court of Appeals judge concluded that defendant had not violated MCL 28.422(5).
The Legislature has since amended MCL 28.421, but the amendments do not affect the disposition of this case.
The fact that Epps may have ostensibly intended to transfer the pistol to Little is of no consequence because Little could have legally received the pistol as a gift or by purchase if he obtained a proper license. MCL 28.422(3)(b). | [
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PER CURIAM.
Plaintiffs sought to divide their property in Grant Township, but the defendant township denied approval of the request pursuant to the Land Division Act (LDA), MCL 560.101 et seq. The circuit court upheld the township’s decision and awarded summary disposition for defendant. The Court of Appeals reversed. 255 Mich App 466; 660 NW2d 380 (2003). We reverse the Court of Appeals decision and reinstate the Newaygo Circuit Court judgment.
i
The LDA regulates the division of land by imposing platting (that is, mapping or charting) requirements and other building and assessment requirements. This case concerns “division” rights, a statutory concept found in the LDA, which limits the ability of a landowner to split or partition real property without complying with the platting process. “Divisions” of parcels that meet certain criteria are exempt from statutory platting requirements and must be approved by a municipality. MCL 560.109(1). The present case involves two adjacent “parent” parcels that were reconfigured when a portion of one was sold to the owner of the other. The question is whether the reconfiguration resulted in an increase in the total number of possible divisions that could be made in the area encompassed by the two original parent parcels without complying with statutory platting requirements.
The facts are not in dispute. They are taken from the trial court opinion, on which the Court of Appeals also relied.
Before July 15, 1999, plaintiffs Jeffrey and Susan Sotelo owned a 2.35-acre parcel of land that was adjacent to, and immediately north of, a 7.63-acre parcel owned by Robert Filut. On July 15, 1999, Filut conveyed 3.25 acres of his property to the Sotelos, making the Sotelo parcel 5.6 acres and the Filut parcel 4.38 acres. No division rights were transferred with this conveyance. By deeds dated July 15, 1999, the remaining 4.38-acre parcel of the Filut property was divided into four parcels, each larger than one acre. Filut conveyed these four parcels to two trusts, which are owned by plaintiffs Walter and Phyllis Vander Wall. By deeds dated August 10, 1999, the 5.6-acre Sotelo property was then divided, also into four parcels, each larger than one acre. All the divisions were made without the township approval required by MCL 560.109.
When they were informed that they were in violation of the LDA, the plaintiff owners requested the defendant township to approve the divisions. After extensive review, however, the request was denied by a resolution passed on July 27, 2000. The township concluded that the number of divisions exceeded the number allowed under the LDA.
Plaintiffs initiated suit to compel approval of all the land divisions. While the action was pending, the parties agreed that the transfer of the 3.25 acres from Filut to the Sotelos and the four divisions of the reconfigured Filut parcel were consistent with the LDA and township ordinances. Thus, the only remaining issue became the legality of the divisions of the reconfigured Sotelo parcel.
The Newaygo Circuit Court granted summary disposition to the township, finding that the number of plaintiffs’ divisions exceeded the number available under the LDA. The circuit court held in part:
The Filut parcel and the Sotelo parcel, as they existed on March 31, 1997, are parent parcels. The transfer of land from the Filut parcel to the Sotelo parcel on July 15,1999, did not count against the potential divisions available to the Filut parcel under Section 108 of the LDA;[ ] but, this transfer did not change the boundary lines of the parent parcels for purposes of determining the number of divisions available under the LDA. The division of the Filut parcel into four separate parcels equaled, but did not exceed, all divisions available to the Filut parent parcel. The divisions from the reconfigured Sotelo parcel on August 10, 1999, violated the LDA, because some of the divisions were made within the Filut parent parcel and the divisions available to this parcel had been exhausted.
Therefore, the court agreed with the township and found that plaintiffs were required to comply with the platting provisions of the LDA in making the four-parcel split of the reconfigured Sotelo parcel.
In a published opinion, the Court of Appeals reversed the trial court’s grant of summary disposition for the township. It held first that “the LDA is in derogation of the common-law right to freely alienate real property” and that, therefore, the act should be “strictly and narrowly construed.” 255 Mich App 471. It concluded that the division of the Sotelo parcel into four separate parcels satisfied the requirements of § 108 and that the township was required to approve the divisions under § 109(1). 255 Mich App 474.
Defendant Grant Township now seeks leave to appeal in this Court.
ii
This case concerns the proper interpretation of the LDA and the trial court’s grant of summary disposition for the defendant township. Issues of statutory interpretation are questions of law, which this Court reviews de novo. Wood v Auto-Owners Ins Co, 469 Mich 401, 403; 668 NW2d 353 (2003). Our obligation in construing the provisions of the LDA is to discern the legislative intent that may reasonably be inferred from the words expressed in the statute by according those words their plain and ordinary meaning. MCL 8.3a; Veenstra v Washtenaw Country Club, 466 Mich 155, 159-160; 645 NW2d 643 (2002).
Decisions regarding summary disposition motions are also reviewed de novo. First Pub Corp v Parfet, 468 Mich 101, 104; 658 NW2d 477 (2003).
hi
We conclude that under the plain language of the LDA, the division of the reconfigured Sotelo parcel resulted in a number of divisions to the parent parcel that exceeded the number of divisions permitted, and that plaintiffs were therefore required to comply with the LDA’s platting provisions.
Under § 103(1), if a partitioning or splitting of a parcel qualifies as a “division,” it “is not subject to the platting requirements of this act but subject to the requirements of sections 108 and 109.” Section 108(2) exempts a certain number of divisions from the platting requirements of the act. Section 108 provides in part:
A division is not subject to the platting requirements of this act.... [T]he division, together with any previous divisions of the same parent parcel or parent tract, shall result in a number of parcels not more than the sum of the following, as applicable:
(a) For the first 10 acres or fraction thereof in the parent parcel or parent tract, 4 parcels. [Emphasis added.]
A “parent parcel” or “parent tract” is defined as “a parcel or tract. . . lawfully in existence on the effective date of the amendatory act that added this subdivision.” MCL 560.102(i). The effective date of the 1996 amendment that added that subsection, 1996 PA 591, was March 31, 1997. Thus, under the LDA, a parent parcel that was in existence on March 31, 1997, and is less than ten acres in size, cannot be divided into more than four total parcels. MCL 560.108(2)(a).
On March 31,1997, the Sotelo parent parcel was 2.35 acres and the Filut parent parcel was 7.63 acres. Accordingly, under § 108(2)(a), the two parent parcels could not be divided into more than six resulting parcels. Part of the Filut parent parcel (3.25 acres) became part of the “reconfigured” Sotelo parcel. The parties correctly assume that the first transfer of property—the conveyance of the 3.25 acres from Filut to the Sotelos—was not a “division,” “exempt split,” or “subdivision,” as those terms are defined in the LDA, because it was a transfer to an adjacent piece of property, MCL 560.102(d),(e), and (f). Therefore, it does not count as a division when evaluating Filut’s subsequent four-parcel partitioning. Because Filut did not transfer to the Sotelos the right to make any of his four divisions, his subsequent four-parcel splitting was within his limit under the LDA. MCL 560.108(2)(a).
The reconfigured Sotelo parcel could not be divided into four parcels, however, because it included a portion of the original Filut parent parcel, which had already reached its maximum potential divisions. The Sotelo parent parcel, because it had not previously been divided, was not in violation of the LDA. But the Filut parent parcel, a portion of which was now part of the reconstituted Sotelo parcel, had already been divided four times. Therefore, its further division (as part of the Sotelo reconstituted parcel) violated § 108(2)(a). No portion of the Filut parent parcel (including the portion that was conveyed to the Sotelos) could be divided again until at least ten years expired, MCL 560.108(5)(a), without complying with the platting requirements of the LDA. Therefore, the trial court did not err when it granted summary disposition to defendant on this basis.
In contrast, the Court of Appeals’ interpretation of the LDA does not comport with the language of the act. First, the Court ignored the requirements of § 108(2). Although the panel correctly observed that a “division” is, in part, “ ‘the partitioning or splitting of a parcel or tract of land by the proprietor .. . that results in 1 or more parcels of less than 40 acres ...,’” 255 Mich App 471, quoting MCL 560.102(d), it erred in interpreting the phrase “same parent parcel or parent tract” in § 108(2)(a) as referring to the reconfigured Sotelo property rather than to the parent parcels that existed on March 31, 1997. Section 108(2) specifically includes “any previous divisions of the same parent parcel” in the calculation of the number of allowable divisions. With respect to the portion of the resulting Sotelo property that came from Filut, the “same parent parcel” was the Filut parent parcel.
Second, the Court of Appeals misconstrued § 102(d), which states in part that, in order to “be considered a building site,” a parcel that results from a transfer between two adjacent parcels must conform to the requirements of the LDA or an applicable local ordinance. The Court of Appeals reasoned that this rule implies that the LDA allows for the development of a parcel created by transferring adjoining property if the LDA and local ordinances are satisfied. On the basis of this provision, the panel broadly concluded that the enlarged Sotelo parcel that resulted from the transfer from the adjacent Filut parcel was a proper building site and that the “parcels into which it was divided conformed to the LDA and applicable local ordinances.” 255 Mich App 472. In contrast to the panel’s conclusion, this portion of the statute merely states that the parcel that results from an adjacent-parcel transfer must meet minimum local regulations (i.e., for lot size), or, if there is no local government regulation, then whatever requirements are imposed under the LDA. See MCL 560.109(l)(b) and (5). It does not state that any transfer of property to an adjacent parcel is permissible as long as it results in buildable lots. Because the division of the reconfigured Sotelo parcel resulted in a number of divisions to the parent parcel that exceeded the number of divisions permitted under § 108(a) of the LDA, plaintiffs were required to comply with the LDA’s platting provisions.
IV
We hold that the circuit court properly considered the Filut and Sotelo parent parcels—as they existed on March 31,1997—when it concluded that the four-parcel splitting of the reconfigured Sotelo parcel was required to comply with the platting provisions of the LDA. The Court of Appeals erred in reversing the trial court’s grant of summary disposition for the township. Therefore, we reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and reinstate the judgment of the Newaygo Circuit Court. MCL 7.302(G)(1).
Corrigan, C.J., and Weaver Taylor Young, and MARKMAN, JJ., concurred.
CAVANAGH and KELLY, JJ., would not dispose of this case by opinion per curiam, but would grant leave to appeal.
See, e.g., MCL 560.102(a); 560.132 to 560.198.
“Division” is defined by the LDA as
the partitioning or splitting of a parcel or tract of land by the proprietor thereof or by his or her heirs, executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors, or assigns for the purpose of sale, or lease of more than 1 year, or of building development that results in 1 or more parcels of less than 40 acres or the equivalent, and that satisfies the requirements of [MCL 560.108, 560.109]. Division does not include a property transfer between 2 or more adjacent parcels, if the property taken from 1 parcel is added to an adjacent parcel; and any resulting parcel shall not be considered a building site unless the parcel conforms to the requirements of this act or the requirements of an applicable local ordinance. [MCL 560.102(d).]
Section 109(1) (d) of the LDA requires parcels that result from a division to conform to local ordinance lot-size mínimums. The size of the divided parcels was an apparent attempt to comply with the Grant Township ordinance, which required that parcels be no smaller than one acre.
The trial court mistakenly reported that the transfer from Filut to the Sotelos was an “exempt split” under the lda. Pursuant to MCL 560.102(e), an “exempt split” is “the partitioning or splitting of a parcel or tract of land ... that does not result in 1 or more parcels of less than 40 acres or the equivalent.” (Emphasis added.) Because the transfer did result in parcels of less than 40 acres, it was not an “exempt split.” The trial court nevertheless reached the correct conclusion that the transfer was also not a “division” and therefore did not count against the number of divisions available to the parent parcel. See MCL 560.102(d) (“Division does not include a property transfer between 2 or more adjacent parcels, if the property taken from 1 parcel is added to an adjacent parcel.”).
We grant the motion of the Michigan Department of Consumer and Industry Services to file a brief amicus curiae in support of defendant’s application.
Under § 109(2), Filut could have transferred one or more of his division rights to the Sotelos, but he did not. | [
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MARKMAN, J.
Plaintiff, a white police officer, alleges that defendant violated the Michigan Civil Rights Act, MCL 37.2202(l)(a), when it promoted a black officer, rather than plaintiff, to the supervisory position of police sergeant on the basis of race. The issue is whether such a claim of “reverse discrimination” must satisfy standards different from those required of other claims of discrimination. Having granted leave to appeal and heard argument, this Court concludes as follows:
(1) MCL 37.2202(l)(a) provides that “[a]n employer shall not. . . discriminate against an individual with respect to employment.. . because of. .. race ... .”
(2) MCL 37.2202(l)(a) draws no distinctions between “individual” plaintiffs on account of race.
(3) The Court of Appeals, in reliance on Allen v Comprehensive Health Services, 222 Mich App 426, 429-433; 564 NW2d 914 (1997), held that a “majority” plaintiff in a “reverse discrimination” case, in order to make a prima facie showing, must, in addition to satisfying the obligations of “minority” plaintiffs in discrimination cases, also present “background circumstances supporting the suspicion that the defendant is that unusual employer who discriminates against the majority .. . .”
(4) Allen draws a distinction between plaintiffs on account of race under MCL 37.2202(l)(a), and is thus inconsistent with our Civil Rights Act. Therefore, Adíen is overruled.
In response to Justice CAVANAGH’s dissent, we observe that this opinion is short, not because we disagree with the dissent concerning the significance of this issue, but because Allen is so clearly contrary to the language of Michigan’s Civil Rights Act. We are uncertain how many pages the dissent believes are required to explain that “individual” means “individual.” Further, we note that in its much longer opinion, the dissent, unlike the majority, never actually bothers to decide the issue before this Court-whether Allen’s “background circumstances” standard is consistent with Michigan’s Civil Rights Act.
Accordingly, we reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and remand this case to the circuit court for further proceedings consistent with this opinion.
Corrigan, C.J., and Weaver Taylor, and Young, JJ., concurred with MARKMAN, J.
On the basis of scores on written and oral examinations and seniority, plaintiff was rated second among the top five eligible officers and the black officer, who was promoted, was rated fifth. Pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement, the city was permitted to select any one of the top five scoring candidates.
Unpublished opinion per curiam, issued July 9, 2002, p 2 (Docket No. 227874).
While Allen involved a gender discrimination, rather than a race discrimination, claim, it held broadly that “reverse discrimination” plaintiffs under the Civil Rights Act must satisfy the “background circumstances” standard.
Because we overrule Allen, it is unnecessary to address the additional question posed by this Court’s grant order, i.e., whether Allen’s “background circumstances” standard is consistent with the equal protection clauses of the Michigan Constitution, Const 1963, art 1, § 2 (“No person shall be ... discriminated against. .. because of.. . race ....”) and the United States Constitution, Am XIX § 1 (“[N]or shall any State ... deny to any person .. . the equal protection of the laws.”). That is, because we conclude that applying different standards to different racial groups in order to determine whether discrimination has been established violates the Michigan Civil Rights Act, we need not determine whether applying different racial standards also violates the equal protection clauses.
In response to Justice Kelly’s dissent, we note that we are not concluding that plaintiff did or did not establish a prima facie case of discrimination; rather, we are simply concluding that the trial court applied the wrong standard in determining whether plaintiff established a prima facie case of discrimination. | [
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CORRIGAN, C.J.
We granted leave to appeal to determine whether the trial court’s denial of defendant’s request to read his preliminary examination transcript during a waiver-of-counsel proceeding violated the requirements of People v Anderson, 398 Mich 361; 247 NW2d 857 (1976), and MCR 6.005(D). The Court of Appeals held that the trial court’s waiver proceeding did not comply with the requirements of Anderson and reversed defendant’s conviction on that basis. We hold that the trial court did not abuse its discretion in denying defendant’s request and that defendant’s waiver of counsel was. unequivocal, knowing, and voluntary. Accordingly, we reverse the Court of Appeals decision and remand for consideration of defendant’s remaining claims.
I. FACTS AND PROCEEDINGS
Defendant was charged with first-degree felony murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony (felony firearm), and armed robbery. The trial court appointed counsel for defendant, but following defendant’s preliminary examination, counsel withdrew because of a breakdown in the attorney-client relationship. The trial court provided defendant with a replacement court-appointed attorney.
During the prosecutor’s case-in-chief, defendant became unhappy with his attorney’s cross-examination of two prosecution witnesses. Defendant informed the court that he wished to represent himself:
I do not wish to adjourn the proceeding, because I know this has been going on all along. But I would like to represent myself, in proper person....
[O]nly if this Court would agree orally, and a written consent, please, that [two prosecution witnesses] may be brought back to court, and allow me to recross-examine [them].
The trial court explained to defendant the risks he faced in defending himself, including defendant’s lack of familiarity with the Michigan rules of criminal procedure. Defendant answered that he understood the risks involved. He stated that he wished to “confront [his accusers] and question them” as was his “right by the United States Constitution.”
The trial court again asked defendant whether he wished to represent himself; again, defendant answered, “Yes, ma’am.” The trial court advised defendant that he would not later be permitted to appeal a conviction on the basis of his own ineffective assistance of counsel. Defendant answered, “Yes I read that.”
The trial court then asked defendant, “Are you making this request knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily?” Defendant answered, “Yes, ma’am.” The trial court informed defendant that he would not be permitted to disrupt the courtroom, and that if he did, his attorney would be brought back to represent defendant. Defendant answered, “Yes ma’am. I would not disrespect this Court, or do anything that’s unconduct of a gentleman [sic].”
The trial court then advised defendant of the sentence he would face if convicted. Defendant said that he understood. Defendant again stated that he wished to reexamine two excused prosecution witnesses:
The Defendant: Ma’am, is it also on the record, and it will probably be written down, that I will have an opportunity to recross-examine the prosecution’s first two witnesses ....
The Court: No, we’re not bringing in those other witnesses, we’re continuing with the trial. It’s the Court’s opinion that you had proper representation.... You can still have [your court-appointed attorney] if you want, or you can continue and represent yourself, but you are taking serious risks. ... Do you understand that?
Defendant insisted that at his preliminary examination one of the prosecution’s witnesses had testified that he was “only fifty percent sure” that defendant was the perpetrator. Defendant was dissatisfied with his attorney because he did not cross-examine the witness on this alleged testimony. The prosecutor objected to defendant’s characterization of the witness’s testimony:
And there is nothing in that exam transcript [preliminary examination] that indicates that [the witness is] only fifty percent sure. What [defendant’s saying he’s taking out of context. And if [defendant] reads the whole thing, I think he’ll understand why [defendant’s attorney] didn’t elaborate with further questioning of the witness.
Defendant requested time to read the written preliminary examination testimony. The trial court denied defendant’s request:
No. I’m going to ask you one more time. Do you want to represent yourself? Because we’re bringing in the jury.
The Defendant: Your Honor, with all due respect....
The Court: I asked you one question.
The Court-. Answer my question.
The Defendant: Yes, ma’am.
The Court-. All right. Let’s bring in the jury.
The trial court once again informed defendant that if he disrupted the proceedings, his court-appointed attorney would be brought back to represent him. Defendant stated that he understood.
Defendant’s court-appointed attorney remained as standby counsel. He advised defendant throughout the trial, took part in sidebar discussions, helped defendant prepare his closing argument, and argued to the court regarding jury instructions and the form of the verdict.
Defendant was ultimately convicted and appealed by right. In a split decision, the Court of Appeals reversed defendant’s conviction and remanded for a new trial. The majority held that defendant’s waiver of counsel was not unequivocal because defendant might not have elected self-representation had the trial court allowed him to read the preliminary examination transcript. The majority opined:
[The trial court’s] cursory handling of defendant’s request violated defendant’s right to have the proceeding conducted so as to ensure “that he knows what he is doing- and his choice is made with eyes open.” [Slip Op. at 1 (citations omitted).]
The Court of Appeals dissent would have held that the trial court’s denial of defendant’s request to read the preliminary examination transcript occurred after the court had already concluded the waiver of counsel procedure, and related solely to how the trial would proceed from that point forward.
II. STANDARD OF REVIEW
The inquiry regarding waivers of Sixth Amendment rights mirrors the inquiry of whether a defendant has validly waived his Fifth Amendment rights: In each instance, the question is whether the defendant gave a knowing, intelligent, and voluntary waiver. See Patterson v Illinois, 487 US 285, 297-298; 108 S Ct 2389; 101 L Ed 2d 261 (1988) (waiver of Sixth Amendment rights is not more difficult to effectuate than waiver of Fifth Amendment rights).
Accordingly, we adopt the standard of review that has been used for trial court decisions regarding waivers of Fifth Amendment rights, finding it equally applicable to decisions regarding waivers of Sixth Amendment rights:
“Although engaging in a de novo review of the entire record.. . , this Court does not disturb a trial court’s factual findings regarding a knowing and intelligent waiver of [Sixth Amendment] rights ‘unless that ruling is found to be clearly erroneous.’ [People v Burrell, 417 Mich 439, 448; 339 NW2d 403 (1983).] Credibility is crucial in determining a defendant’s level of comprehension, and the trial judge is in the best position to make this assessment.”
Although we review for clear error the trial court’s factual findings regarding a defendant’s knowing and intelligent waiver of [Sixth Amendment] rights,... the meaning of “knowing and intelligent” is a question of law. We review questions of law de novo. [People v Daoud, 462 Mich 621, 629-630; 614 NW2d 152 (2000), quoting People v Cheatham, 453 Mich 1, 30; 551 NW2d 335 (1996).]
Thus, the reviewing court is not free to simply substitute its view for that of the trial court, but must be careful to respect the trial court’s role in determining factual issues and issues of credibility.
III. DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
A. THE SIXTH AMENDMENT AND THE RIGHT TO SELF-REPRESENTATION
The Sixth Amendment safeguards the right to counsel at all critical stages of the criminal process for an accused who faces incarceration. Maine v Moulton, 474 US 159, 170; 106 S Ct 477; 88 L Ed 2d 481 (1985). The Sixth Amendment right to counsel is applicable to the states through the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. Gideon v Wainwright, 372 US 335; 83 S Ct 792; 9 L Ed 2d 799 (1963). The United States Supreme Court has stated that courts should “ ‘indulge every reasonable presumption against waiver of fundamental constitutional rights.’ ” Johnson v Zerbst, 304 US 458, 464; 58 S Ct 1019; 82 L Ed 1461 (1938), quoting Aetna Ins Co v Kennedy, 301 US 389, 393; 57 S Ct 809; 81 L Ed 1177 (1937).
The United States Constitution does not, however, force a lawyer upon a defendant; a criminal defendant may choose to waive representation and represent himself. Iowa v Tovar, 541 US_; 124 S Ct 1379, 1387; 158 L Ed 2d 209 (2004). “Waiver of the right to counsel.. . must be a ‘knowing, intelligent ac[t] done with sufficient awareness of the relevant circumstances.’ ” Id. at 1383, quoting Brady v United States, 397 US 742, 748; 90 S Ct 1463; 25 L Ed 2d 747 (1970). A waiver is sufficient if the defendant “knows what he is doing and his choice is made with eyes open.” Adams v United States ex rel McCann, 317 US 269, 279; 63 S Ct 236; 87 L Ed 268 (1942); Godinez v Moran, 509 US 389, 401 n 12; 113 S Ct 2680; 125 L Ed 2d 321 (1993).
B. THE RIGHT TO COUNSEL UNDER MICHIGAN LAW
The right of self-representation under Michigan law is secured by Const 1963, art 1, § 13 and by statute, MCL 763.1. In Anderson, supra at 367-368, this Court held that a trial court must make three findings before granting a defendant’s waiver request. First, the waiver request must be unequivocal. Second, the trial court must be satisfied that the waiver is knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily made. To this end, the trial court should inform the defendant of potential risks. Third, the trial court must be satisfied that the defendant will not disrupt, unduly inconvenience, and burden the court or the administration of court business.
Consistent with Anderson, MCR 6.005(D)(1) governs procedures concerning.a defendant’s waiver of the right to an attorney. It prohibits a court from granting a defendant’s waiver request without first minimum sentence required by law, and the risk involved in self-representation .... [MCR 6.005(D)(1).]
advising the defendant of the charge, the maximum possible prison sentence for the offense, any mandatory
C. APPLICATION
1. DEFENDANT’S WAIVER WAS UNEQUIVOCAL
Initially, defendant conditioned his waiver of the right to counsel on the trial court’s granting of his request to recall for cross-examination two excused witnesses. A defendant who elects to proceed in propria persona after proceedings are underway, however, is not entitled to retry the case. The decision whether to recall a witness is left to the sound discretion of the trial court. MRE 611(a); People v Fedderson, 327 Mich 213, 220; 41 NW2d 527 (1950); Potts v Shepard Marine Constr Co, 151 Mich App 19, 26; 391 NW2d 357 (1986).
In this case, during the waiver of counsel proceeding, the trial court explicitly informed defendant that he would not be permitted to recall any excused witnesses. The court told him, “No, we’re not bringing in those other witnesses, we’re continuing with the trial.” The court had previously and repeatedly asked defendant if he still wished to represent himself given this ruling. Defendant unequivocally answered, “Yes, ma’am.”
We believe the record reflects that the trial court exercised admirable patience in dealing with a defendant who wished to represent himself according to his own rules. The court advised defendant very clearly that he would not be permitted to recall the excused witnesses, regardless of what they had said during their preliminary examination testimony.
The dissent may well be correct that defendant was “listening” without “hearing” what the court was saying. Post at 657. Defendant’s subjective under standing, however, can only be gleaned by reference to what he said on the record. The record shows that after the court ruled that his insistence on being allowed to recall excused witnesses would not be indulged, defendant answered affirmatively that he, nevertheless, wished to invoke his right of self-representation. Defendant’s unrealistic “hopes of introducing evidence” in contravention of the court’s explicit ruling do not render invalid defendant’s unequivocal invocation of his right to self-representation. Post at 658.
The Court of Appeals misread the colloquy between the trial court and defendant. The record reveals that defendant was dissatisfied with the trial court’s ruling that he could not recall an excused witness. Defendant argued with that ruling by claiming his attorney did not adequately cross-examine the excused witness on the basis of the witness’s preliminary examination testimony. Whatever was contained in the preliminary examination transcript, however, was irrelevant at that point because the trial court had already ruled that the witnesses could not be recalled by defendant. The trial court was not required to permit defendant to read transcript testimony when the content was immaterial and the jury was assembled and waiting. Therefore, the Court of Appeals incorrectly held that the trial court erred in refusing to honor defendant’s request to read the preliminary examination transcript. The requirement under Anderson that a defendant unequivocally assert his right to waive counsel was therefore satisfied in this case.
2. DEFENDANT’S WAIVER WAS KNOWING, INTELLIGENT, AND VOLUNTARY
As indicated from the portions of the record quoted above, the trial court methodically complied with the remainder of the requirements of Anderson. Defendant was fully apprised of the risks he faced by choosing to represent himself and he knowingly and voluntarily chose to accept them. He may not now be heard to complain about his choice. In Adkins, supra at 725, we quoted with approval language ultimately from People v Morton, 175 Mich App 1, 8-9; 437 NW2d 284 (1989), that applies equally here:
“ ‘To permit a defendant in a criminal case to indulge in the charade of insisting on a right to act as his own attorney and then on appeal to use the very permission to defend himself in pro per as a basis for reversal of conviction and a grant of another trial is to make a mockeiy of the criminal justice system and the constitutional rights sought to be protected.’ ”
The trial court determined on the record that defendant’s motion to proceed in propria persona was made knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily. The trial court complied with the Anderson requirements.
3. MCR 6.005 REQUIREMENTS WERE SATISFIED
Contrary to the dissent, we believe the trial court followed the letter, and not just the spirit, of MCR 6.005(D). The trial court advised defendant of “the charge, the maximum possible prison sentence for the offense, [and] any mandatory minimum sentence required by law”:
The Court: And let me first inform you, then, and I have to do this on the record, what the max—the minimum and maximum sentences are, so that if you are found guilty, you know what’s ahead of you. For the homicide felony murder, the maximum is life. For the armed robbery, the sentence is life or any term of years, unless aggravated assault or serious injury is involved, and then it’s not less than two years. And for the felony firearm, that’s two years, which would be... in addition to, and preceding, before, any term of imprisonment imposed for the felony or attempted felony conviction. Do you understand all that?
The Defendant: Yes, ma’am.
The Court: Mr. Williams, I want you to fully understand that if you are found guilty of homicide felony murder which alleges that you did, while in the perpetration attempted perpetration of a robbery, murder one Jerry Jones, that is a mandatory life sentence. Life is the minimum and life is the maximum. Do you understand that?
The Defendant: Yes, ma’am.
The court further explicitly complied with MCR 6.005(D)(1) by advising defendant of “the risk involved in self-representation”:
The Court: Now, sir, as I mentioned before, there are great risks that you are taking on in representing yourself.
Do you understand that?
The Defendant: Well, your Honor. I know ya’ all could possibly get me smother attorney, but it would be another court-appointed attorney.
The Court: No, that’s not an option. We’re in the middle of trial.
The Defendant: Well, good.
The trial court complied with the requirement of MCR 6.005(D)(2) by providing defendant his court-appointed attorney as an advisor:
The Court: He’s going to be here during the trial so that you can ask him any questions and he can give you any counsel that you might need.
The Defendant: Thank you, your Honor.
The record reflects that the trial court conscientiously complied with every requirement of MCR 6.005(D), exceeding the “substantial compliance” re quired under Adkins, supra at 706. We do not agree with the dissent that 6.005(D) requires that a court “indicate whether it believe[s] defendant’s request [is] contingent on other factors.” Post at 657. The trial court satisfied all of the waiver-of-counsel procedure required under MCR 6.005(D) and did not err in granting defendant’s request to waive counsel and allowing defendant to proceed in propria persona.
IV CONCLUSION
Although defendant appeared to condition his initial waiver of counsel on the trial court’s agreement to allow him to recall and cross-examine two excused witnesses, he subsequently made an intelligent, knowing, and voluntary waiver of his right to counsel after the trial court rejected defendant’s request to recall and cross-examine the witnesses. Defendant is not entitled to a new trial. We reverse the Court of Appeals decision and remand to the Court of Appeals to consider defendant’s remaining claims.
Weaver, Taylor, Young, and Markman, JJ., concurred with Corrigan, C. J.
468 Mich 945 (2003).
Unpublished opinion per curiam, issued February 28, 2003 (Docket No. 232827).
MCL 750.316(l)(b).
MCL 750.227b.
MCL 750.529.
The trial court vacated defendant’s conviction for armed robbery on a double jeopardy ground.
To clarify, to the extent that People v Adkins (After Remand), 452 Mich 702, 721 n 16; 551 NW2d 108 (1996), can he read to say that trial court decisions regarding Sixth Amendment waivers are only reviewed for abuse of discretion, it is erroneous. We believe the correct standard is that set forth above.
“A suitor in any court of this state has the right to prosecute or defend his suit, either in his own proper person or by an attorney.”
“On the trial of every indictment or other criminal accusation, the party accused shall be allowed to be heard by counsel and may defend himself, and he shall have a right to produce witnesses and proofs in his favor, and meet the witnesses who are produced against him face to face.” | [
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CORRIGAN, C.J.
This case arises from an injury that plaintiff Sandra Fultz sustained when she slipped and fell on an icy parking lot owned by defendant Comm-Co Equities (Comm-Co). We reverse the Court of Appeals decision holding a snow removal contractor, defendant Creative Maintenance Limited (CML), responsible for plaintiffs injury on the basis of its alleged failure to plow or salt the parking lot. The injured plaintiff has no cause of action against CML because it breached no duty owed to plaintiff. The injured plaintiffs husband filed a loss of consortium claim. Because this claim is derivative of her cause of action, this claim necessarily fails as well. Plaintiffs remedy lies solely against the premises owner. The threshold question for negligence claims brought against a contractor on the basis of a maintenance contract between a 'premises owner and that contractor is whether the contractor breached a duty separate and distinct from those assumed under the contract. Because the contractor in this case, CML, owed no duty to plaintiff, her claim fails. The Court of Appeals thus erred in affirming the jury verdict for plaintiff. Accordingly, we reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals.
I. FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY
Plaintiff fell and injured her ankle while walking across defendant Comm-Co’s snow- and ice-covered parking lot. Defendant CML had previously entered an oral contract with defendant Comm-Co to provide snow and salt services for the lot. At the time plaintiff fell, CML had not plowed the lot in approximately fourteen hours and had not salted the parking lot.
Plaintiff sued Comm-Co and CML for negligence. The trial court entered a default judgment against defendant Comm-Co, which is not a party to this appeal. The jury found no breach of the oral contract between defendants CML and Comm-Co, but awarded plaintiff compensatory damages after finding that defendant CML had been negligent by failing to perform under the contract and that CML’s negligence was the proximate cause of plaintiffs injuries.
The Court of Appeals affirmed the jury’s verdict. It held that Osman v Summer Green Lawn Care, Inc, 209 Mich App 703; 532 NW2d 186 (1995), compelled the conclusion that defendant CML owed a common-law duty to provide the contracted snow removal service in a reasonable manner. The Court of Appeals further concluded that CML breached this duty by failing to perform its contractual obligation.
We granted defendant CML’s application for leave to appeal limited to two issues: (1) whether plaintiff can establish a duty owed her arising from a contract to which she was not a party and (2) whether a landowner’s defenses are available to a contractor acting for the landowner. 468 Mich 882 (2003).
We need not reach the second question regarding defenses because we hold, as a matter of law, that defendant owed no contractual or common-law duty to plaintiff to plow or salt the parking lot.
II. STANDARD OF REVIEW
Whether defendant CML owed a duty to plaintiff is a question of law. We review de novo questions of law. Byker v Mannes, 465 Mich 637, 643; 641 NW2d 210 (2002).
III. DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
It is well-established that a prima facie case of negligence requires a plaintiff to prove four elements: duty, breach of that duty, causation, and damages. Case v Consumers Power Co, 463 Mich 1, 6; 615 NW2d 17 (2000); Riddle v McLouth Steel Products Corp, 440 Mich 85, 96 n 10; 485 NW2d 676 (1992). The threshold question in a negligence action is whether the defendant owed a duty to the plaintiff. “It is axiomatic that there can be no tort liability unless defendants owed a duty to plaintiff.” Beaty v Hertzberg & Golden, PC, 456 Mich 247, 262; 571 NW2d 716 (1997).
Plaintiff does not claim that any statute or ordinance imposes a duty on CML to maintain the parking lot where she was injured, nor does she claim that she was a third-party beneficiary of the contract between defendant CML and the premises owner. She contends instead that defendant CML, by contracting to plow and salt the parking lot, owed a common-law duty to plaintiff to exercise reasonable care in performing its contractual duties. Plaintiff further alleges that defendant’s failure to plow or salt the parking lot breached that duty under the common-law tort principles expressed in Restatement Torts, 2d, § 324A:
One who undertakes, gratuitously or for consideration, to render services to another which he should recognize as necessary for the protection of a third person or his things, is subject to liability to the third person for physical harm resulting from his failure to exercise reasonable care to protect [sic, perform[ ]his undertaking, if
(b) he has undertaken to perform a duty owed by the other to the third person ....
Michigan courts have accepted the Restatement of Torts, 2d, § 324A, as an accurate statement of Michigan law and used the principles stated above in analyzing plaintiffs’ claims in the past. See, e.g., Smith v Allen-dale, 410 Mich 685; 303 NW2d 702 (1981), Callesen v Grand Trunk W R Co, 175 Mich App 252; 437 NW2d 372 (1989), Cleveland Cunningham v Continental Cas Co, 139 Mich App 238; 361 NW2d 780 (1984), Staffney v Michigan Millers Mut Ins Co, 140 Mich App 85; 362 NW2d 897 (1985), and Schanz v New Hampshire Ins Co, 165 Mich App 395; 418 NW2d 478 (1988).
While these opinions have endorsed § 324A, they must not be invoked uncritically or without regard to limiting principles within our case law. As we stated in Smith, supra at 713:
Unlike a statute which expresses a legislative directive for the treatment of future cases, the Restatement seeks primarily to distill the teachings of decided cases and is descriptive.... Even where a particular Restatement section has received specific judicial endorsement, cases where that section is invoked must be decided by reference to the policies and precedents underlying the rule restated.
Thus, we must reconcile the principles expressed in § 324A with our case law that limits their breadth.
If one voluntarily undertakes to perform an act, having no prior obligation to do so, a duty may arise to perform the act in a nonnegligent manner. Home Ins Co v Detroit Fire Extinguisher Co, Inc, 212 Mich App 522, 529; 538 NW2d 424 (1996); Osman, supra, Keeton, Prosser & Keeton, Torts, § 56, pp 380-381 (5th ed, 1984).
We described this common-law duty in Clark v Dol-man, 379 Mich 251; 150 NW2d 755 (1967):
Actionable negligence presupposes the existence of a legal relationship between parties by which the injured party is owed a duty by the other, and such duty must be imposed by law....
Such duty of care may be a specific duty owing to the plaintiff by the defendant, or it may be a general one owed by the defendant to the public, of which the plaintiff is a part. Moreover, while this duty of care, as an essential element of actionable negligence, arises by operation of law, it may and frequently does arise out of a contractual relationship, the theory being that accompanying every contract is a common-law duty to perform with ordinary care the thing agreed to be done, and that a negligent performance constitutes a tort as well as a breach of contract. [Id. at 260-261.]
In defining the contours of this common-law duty, our courts have drawn a distinction between misfeasance (action) and nonfeasance (inaction) for tort claims based on a defendant’s contractual obligations. We have held that a tort action will not lie when based solely on the nonperformance of a contractual duty. See Hart v Ludwig, 347 Mich 559; 79 NW2d 895 (1956); Chase v Clinton Co, 241 Mich 478; 217 NW 565 (1928); Churchill v Howe, 186 Mich 107; 152 NW 989 (1915).
This Court described the nonfeasance/misfeasance dichotomy in Williams v Cunningham Drug Stores, Inc, 429 Mich 495, 498-499; 418 NW2d 381 (1988):
In determining standards of conduct in the area of negligence, the courts have made a distinction between misfeasance, or active misconduct causing personal injury, and nonfeasance, which is passive inaction or the failure to actively protect others from harm. The common law has been slow in recognizing liability for nonfeasance because the courts are reluctant to force persons to help one another and because such conduct does not create a new risk of harm to a potential plaintiff. Thus, as a general rule, there is no duty that obligates one person to aid or protect another.
In Hart, supra at 564-565, this Court opined that the misfeasance/nonfeasance distinction is often largely semantic and somewhat artificial:
The division thus made, between misfeasance, which may support an action either in tort or on the contract, and the nonfeasance of a contractual obligation, giving rise only to an action on the contract, is admittedly difficult to make in borderland cases. There are, it is recognized, cases in which an incident of nonfeasance occurs in the course of an undertaking assumed. Thus a surgeon fails to sterilize his instruments, an engineer fails to shut off steam, a builder fails to fill in a ditch in a public way. These are all, it is true, failures to act, each disastrous detail, in itself, a “mere” nonfeasance. But the significant similarity relates not to the slippery distinction between action and nonaction but to the fundamental concept of “duty”; in each a situation of peril has been created, with respect to which a tort action would lie without having recourse to the contract itself. [Citations omitted.]
We believe the “slippery distinction” between misfeasance and nonfeasance of a duty undertaken obscures the proper initial inquiry: Whether a particular defendant owes any duty at all to a particular plaintiff.
This Court and the Court of Appeals have defined a tort action stemming from misfeasance of a contractual obligation as the “violation of a legal duty separate and distinct from the contractual obligation.” Rinaldo’s Constr Corp v Michigan Bell Tel Co, 454 Mich 65, 84; 559 NW2d 647 (1997); see, also, e.g., Ferrett v Gen Motors Corp, 438 Mich 235, 245; 475 NW2d 243 (1991); Sherman v Sea Ray Boats, Inc, 251 Mich App 41, 48; 649 NW2d 783 (2002).
We believe that the “separate and distinct” definition of misfeasance offers better guidance in determining whether a negligence action based on a contract and brought by a third party to that contract may he because it focuses on the threshold question of duty in a negligence claim. As there can be no breach of a nonexistent duty, the former misfeasance/nonfeasance inquiry in a negligence case is defective because it improperly focuses on whether a duty was breached instead of whether a duty exists at all.
Accordingly, the lower courts should analyze tort actions based on a contract and brought by a plaintiff who is not a party to that contract by using a “separate and distinct” mode of analysis. Specifically, the threshold question is whether the defendant owed a duty to the plaintiff that is separate and distinct from the defendant’s contractual obligations. If no independent duty exists, no tort action based on a contract will lie.
Applying that analysis here, the Court of Appeals erred in affirming the jury verdict and in holding that “evidence suggested that [CML] engaged in misfeasance distinct from any breach of contract.” Unpublished opinion per curiam, issued March 19, 2002 (Docket No. 224019), p 6. In truth, plaintiff claims CML breached its contract with defendant Comm-Co by failing to perform its contractual duty of plowing or salting the parking lot. She alleges no duty owed to her independent of the contract. Plaintiff thus fails to satisfy the threshold requirement of establishing a duty that CML owed to her under the “separate and distinct” approach set forth in this opinion.
As noted earlier, the Court of Appeals relied on Osman to hold that CML owed a duty to plaintiff to fulfill its contractual obligation with defendant Comm-Co. The Court of Appeals reliance on this case was misplaced.
Like the plaintiff here, the plaintiff in Osman was injured when she fell on a patch of ice. Also, like the defendant here, the defendant in Osman had contracted to provide snow removal services to the premises owner. In that case, however, the defendant had breached a duty separate and distinct from its contractual duty when it created a new hazard by placing snow
on a portion of the premises when it knew, or should have known or anticipated, that the snow would melt and freeze into ice on the abutting sidewalk, steps, and walkway, thus posing a dangerous and hazardous condition to individuals who traverse those areas. [Osman, supra at 704.]
Here, the Court of Appeals stated that given the snowy conditions on the day that plaintiff was injured
[CML] had a duty to use reasonable care in removing dangerous ice and snow, which was distinct from its obligations under its contract with Comm-Co. Moreover, the evidence suggested that Creative Maintenance breached that duty when it did not take reasonable steps to remove or prevent the icy conditions that caused plaintiffs fall. [Slip op, p 7 (citations omitted; emphasis supplied).]
In this case, the Court of Appeals analysis is flawed because defendant CML’s failure to carry out its snow-removal duties owed to defendant created no new hazard to plaintiff. Thus, plaintiff alleges no duty owed to her by defendant CML separate and distinct from its contract with defendant Comm-Co. CML could not logically breach a duty that it did not owe. The Court of Appeals erred in holding that defendant CML was responsible for plaintiffs injuries solely on the basis of the contract between defendants CML and Comm-Co.
IV CONCLUSION
To summarize, if defendant fails or refuses to perform a promise, the action is in contract. If defendant negligently performs a contractual duty or breaches a duty arising by implication from the relation of the parties created by the contract, the action may be either in contract or in tort. In such cases, however, no tort liability arises for failing to fulfill a promise in the absence of a duty to act that is separate and distinct from the promise made.
We conclude in this case that, as a matter of law, CML owed plaintiff no duty. Accordingly, we reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals.
Weaver, Taylor, Young, and Markman, JJ., concurred with Corrigan, C.J.
This is evidently a typographical error.
This understanding is entirely consistent with the hypothetical example set out in Justice Kelly’s concurring opinion. The hypothetical plaintiff described in the concurrence would have no need to pursue a cause of action on a third-party beneficiary theory because that plaintiff would have a direct cause of action against the premises owner who owed a duty to maintain a safe premises. The premises owner could then seek indemnification from the contractor for breach of a contractual duty. Thus, the concurrence’s concern regarding this hypothetical plaintiff is unwarranted.
The jury, however, found no breach of contract.
Plaintiffs claim fails using a misfeasance/nonfeasance analysis, as well because she alleges that cml committed nonfeasance by failing to perform its snow removal obligation at all. Because no special relationship exists between the parties in this case, and therefore defendant owed no duty to make safe the parking lot where plaintiff was injured, defendant CML’s nonfeasance of its contractual obligation cannot satisfy the threshold requirement of establishing a duty owed to plaintiff under either the former misfeasance/nonfeasance dichotomy or the “separate and distinct” approach set forth in this opinion. | [
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TAYLOE, J.
The issue in this case is whether it is permissible for Michigan trial judges, sentencing under the legislative sentencing guidelines pursuant to MCL 769.34, to consider, for the purpose of a downward departure from the guidelines range, police conduct that is described as sentencing manipulation, sentencing entrapment, or sentencing escalation. These doctrines are based on police misconduct, which, alone, is not an appropriate factor to consider at sentencing. Rather, we hold that, pursuant to People v Babcock, 469 Mich 247; 666 NW2d 231 (2003), if it can be objectively and verifiably shown that police conduct or some other precipitating cause altered a defendant’s intent, that altered intent can be considered by the sentencing judge as a ground for a downward sentence departure. Because information of this sort was noted by the sentencing judge in this case, but it is not clear that it was used properly, we vacate the decision of the Court of Appeals in part and remand this case to the trial court for resentencing or rearticulation on the record of the court’s reasons for the departure.
I. FACTS AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND
This case arose from a series of sales of crack cocaine by defendant to an undercover police officer. An acquaintance of defendant’s in the drug trade introduced him to an undercover officer as a potential customer. On March 8, 2001, the officer bought 28.35 grams of crack cocaine for $1,100. On March 12, 2001, he bought 49.2 grams for $2,000. Finally, on March 14, 2001, he bought 127.575 grams for $4,000. Defendant was arrested and charged with delivery of 50 or more, but less than 225, grams of cocaine, reflecting the third sale.
Defendant pleaded guilty to this charge. The offense carries a statutorily mandated minimum sentence of ten years of imprisonment. However, according to the legislative sentencing guidelines and the former MCL 333.7401(4), the statutorily mandated minimum ten-year sentence for this offense can be reduced or “de parted from,” as it is described, if certain conditions set forth in MCL 769.34(3) are met.
At the sentencing hearing, the defense requested a downward departure from the statutorily mandated ten-year minimum sentence on the bases that defendant has a limited criminal history (only one criminal conviction for misdemeanor retail fraud) for his age of twenty-six and that he has an addiction to cocaine, which was costly and jeopardized his ability to pay for his home. In this case, defense counsel also argued that the police had manipulated defendant by making repeated purchases for increasing quantities of cocaine and that, by doing so, they “escalated” the sentence to which defendant would be subjected. In particular, defense counsel argued that the undercover police officer did not arrest defendant after either of the initial buys, but went back to him repeatedly to purchase cocaine. The defense argued that the officer even paid defendant at least $500 more than the going rate to persuade him to sell a larger quantity of crack cocaine than he otherwise would have sold.
The prosecutor countered that the officer had legitimate law enforcement reasons for the repeated purchases. Those reasons were that many usual sellers of large amounts only will sell small amounts to new buyers, and, thus, it is only by working up to larger amounts that law enforcement can in fact determine what type of seller the suspect is. The prosecutor, however, did not address the defense’s distinct claim that no matter what the police motivation may have been, the fact that the police paid defendant $500 over the market price was the sole reason defendant’s intent to sell changed from selling a lesser amount to selling a greater amount.
At the conclusion of these arguments, the trial court found substantial and compelling reasons to depart from the mandatory minimum sentence on the basis of defendant’s age, minimal criminal history, and stable employment history of approximately two years, and, finally, on the basis of the fact that, in the court’s view, defendant had been “escalated” and precluded from getting substance abuse treatment earlier. The trial court did not indicate if the compelling nature of this escalation factor was the view that the police conduct itself was somehow offensive or that the police had overcome the will of a small dealer by the lure of more money and created a greater criminal out of someone who otherwise would have remained a lesser criminal. The court then departed downward two years from the statutorily mandated minimum sentence of ten years and sentenced defendant to eight to twenty years of imprisonment.
The prosecutor appealed and the Court of Appeals affirmed, holding that all but one of the stated reasons of the trial court, defendant’s employment, were substantial and compelling reasons for a downward departure. In a brief analysis, the Court agreed with the trial court’s decision to depart downward on the basis of “escalation,” citing People v Shinholster, 196 Mich App 531; 493 NW2d 502 (1992). Citing the short treatment of this issue in Shinholster, supra at 535, the Court stated that “while not constituting entrapment, purposeful[] escalation] [of] the defendant’s crime” is a permissible reason for a downward departure from a mandatory minimum sentence. Slip op at 2. The Court of Appeals also noted that in People v Fields, 448 Mich 58; 528 NW2d 176 (1995), “three of the four justices in the majority agreed that [escalation] was a permissible factor to consider . .. .” Slip op at 2 n 3.
This Court granted the prosecutor leave to appeal. We framed the issues on appeal as
whether “sentencing manipulation” or “escalation” is a substantial and compelling reason justifying a downward departure from a statutorily imposed mandatory minimum sentence, and whether a trial court may consider the legislative sentencing guidelines recommendation when determining the degree of a departure, which has already been determined to be supported by substantial and compelling reasons. [468 Mich 947 (2003).][ ]
II. STANDARD OP REVIEW
To decide whether sentencing manipulation, sentencing entrapment, or sentencing escalation could ever be a substantial and compelling reason for a departure as a matter of law, we must interpret the former MCL 333.7401(4) and the general legislative sentencing guidelines provision in MCL 769.34(3). Statutory interpretation is subject to review de novo. People v Phillips, 469 Mich 390, 394; 666 NW2d 657 (2003). A trial court’s decision that a particular factor is sufficiently substantial and compelling for a departure is reviewed for an abuse of discretion. Babcock, supra at 269-270.
III. ANALYSIS
In Michigan, the Legislature has established sentencing guidelines. See MCL 769.31 et seq. The underlying approach of the guidelines is that the person to be sentenced is first placed in a narrow sentencing compartment based on rigid factors surrounding the offense and offender variable statuses. Then the individual is eligible to be removed from such “default” compartments on the basis of individualized factors. See Bab-cock, supra at 263-264. In cases involving controlled substances, however, the Legislature has also established statutorily mandated minimum sentences. See the former MCL 333.7401. Under both provisions, MCL 769.34(3) and the former MCL 333.7401(4), departure from a guidelines range or mandatory sentence is permissible. See MCL 769.34(2)(a). All these provisions allow a downward departure if the court has a “substantial and compelling reason” for the departure. This Court has determined that this statutory language means that there must be an “ ‘objective and verifiable’ reason that ‘keenly or irresistibly grabs our attention’; is of ‘considerable worth’ in determining [the appropriate sentence]; and ‘exists only in exceptional cases.’ ” Babcock, supra at 257-258, quoting Fields, supra at 62, 67-68.
It is clear from the legislative sentencing guidelines that, as discussed in Babcock, supra at 263-264, the focus of the guidelines is that the court is to consider this criminal and this offense. As Babcock said after discussing the roots of our nation’s attachment to the concept of proportionality in criminal sentencing: “The premise of our system of criminal justice is that, everything else being equal, the more egregious the offense, and the more recidivist the criminal, the greater the punishment.” Id. at 263.
Because of this approach, police misconduct, on which the doctrines of sentencing manipulation, sentencing entrapment, and sentencing escalation are based, is not an appropriate factor to consider at sentencing. Police misconduct, standing alone, tells us nothing about the defendant. However, if the defendant has an enhanced intent that was the product of police conduct or any other precipitating factor, and the enhanced intent can be shown in a manner that satisfies the requirements for a sentencing departure as outlined in Babcock, it is permissible for a court to consider that enhanced intent in making a departure.
IV APPLICATION TO THIS CASE
The trial court in this case concluded, without more, that the defendant was “escalated.” It is not clear whether the court was thinking about defendant’s intent or the police' conduct. Thus, resentencing or rearticulation of the court’s reasons for departure on this factor is required because, under MCL 769.34(3), “it is not enough that there exists some potentially substantial and compelling reason to depart from the guidelines range. Rather, this reason must be articulated by the trial court on the record.” Babcock, supra at 258 (emphasis in original). Moreover, a trial court must articulate on the record a substantial and compelling reason why its particular departure was warranted. Id. at 259-260. The trial court is instructed to do this on remand.
Further, we hold that two of the other reasons for departure that the trial court articulated are not substantial and compelling: (1) defendant’s employment for two years, and (2) that at defendant’s age of twenty-six years he had only one previous criminal conviction.
With regard to the employment factor, we agree with the Court of Appeals that “defendant’s employment as a taxi cab driver... for a period of less than two years... does not ‘keenly’ or ‘irresistibly’ grab one’s attention and, therefore, does not warrant a downward departure.” Slip op at 2, quoting Fields, supra at 67. Thus, we affirm the Court of Appeals on this issue.
Nor does the fact that defendant only had one previous criminal conviction (misdemeanor retail fraud) until he reached the age of twenty-six “‘keenly’ or ‘irresistibly’ grab[] our attention.” Babcock, supra at 257-258, quoting Fields, supra at 67. The trial judge stated that he was “impressed” that defendant had made it to the advanced age of twenty-six with only one previous criminal conviction of a minor nature. We are not. We do not believe that the age of twenty-six is particularly old to not yet have a more lengthy criminal record. Thus, the trial court abused its discretion in this regard. Babcock, supra at 269-270.
If a trial court articulates multiple reasons for departure, some of which are substantial and compelling and some of which are not, and the appellate court cannot determine if the sentence departure is sustainable without the offending factors, remand is appropriate. Id. at 260-261. Accordingly, we remand this case for resen-tencing or rearticulation on the record of the trial court’s reasons for departure. On remand, defendant may argue any factor left unaddressed by our decision today, and, under the standards of Babcock, that his intent in committing the crime was also a proper factor for consideration.
V THE CHIEF JUSTICE’S OPINION
The Chief Justice is in agreement with our holding that police conduct alone cannot be considered at sentencing, and she is in agreement with the result of remanding for resentencing in this case. However, the Chief Justice disagrees with part of our rationale and contends that we are employing the subjective factor of intent to determine whether a sentencing departure is warranted in a particular case.
That is, she believes that because intent is subjective, it can never be shown to have been altered in an objective and verifiable way. We disagree. For example, if under surveillance a defendant is importuned to sell more of an illegal substance than he wished and it is clear that he would not have sold it absent the buyer’s pleas to do so, the tape of their conversations could well establish in an objective and verifiable fashion the change in the defendant’s intent. Similarly, if there is evidence that after a physical assault the assailant helped the victim by securing medical assistance, this could establish objectively and verifiably an immediate repudiation of his previous criminal intent. This is all to say that the trial court cannot depart from the mandatory minimum sentence or guidelines sentence without basing its decision on some actual facts external to the representations of the defendant himself. While objectively and verifiably showing an altered intent will not be easy, nevertheless, we do not believe that the Legislature’s statutory sentencing scheme forecloses outright the consideration of a defendant’s altered intent at sentencing.
Moreover, we do not consider the intent element of this crime to be “nullified” by allowing a trial judge to consider altered intent as a factor for sentence departure, as the Chief Justice states, post at 735. The crime of delivery of a controlled substance of a particular amount is a general intent crime. See People v Mass, 464 Mich 615, 627; 628 NW2d 540 (2001). Thus, the only intent required to be convicted of the offense is the intent to deliver a controlled substance. The accused need not have the intent to sell a particular amount of the substance. Rather, that a particular amount was in fact sold is sufficient to convict the accused of delivery of that amount under the statute. See id. at 626, citing People v Quinn, 440 Mich 178, 189; 487 NW2d 194 (1992).
Therefore, our approach does not nullify an element of the offense. The element of intent to sell drugs is left untouched; indeed, defendant himself admitted that he sold drugs. However, defendant’s intent concerning the amount of drugs he sold may have been altered in this case when the police repeatedly returned to him to buy ever-increasing amounts, if those amounts were in fact greater than what defendant originally intended to sell.
The Chief Justice asserts that by considering the defendant’s intent at the time of sentencing we are evading the Legislature’s determination that the specific intent of the individual not be considered for the purpose of conviction. Yet, we are not doing that. We are considering the defendant’s intent for the purpose of sentencing. It seems obvious that the sentencing stage is different from the trial stage. Indeed, the latitude for the trial court in sentencing to consider things inadmissible at trial can be found in the Legislature’s requirements of what a presentence report can contain. A presentence report prepared pursuant to MCL 771.14 can include hearsay, character evidence, prior convictions, and alleged criminal activity for which the defendant was not charged or convicted. Moreover, the sentencing guidelines themselves, MCL 769.34(3), use this approach by empowering the trial court to consider virtually any factor that meets the substantial and compelling standard. Certainly this encyclopedic grant allows the consideration of matters broader than those matters already before the court at trial, because if it did not, the statute would be conveying no greater authority than that previously possessed. Such a construction of the statute, a construction that makes the statute meaningless, should be avoided. See Sweatt v Dep’t of Corrections, 468 Mich 172, 183; 661 NW2d 201 (2003).
VI. CONCLUSION
In light of the applicable sentencing statutes and our recent decision in Babcock, we vacate the decision of the Court of Appeals in part and remand this case to the trial court for resentencing or rearticulation of the court’s reasons for departure, consistent with this opinion.
Defendant also pleaded guilty to charges concerning the first and second buys in the series and various other offenses that he committed during the time surrounding the series of buys. However, the present appeal involves only defendant’s sentence for the third offense described above, delivery of 50 or more, but less than 225, grams of cocaine.
Former MCL 333.7401(2)(a)(iii), in effect at the time of this action. See 1996 PA 249.
See MCL 769.34(2)(a). When the trial court imposes a mandatory minimum sentence that exceeds the statutory sentencing guidelines range, it is not departing from the statutory sentencing guidelines. Thus, in this case, although the sentence imposed exceeds the recommended sentence range, the trial court does not have to articulate “substantial and compelling” reasons to justify its upward departure from the guidelines. However, because the trial court departed downward from the mandatory minimum, it must articulate such reasons to justify this downward departure from the mandatory minimum. See former MCL 333.7401(4).
These conditions are:
A court may depart from the appropriate sentence range established under the sentencing guidelines [MCL 777.1 et seq.] if the court has a substantial and compelling reason for that departure and states on the record the reasons for departure. All of the following apply to a departure:
(a) The court shall not use an individual’s gender, race, ethnicity, alienage, national origin, legal occupation, lack of employment, representation by appointed legal counsel, representation by retained legal counsel, appearance in propria persona, or religion to depart from the appropriate sentence range.
(b) The court shall not base a departure on an offense characteristic or offender characteristic already taken into account in determining the appropriate sentence range unless the court finds from the facts contained in the court record, including the presen-tence investigation report, that the characteristic has been given inadequate or disproportionate weight. [MCL 769.34(3).]
There was a dispute concerning whether defendant’s age was twenty-six or twenty-nine at the time of the offenses, but resolution of this issue is not necessary to our analysis.
Unpublished opinion per curiam, issued October 18,2002 (Docket No. 238984).
Specifically, the Fields Court stated in reference to Shinholster:
[T]he Court found that the government’s actions, although not rising to the level of entrapment, purposefully escalated the crime. This last factor is of particular importance in our approval of the resolution reached in Shinholster. As a mitigating circumstance surrounding the offense, it weighs heavily in favor of a deviation [departure] from the statutory minimum. [Fields, supra at 79.]
However, the present Court of Appeals panel properly pointed out that this was merely a plurality decision without binding effect because the fourth justice signing the lead opinion, Justice Boyle, authored a concurring opinion in which she refused to approve of the lead opinion’s discussion of Shinholster. Fields, supra at 81-82.
Both parties agree that, with respect to the latter issue presented on appeal, the trial court did not impermissibly consider the legislative guidelines in the manner described here. Thus, neither party requests relief on this issue, and the issue is moot. See Crawford v Dep’t of Civil Service, 466 Mich 250, 261; 645 NW2d 6 (2002) (“ ‘An issue is moot where circumstances render it impossible for the reviewing court to grant any relief.’ ” [Citation omitted.]).
Although some individualized factors may not, in the final analysis, constitute a sufficiently “substantial and compelling” basis for moving a person outside the original compartment, that should not preclude the trial court from considering whatever individualized factors that it sees as relevant. While it is possible, as the Chief Justice argues, that some factors can never be “substantial and compelling” because they can never be objective and verifiable, we are reluctant to characterize too many factors in this way because there are simply too many combinations of factual circumstances for us to feel confident in forever precluding consideration of some particular factor. As a practical matter, it also seems that the upshot of the Chief Justice’s viewpoint is that everything will have to be litigated twice through the appellate process—first, to address whether a factor is one that can ever be “substantial and compelling,” and, second, to consider whether it is “substantial and compelling” in the circumstances of a specific case. One of the virtues of the majority position is that it would sharply reduce the first of these classes of litigation.
The federal definition of sentencing manipulation can be found in United States v Shephard, 4 F3d 647, 649 (CA 8,1993). The United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit held that sentencing manipulation occurs.when “the government stretche[s] out the investigation merely to increase the sentence [a defendant] would receive.” Although Michigan has not defined sentencing manipulation by case law, a majority of state courts addressing the issue has adopted similar language as the functioning definition of the term. See, e.g., People v Smith, 31 Cal 4th 1207, 1211-1212; 7 Cal Eptr 3d 559; 80 P3d 662 (2003).
Sentencing entrapment has been discussed by our Court of Appeals in People v Ealy, 222 Mich App 508, 510-511; 564 NW2d 168 (1997). There, the Court of Appeals referred to the definition from the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit: “[S]entencing entrapment occurs when a defendant, although predisposed to commit a minor or lesser offense, is entrapped in committing a greater offense subject to greater punishment.” United States v Staufer, 38 F3d 1103, 1106 (CA 9, 1994) (citations and quotation marks omitted.
In the cases discussing sentencing manipulation and sentencing entrapment, reference is occasionally made to sentencing “escalation.” No Michigan case has defined this term, nor has any other court of which we are aware. However, we believe that contextually, sentencing escalation can mean either sentencing manipulation or sentencing entrapment, as defined above.
The Chief Justice states that the substantive defense of entrapment is akin to the sentencing entrapment doctrine. This is not the case. The substantive defense of entrapment in Michigan is a complete bar to prosecution. See People v Johnson, 466 Mich 491, 493-494, 498; 647 NW2d 480 (2002). The doctrine of sentencing entrapment, as defined in the federal courts, merely allows a downward departure from a sentence. Thus, the two concepts have distinct effects—dismissal of the charges on one hand versus a (perhaps slightly) lower sentence on the other.
A sentencing departure may be from either a sentence under a sentencing guidelines range or a statutorily mandated minimum sentence. Although Babcock is primarily concerned with the sentencing guidelines, its reasoning is equally applicable to this statutorily mandated minimum sentence case. See id. at 257 (acknowledging applicable statutorily mandated minimum sentences and citing Fields as a mandatory minimum case).
Our analysis holds even if defendant were actually twenty-nine at the time of these offenses. See n 5.
The Court of Appeals failed to adhere to this directive by failing to consider whether the trial court would have departed and would have departed to the same degree without the employment factor that the Court of Appeals found to be insubstantial and noncompelling. Thus, even if the Court of Appeals properly deemed “escalation” to be a substantial and compelling factor for departure in this case, the Court should have considered whether the trial court’s departure was sustainable without the offending factor of employment, and, if the Court could not do so, it should have remanded the case to the trial court for resentencing or rearticulation of the reasons for departure.
The Chief Justice argues that the United. States Supreme Court’s recent decision in Blakely v Washington, 542 US_; 124 S Ct 2531; 159 L Ed 2d 403 (2004), affects this case. We disagree. Blakely concerned the Washington state determinate sentencing system, which allowed a trial judge to elevate the maximum sentence permitted by law on the basis of facts not found by the jury but by the judge. Thus, the trial judge in that case was required to set a fixed sentence imposed within a range determined by guidelines and was able to increase the maximum sentence on the basis of judicial fact-finding. This offended the Sixth Amendment, the United States Supreme Court concluded, because the facts that led to the sentence were not found by the jury. Blakely, supra at 2536.
Michigan, in contrast, has an indeterminate sentencing system in which the defendant is given a sentence with a minimum and a maximum. The maximum is not determined by the trial judge but is set by law. MCL 769.8. The minimum is based on guidelines ranges as discussed in the present case and in Babcock, supra. The trial judge sets the minimum but can never exceed the maximum (other than in the case of a habitual offender, which we need not consider because Blakely specifically excludes the fact of a previous conviction from its holding). Accordingly, the Michigan system is unaffected by the holding in Blakely that was designed to protect the defendant from a higher sentence based on facts not found by the jury in violation of the Sixth Amendment.
Justice O’Connor in her dissent in Blakely raised a concern similar to the one the Chief Justice now raises, but the majority in that case made clear that the decision did not affect indeterminate sentencing systems. The Court stated:
JUSTICE O’CONNOR argues that, because determinate sentencing schemes involving judicial factfinding entail less judicial discretion than indeterminate schemes, the constitutionality of the latter implies the constitutionality of the former. Post, at 1-10. This argument is flawed on a number of levels. First, the Sixth Amendment by its terms is not a limitation on judicial power, but a reservation of jury power. It limits judicial power only to the extent that the claimed judicial power infringes on the province of the jury. Indeterminate sentencing does not do so. It increases judicial discretion, to be sure, but not at the expense of the jury’s traditional function of finding the facts essential to lawful imposition of the penalty. Of coruse indeterminate schemes involve judicial factfind-ing, in that a judge (like a parole board) may implicitly rule on those facts he deems important to the exercise of his sentencing discretion. But the facts do not pertain to whether the defendant has a legal right to a lesser sentence—and that makes all the difference insofar as judicial impingement upon the traditional role of the jury is concerned. {Blakely, supra at 2540 (emphasis added).] | [
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Memorandum Opinion. Plaintiff argued that he was entitled to mediation sanctions under MCR 2.403 in his third-party negligence action. His claim for sanctions under MCR 2.403 requires a determination whether “assessable costs” include attorney fees and whether assessable costs are calculated from the filing of the complaint to the rendering of the verdict. The Court of Appeals answered both questions in the negative. We affirm.
i. procedural background
Plaintiff William Dessart and defendant Lynn Burak were involved in an automobile collision. Plaintiff and his wife filed a third-party negligence action for injuries plaintiff sustained in that accident. Before trial, a mediation panel evaluated the case at $120,000. Plaintiffs accepted the evaluation, but defendants rejected it. Following a jury trial, plaintiff was awarded $100,000 in damages. The circuit court denied plaintiffs’ motion for mediation sanctions under MCR 2.403, concluding that the adjusted verdict was “more favorable” to the defendants as defined in MCR 2.403. The circuit court also rejected plaintiffs’ argument that “actual costs” under MCR 2.403 includes attorney fees. The Court of Appeals affirmed the decision of the circuit court. 252 Mich App 490; 652 NW2d 669 (2002).
II. ANALYSIS
The proper interpretation of a- court rule is a question of law and is subject to review de novo. CAM Constr v Lake Edgewood Condo Ass’n, 465 Mich 549, 553; 640 NW2d 256 (2002).
At the time the parties mediated this case, MCR 2.403 provided, in part:
(0) Rejecting Party’s Liability for Costs.
(1) If a party has rejected an evaluation and the action proceeds to verdict, that party must pay the opposing party’s actual costs unless the verdict is more favorable to the rejecting party than the mediation evaluation ....
(3) For the purpose of subrule (0)(1), a verdict must be adjusted by adding to it assessable costs and interest on the amount of the verdict from the filing of the complaint to the date of the case evaluation .... After this adjustment, the verdict is considered more favorable to a defendant if it is more than 10 percent below the evaluation, and is consid ered more favorable to the plaintiff if it is more than 10 percent above the evaluation.. ..
(6) For the purpose of this rule, actual costs are
(a) those costs taxable in any civil action, and
(b) a reasonable attorney fee based on a reasonable hourly or daily rate as determined by the trial judge for services necessitated by the rejection of the case evaluation. [Emphasis added.]
In their motion for mediation sanctions under this rule, plaintiffs argued that the adjusted verdict exceeded $108,000 (which is “more than 10 percent below the evaluation” of $120,000) and, accordingly, was not “more favorable to defendants” under MCR 2.403(O)(3). As such, plaintiffs contended that they were entitled to mediation sanctions under MCR 2.403(O)(l). Defendants responded that plaintiffs miscalculated the adjusted verdict in two ways: first, by including “assessable costs” from the filing of the complaint to the verdict rather than from the filing of the complaint to the case evaluation and, second, by including attorney fees in “assessable costs.” The circuit court denied plaintiffs’ motion for sanctions, agreeing with defendants that “assessable costs” are limited to taxable costs incurred from the date the complaint is filed until the date of case evaluation and do not include attorney fees.
In affirming the decision of the circuit court, the Court of Appeals panel acknowledged that in Beach v State Farm Mut Automobile Ins Co, 216 Mich App 612; 550 NW2d 580 (1996), and Grow v W A Thomas Co, 236 Mich App 696; 601 NW2d 426 (1999), the term “assessable costs” in the court rule was interpreted broadly to include postmediation costs and attorney fees. The panel held, however, that those cases were not controlling because their discussions of assessable costs were obiter dicta. The panel also noted that Beach was distinguishable because it involved a statute that allows attorney fees as an element of damages under certain circumstances. The panel held that attorney fees are included in the “actual costs” awarded as a mediation sanction, but not in “assessable costs” used to determine whether a sanction should be awarded.
The Court also explained that the assessable costs that are added to a verdict under MCR 2.403(0X3) are those incurred from the filing of the complaint to the date of the case evaluation. In so concluding, the Court of Appeals declined to follow the Grow Court in applying the “last antecedent” rule of construction in interpreting the mediation rule. This rule of construction provides that “ ‘ “a modifying clause is confined to the last antecedent unless something in the subject matter or dominant purpose [of the statute] requires a different interpretation.” ’ ” Haveman v Kent Co Rd Comm’rs, 356 Mich 11, 18; 96 NW2d 153 (1959), quoting Kales v Oak Park, 315 Mich 266, 271; 23 NW2d 658 (1946), quoting Hopkins v Hopkins, 287 Mass 542, 547; 192 NE 145 (1934). The Court of Appeals concluded that the application of the last antecedent rule in this case would mean that the phrase “from the filing of the complaint to the date of the mediation evaluation” modified only “interest on the amount of the verdict” and not “assessable costs.” MCR 2.403(0)(1). The panel concluded that such an interpretation of the rule “skews its dominant purpose.” 252 Mich App 497. Therefore, the panel held that the modifying phrase in MCR 2.403(O)(3) applied to both “assessable costs” and “interest.” This construction of the court rule, the Court concluded, was more in keeping with the overall purposes of the mediation rule, which are “to encourage settlement, deter protracted litigation, and expedite and simplify the final settlement of cases.” 252 Mich App 498.
We agree with the Court of Appeals that attorney fees, whether incurred before or after the mediation evaluation, are not an element of “assessable costs” under MCR 2.403(O)(3). The general “American rule” is that “attorney fees are not ordinarily recoverable unless a statute, court rule, or common-law exception provides the contrary.” Nemeth v Abonmarche Dev, Inc, 457 Mich 16, 37-38; 567 NW2d 641 (1998). As such, the term “costs” ordinarily does not encompass attorney fees unless the statute or court rule specifically defines “costs” as including attorney fees. For example, MCR 2.403(O)(6) provides that “actual costs” include “(a) those costs taxable in any civil action, and (b) a reasonable attorney fee . ...” MCR 2.403(O)(6), however, does not define “assessable costs” as including attorney fees. We conclude, therefore, that attorney fees are not included in “assessable costs” under MCR 2.403(O)(3).
We also agree that in adjusting a verdict under MCR 2.403(O)(3), assessable costs are limited to those incurred between the filing of the complaint and the date of the mediation evaluation or case evaluation.
Plaintiffs have urged upon us the position that utilization of the “last antecedent” rule would support the conclusion that the modifying phrase applies only to “interest.” Here, however, the last antecedent rule provides little guidance because there are no textual clues indicating that “assessable costs” and “interest” are to be treated separately. To the contrary, the fact that “and” joins “assessable costs” and “interest on the amount of the verdict from the filing of the complaint to the date of the case evaluation” suggests that the phrase “assessable costs and interest” is to be thought of as a single term, and, as a unit, is modified by “from the filing of the complaint to the date of the case evaluation.” MCR 2.403(0)(3). Moreover, plaintiffs’ suggested reading produces conceptual difficulties because it would provide no temporal limit at all to “assessable costs” and would make it possible for a party, remorseful over its failure to accept the mediation award, to advantage itself between mediation and trial by accruing unnecessary costs. This is an outcome that surely could not have been intended by the Court in adopting these rules. Indeed, the plain meaning of the rule and its grammatical structure make it clear that the rule does set the temporal limit as the date of case evaluation. On the basis of the foregoing application of the principles of construction, we affirm the judgment of the Court of Appeals. MCR 7.302(G)(1).
Corrigan, C.J., and Cavanagh, Kelly, Taylor, Young, and MARKMAN, JJ., concurred.
The procedure under MCR 2.403 formerly known as “mediation” was renamed “case evaluation” effective August 1, 2000. This change did not effect any substantive change in the rule. | [
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MARKMAN, J.
We granted leave to appeal in this case to consider whether the admission of testimony concerning defendant’s silence after his arrest, but before he was given Miranda warnings, i.e., pre-Miranda silence, as substantive evidence of defendant’s guilt is error requiring reversal of defendant’s convictions. Following a jury trial, defendant was convicted of second-degree murder, MCL 750.317, and failure to stop at the scene of an accident in which he was involved and that resulted in serious injury, MCL 257.617. Defendant appealed these convictions, contending that the prosecutor im properly elicited testimony regarding his pre-Miranda silence. However, pursuant to its decision in People v Schollaert, 194 Mich App 158, 164-165; 486 NW2d 312 (1992), the Court of Appeals affirmed defendant’s convictions. We conclude that defendant forfeited the claim of error by not objecting to the prosecutor’s questions regarding defendant’s pr e-Miranda silence. Accordingly, we affirm defendant’s convictions.
I. BACKGROUND
On the afternoon of February 10, 1999, defendant and the victim, Harold VanDorn, met in a bar and decided to continue drinking together for the rest of the evening. By 10:00 P.M., both men were intoxicated. After visiting a fast-food restaurant and before reaching their next destination, the two men had a disagreement. They exchanged punches, which prompted VanDorn to leave the truck and start walking in the road.
Defendant drove away a short distance, but then made a U-turn and accelerated in VanDorn’s direction. By the time defendant reached VanDorn, the truck was traveling at approximately forty-five miles an hour. At that point, defendant steered across the centerline at VanDorn, striking and killing him. The police arrested defendant one-half mile from the scene after a preliminary breath test indicated that defendant had a blood alcohol level of 0.207 grams per 210 liters of breath.
Defendant was prosecuted for murder. He did not testify, but his attorney offered two explanations for the accident: first, the truck’s brakes and steering were defective; and second, defendant blacked out immediately before striking VanDorn. To rebut these explanations, the prosecutor called several mechanics who examined the truck’s brakes and concluded they were not defective. To further rebut these explanations, the prosecutor, during his case-in-chief, elicited the following testimony of the arresting officer, Officer Cacicedo:
Q. At any point in time that evening, did the defendant indicate to you that he had lost control of the truck?
A. No.
Q. Did he ever indicate to you that there was any mechanical defect with the truck?
A. No.
Q. Did he ever indicate to you that he blacked out that evening?
A. No.
Q. Did he ever indicate to you that he couldn’t remember things that happened that evening?
A. No.
Defendant never objected to this testimony, nor did the prosecutor make any further comment at trial concerning this testimony. Defendant was convicted of second-degree murder and leaving the scene of an accident involving serious injury. The court imposed concurrent prison terms of twenty to fifty years for murder and two to five years for leaving the scene of a serious accident.
Defendant appealed, contending that his convictions must be reversed because the prosecutor violated his Fifth Amendment right against compelled self-incrimination by impermissibly eliciting testimony regarding his pre-Miranda silence. However, pursuant to Schollaert, supra at 164-165, the Court of Appeals affirmed defendant’s convictions and stated, “The challenged testimony did not concern silence during custo dial interrogation or silence in reliance on Miranda warnings. Therefore, defendant’s silence was not constitutionally protected.” Unpublished opinion per curium, issued July 20, 2001 (Docket No. 223059). This Court granted defendant’s application for leave to appeal. 467 Mich 896 (2002).
II. STANDARD OP REVIEW
Unpreserved claims of constitutional error are reviewed for “plain error.” People v Carines, 460 Mich 750, 764; 597 NW2d 130 (1999).
IÜ. ANALYSIS
A. FORFEITED ERROR
Defendant asks us to review a claim of error that he did not preserve at trial. We thus apply the principles articulated in Carines, supra at 763:
To avoid forfeiture under the plain error rule, three requirements must be met: 1) error must have occurred, 2) the error was plain, i.e., clear or obvious, 3) and the plain error affected substantial rights. The third requirement generally requires a showing of prejudice, i.e., that the error affected the outcome of the lower court proceedings. It is the defendant rather than the Government who bears the burden of persuasion with respect to prejudice.... Reversal is warranted only when the plain, forfeited error resulted in the conviction of an actually innocent defendant or when an error seriously affected the fairness, integrity or public reputation of judicial proceedings independent of the defendant’s innocence. [Citations and internal quotation marks omitted.]
Accordingly, in order for defendant to avoid forfeiture, he must show that the prosecutor’s questions regarding his pr e-Miranda silence affected his substantial rights. That is, he must show that the prosecutor’s questions affected the outcome of the lower court proceedings.
The prosecutor’s evidence against defendant included two eyewitnesses. The first, John Dalling, testified that defendant slowly drove past the victim, made a sharp U-turn in the middle of the road, crossed two lanes while accelerating toward the victim, hit the victim, and then drove on. He stated, “it’s like he got in position and pretty much just went straight at him, across both lanes and went into the middle turning lane and hit him head on.” When asked if defendant’s truck picked up speed after he made the U-turn, Dalling stated, “Yes, it did. It was like if he just gunned it.” According to Dalling, after defendant hit the victim, he made another U-turn and slowly drove past the victim’s body. Dalling further testified that he did not notice any problems with the truck, i.e., it was not veering in and out of lanes. He also testified that he did not hear any brakes or tires squeal before defendant struck the victim. Nor did he see any brake lights come on before defendant struck the victim. According to Dalling, defendant did not make any attempt to swerve away from the victim.
A second eyewitness, Matt Walsh, was driving toward defendant’s truck, in light traffic with clear visibility, when he noticed defendant’s headlights veer sharply and he saw the victim go over defendant’s hood. Walsh stopped his truck in front of the victim and got out to help. Walsh saw defendant’s truck return to pass the victim slowly and then drive away.
Further, the prosecutor introduced two expert witnesses who testified that defendant’s truck was mechanically sound. Specifically, one expert witness concluded that the steering and braking mechanisms were worn, but in working condition. Neither of the prosecu tor’s expert witnesses found mechanical difficulties in the truck that would have caused defendant to lose control of the vehicle or swerve uncontrollably, or that would have prevented defendant from stopping the truck. Indeed, even defendant’s expert witness conceded that, when he drove the vehicle, it always stopped when the brakes were applied and it did not deviate course from one lane to another.
Given this evidence of defendant’s guilt, we conclude that the prosecutor’s questions regarding defendant’s pre-Miranda silence, even if error, did not affect the outcome of the lower court proceedings. In other words, defendant would have been found guilty independent of the prosecutor’s questions regarding defendant’s pre-Miranda silence. Therefore, because defendant has not met his burden of establishing that the alleged error affected the outcome of the lower court proceedings, he is unable to avoid forfeiture. He has forfeited his claim of error by not objecting to the prosecutor’s questions regarding his pr e-Miranda silence.
ra CONCLUSION
Because defendant failed to object to the prosecutor’s questions regarding defendant’s pre-Miranda silence and these questions did not affect the outcome of the lower court proceedings, defendant has forfeited his claim of error. Accordingly, we affirm defendant’s convictions.
Corrigan, C.J., and Cavanagh, Kelly, Taylor, and YOUNG, JJ., concurred with MArkMAN, J.
Miranda v Arizona, 384 US 436; 86 S Ct 1602; 16 L Ed 2d 694 (1966).
The prosecutor elicited similar testimony from Officers Hillman and Siladke, both of whom assisted in the stop of defendant’s vehicle.
We have no occasion to consider the decision reached by the Court of Appeals in Schollaert in light of our disposition of this case under Cannes.
Because we conclude that the prosecutor’s questions did not affect the outcome of the lower court proceedings, it is unnecessary to determine if the prosecutor’s questions were permissible and “it is an undisputed principle of judicial review that questions of constitutionality should not be decided if the case may he disposed of on other grounds.” J & J Constr Co v Bricklayers and Allied Craftsmen, 468 Mich 722, 734; 664 NW2d 728 (2003).
In response to the partial concurrence and partial dissent, we can only state that it is not to “evade” a constitutional issue for this Court, after full consideration of the arguments, to reach the conclusion that a matter may adequately be resolved by means other than constitutional analysis. Indeed, it is incumbent on a court of law to do exactly this. While it would he convenient if the decisions of this Court were always defined by the terms of our grant orders, in the real world, in which arguments are sometimes unanticipated and in which briefs and oral arguments often shed new light upon the issues presented by a case, no responsible court can decide cases in such a constricted manner. No such court can be oblivious to the fact that its initial estimation of the issues presented by a case may have been imperfect.
Because the admission of evidence regarding defendant’s preMiranda silence did not affect the outcome of the lower court proceedings, i.e., defendant was not prejudiced, defendant’s claim of ineffective assistance of counsel is also without merit. People v Pickens, 446 Mich 298, 338; 521 NW2d 797 (1994). | [
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CORRIGAN, C. J.
We granted leave to appeal to consider whether the materiality of a false statement is an element of the statutory offense of perjury, MCL 750.422 and 750.423. The Court of Appeals held that materiality is an element that must be submitted to the jury, but the plain language of MCL 750.423 sets forth a definition of perjury that does not require proof of materiality. Because the Legislature has decided that materiality is not an element, the trial court did not err in refusing to submit that issue to the jury. We thus reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and reinstate defendant’s perjury conviction.
I. UNDERLYING FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY
This case arises from an underlying divorce action. Defendant’s husband sued her for divorce. A default judgment was entered. Defendant moved to set it aside. At the hearing on that motion, defendant testified that she was unaware of the divorce proceeding until after the judgment had entered and that the complaint for divorce had never been served on her. She also submit ted an affidavit to that effect in support of her motion. The trial court set aside the default judgment.
The prosecutor charged defendant with one count of committing perjury in a court proceeding, MCL 750.422. The prosecutor alleged that defendant had falsely testified both that she had not been served with the complaint for divorce and that she had lacked knowledge of the divorce proceeding. Defendant moved to dismiss the charge on the ground that the allegedly false testimony was not material. The trial court denied the motion and ruled that the testimony was material.
The case proceeded to trial. The prosecution presented testimony from the divorce attorney for defendant’s husband, an officer who served the complaint on defendant, and a caseworker for the friend of the court. Defendant did not object to the court’s use of a standard criminal jury instruction, CJI2d 14.1, which, at the time, did not include materiality as an element for the jury to consider. Defendant did, however, request an instruction on specific intent that referred to a false statement on a material matter. The court denied defendant’s request to include the phrase “on a material matter” in the instruction. The jury found defendant guilty.
The Court of Appeals reversed the conviction. It concluded that the materiality of a false statement is an element of perjury. The Court noted that in United States v Gaudin, 515 US 506; 115 S Ct 2310; 132 L Ed 2d 444 (1995), the Supreme Court had concluded that materiality is an element in a federal prosecution for making false statements on federal loan documents, and had rejected the contention that materiality in perjury cases is a traditional exception to the rule that all the elements of an offense must be submitted to a jury. The Court of Appeals rejected case law suggesting that materiality is an issue for the court, rather than the jury, to decide. See People v Noble, 152 Mich App 319; 393 NW2d 619 (1986); People v Hoag, 113 Mich App 789; 318 NW2d 579 (1982). Thus, the Court of Appeals concluded that the trial court erred in precluding the jury from considering materiality, and it determined that this error was not harmless beyond a reasonable doubt.
We granted the prosecution’s application for leave to appeal.
II. STANDARD OF REVIEW
This case requires us to determine whether the materiality of the false statement is an element of the statutory offense of perjury. We review de novo this question of law. People v Mendoza, 468 Mich 527, 531; 664 NW2d 685 (2003).
III. ANALYSIS
To provide the proper context for our interpretation of Michigan’s perjury statute, we must discuss the constitutional principle set forth in Gaudin, supra. The Supreme Court explained in Gaudin that every essential element of an offense, including—where it is an element—materiality, must be submitted to the jury. Gaudin involved a federal statutory offense and the government had conceded that materiality was an element. Gaudin thus provides that if materiality is an element of a perjury-related offense, then it, like all other essential elements, must be submitted to the jury as a matter of federal constitutional law.
The holding in Gaudin offers no guidance on the interpretive question before us, i.e., whether materiality is an element of perjury under our state perjury statute. See Gaudin, supra at 525 (Rehnquist, C.J., concurring) (“Nothing in the Court’s decision stands as a barrier to legislatures that wish to define—or that have defined—the elements of their criminal laws in such a way as to remove issues such as materiality from the jury’s consideration.”). In other words, Gaudin simply makes clear that if materiality is an essential element under our state statute, then it must be submitted to the jury. If, however, we conclude that materiality is not an element, then the holding in Gaudin has no bearing on our determination.
The central question we must resolve, then, is whether our Legislature has defined the offense of perjury to include materiality as an element. This Court has previously indicated that, at common law, materiality was an element of perjury. See, e.g., People v Fox, 25 Mich 492, 496-497 (1872). Our Legislature, however, has constitutional authority to change the common law. Const 1963, art 3, § 7; Donajkowski v Alpena Power Co, 460 Mich 243, 256; 596 NW2d 574 (1999). It appears that this Court has never expressly decided whether MCL 750.423 or its predecessors altered the common-law definition of perjury.
To discern the meaning of our perjury statute, we apply the interpretive principles recently set forth in Mendoza, supra:
Relying on established doctrines of interpretation, one cannot disagree that the first step in discerning legislative intent requires review of the statutory text adopted by the Legislature. House Speaker v State Administrative Bd, 441 Mich 547, 567; 495 NW2d 539 (1993). See also MCL 8.3a (“All words and phrases shall be construed and understood according to the common and approved usage of the language ....”). If unambiguous, the Legislature will be presumed to have intended the meaning expressed. Lorencz v Ford Motor Co, 439 Mich 370, 376; 483 NW2d 844 (1992). [Mendoza, supra at 550 (CAVANAGH, J., concurring in result).]
MCL 750.423 provides:
Any person authorized by any statute of this state to take an oath, or any person of whom an oath shall be required by law, who shall wilfully swear falsely, in regard to any matter or thing, respecting which such oath is authorized or required, shall be guilty of perjury, a felony, punishable by imprisonment in the state prison not more than 15 years. [Emphasis added.]
Our Legislature has thus defined perjury as a willfully false statement regarding any matter or thing, if an oath is authorized or required. Noticeably absent from this definition is any reference to materiality. The Legislature could easily have used a phrase such as “in regard to any material matter or thing,” or “in regard to any matter or thing material to the issue or cause before the court,” but the Legislature did not use such language.
The phrase “any matter or thing” is a broad one. The commonly understood word “any” generally casts a wide net and encompasses a wide range of things. “Any” has been defined as:
1. one, a, an, or some; one or more without specification or identification. 2. whatever or whichever it may be. 3. in whatever quantity or number, great or small; some. 4. every; all.... [Random House Webster’s College Dictionary (2d ed, 1997).]
Thus, it is reasonable to conclude that the Legislature intended for perjury to consist of a willfully false statement concerning every matter or thing for which an oath is authorized or required, because it did not limit the matters or things in question on the basis of their materiality.
Reinforcing our conclusion that the Legislature’s failure to include a materiality requirement in MCL 750.423 is dispositive is the fact that several perjury-related statutes not at issue here do require that the false matter or statement be material. See MCL 28.422a, 32.1131, 168.729, 257.254, 324.5531(2), 380.1003, 500.2014, 500.4509, 600.8813, 764.1e(2), and 765.25. These statutes demonstrate that the Legislature knows how to make materiality an element of a perjury-related offense. Thus, the failure to make materiality a requirement in the perjury statutes at issue here must be given meaning.
In light of the broad scope of the statutory phrase “any matter or thing,” we conclude that the Legislature intended that a willfully false statement about any matter or thing concerning which an oath was authorized or required falls within the statutory definition of perjury and thus may be charged as perjury if a prosecutor so chooses.
We note that many prior decisions of this Court have not analyzed the statutory language or adequately differentiated the statutory offense from its common-law counterpart. See, e.g., People v Collier, 1 Mich 137, 138 (1848); Hoch v People, 3 Mich 552, 554 (1855); Flint v People, 35 Mich 491 (1877); Beecher v Anderson, 45 Mich 543, 552; 8 NW 539 (1881); People v McCaffrey, 75 Mich 115, 123-124; 42 NW 681 (1889) (quoting the predecessor to MCL 750.423, yet still assuming that materiality is required); People v Almashy, 229 Mich 227, 230; 201 NW 231 (1924); People v Kert, 304 Mich 148; 7 NW2d 251 (1943). These cases are overruled to the extent that they are inconsistent with our opinion today.
Although the prior case law in this area has not been a model of clarity, the statutory definition of perjury is clear. We are bound to follow the Legislature’s directive that materiality is not an element of this offense. Our Legislature is responsible for defining the elements of criminal offenses, and we therefore adhere to those definitions.
Chief Justice Rehnquist’s concurring opinion in Gau-din expressly recognized that legislatures are free to define “the elements of their criminal laws in such a way as to remove issues such as materiality from the jury’s consideration.” Gaudin, supra at 525. That is precisely what our Legislature has done. We must respect that legislative choice and apply the plain statutory language.
The dissent would follow earlier decisions of this Court treating materiality as an issue to be decided by the trial court, rather than the jury. The dissent’s position, however, is inconsistent with the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Gaudin. As a matter of federal constitutional law, all essential elements of an offense must be submitted to a jury. We are no longer free, in light of Gaudin, to follow earlier case law treating materiality as an element for the trial court to decide as a matter of law. We must conclude either that materiality is an element that must be submitted to the jury, or that it is not an element at all. As discussed above, we have read the statutory language as it is clearly written. The statutory text simply does not require proof that the false statement was material.
IV CONCLUSION
The plain language of our perjury statute alters the common law and does not require proof of materiality. We thus reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and reinstate defendant’s perjury conviction.
Weaver, Taylor, and Young, JJ., concurred with Cor-rigan, C.J.
468 Mich 945 (2003).
254 Mich App 249; 656 NW2d 850 (2002).
468 Mich 945 (2003).
The federal statute at issue in Gaudin provides:
“Whoever, in any matter within the jurisdiction of any department or agency of the United States knowingly and wilfully falsifies, conceals or covers up by any trick, scheme, or device a material fact, or makes any false, fictitious or fraudulent state- merits or representations, or makes or uses any false writing or document knowing the same to contain any false, fictitious or fraudulent statement or entry, shall be fined not more than $ 10,000 or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.” [Gau-din, supra at 509, quoting 18 USCS 1001 (emphasis added).]
We also note that the federal perjury statute expressly requires that the false statement be material. See 18 USC 1623.
The dissent opines that our decision will allow a prosecutor “unfettered discretion to charge a party or witness with perjury for any discrepancy made under oath, no matter how trivial.” Post at 262. In responding to this argument, we find it useful to quote our response to a similar argument by the dissent in People v Chavis, 468 Mich 84, 94 n 6; 658 NW2d 469 (2003):
The dissent also criticizes our opinion as allowing the prosecutor “unfettered discretion,” post at 99, in determining when to bring charges under the statute. It is invariably the case that the prosecutor always has great discretion in deciding whether to file charges. Such executive branch power is an established part of our constitutional structure. Any apprehension that the prosecutor may abuse this power should be tempered, in part, by the knowledge that there are significant systemic protections afforded defendants, including the defendant’s right to a preliminary examination and right to a jury trial. Moreover, there are other protections against the misuse of power that spring from daily scrutiny by the media as well as from periodic elections, which call all office holders to account to their constituents.
The dissent is therefore quite right to observe that for well over a century and a half Michigan courts have assumed that materiality is an element of perjury. This long history might be a reason to apply stare decisis and acquiesce in the judiciary’s redefinition of perjury, if not for the fact that we are compelled by Gaudin to revisit our perjury jurisprudence. As noted, Gaudin holds that materiality, like any element of a crime, must be submitted to and decided by the jury. Therefore, despite our precedent to the contrary, we are constitutionally compelled to reject the dissent’s assertion that “materiality is a question of law for the trial court to determine ....” Post at 264. Once we jettison one fundamental tenet of our 150-year jurisprudence on perjury, we have no reason to shy away from the other question posed by this appeal—whether materiality is truly an element of perjury as defined by our Legislature.
The Court of Appeals has treated materiality as an element, but has also construed prior decisions of this Court to require that this element be decided by the trial court rather than a jury. See People v Hoag, supra-, People v Jeske, 128 Mich App 596; 341 NW2d 778 (1983); People v Noble, supra. Obviously, the holdings in those cases are inconsistent with Gaudin, which requires that a jury decide essential elements of an offense. We make clear that these cases should no longer be followed.
The dissent’s analysis of stare decisis is incomplete because it fails to consider reliance interests. In Robinson v Detroit, 462 Mich 439, 466; 613 NW2d 307 (2000), we explained that this Court “must ask whether the previous decision has become so embedded, so accepted, so fundamental, to everyone’s expectations that to change it would produce not just readjustments, but practical real-world dislocations.” Here, the dissent fails to explain how our overruling of earlier case law that (1) improperly read an element into a perjury statute and (2) required the court rather than the jury to decide that element, will produce any real-world dislocations.
While it is not necessary to our decision, we note that other state legislatures have made a similar choice to alter the common law by eliminating the element of materiality from their perjury statutes. For example, in Beckley v State, 443 P2d 51 (Alas, 1968), the Alaska Supreme Court construed a statute similar to our own and concluded that it did not require proof of materiality. The Alaska statute provided: “ ‘A person authorized by law to take an oath or affirmation, or a person whose oath or affirmation is required by law, who willfully and falsely swears or affirms in regard to a matter concerning which an oath or affirmation is authorized or required, is guilty of perjury.’ ” Id. at 54. The Alaska Supreme Court concluded:
The statute is unambiguous. It clearly indicates the intent of a legislative body to enlarge the scope of the crime of perjury as it existed at common law so as to make it a crime for one to willfully and falsely swear in regard to any matter in respect to which an oath is authorized or required, regardless of the question of materiality of such matter to an issue before the court.
Materiality is not mentioned in the Alaska perjury statute; therefore it is unnecessary, in order to prove the crime of perjury, to establish that the matter concerning which willfully false testimony under oath was given was material to an issue before the court. The crime is complete if one shall willfully swear falsely in regard to any matter respecting which an oath is authorized or required. [Id. at 54-55.]
The court further noted that the Rhode Island Supreme Court had reached the same conclusion regarding a similarly worded statute in that state. See State v Miller, 26 RI 282; 58 A 882 (1904).
We find the Alaska Supreme Court’s reasoning persuasive. Like the Alaska law, our statute unambiguously defines perjury to exclude the common-law element of materiality.
The dissent purports to follow Gaudin by insisting that materiality is not really an element, but simply a question of law to be decided by the trial court. But if, as the dissent contends, a defendant may not legally be convicted of perjury without proof of materiality, then materiality would, by definition, be an essential element of the offense. See Black’s Law Dictionary (7th Ed) (defining "elements of crime” as “[t]he constituent parts of a crime ... that the prosecution must prove to sustain a conviction”).
The dissent cannot have it both ways. Either materiality is an essential element that must be submitted to the jury under the federal constitution or it is not an element at all. The dissent would essentially create out of whole cloth a special “sub-element” category that is immune from the strictures of the federal constitution. In light of Gaudin, this Court’s obligation under the federal constitution is to require all essential elements of an offense to be submitted to a jury. We adhere to that duty and conclude that materiality simply is not an element under the language of our perjury statute. | [
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CAVANAGH, J.
The issue presented is whether the death of the principal revokes his agent’s order to transfer limited partnership shares when all necessary actions by the agent were completed before the principal’s death, but the transfer was not yet completed by a third party. We hold that an agent’s actions are not revoked by the death of the principal when the agent has completed all actions necessary for the transaction before the principal’s death. Therefore, we reverse the decision of the Court of Appeals and affirm the decision of the trial court granting the petitioners summary disposition.
I. FACTS
Decedent, Eugene T. Capuzzi, M.D., owned shares in a limited partnership. Dr. Capuzzi’s will divided that interest equally among his three children, Michael, Eugene Jr., and Christina. A few days before his death, Dr. Capuzzi directed Michael to transfer the limited partnership shares to his sons, Michael and Eugene, Jr., petitioners in this case. Michael was acting as Dr. Capuzzi’s agent pursuant to a durable power of attorney agreement. The agreement gave Michael “full power and authority to do and perform every act and thing whatsoever requisite and necessary to be done.” The transfer would eliminate Christina’s interest in the limited partnership shares; Christina is the respondent in this case.
Michael contacted the limited partnership on August 10,1998, and again on August 11,1998, and he directed that the shares be transferred pursuant to the power of attorney and Dr. Capuzzi’s wishes. Dr. Capuzzi died on August 14, 1998. On August 19, 1998, the limited partnership sent Michael a letter stating that Dr. Capuzzi’s death had revoked the power of attorney and, therefore, the transfer could not be completed. During probate proceedings, petitioners objected to the shares passing under the will. The probate court granted summary disposition for petitioners. The Court of Appeals reversed and remanded, holding that the transfer of the shares could not be completed because Dr. Capuzzi’s death immediately revoked the power of attorney. This Court granted petitioners’ application for leave to appeal. 468 Mich 928 (2003).
II. STANDARD OF REVIEW
We review de novo questions of law. Hagerman v Gencorp Automotive, 457 Mich 720, 727; 579 NW2d 347 (1998). Likewise, “we review de novo decisions on summary disposition motions.” American Federation of State, Co & Muni Employees v Detroit, 468 Mich 388, 398; 662 NW2d 695 (2003).
III. ANALYSIS
It is a longstanding legal principle that a duly authorized agent has the power to act and bind the principal to the same extent as if the principal acted. See, e.g., Cowan v Sargent Mfg Co, 141 Mich 87, 91; 104 NW 377 (1905); see also 1 Restatement Agency, 2d, § 12, p 57. A power of attorney provides the agent with all the rights and responsibilities of the principal as outlined in the agreement. See, e.g., MCL 700.5501 et seq.; Kuite v Lage, 152 Mich 638, 640; 116 NW 467 (1908). In effect, the agent stands in the shoes of the principal.
It is also well-settled that the death of the principal revokes the authority of the agent, unless the agency is coupled with an interest. See, e.g., Chrysler Corp v Blozic, 267 Mich 479, 481-482; 255 NW 399 (1934); Weaver v Richards, 144 Mich 395, 413; 108 NW 382 (1906). Any act done by the agent after the principal dies cannot affect the estate. 3 Am Jur 2d, Agency, § 52, pp 468-469. This is true even if an agent performed some of the acts necessary in a single transaction but not all of them. 2A CJS, Agency, § 122, pp 394-395. If an agent is in the midst of a transaction when the principal dies, the transaction cannot continue, regardless of the principal’s previously stated wishes.
However, when an agent has completed all necessary actions and all that is left is for a third party to act to complete the transaction, we hold that the principal’s death has no effect on the validity of the transaction and does not relieve the requirement on the third party to act. This is because the agent’s actions were complete at the time of the principal’s death. See 2A CJS, Agency, § 109, p 386. Notably, if a third party requires additional information to confirm that the agent has the authority to act or if, for example, the third party requires completion of an additional form indicating power of attorney, then the agent has obviously not completed all actions necessary for the transaction. If the principal dies before the agent meets the third party’s requirements, then the third party is not required to follow the directive of the agent. This is because all necessary actions have not been completed by the agent before the principal dies.
When all necessary actions have been completed, just as the third party would be required to follow the directive of the principal, the third party is also required to follow the directive of the agent. See 3 Am Jur 2d, Agency, § 1, p 429 (“the agent is the representative of the principal and acts for, in the place of, and instead of, the principal”) (emphasis added); 2A CJS, Agency, § 4, p 308 (“a person may properly appoint an agent to do the same acts and achieve the same legal conse quences as if he or she had acted personally see also 2A CJS, Agency, § 1, p 306. Although the agent’s authority to act terminates when the principal dies, actions completed before the termination no longer require the agent to exercise authority. Therefore, the principal’s death does not revoke already completed actions by the agent. See 2A CJS, Agency, § 109, p 386 (“A revocation of the agent’s authority cannot retroactively affect the completed acts of the agent.”).
In this case, in accord with Dr. Capuzzi’s wishes and acting as Dr. Capuzzi’s agent pursuant to a durable power of attorney, Michael contacted the third party and directed that the shares be transferred. Just as Dr. Capuzzi had the authority to compel the third party to transfer the shares, Michael, as Dr. Capuzzi’s agent, possessed the same authority. Once he ordered the third party to transfer the shares, this concluded the agent’s actions that were necessary to complete the transaction. All that remained was for the third party to act. Again, in this case, the agent did all that was required to transfer the shares. The failure to transfer the shares was solely the result of the third party’s delay and had nothing to do with the third party’s internal procedures or concerns that the agent did not have the proper authority.
Notably, the agent acted on behalf of the principal before the agent’s authority was revoked by the principal’s death and, thus, there was nothing precluding the third party from relying on the agent’s authority. Because there was nothing prohibiting the agent from ordering the transfer when he did, that is, while the principal was still alive, there was nothing prohibiting the third party from acting pursuant to the validly given order. The third party’s authority to transfer the shares does not depend on the agent’s authority to act on behalf of the principal at the time of the transfer of the shares; rather, it depends on the agent’s authority to act at the time the agent ordered the shares to be transferred. Therefore, because the agent properly exercised his authority while the principal was still alive, see 2A CJS, Agency, § 88, p 364, the third party was not excused from acting on the agent’s authority.
Although MCL 700.497 has been repealed, we are aware that it was in effect at the time of the agent’s order to transfer the shares. MCL 700.497(1) stated, in pertinent part, the following:
The death of a principal who has executed a power of attorney in writing, durable or otherwise, does not revoke or terminate the agency of the attorney in fact, agent, or other person who, without actual knowledge of the death, acts in good faith under the power of attorney or agency. An action so taken, unless otherwise invalid or unenforceable, binds the principal and the principal’s heirs, devisees, and personal representatives.
In brief, MCL 700.497(1) stated that the death of a principal who had executed a written power of attorney did not terminate the agency of the attorney in fact, agent, or other person who acted under the power of attorney or agency in good faith without knowledge of the death. MCL 700.497(1) is not germane to this case because the principal’s agent acted before the principal died.
Also, MCL 700.497(2) stated the following:
In the absence of fraud, an affidavit executed by the attorney in fact or agent stating that he or she did not have, at the time of doing an act pursuant to the power of attorney, actual knowledge of the revocation or termination of the power of attorney by death, disability, or incompetence is conclusive proof of the nonrevocation or nontermination of the power at that time. If the exercise of the power requires execution and delivery of any instrument that is recordable, the affidavit when authenticated for record is likewise recordable.
This section essentially stated that an affidavit executed by the attorney in fact or agent stating that he did not have knowledge of the principal’s death at the time of doing the act in question is conclusive proof of nontermination of the power at that time and the act must be enforced. Thus, if, unknown to the agent, the principal died, the agent’s act must be enforced nonetheless once the agent files an affidavit. The third party could not rebut such an affidavit and would have no authority or basis to refuse to carry out the agent’s order. Of course, this section is not applicable to the facts of this case because when the agent completed his act the principal was still alive. And this section is not applicable to the third party because the statute only applied to the attorney in fact or agent and the third party in this case is neither. However, it is important to note that MCL 700.497(2) mandated that the actions of an agent be enforced when the agent was unaware of the principal’s death at the time of the act in question; therefore, actions taken by an agent, at the principal’s behest, when the principal was still alive are certainly enforceable. If we were to hold to the contrary, the actions of a third party could revoke the completed acts of an agent. This would circumvent the intent of the principal and allow a third party’s actions to control. A third party’s delay, whether intentional or not, should not be allowed to thwart the principal’s wishes when the principal’s agent has completed all necessary actions before the principal’s death. Further, to find that an agent had the authority to order the transfer of the shares but that the third party did not have to follow the order would render the agent’s authority a nullity.
We note that our decision today does not affect situations in which an agent’s actions were not yet complete at the time of the principal’s death. Our decision only addresses situations in which an agent’s actions were complete and the only actions remaining to be done are those of the third party. Although the principal’s death revokes the agent’s authority to act on behalf of the principal, it does not void the acts completed by the agent on behalf of the principal before the principal’s death. We also note that our decision today does not preclude a third party from taking reasonable steps to ensure that an agent’s order stems from a proper power of attorney. See Cutler v Grinnell Bros, 325 Mich 370, 376; 38 NW2d 893 (1949). However, in this case, the third party’s delay was not related to any action being taken to ensure that the agent was not acting improvidently or fraudulently.
IV CONCLUSION
We hold that an agent’s completed actions are not revoked by the death of the principal when all necessary actions have been taken by the agent before the principal’s death. Accordingly, we reverse the decision of the Court of Appeals and affirm the decision of the trial court.
WEAVER, KELLY, and MarkMAN, JJ., concurred with Cavanagh, J.
Unpublished opinion per curiam, issued February 15, 2002 (Docket No. 227750).
We note that there is no assertion that Dr. Capuzzi, from the time the agent acted to the time of the doctor’s death, ever wavered in his decision to transfer. The record also contains an affidavit from decedent’s wife of forty-four years averring that respondent had, for a number of years, been estranged from her father; that despite the affiant’s efforts to obtain reconciliation and reunification, respondent had refused to visit her parents; and that in 1998, respondent had refused to visit her father even though he was seriously ill. The affiant continued that her husband died not wanting his daughter to receive the joint venture shares and that he also wanted to divest himself of all remaining assets to avoid probate. | [
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Brooke, C. J.
(after stating the■ facts). Plaintiff claims that the township became liable for injuries sustained by him upon this temporary highway, which he claims is a public highway within the meaning op the statute, for two reasons:
(1) Because it was connected with a public highway in such a way as to become part of it, the. opening and terminus being the public highway.
(2) Because it was held out to the public as a public highway, and the public were invited and induced to use it as a public highway.
Many authorities are cited'by plaintiff, alleged by him to support his contention. With reference to those cited from this State, it is sufficient to say that the question, though presented in the recent ca,se of Hayden v. Township of Bangor, 182 Mich. 601 (148 N. W. 691), was undetermined, for the reason that plaintiff’s recovery was there held to be barred upon the ground of contributory negligence. We have frequently held that the liability of municipalities for injuries upon highways is purely statutory, is in derogation of the common law, and cannot be enlarged by construction. See Miller v. City of Detroit, 156 Mich. 630 (121 N. W. 490, 132 Am. St. Rep. 537, 16 Am. & Eng. Ann. Cas. 832), and cases cited. The statute under which plaintiff seeks to recover limits recovery to bodily injuries sustained—
“upon any of the public highways or streets in this State, by reason of neglect to keep such public high ways or streets, and all bridges, sidewalks, crosswalks and culverts on the same in reasonable repair, and in condition reasonably safe and fit for travel.” 2 How. Stat. (2d Ed.) § 2462.
Public highways can be established in two methods only under the law of this State: (1) By proceedings instituted by the commissioner of highways of a township upon written application of freeholders and notice to landowners to be affected, appraisement • of damages, and the making of a proper record in the office of the township clerk. 2 How. Stat. (2d Ed.) §§ 2174 to 2179. These proceedings must conform strictly to ’statute, or they are void. Price v. Stagray, 68 Mich. 17 (35 N. W. 815); Dixon v. Commissioner of Highways, 75 Mich. 225 (42 N. W. 814). By the second method public highways may be established by user. 2 How. Stat. (2d Ed.) § 2193. It is clear that at the point where plaintiff was injured the defendant township of Byron had not established a “public highway” within the meaning of that term as used in the statute upon which liability is predicated. We are of opinion that one who travels outside of the limits of a legally established highway must be held to do so at his peril, so far as his statutory remedy against the township is concerned, even though the municipality has, without legal authority, either alone or in conjunction with others, constructed a temporary way for his accommodation.
The judgment is affirmed.
Person, Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Moore, J.
This bill of complaint was filed for the purpose of setting aside a certain deed given by Lewis Brooks to defendant, his nephew, May 16, 1906. The deed was placed on record on June 5, 1906. The bill avers, in substance, that on June 2,1906, Lewis Brooks died intestate, and that complainant was appointed administrator; that the sole'assets of said estate consisted of the real estate in the village of Vermontville, which is the subject of controversy in this case; that at a hearing on claims the probate court allowed Helen Hammond for services rendered as housekeeper, and services rendered in caring for Lewis Brooks and his wife from 1890 until his death, the sum of $2,000; that no claims have ever been paid; that there are no personal assets in the hands of the administrator; that on May 16, 1906, Lewis Brooks executed a warranty deed to the defendant of the land in question; that said deed was not placed on record until after the death of Lewis Brooks; that said conveyance was fraudulent and void as to the creditors of Lewis Brooks; that the claim of Helen Hammond was based on a contract with Mr. Brooks whereby he agreed to will said real estate to her as compensation for her services as housekeeper and services rendered in caring for Lewis Brooks and his wife from 1890 until his death, and that the said claim accrued long prior to the making or delivery of the deed aforesaid; that there is a deficiency of assets in said estate; and that the administrator has no way of paying the claim allowed, unless the real estate described in the bill of complaint is subjected to the payment of said claim. The bill of complaint prays that the said defendant pay a sum sufficient to pay the claim aforesaid and the expenses of administering the estate, and in event of the failure of defendant to pay the debts of said estate that the deed be set aside and the premises sold to pay debts.
The substance of the answer is that the allowance of the claim of Helen Hammond against the estate of Lewis Brooks was fraudulent; that Lewis Brooks was not the owner of the lands at the time of his death; admits the giving and recording of the deed as alleged; denies that the deed was not based upon actual con sideration, and alleges the deed was given for a full consideration; denies any contract between Lewis Brooks and Helen Hammond as alleged; denies the deficiency of assets in the estate and alleges that Lewis Brooks at the time of his death owned a large amount of personal property which came into the possession of Helen Hammond sufficient to pay all his debts; alleges that the proceedings in probate court in Gratiot county were taken through conspiracy between complainant and Helen Hammond to establish a false claim against the estate of Lewis Brooks, and that for eight years prior to 1906 Lewis Brooks did not reside in Vermontville, and had not been cared for and no services of any kind had been rendered him by Helen Hammond; that, on the contrary, prior to 1898 Lewis Brooks had supported Helen Hammond; that in 1898 Mr. Brooks left Vermontville, and continued to reside in Detroit until 1904; that when he left Vermontville in 1898 Helen Hammond remained on the premises, and had the enjoyment of the same and the household furniture and appliances up to the time of the commencement of this suit, without paying of rent; and that she continues to reside on the premises without payment of any consideration, excepting insurance premiums and taxes. The answer further alleges that, if any services were rendered, any claim therefor is barred by the statute of limitations.
Proofs were taken in open court, and a decree in favor of complainant was rendered. From this, decree, the case is. brought here by appeal.
The trial judge filed an elaborate opinion from which we quote:
“The claim that the property conveyed to defendant was a homestead is without merit. If there is anything in the position that one may convey a homestead, with death near at hand, in- violation of a promise before made to another to convey or devise the same, it cannot apply to this case, for the reason that defendant had not occupied the premises for more than two years, and, if the claim of defendant is sustained, it was for more than eight years.
“Taking up the case as it appears to the court from the proof, it is my judgment that the complainant has established by a fair preponderance of the evidence the following:
“First. In February, 1890, the family of Lewis Brooks lived on? the premises in- contention, and consisted of the following named persons: Lewis Brooks, aged 78, quite infirm, nearly blind, and very deaf; Mrs. Brooks, his wife, aged 80, very helplessvfrom old age and. bodily infirmities; Mr. Brown, the. brother of Mrs. Brooks, aged 85, in good health for a man of his age but very deaf. Mr. Brooks was desirous to get some one to care for them. Helen Hammond was a niece of Mrs. Brooks. She lived in Vermontville with her husband and family on a small place. She was about 50 years old, in good health, a good housekeeper, and at times did service as a practical nurse. Mr. Hammond was a laborer working his own premises and other lands. The Hammonds left their home and moved on to these premises. At that time Mr. Brooks had the property in question, consisting of the home and about seven acres, of land, and a mortgage taken on a farm in Jackson county, which he had sold, and which mortgage was for $3,300, bearing interest at 6 per cent. The arrangement first made was that Mrs. Hammond was to live on the premises, and was to be paid $4 a week for her care of the family. Mr. Hammond was to work the land on shares, having two-thirds, and giving Mr. Brooks one-third. A few months later Mr. Brooks, not making collection of interest when due on his mortgage, made another arrangement by which Mrs. Hammond was to stay there and ca,re for them as long as they lived, and was then to have the place either by a deed of conveyance or by will.
- “Second. Mr. Brooks lived there continuously until' 1898, but after that and until 1904 he stayed part of the time during the winter season with the defendant, Mr. Vandemark, in the city of Detroit. Mr. Vandemark’s mother and Mr. Brooks were brother and sister.
“Fourth. That defendant claims that Mr. Brooks did not live in the Vermontville home after 1898, but occasionally visited there. The complainant’s claim is that Mr. Brooks lived at his home in Vermontville until 1904, making visits in the winter at the home of Mr. Vandemark in Detroit. I am satisfied that the complainant’s claim has been established by the greater weight of the evidence, and that this home was his home a greater part of the time until the year 1904.
“Fifth. In the year 1904, without any fault of Mrs. Hammond, he moved to Alma, in Gratiot county, this State, into a home with his sister, Mrs. Vandemark, and his niece, Mrs. St. John, who is a sister of the defendant.
“Sixth. In the year 1899 Lewis Brooks made his will, and this will was in conformity with his agreement with Mrs. Hammond. This will remained in the custody of Mr. Benedict, who drafted it, until the year 1904, when Mr. Brooks, just before removing to Alma, called and got it, and took it away with him.
“Seventh. The fact that Mr. Brooks made the contract in question with Mrs. Hammond is beyond doubt. It is established by proof that cannot be doubted. * * *
“Eighth. It is beyond question that Mrs. Hammond carried out her agreement to the letter; that she cared for these old people in the best possible way, and well earned all she could get under said contract. * * *
“Tenth. May 16, 1906, the deed in question was made by Lewis Brooks to the defendant at Alma, Mich. Mr. Brooks at this time was of the age of 94 years.
“Eleventh. Mr. Brooks died at Alma June 2, 1906, and his body was brought to the old home in Vermont-ville for burial, accompanied by the defendant.
“Twelfth. The deed was placed on record June 5, 1906, the day of Mr. Brooks’ funeral.
“Thirteenth. December 6, 1911, complainant was appointed administrator of the estate of Lewis Brooks by the probate court of Gratiot county, in this State, filed his bond, and received his letters of administration.
“Fourteenth. After that Helen Hammond filed her claim against said estate, which claim as filed was as follows; * * *
“Fifteenth. On December 2, 1912, the claim was heard by the judge of probate of said Gratiot county and allowed at the sum of $2,000. The finding of the court is as follows:
“ ‘The evidence before the court shows that the above services were rendered to and in behalf of said deceased during his lifetime, under a contract or understanding that the said deceased should will certain property in the village of Vermontville, Eaton county, Mich., and occupied as a home by the said deceased during the years in which the said services were rendered, except the last two- years or more just prior to his death, and that no provisions were made for the said claimant in settlement for her services. The evidence also shows that the value of the services were much in excess of the property in question which the evidence showed to be worth ¡¡>2,000, which sum the court has allowed said claimant, and that the said deceased died possessed of no other property only that in question and above referred to.’ * * * ,
“Seventeenth. Mrs. Hammond has been in possession of said property since 1890, and is now in possession of it, and has during that time cared for it, paid the taxes on it, and kept it in repair.
“Eighteenth. The defendant made no claim to the premises until June, 1913, when he caused to be served on Mrs. Hammond a notice to quit possession of the premises.
“While I am without doubt as to the proper disposition of this case from the proof, yet I am of the opinion that, could the truth be known as to the disappearance of the will, and the disposition of the money belonging to Mr. Brooks, on account of the mortgage, it would materially strengthen the claim of the complainant in this case, as set forth in the bill of complaint. It is my judgment that complainant has. established á legal fraud against the defendant in the giving and taking of this deed, and has established his right to the relief he asks for, and that he should be given a decree as prayed.”
The bill of complaint in this cause is filed under 4 How. Stat. (2d Ed.) § 11074 (3 Comp. Laws, § 9363). This statute has been construed by this court in a number of cases. See Walker v. Cady, 106 Mich. 21 (63 N. W. 1005); Beith v. Porter, 119 Mich. 365 (78 N. W. 336, 75 Am. St. Rep. 402).
The important questions in the case are questions of fact. Dr. Snell testified to a conversation with defendant that shows the defendant knew about the arrangement between Mrs. Hammond and Mr. Brooks long before he took the deed, and, though defendant was a witness, he did not deny this conversation.
There was contradictory testimony. It would profit no one to quote the testimony. We shall content ourselves with saying that, after a careful examination of the record, we are satisfied with the decree of the court below.
The decree is affirmed, with costs.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Kuhn, J.
This is a certiorari proceeding by which it is sought to review the action of the circuit judge in denying the relator’s prayer for a writ of mandamus to compel the respondents, who are the president and board of trustees-of the village of Munising, to reconvene and approve his application filed October 1, 1914, and bond filed October 10, 1914, to engage in the retail liquor business for the remainder of the license year.
A meeting of the council was held on October 20, 1914, at which time the relator’s application was rejected without any reason being given, and no action was taken with reference to the bond. It now appears, and is conceded by counsel for relator in his brief, that the period covered by the relator Carlson’s application has passed, and that therefore no relief can now be granted him. This litigation, therefore, at this time presents simply abstract questions of law which do not rest upon existing facts or rights. This of necessity renders it a “moot case,” which we will decline to determine.
The writ of certiorari having been improvidently issued, it will be dismissed, without costs.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Taylor, J.
In these consolidated cases, we granted leave to appeal to consider whether plaintiffs satisfy the “serious impairment of body function” threshold set by the no-fault insurance act in order to be able to maintain an action for noneconomic tort damages. See MCL 500.3135(1). The trial courts granted defendants’ motions for summary disposition, concluding that neither plaintiff has suffered a “serious impairment of body function.” The Court of Appeals reversed. Because we conclude that plaintiffs do not satisfy the “serious impairment of body function” threshold, we reverse the judgments of the Court of Appeals and reinstate the trial courts’ orders granting summary disposition for defendants.
I. ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE NO-FAULT ACT
Before 1973, actions seeking damages for injuries resulting from motor vehicle related accidents proceeded, for the most part, pursuant to common-law accident principles in Michigan’s courts. However, with the enactment of the no-fault act, 1972 PA 294, effective October 1, 1973, the Legislature abolished tort liability generally in motor vehicle accident cases and replaced it with a regime that established that a person injured in such an accident is entitled to certain economic compensation from his own insurance company regardless of fault. Similarly, the injured person’s insurance company is responsible for all expenses incurred for medical care, recovery, and rehabilitation as long as the service, product, or accommodation is reasonably necessary and the charge is reasonable. MCL 500.3107(l)(a). There is no monetary limit on such expenses, and this entitlement can last for the person’s lifetime. An injured person is also entitled to recover from his own insurance company up to three years of earnings loss, i.e., loss of income from work that the person would have performed if he had not been injured. MCL 500.3107(l)(b). An injured person can also recover from his own insurance company up to twenty dollars a day for up to three years in “replacement” expenses, i.e., expenses reasonably incurred in obtaining ordinary and necessary services that the injured person would otherwise have performed. MCL 500.3107(l)(c).
In exchange for the payment of these no-fault economic loss benefits from one’s own insurance company, the Legislature limited an injured person’s ability to sue a negligent operator or owner of a motor vehicle for bodily injuries. In particular, the Legislature significantly limited the injured person’s ability to sue a third party for noneconomic damages, e.g., pain and suffering. No tort suit against a third party for noneconomic damages is permitted unless the injured person “has suffered death, serious impairment of body function, or permanent serious disfigurement.” MCL 500.3135(1).
Following enactment of the no-fault act, Governor Milliken requested of this Court an advisory opinion regarding the act’s constitutionality. We issued such an opinion in Advisory Opinion re Constitutionality of 1972 PA 294, 389 Mich 441; 208 NW2d 469 (1973), holding that the significant wording of the statute — “serious impairment of body function” and “permanent serious disfigurement” — provided standards sufficient for legal interpretation. We also held that the fact-finding related to these standards was within the province of the jury rather than a judge.
This Court next addressed the no fault act in Shavers v Attorney General, 402 Mich 554; 267 NW2d 72 (1978). We held that the act was a proper exercise of the police power and that the legislative scheme did not offend either the due process or equal protection guarantees of the Michigan Constitution. We did, however, find the rate-making procedure of the act unconstitutional and allowed the Legislature eighteen months to correct it. As our subsequent order in Shavers demonstrates, the Legislature did correct it through 1979 PA 145 and 1979 PA 147. 412 Mich 1105 (1982). We also discussed in Shavers the compromise rationale of the act:
. The goal of the no-fault insurance system was to provide victims of motor vehicle accidents assured, adequate, and prompt reparation for certain economic losses. The Legislature believed this goal could be most effectively achieved through a system of compulsory insurance, whereby every Michigan motorist would be required to purchase no-fault insurance or be unable to operate a motor vehicle legally in this state. Under this system victims of motor vehicle accidents would receive insurance benefits for their injuries as a substitute for their common-law remedy in tort.
.. . The act’s personal injury protection insurance scheme, with its comprehensive and expeditious benefit system, reasonably relates to the evidence advanced at trial that under the tort liability system the doctrine of contributory negligence denied benefits to a high percentage of motor vehicle accident victims, minor injuries were overcompensated, serious injuries were undercompensated, long payment delays were commonplace, the court system was overburdened, and those with low income and little education suffered discrimination. [402 Mich 578-579.][ ]
Six years later, after the phrase “serious impairment of body function” and other phrases in the act, such as “permanent serious disfigurement,” had been placed before juries as questions of fact pursuant to the 1976 advisory opinion, this Court in Cassidy v McGovern, 415 Mich 483; 330 NW2d 22 (1982), retrenched on whether these were issues for the jury. In Cassidy we held that opinions requested under Const 1963, art 3, § 8 are only advisory and not precedential and that revisiting the issue was advisable where the Court had before it actual adverse parties to an existing controversy. The Cassidy Court again reiterated the general understanding this Court had of the no-fault act — namely that it was a compromise encompassing the notion of a certain recovery for economic loss in return for reduced tort suit opportunities for noneconomic loss. The Court said:
At least two reasons are evident concerning why the Legislature limited recovery for noneconomic loss, both of which relate to the economic viability of the system. First, there was the problem of the overcompensation of minor injuries. Second, there were the problems incident to the excessive litigation of motor vehicle accident cases. Regarding the second problem, if noneconomic losses were always to be a matter subject to adjudication under the act, the goal of reducing motor vehicle accident litigation would likely be illusory. The combination of the costs of continuing litigation and continuing overcompensation for minor injuries could easily threaten the economic viability, or at least desirability, of providing so many benefits without regard to fault. If every case is subject to the potential of litigation on the question of noneconomic loss, for which recovery is still predicated on negligence, perhaps little has been gained by granting benefits for economic loss without regard to fault. [Cassidy, supra at 500.]
Further, the Court rejected its Advisory Opinion conclusion that juries should find facts and held that trial judges were to decide, as a matter of law, whether the plaintiff had suffered a serious impairment of body function when there was no factual dispute about the nature and extent of the plaintiffs injuries, or when there was a dispute, but it was not material to the determination whether the plaintiff had suffered a serious impairment of body function. Next, the Court held, without reference to textual support but in an apparent effort t(L effectuate the “goal of reducing motor vehicle accident litigation,” that to satisfy the “serious impairment” threshold, an “important” body function must be impaired, that the injury must be an “objectively manifested injury,” and that the injury must have an effect “on the person’s general ability to live a normal life.” Id. at 505. The Court, in reading this language into the act, clearly intended its holding to assist in making the compromise at the heart of the no-fault act viable. This judicially created formula, or gloss, in fact became the central inquiry for a court to resolve when a plaintiff alleged that the tort threshold for a third-party tort suit had been met.
Yet, four years after Cassidy was decided, and interestingly after four new justices joined the Court, in DiFranco v Pickard, 427 Mich 32, 50-58; 398 NW2d 896 (1986), the Court overruled Cassidy in several particulars as to how the “serious impairment” issue should be interpreted and applied. First, the Court found no textual authority for the notion that “serious impairment” was not to be decided as a matter of law and overruled Cassidy in that regard. Next, DiFranco, using a textualist approach, rejected the Cassidy requirement that an “important” body function had to be impaired, concluding that there was no such requirement in the statutory language. Id. at 39. Similarly, DiFranco rejected the Cassidy “objectively manifested injury” requirement — as it had been subsequently construed in Williams v Payne, 131 Mich App 403; 346 NW2d 564 (1984), to not include objectively manifested symptoms — on the basis that it had proved to be an almost insurmountable obstacle to recovery of noneconomic damages in soft-tissue injury cases. DiFranco, supra at 40, 73. Indeed, the Court believed that, as interpreted, this requirement was limiting recovery only to catastrophically injured persons. Id. at 45. Next, DiFranco discarded the “general ability to live a normal life” test because, as the Court characterized it, there is no such thing as “a normal life.” Moreover, the Court believed that this standard was flawed because of the practical, if debatable, proposition that it had proved an almost insurmountable obstacle to recovery of noneconomic damages. Id. at 39, 66.
Having dispatched the bulk of the Cassidy standards, the DiFranco Court held that the phrase “serious impairment of body function” involved two inquiries: (1) “What body function, if any, was impaired because of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident?” and (2) “Was the impairment serious?” Id. at 39, 67. Next, the Court readopted the old Advisory Opinion rule that the serious impairment issue was to be decided by a jury whenever reasonable minds could differ on the issue even if there were no material factual dispute about the nature or extent of the injuries. Id. at 38. Finally, DiFranco said that the jury should consider such factors as “the extent of the impairment, the particular body function impaired, the length of time the impairment lasted, the treatment required to correct the impairment, and any other relevant factors.” Id. at 39-40, 69-70.
This resolution produced sufficient dissatisfaction to the extent that eventually, in 1995, a bill was placed before the Legislature to reform the 1972 act. As enacted, the bill was 21h pages long. The relevant goal of the 1995 bill was “to modify tort liability arising out of certain accidents.” Notably, the bill amended only § 3135 of the voluminous 1972 act. As passed and signed by the Governor, the amendment required courts to decide the “serious impairment of body function” issue if “[t]here is no factual dispute concerning the nature and extent of the person’s injuries,” or if there is a factual dispute, but it is not material to the determination whether the person has suffered a serious impairment of body function. MCL 500.3135(2)(a)(i), (ii). Second, “serious impairment of body function” was defined as
an objectively manifested impairment of an important body function that affects the person’s general ability to lead his or her normal life. [MCL 500.3135(7).]
This means then that pursuant to the Legislature’s directives embodied in the 1995 amendment, “serious impairment of body function” contains the following components: an objectively manifested impairment, of an important body function, and that affects the person’s general ability to lead his or her normal life. Furthermore, courts, not juries, should decide these issues.
Plaintiffs and their proponents argue that after 1995 it is only necessary to show that there has been an impairment of an important body function that, in some way, influences, touches or otherwise affects the plaintiffs lifestyle, regardless of degree. If some effect has been demonstrated, the new legislative test is satisfied, regardless of the extent of the effect. (Emphasis added).
Defendants and their amicis, on the other hand, contend that a plaintiff must demonstrate not simply that some aspect of his life has been affected, but that generally he is no longer able to lead his normal life.
II. FACTS AND PROCEEDINGS BELOW
A. STRAUB V COLLETTE
Daniel Straub injured three fingers on his nondominant hand when his motorcycle collided with an automobile on September 19, 1999. He suffered a broken bone in his little finger and injured tendons in his ring and middle fingers. Straub underwent outpatient surgery on September 23, 1999, to repair the tendons. No medical treatment was required for the broken bone. He wore a cast for about one month following surgery to assist the healing of the tendons. He also took prescription pain medication for about two weeks following the surgery and completed a physical therapy program.
About two months following the surgery, Straub’s doctor noted that Straub’s injuries were healing nicely. Around the same time, Straub returned to work as a cable lineman for a cable television company, initially working twenty to twenty-five hours a week, but returning to full-time work about three weeks later, on December 14, 1999. He testified at his deposition that since returning to work, he was able to perform all his job duties, but sometimes with discomfort. In addition, he testified that until late December 1999, he had difficulty doing household chores, such as washing dishes, doing yard work, and making property repairs. He was also unable to operate his archery shop during the hunting season in the fall of 1999. Operating his shop required him to repair bows, make arrows, and process deer meat. In mid-January 2000, however, he was able to resume playing bass guitar in a band that performed on weekends. By the time of Straub’s depo sition, he could perform all the activities in which he had engaged before the accident, although he was still unable to completely straighten his middle finger. He was also still unable to completely close his left hand, which decreased his grip strength.
Straub filed an action in circuit court to recover noneconomic damages under the no-fault act. The trial court granted defendants’ motion for summary disposition, finding that Straub’s injuries relate only to “extrinsic” considerations such as playing guitar and processing deer meat, and thus did not meet the threshold of “serious impairment of body function.” MCL 500.3135(7).
The Court of Appeals reversed, holding that, between the date of the accident and mid-January 2000, Straub’s injuries affected his “general ability to lead his normal life,” and, thus, Straub satisfied the serious impairment threshold. Straub v Collette, 254 Mich App 454, 459; 697 NW2d 178 (2002). The Court reasoned that Straub was unable to play bass guitar in his band for approximately four months after the accident and that, before the accident, he performed almost every weekend and practiced several times each week. It also concluded that four months was a significant amount of time during which Straub was unable to play the guitar. The panel further reasoned that Straub was unable to engage in full-time employment for about three months. The Court concluded that, for a limited amount of time, Straub’s injuries affected his general ability to lead his normal life, “particularly his ability to perform musically and to work.” Id.
Thereafter, defendants filed an application for leave to appeal in this Court. On June 12, 2003, this Court entered an order vacating the judgment of the Court of Appeals and remanding this case to the Court of Ap peals for consideration in light of this Court’s order in Kreiner v Fischer, 468 Mich 885 (2003). Straub v Collette, 468 Mich 920 (2003).
On remand, the Court of Appeals again reversed. Straub v Collette (On Remand), 258 Mich App 456; 670 MW2d 725 (2003). The Court again concluded that Straub’s injuries affected his ability to play the guitar and to work. The Court determined that Straub’s injuries affected his ability to perform household tasks and to operate his archery shop. Thus, the Court of Appeals concluded that Straub’s injuries affected his ability to lead his normal life, “given the work and tasks that he performed before the accident....” Id. at 463. We subsequently granted leave to appeal. 469 Mich 948 (2003).
B. KREINER V FISCHER
On November 28, 1997, plaintiff Kreiner was injured in an automobile accident. Four days after the accident he visited his family doctor, complaining of pain in his lower back, right hip, and right leg. The doctor ordered x-rays and cortisone injections for pain. Kreiner returned to his doctor three days later and complained that the pain was persisting. The doctor administered another cortisone injection and prescribed physical therapy and pain medication.
When Kreiner complained that his pain continued six weeks after the accident, his doctor referred him to a neurologist, Karim Fram, M.D., who conducted an electromyography (EMG) that revealed mild nerve irritation to the right fourth lumbar (14) nerve root in Kreiner’s back and degenerative disc disease with spondylolisthesis. Dr. Fram prescribed Motrin for pain along with a muscle relaxant, and instructed Kreiner to perform certain back and muscle strengthening exercises at home.
Kreiner returned to Dr. Fram in May 1998 complaining of pain radiating from the back of his right thigh and right calf, which pain was aggravated by bending over and either sitting or standing for any length of time. Dr. Fram prescribed pain medication and a continued program of back and muscle strengthening exercises. In August 1998, after Kreiner returned and complained of constant lower back pain aggravated by climbing, bending over, pushing, and pulling, Dr. Fram prescribed a three-week physical therapy course. In October 1998, Dr. Fram again prescribed an anti-inflammatory medication and home exercises.
Dr. Fram’s notes reveal that plaintiff visited him in August 1999 for a follow-up examination. At that time, Kreiner was still complaining of continuous pain in his lower back and of right leg pain radiating to the lower extremities on the right side. Standing, lifting, climbing a ladder, and staying in one position for a long time tended to aggravate the pain. Dr. Fram advised Kreiner to continue the home exercises, to use a back support during daily activity, to avoid lifting objects over fifteen pounds, and to refrain from excessive bending or twisting. Dr. Fram also prescribed a mild muscle relaxant. Kreiner subsequently stopped treating with any physician and stopped taking medications.
Before and after the accident, Kreiner worked as a self-employed carpenter and construction worker performing home remodeling, such as building decks, doing electrical work, and performing plumbing, siding, and some mechanical work. After the accident, he could no longer work eight-hour days as he had previously. He was forced to limit his workday to only six hours. Kreiner said he was also unable to stand on a ladder longer than twenty minutes at a time, could no longer perform roofing work, and was unable to lift anything over eighty pounds. He also could no longer walk more than half a mile without resting and could no longer hunt rabbits. He could, however, continue to hunt deer.
In October 1998, Kreiner filed a complaint against Fischer, seeking noneconomic damages under MCL 500.3135. The trial court granted Fischer’s motion for summary disposition, finding that Kreiner failed to satisfy the “serious impairment of body function” threshold. The trial court stated in part:
While somewhat restricted, the Plaintiff in this case is able to engage in lifting, bending, twisting, and standing that is required by his job. Furthermore, he continues to engage in his favorite recreational activity which is hunting.
Based on these facts, Plaintiff is hard-pressed to show how his alleged impairment is serious enough to affect his normal life.
Further, the Court finds that under the factors enumerated in Harris [v Lemicex, 152 Mich App 149; 393 NW2d 559 (1986)], the claimed injury is not serious. Here, Plaintiffs treatment is limited to wearing a back support garment and taking muscle relaxants and painkillers. He has not been actually physically disabled at any time, and the duration of his injury is intermittent.
Finally, his own doctor has stated that there is a chance that the damaged root will heal completely.
For these reasons, the Court finds as a matter of law the impairments for which Plaintiff claims he suffers from do not impinge in any real sense in his ability to lead a normal life. Therefore, he is not entitled to maintain this action in tort against the Defendant under the No-Fault Statute, MCL 500.3135(1).
The Court of Appeals reversed the trial court’s decision. Kreiner v Fischer, 251 Mich App 513; 651 NW2d 95 (2002). The Court determined that the trial court erred by finding that Kreiner’s impairment was not “serious enough” because MCL 500.3135(7) does not require a showing of seriousness. Kreiner, supra at 518. The panel remanded for a jury trial because Fischer disputed Kreiner’s claims regarding his limitations on working and hunting. The Court stated, however, that if Kreiner’s claims were not in dispute, it would hold that Kreiner satisfied the serious impairment of body function threshold and that he would be entitled to summary disposition on that issue. The Court of Appeals directed the trial court to grant summary disposition to Kreiner if the trial court determined that there are no material factual disputes with respect to Kreiner’s claims regarding the effect of his injury on his ability to work.
On appeal, this Court peremptorily vacated the Court of Appeals decision and remanded for consideration regarding “whether plaintiffs impairment affects his general ability to lead his normal life.” 468 Mich 885 (2003). This Court’s order stated:
The issue here is whether plaintiff satisfies the “serious impairment of body function” threshold set by the no-fault insurance act in order to be able to maintain an action for noneconomic tort damages. See MCL 500.3135(1). The no-fault act, MCL 500.3135(7), defines “serious impairment of body function” as “an objectively manifested impairment of an important body function that affects the person’s general ability to lead his or her normal life.” The circuit court granted defendant’s motion for summary disposition, concluding that plaintiffs impairment is not “serious enough” to meet the tort threshold. The Court of Appeals reversed, concluding that plaintiff is not required to show that his impairment “seriously” affects his ability to lead his normal life in order to meet the tort threshold. The Court of Appeals then concluded that, if the facts as alleged by plaintiff are true, his impairment has affected his general ability to lead his normal life. In our judgment, both the circuit court and the Court of Appeals erred. Although a serious effect is not required, any effect does not suffice either. Instead, the effect must be on one’s general ability to lead his normal life. Because the Supreme Court believes that neither of the lower courts accurately addressed this issue, the case is remanded to the Court of Appeals for it to consider whether plaintiffs impairment affects his general ability to lead his normal life. [468 Mich 885 (2003) (emphasis in original).]
On remand, the same panel of the Court of Appeals again reversed the trial court’s decision. Kreiner v Fischer (On Remand), 256 Mich App 680; 671 NW2d 95 (2003). The Court of Appeals stated that this Court’s order did not change in any significant manner the panel’s analysis in its previous opinion. The panel reiterated a large portion of its previous analysis because this Court had vacated the prior opinion. The Court of Appeals then agreed with this Court’s order that, under MCL 500.3135(7), just any effect on a person’s general ability to lead a normal life will not satisfy the statutory threshold. Rather, the injury must affect one’s general ability to lead his normal life. Although the panel stated that its previous opinion had addressed this issue, it further opined that “one’s general ability to lead his or her normal life can be affected by an injury that impacts the person’s ability to work at a job, where the job plays a significant role in that individual’s normal life, such as in the case at bar.” Id. at 688. The Court further opined that Kreiner’s limitations “if true, indicate that plaintiff suffered a serious impairment of body function under § 3135.” Id. at 689. We subsequently granted leave to appeal. 469 Mich 948 (2003).
III. STANDARD OF REVIEW
This Court reviews de novo the grant or denial of summary disposition. American Federation of State, Co & Muni Employees v Detroit, 468 Mich 388, 398; 662 NW2d 695 (2003). Similarly, questions of statutory interpretation are reviewed de novo. In re MCI, 460 Mich 396, 413; 596 NW2d 164 (1999).
IV ANALYSIS
In construing statutes we examine the language the Legislature has used. That language is the best indicator of the Legislature’s intent. Wickens v Oakwood Healthcare Sys, 465 Mich 53, 60; 631 NW2d 686 (2001).
MCL 500.3135(1) provides:
A person remains subject to tort liability for noneconomic loss caused by his or her ownership, maintenance, or use of a motor vehicle only if the injured person has suffered death, serious impairment of body function, or permanent serious disfigurement.
The issue in these consolidated cases is whether plaintiffs have suffered a “serious impairment of body function.” MCL 500.3135(7) defines “serious impairment of body function” as
an objectively manifested impairment of an important body function that affects the person’s general ability to lead his or her normal life.
The specific issue in these consolidated cases is whether plaintiffs’ impairments affect their general ability to lead their normal lives.
In order to be able to maintain an action for noneconomic tort damages under the no-fault act, the “objectively manifested impairment of an important body function” that the plaintiff has suffered must affect his “general ability” to lead his normal life. Determining whether the impairment affects a plaintiffs “general ability” to lead his normal life requires considering whether the plaintiff is “generally able” to lead his normal life. If he is generally able to do so, then his general ability to lead his normal life has not been affected by the impairment.
Random House Webster’s College Dictionary (1991) defines “general” as “considering or dealing with broad, universal, or important aspects.” “In general” is defined as “with respect to the entirety; as a whole.” Id. “Generally” is defined as “with respect to the larger part; for the most part.” Id. Webster’s New International Dictionary defines “general” as “the whole; the total; that which comprehends or relates to all, or the chief part; a general proposition, fact, principle, etc.;— opposed to particular; that is, opposed to special.” Accordingly, determining whether a plaintiff is “generally able” to lead his normal life requires considering whether the plaintiff is, “for the most part” able to lead his normal life.
In addition, to “lead” one’s normal life contemplates more than a minor interruption in life. To “lead” means, among other things, “to conduct or bring in a particular course.” Given this meaning, the objectively manifested impairment of an important body function must affect the course of a person’s life. Accordingly, the effect of the impairment on the course of a plaintiffs entire normal life must be considered. Although some aspects of a plaintiffs entire normal life may be interrupted by the impairment, if, despite those impingements, the course or trajectory of the plaintiffs normal life has not been affected, then the plaintiffs “general ability” to lead his normal life has not been affected and he does not meet the “serious impairment of body function” threshold.
The starting point in analyzing whether an impairment affects a person’s “general,” i.e., overall, ability to lead his normal life should be identifying how his life has been affected, by how much, and for how long. Specific activities should be examined with an understanding that not all activities have the same significance in a person’s overall life. Also, minor changes in how a person performs a specific activity may not change the fact that the person may still “generally” be able to perform that activity.
From all the above we deduce several principles that a court must consider in determining whether a plaintiff who alleges a “serious impairment of body function” as a result of a motor vehicle accident meets the statutory threshold for third-party tort recovery. The following multi-step process is meant to provide the lower courts with a basic framework for separating out those plaintiffs who meet the statutory threshold from those who do not.
First, a court must determine that there is no factual dispute concerning the nature and extent of the per son’s injuries; or if there is a factual dispute, that it is not material to the determination whether the person has suffered a serious impairment of body function. If a court so concludes, it may continue to the next step. But, if a court determines' there are factual disputes concerning the nature and extent of a plaintiffs injuries that are material to determining whether the plaintiff has suffered a serious impairment of body function, the court may not decide the issue as a matter of law. MCL 500.3135(2)(a)(i) and (ii).
Second, if a court can decide the issue as a matter of law, it must next determine if an “important body function” of the plaintiff has been impaired. It is insufficient if the impairment is of an unimportant body function. Correspondingly, it is also insufficient if an important body function has been injured but not impaired. If a court finds that an important body function has in fact been impaired, it must then determine if the impairment is objectively manifested. Subjective complaints that are not medically documented are insufficient.
If a court finds that an important body function has been impaired, and that the impairment is objectively manifested, it then must determine if the impairment affects the plaintiffs general ability to lead his or her normal life. In determining whether the course of the plaintiffs normal life has been affected, a court should engage in a multifaceted inquiry, comparing the plaintiffs life before and after the accident as well as the significance of any affected aspects on the course of the plaintiffs overall life. Once this is identified, the court must engage in an objective analysis regarding whether any difference between the plaintiffs pre- and post-accident lifestyle has actually affected the plaintiffs “general ability” to conduct the course of his life. Merely “any effect” on the plaintiffs life is insufficient because a de minimus effect would not, as objectively viewed, affect the plaintiffs “general ability” to lead his life.
The following nonexhaustive list of objective factors may be of assistance in evaluating whether the plaintiffs “general ability” to conduct the course of his normal life has been affected: (a) the nature and extent of the impairment, (b) the type and length of treatment required, (c) the duration of the impairment, (d) the extent of any residual impairment , and (e) the prognosis for eventual recovery. This list of factors is not meant to be exclusive nor are any of the individual factors meant to be dispositive by themselves. For example, that the duration of the impairment is short does not necessarily preclude a finding of a “serious impairment of body function.” On the other hand, that the duration of the impairment is long does not necessarily mandate a finding of a “serious impairment of body function.” Instead, in order to determine whether one has suffered a “serious impairment of body function,” the totality of the circumstances must be considered, and the ultimate question that must be answered is whether the impairment “affects the person’s general ability to conduct the course of his or her normal life.”
V APPLICATION TO STRAUB
We are satisfied that there is no material factual dispute regarding the nature and extent of Straub’s injuries. Thus, it is proper to determine whether he sustained a serious impairment of body function as a matter of law. MCL 500.3135(2)(a)(i).
First, we find that Straub’s injuries to his nondominant hand (a closed fracture, open wounds, tendon injuries to two fingers, and a quarter-size wound on the palm) constituted an impairment of an important body function that was objectively manifested.
Thus, the issue is whether the impairment affected his general ability to live his life. In determining whether Straub’s general, overall ability to lead his preaccident life was affected, we consider his functional abilities and activities. A necessary part of this analysis is determining how long and how pervasively his activities and abilities were affected. While an injury need not be permanent, it must be of sufficient duration to affect the course of a plaintiffs life. The primary focus of the Court of Appeals was on the work Straub missed, even while initially acknowledging it was a “relatively limited time.” 254 Mich App 459. Straub did not work for eight weeks. Over the next three weeks, Straub worked twenty to twenty-five hours a week at his primary job as a cable lineman. This time frame coincided with the deer hunting season. Because Straub had been advised not to use his left hand, he did not operate his shop or process deer for that season.
The Court of Appeals considered an additional month of work “disability” because Straub did not return to his weekend job as a bass guitar player until mid-January 2000. Straub estimated that over a four-month period he had to miss fifteen to twenty club dates.
Straub’s treatment consisted of having his wounds sutured, wearing a cast, and taking antibiotics and pain medication. Four days after the accident, outpatient surgery was performed on the fingers and palm. The treatment was not significant or long-term. Within two months, the fracture and surgical wounds had healed. There were two sessions of physical therapy. At that point, Straub discontinued all medical treatment. Plaintiff estimated he was ninety-nine percent back to normal by mid-January 2000. Given that Straub’s injury was not extensive, recuperation was short, unremarkable, and virtually complete, and the effect of the injury on body function was not pervasive, we conclude that Straub’s general ability to live his normal life was not affected. There is no medical evidence that Straub has any residual impairment or that the course of Straub’s life has been affected. The temporary limitations Straub experienced do not satisfy the statutory prerequisites. Considered against the backdrop of his preimpairment life and the limited nature and extent of his injuries, we conclude that Straub’s postimpairment life is not so different that his “general ability” to lead his normal life has been affected. Because the course of Straub’s normal life has not been affected, he failed to satisfy the “serious impairment of body function” threshold for recovery of noneconomic damages. Accordingly, the trial court properly granted summary disposition for defendants in Straub’s lawsuit.
VI. APPLICATION TO KREINER
We are satisfied that there is no factual dispute that is material to the determination whether Kreiner suffered a serious impairment of body function. Thus, it is appropriate to determine as a matter of law whether he experienced a serious impairment of body function. MCL 500.3135(2) (a) (ii).
First, we find that Kreiner’s medically documented injuries to his lower back, right hip, and right leg constitute an impairment of an important body function that was objectively manifested.
Thus, the issue is whether the impairment affected his general ability to lead his life. We find that Kreiner’s impairment did not affect his overall or broad ability to conduct the course of his normal life. In fact, his life after the accident was not significantly different than it was before the accident. He continued working as a self-employed carpenter and construction worker and was still able to perform all the work that he did before, with the possible exception of roofing work. His injuries did not cause him to miss one day of work.
Kreiner states that he can no longer stand on a ladder for longer than twenty minutes, can no longer lift anything over eighty pounds, and was forced to limit his workday to six hours because he can no longer work eight-hour days. Kreiner does not contend, however, that these limitations prevent him from performing his job. He also has difficulty walking more than a half mile without resting and can no longer hunt rabbits, although he continues to hunt deer.
Looking at Kreiner’s life as a whole, before and after the accident, and the nature and extent of his injuries, we conclude that his impairment did not affect his overall ability to conduct the course of his normal life. While he cannot work to full capacity, he is generally able to lead his normal life. A negative effect on a particular aspect of an injured person’s life is not sufficient in itself to meet the tort threshold, as long as the injured person is still generally able to lead his normal life. Considered against the backdrop of his preimpairment life, Kreiner’s postimpairment life is not so different that his “general ability” to conduct the course of his normal life has been affected.
Because Kreiner failed to establish that his impairment affected his general ability to conduct the course of his normal life, he did not satisfy the “serious impairment of body function” threshold for recovery of noneconomic damages. Accordingly, the trial court properly granted summary disposition of Kreiner’s lawsuit.
VII. RESPONSE TO THE DISSENT
It must be pointed out that the dissent’s approach leads to the rather dismaying conclusion that the intent of the Legislature in 1995 was, in effect, to pull down the no-fault temple and produce an auto insurance catastrophe for the state’s drivers. That is, the dissent concludes that the 1995 amendment, despite no words to this effect, was designed, as the thrust of his argument makes clear, to undermine the great compromise (no-fault benefits in return for limited tort remedies) that all previous Supreme Court decisions have recognized as existing in the no-fault legislation and that is an indispensable requirement to make no-fault viable. We decline to join him in this calculated exercise predicated on what we believe is a studied ignorance of what the Legislature intended.
VIII. CONCLUSION
In both of the cases before us the trial courts granted summary disposition for defendants because the courts determined that plaintiffs had not established a serious impairment of a body function. The respective panels of the Court of Appeals, however, reversed. We reverse the judgments of the Court of Appeals because we conclude that the trial courts properly determined that plaintiffs did not establish a serious impairment of body function.
The decision of the Court of Appeals is reversed in Straub.
The decision of the Court of Appeals is reversed in Kreiner.
CORRIGAN, C.J., and Young and MARKMAN, JJ., concurred with Taylor, J.
Straub v Collette, 254 Mich App 454; 657 NW2d 178 (2002), vacated and remanded 468 Mich 920 (2003), (On Remand), 258 Mich App 456; 670 NW2d 725 (2003). Kreiner v Fischer, 251 Mich App 513; 651 NW2d 433 (2002), vacated and remanded 468 Mich 885 (2003), (On Remand), 256 Mich App 680; 671 NW2d 95 (2003).
There is a cap on the amount recoverable in a thirty-day period, which cap is adjusted annually for changes in the cost of living. We are advised that the work loss cap for accidents occurring between October 2002 and September 2003 was $4,070. An injured person may file a tort claim against the party at fault seeking to recover excess economic losses (wage losses and replacement expenses beyond the daily, monthly, and yearly maximum amounts). MCL 500.3135(3)(c).
It is also the case that a party is foreclosed from recovery of noneconomic loss if the person is more than fifty percent at fault, MCL 500.3135(2)(b) and (4)(a), or if the person was operating his own vehicle while uninsured, MCL 500.3135(2)(c).
We later discussed this compromise concept further in Cassidy v McGovern, 415 Mich 483, 500; 330 NW2d 22 (1982), where we quoted from 7 Am Jur 2d, Automobile Insurance, § 340, p 1068:
“It has been said of one such plan that the practical effect of the adoption of personal injury protection insurance is to afford the citizen the security of prompt and certain recovery to a fixed amount of the most salient elements of his out-of-pocket expenses * ** *. In return for this he surrenders the possibly minimal damages for pain and suffering recoverable in cases not marked by serious economic loss or objective indicia of grave injury, and also surrenders the outside chance that through a generous settlement or a liberal award by a judge or jury in such a case he may be able to reap a monetary windfall out of his misfortune.”
The Cassidy Court stated:
. . . impairment of body function is better understood as referring to important body functions. . . .
We believe that the Legislature intended an objective standard that looks to the effect of an injury on the person’s general ability to live a normal life... .
Another significant aspect of the phrase “serious impairment of body function” is that it demonstrates the legislative intent to predicate recovery for noneconomic loss on objectively manifested injuries. Recovery for pain and suffering is not predicated on serious pain and suffering, but on injuries that affect the functioning of the body....
. . . [W]e conclude that an injury need not be permanent to be serious. Permanency is, nevertheless, relevant. (Two injuries identical except that one is permanent do differ in seriousness.) [Id. at 504-506.]
The Cassidy majority opinion was signed by Justices Fitzgerald, Williams, Ryan, Coleman, and Levin. Justice Kavanagh concurred in part and dissented in part. Justice Riley did not participate. The DiFranco majority opinion was signed by four new justices: Cavanagh, Brickley, Boyle, and Archer. Justices Williams, Levin, and Riley concurred in part and dissented in part. Justices Williams and Riley complained that the majority was overruling Cassidy only four years after it was decided.
While Cassidy, supra at 505, required an evaluation of the effect of an injury on the person’s general ability to live “a normal life,” the DiFranco Court concluded that it was impossible to objectively determine what “a normal life” is, asserting: “there is no such thing as ‘a normal life.’ ” DiFranco, supra at 66. Apparently cognizant of this comment, and attempting to reconcile the incongruity that DiFranco had pointed out, the Legislature, in the 1995 act, requires that the impairment affect “the person’s general ability to lead his or her normal life.” (Emphasis added.) It is then clear that, harkening to the DiFranco Court’s guidance that there is no objectively “normal life,” the Legislature modified the entirely objective Cassidy standard to a partially objective and partially subjective inquiry. Thus, what is “normal” is to be determined subjectively on the basis of the plaintiffs own life and not the life of some objective third party. However, once that is fixed as the base, it is to be objectively determined whether the impairment in fact affects the plaintiffs “general ability to lead” that life.
As should be evident, and as previous panels of the Court of Appeals have noted, the most uncomplicated reading of the 1995 amendment is that the Legislature largely rejected DiFranco in favor of Cassidy. See, e.g., Jackson v Nelson, 252 Mich App 643, 649-650; 654 NW2d 604 (2002), and Miller v Purcell, 246 Mich App 244, 248; 631 NW2d 760 (2001).
Sinas & Ransom, The 1995 no-fault tort threshold: A statutory hybrid, 76 Mich Bar J 76 (1997).
Emg testing is a process by which impairment to nerves in the arms and hands may be verified objectively. It involves measuring and analyzing the responses of muscles to stimulation by electricity. Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary (28th ed, 1994), p 537.
Spondylolisthesis is the “forward movement of the body of one of the lower lumbar vertebrae on the vertebra below it... Stedman’s Medical Dictionary (26th ed, 1995), p 1656.
Despite his limitations, Kreiner’s tax returns revealed that 1998 was his highest income-earning year, including several years before the injuries occurred.
Random House Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary (2001).
As we stated in Kreiner, 468 Mich at 885:
Although a serious effect is not required, any effect does not suffice either. Instead, the effect must be on one’s general ability to lead his normal life. [Emphasis in original.]
MCL 500.3135(2)(a)(ii) creates a special rule for closed head injuries by providing that a question of fact for the jury is created if a licensed allopathic or osteopathic physician who regularly diagnoses or treats closed head injuries testifies under oath that there may be a serious neurological injury.
Contrary to the dissent, we do not require that “every aspect of a person’s life must be affected in order to satisfy the tort threshold ... .” Post at 154. Rather, in a quite distinct proposition, we merely require that the whole life be considered in determining what satisfies this threshold, i.e., whether an impairment “affects the person’s general ability to lead his or her normal life.”
Self-imposed restrictions, as opposed to physician-imposed restrictions, based on real or perceived pain do not establish this point.
See DiFranco, supra at 67-70; Hermann v Haney, 98 Mich App 445; 296 NW2d 278 (1980). The dissent argues that these factors have no bases in the statutory text. Post at 148-149. The statutory text provides that “an objectively manifested impairment of an important body function that affects the person’s general ability to lead his or her normal life” is a “serious impairment of body function.” MCL 500.3135(7). Does the dissent really believe that an impairment lasting only a few moments has the same effect on a person’s “general ability to lead his or her normal life” as an impairment lasting several years or that an impairment requiring annual treatment has the same effect on a person’s “general ability to lead his or her normal life” as an impairment requiring daily treatment?
We agree with the dissent that the “serious impairment of body function” inquiry must “proceed!] on a case-by-case basis because the statute requires inherently fact-specific and circumstantial determinations.” Post at 145. Whether an impairment that precludes a person from throwing a ninety-five miles-an-hour fastball is a “serious impairment of body function” may depend on whether the person is a professional baseball player or an accountant who likes to play catch with his son every once in a while.
His doctor had authorized him to return to work two weeks earlier than he did.
Although there is a factual dispute concerning the nature and extent of plaintiffs injuries, this dispute is not material to the determination whether plaintiff has suffered a “serious impairment of body function” because even assuming that all plaintiffs allegations concerning the nature and extent of his injuries are true, we conclude that plaintiff has still not suffered a “serious impairment of body function.”
As the trial court noted, plaintiff, while somewhat restricted, is able to engage in lifting, bending, twisting, and standing as required by his job.
Contrary to the dissent’s contention, we are not concluding that Kreiner would have to show that he is unable to work at all in order to show that he has suffered a “serious impairment of body function.” Post at 153. Instead, we are simply concluding that, although plaintiff has suffered an impairment that does have an effect on his ability to work, it is not a “serious impairment of body function,” as defined by the Legislature, because plaintiff is “generally able” to work and the course of his normal life is otherwise unaffected. We disagree with the dissent’s suggestion that any effect on one’s ability to work is sufficient to establish a “serious impairment of body function.” | [
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Per Curiam.
Relators in the above-entitled eases are members of the State tax commission of Michigan by gubernatorial appointment. The office is appointive, with a full term of six years. Each first became a member of the commission by appointment for a full term. Relator Horton was appointed and entered upon the duties of his office January, 1911, and relator Kearney two years later. Except as hereafter stated, they have been continuously members of said commission ever since. Their respective terms will expire in January, 1917, and January, 1919. When each entered upon the duties of his office, his salary, as fixed by statute, was $2,500 per annum. Other than the dates of their first appointments, the facts and questions of law involved are substantially alike in both cases, which are briefed and submitted together.
In 1913 the legislature passed an act (Act No. 331, Pub. Acts 1913) entitled:
“An act to fix the salary and provide for the expenses of the board of State tax commissioners.”
The material part of said act is as follows:
“Section 1. Hereafter the members of the board of State tax commissioners shall each receive an annual salary of three thousand five hundred dollars, which shall be paid out of the general fund in the State treasury. The members of said board shall also receive all expenses actually and necessarily incurred in the performance of official duties, all of which shall be audited and allowed by the board of State auditors and paid from said general fund: Provided, however, that the members of said board shall devote their entire time to the duties of their respective offices.”
While it may imply more time than formerly should be devoted to those which exist, this act adds no new duties; and, if it did, extra compensation cannot be provided for additional duties within the scope of and germane to the office without violating a constitutional provision forbidding increase in salary after election or appointment, or during the then term of office. Moore v. Nation, 80 Kan. 672 (103 Pac. 107, 23 L. R. A. [N. S.] 1115, 18 Am. & Eng. Ann. Cas. 397); United States v. King, 147 U. S. 676 (13 Sup. Ct. 439); Evans v. City of Trenton, 24 N. J. Law, 764.
Until April, 1915, relators continued to draw their salaries at the rate of $2,500 per annum. On April 27, 1915, both presented their resignations to the governor, which were accepted upon the day they- were presented. On the following day, April 28th, both relators were reappointed to the same respective terms and offices from which they had resigned. Their appointments were thereafter confirmed by the State senate, and commissions were at once issued to them under their reappointments. Relator Kearney again took and filed the constitutional oath of office on April 29 and relator Horton on April 30, 1915. Both thereafter claimed that during the balance of the terms to which they were originally appointed, and reappointed to fill vacancies created by their resignations, they were entitled to the annual salary of $3,500, as provided by said Act No. 331, Pub. Acts 1913. Having asked and received from the attorney general an opinion unfavorable to this claim, the State board of auditors declined to audit and allow relators’ salaries at the increased rate, taking the position that they were not entitled to the benefit of such increase until the expiration of the terms for which they were originally appointed, -for the reason that section 3, art. 16, of the State Constitution of 1909 prohibits increasing salaries of public officers after their election or appointment. The board did, however, audit the salaries of relators at the rate of $2,500 per annum, as before. After due demand and refusal, these petitions for mandamus were filed to compel the State board of auditors to audit and allow relators’ salaries at the rate of $8,500 per annum after the dates they qualified under reappointment, according to the pay roll of said commission as prepared and presented. Orders to show cause were granted and answers filed properly putting the question involved at issue.
It is conceded that members of the board of State tax commissioners are public officers, within the meaning of the Constitution, and, had relators continued in office under their original appointments for the terms they are now filling, the constitutional prohibition would preclude their receiving an increase of salary. It is urged, however, that when they resigned and their resignations were accepted, their tenure ended, and there was an absolute vacancy in the office, which the governor could fill by the appointment of any incumbent he chose; that, when he saw fit to appoint them, and they accepted, they began a new tenure of office as independent of and distinct from their former tenure as though other persons had been appointed, entirely free from the constitutional restriction urged by respondent. The ground for this contention is the less lucid phraseology of the prohibition in our present Constitution than that found in the preceding one, or generally in the legislation and Constitutions of other States restricting changes in salaries of incumbents of office. Section 3, art. 16, of the Constitution of 1909, so far as material, provides:
“Salaries of public officers, except circuit judges, shall not be increased nor shall the salary of any public officer be decreased after election or appointment.”
The prohibition in our former Constitution of 1850 (Schedule, § 20) is as follows:
“And it shall not be lawful hereafter for the legislature to increase or diminish the compensation of any officer during the term for which he is elected or appointed.”
Restrictive provisions of this nature are very common in the Constitutions, and legislation of the several States and the general attitude of the courts sustaining them as obviously wise and beneficial restraints which may not be evaded by any subterfuge has become text-book law based upon abundant decisions. Mechem on Public Officers, § 858; Throop on Public Officers, § 465; 29 Cyc. pp. 1427, 1428. The prevalent form of such restrictions prohibits change of compensation during the term for which the officer was elected or appointed or, in some cases yet more specific, after election or appointment and during the term for which the incumbent is elected or appointed.
It is pointed out that the restrictive clause in our present Constitution makes no mention of any term, and that the omission to adopt familiar phraseology, including the term, which has frequently been construed by various courts, permits the course pursued in this case, and by fair construction indicates an intent to apply the restriction only to an incumbent while he continued in office under a particular election or appointment, regardless of any term for which he was elected or appointed; it being said:
“It is therefore very evident that the constitutional convention made a distinct change in the phraseology, and necessarily must have intended to make a distinct change in the provision.”
It is evident that the phraseology in the present Constitution is changed from the well-seasoned and often construed wording of our former Constitution, harmonizing with that most commonly found in other constitutional provisions or legislation upon this subject, and it may be conceded that the change has rendered the provision, unaided by context, less complete and more obscure in substituting “after election or appointment” for “during the term for which he is elected or appointed.” While the occasion for this change in wording is not readily apparent, neither is it apparent from the language used, construed in the light of the éontext and convention debates, that there was any intention to limit the scope of the former inhibition, except as to circuit judges. No one would accept strict construction and the literal meaning of this provision, if it has a meaning standing alone and exactly as it reads. If, as it reads, the salary of any public officer cannot be increased or decreased “after election or appointment,” then by it, at the time of their first appointment, the status of relators was fixed in that particular for life, or so long as and whenever they might hold that office.
It is a maxim that the object of construction, as applied to a written Constitution, is to ultimately ascertain and give effect to the intent of the people in adopting it. The language here used calls for implications, being neither sufficiently precise nor complete in itself to make plain the intent without them. Implied constitutional restraints upon the legislative power are sometimes ascertained to be as manifest and effectual as those directly expressed in the language employed. Rathbone v. Wirth, 150 N. Y. 459 (45 N. E. 15, 34 L. R. A. 408). Resort may therefore be had not only to the indicated object sought to be accomplished and the mischief to be guarded against, which has been too often and abundantly reviewed by courts of last resort to need discussion here, but it is also permissible to examine the proceedings of the convention which framed the Constitution. The convention debates disclose that the member who introduced the clause made reference to, and manifestly was moved by, the prohibition in the Constitution of 1850, expressing himself as advocating some provision of like kind in the organic law “to prevent that tampering with salaries,” referring in subsequent remarks upon the subject to increasing or decreasing salaries of officers during their terms. The only matter relating to this clause discussed at any length was a proposed exception from its provisions in favor of circuit judges, there being a diversity of opinion upon that question which delayed its passage. Otherwise we find no suggestion of opposition to the clause or manifestation of an inclination to modify the restrictions of the former provision which it was to succeed. That such was the understanding of its meaning and intention of those who framed the Constitution is confirmed by their official address to the people of the State upon the subject. The act under which the constitutional convention was convened required that before adjournment it should prepare and adopt an address to the people of the State “explaining the proposed changes in the present Constitution, and the reasons for such changes, and such other matters as to the convention shall seem advisable.” A committee “On Submission and Address to the People” prepared and submitted the required address to the convention, which approved and adopted it. Of section 3, art. 16, the address to the people says:
“This revises section 21 of article 4 and section 20 of the Schedule of the present Constitution making no material change, except as indicated by the words in italics.”
In the clause under consideration here the only words in italics are “except circuit judges.” Convention Debates, vol. 2, p. 1441.
While the Constitution derives its force from the people who ratify it, rather than from the convention which framed it, it is fairly inferable under such circumstances that this clause was accepted by the electors with the understanding and intent that the inhibition of the former Constitution should be and is retained in substance and with the same meaning, except as to circuit judges.
An attribute of the office to which relators were appointed is a fixed term. The statute creating the office gives appointees a vested right as incumbents for a stated period, and provides that, when appointed and qualified, they “shall hold office six years,” and until successors are appointed and qualify. Relators were first appointed for the full term in which they are yet serving, and, after their resignations, were at once reappointed for the “unexpired term” of the period of time included in their earlier appointment. While the word “term” applies to the office, rather than the person holding it, after his election or appointment the right of tenure for the term attaches to him, and in common thought and parlance the office and term together become an attribute of and characterise the incumbent during the time for which he is entitled to the office. To hold that he may acquire added rights by simply withdrawing from and again resuming his incumbency for that term, through whatever agency, is subversive of the spirit, if not the letter, of this constitutional provision and contrary to the fundamental principles of public policy underlying constitutional and statutory restrictions of this character.
In construing constitutional provisions where the meaning may be questioned, the court should have regard to the circumstances leading to their adoption and the purpose sought to be accomplished. With due regard to the generally recognized purpose of such provision, and in view of the circumstances attending its framing and adoption, we think it can fairly be inter preted as indicating an intent on the part of those adopting the new Constitution to make “no material change” in restrictions from the provisions contained in the old, except as to circuit judges; that the intent and purpose sought to be accomplished were the same as the old indicated and provided for, and the clause reasonably may and should be so construed. If so, the incumbent, after his appointment to an office with a fixed term, cannot evade its provisions by resigning and being again appointed for the remainder of such term, thus accomplishing by indirection what cannot be done directly and what it was intended by the prohibition to prevent. Greene v. Freeholders of Hudson County, 44 N. J. Law, 388.
In support of the contention that our Constitution, as now worded, permits a change of salary whenever a new appointment is made, though the same incumbent is appointed, Smith v. City of Waterbury, 54 Conn. 174 (7 Atl. 17), is cited, and attention is directed to the constitution of that State (Const. Amend, art. 24), which prohibits extra compensation or increased pay to any public officer “to take effect during the continuance in office of any person whose salary might be increased thereby.” In the case cited the salary of a city attorney was involved, and the statute was silent as to his term of office, but the judge by whom he was appointed held his office for two years, and, in making the appointment, fixed the term of the city attorney for two years, at the expiration of which period a new appointment was made.’ The court adopted the view that the appointee, when so appointed, would hold office for at least the same time as the judge who appointed him, and that “his term of office was practically the same.” Thus viewing the nature of his tenure, the court held that a city attorney who, “in fact, under such an appointment, had held his office for two years,” and when that term expired was again ap pointed for two years, held by virtue of his last appointment, and thereafter was entitled to an increase of salary previously provided. That proposition is not, as we construe the decision, open to dispute or in point here. The court held the incumbent’s term was, in fact, under the circumstances shown, for two years, and when reappointed at the end of that time for two years more he entered upon a new term holding “under that appointment, and not under the appointment previously made,” the limit of which was past. Were he claiming increased compensation for the unexpired balance of a two-year term, on the strength of having resigned and been immediately reappointed, the case would nearer quadrate with this, and it is possible to infer from the views expressed by that court in Garvie v. Hartford, 54 Conn. 440 (7 Atl. 723), that under such a state of facts a different result might have been reached.
The constitution of Pennsylvania contains a restrictive clause that “no law shall extend the term of any public officer, or increase or diminish his salary or emoluments after his election or appointment,” being identical with the present Michigan provision in the particular upon which relators rely — not in express, words prohibiting change during the term for which the officer was elected or appointed. In Guldin v. Schuylkill County, 149 Pa. 210 (24 Atl. 171), an act of the legislature changing the compensation of county coroners was before the court. The coroner’s term of office was two years. It was held that the constitutional provision above quoted protected the coroner after his election from reduction of his emoluments by law during the term for which he had been elected. Conversely, by the same construction, the State is entitled to the same protection against increasing his emoluments.
We are well satisfied that by fair implication and manifest intent of those who framed and adopted the constitutional provision under consideration, it comprehends in application both officer and term, considered together, where the term is fixed by law, and after his election or appointment for a specified term his relation to that term, in the matter of compensation while an incumbent, cannot be evaded by resignation and reappointment.
The writs of mandamus applied for in these cases are therefore denied. | [
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Person, J.
On the 17th day of May, 1915, Henry N. Backus, Burr Lobdell, and Herbert W. Cheney, as copartners, doing business as the Badger Cycle Car Company, began an action in assumpsit against the relator, the Trumbull Motor Car Company, in the circuit court for the county of Wayne. The defendant is a foreign corporation, organized under the laws of Connecticut, with its principal place of business at Bridgeport in that State. The declaration, with rule to plead and notice thereof, was served upon one Robert R. Adams, in the city of Detroit, as agent of the defendant. Claiming that such service was insufficient and void, the relator, defendant in the action, moved the circuit court to quash the service and dismiss the case. This motion was denied by the circuit judge.
It is claimed by counsel for relator that the circuit judge practically refused to pass upon the sufficiency of the service, holding that the question should have been raised by plea in abatement instead of by motion. The return, however, shows that this is a misunderstanding. The circuit judge did pass upon the motion and overruled it. In doing so he says he found as a fact that Mr. Adams was defendant’s agent; and he could not well have found otherwise, inasmuch as the agency was positively averred in the affidavit of service, and was not disputed in any of the affidavits filed by the defendant. What the circuit judge did decline to find was whether the defendant was doing a local business in Michigan, and whether any part of the contract was to be performed in this State.
It is true that defendant’s counsel had offered to consent to the framing of an issue and to the taking of proofs as to the facts, but neither side requested that such issue be framed, and the motion was actually submitted on affidavits. And this was the reason why the judge would not decide the facts above mentioned. He claimed to be unable to do so upon mere affidavits; and, in making the order overruling the motion, he reserved the right to the defendant of filing a plea in abatement and thereby raising such issues and taking such proofs as to the service as he should deem material. Counsel for defendant, however, had declined to avail himself of this privilege, preferring to insist upon his motion, and has come to this court, asking for a mandamus requiring the circuit judge to set aside the service of the declaration and dismiss the action. In this we think that the defendant, the relator here, has mistaken his remedy. It is true that mandamus has sometimes been granted in such cases, as in Grand Trunk R. Co. v. Circuit Judge, 106 Mich. 248 (64 N. W. 17), and the earlier cases cited in relator’s brief. But mandamus is not a writ of right, and, as a general rule, will not lie where the law has provided another remedy. In Michigan Mutual Fire Ins. Co. v. Circuit Judge, 112 Mich. 270 (70 N. W. 582), attention was called to “the growing frequency of applications for mandamus asking this court to review the action of subordinate courts, resulting in overloading this court with work which does not finally dispose of the case,” and a determination was there indicated, on the part of this court, to adhere more strictly in the future to the general rule above mentioned. And it was said in that case:
“The writ will be entertained when the court has refused to retain jurisdiction, supposing it had no jurisdiction when it had jurisdiction in fact, because, if the writ was not entertained under such cireum stances, the party would be without remedy. On the contrary, if the court claims jurisdiction in a case where it is not entitled to exercise it, such action of the court can be reviewed by appeal or writ of error. In such a case the writ of mandamus ought not to issue.”
In that case, as in the one at bar, it was attempted by mandamus to have the service of process set aside, and the writ was denied for the reason above given.
In Cattermole v. Circuit Judge, 136 Mich. 274 (99 N. W. 1), the opinion, in referring to the above case of Michigan Mutual Fire Ins. Co. v. Circuit Judge, says:
“When that opinion was written, it was the deliberate intention of the court to reduce the practice by mandamus to uniformity, so far as practicable, with reference to the disposition of cases upon jurisdictional questions, denying the writ, under the well-settled rule, where jurisdiction was retained.”
And in City of Flint v. Circuit Judge, 146 Mich. 439 (109 N. W. 769), this court considered in some detail the office and scope of a writ of error, and what matters would be brought up by such writ. See, also, Mikkola v. Circuit Judge, 165 Mich. 583 (130 N. W. 1118), and the cases therein cited.
In the instant case the circuit court retained jurisdiction by its order overruling the motion, and relator has a complete remedy by writ of error if it desires to stand upon, and not to waive, its alleged rights. It had also the privilege of testing the sufficiency of the service by plea in abatement, and of bringing the resulting judgment to this court by writ of error, if not satisfactory.
The writ is denied.
Brooke, C. J., and Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, Moore, and.STEERE, JJ., concurred. | [
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Person, J.
This is an action to recover damages for personal injuries received by plaintiff on the evening of October 27, 1913. At the time of the accident he was riding a bicycle and going east on the south side of Western avenue, in the city of Muskegon. The defendant was also going east on the same side of the street with his automobile, and following the plaintiff. It was about 6 o’clock in the evening, and so dark that the street lamps had been lighted. The day had been cloudy, and some rain had fallen. The plaintiff claims that the defendant was driving very rapidly, without any lights on his car, and that he overtook and ran over plaintiff before the latter could get out of the way. The defendant insists that the pilot lights or small lights on either side of the dashboard of his car were lighted, and that he was driving at a moderate or slow pace. It is his theory that as» his car came alongside of plaintiff the latter turned his bicycle so as to avoid the street car tracks, thus colliding with the automobile and being caught under its left fender. The claims of the parties can be best stated in their own words. The plaintiff testified as follows:
“I live at 56 East Walton street, and am now 45 years old. My occupation is driving a team for the Muskegon Brewing Company bottling works. I was driving a team the day I was hurt. I was returning home on a bicycle at the time. I came straight up Western avenue, going east on the right-hand side. I had a light on the front end of my bicycle. It was shortly after 6 o’clock when I came along there by the Toledo, Saginaw & Muskegon depot. It had been an awful dark, dismal day that day. It had been raining in the afternoon and was cloudy. It was dark that night. It had been raining just a few drops that night, but it wasn’t raining when the accident happened. I should judge it had been dark about half an hour— dark enough so street lamps had to be lit. I was coming along, and just as I got pretty near to the depot of the Toledo, Saginaw & Muskegon, I heard the whir of an engine of an automobile back of me. I turned around and saw a dark shape coming, and I yelled and tried to get out of the way, but it struck me before I could get away from it. I heard no warning or sound of a gong, or anything like that, except the whir of the engine just before it struck. I tried to get out of the way, and I couldn’t. He was on to me too quick. He struck me from behind and turned me over. * * * When I turned around and saw that automobile coming there was no lights there. If there had been a light on that automobile, I would have seen it. There wasn’t a particle of light on it. * * * When we were going out to the hospital- Mr. Haight made the remark a couple of times that he had his rain shield up and couldn’t see a thing. He said he didn’t see me until he struck me. I told him if he had his lights lit he couldn’t help but see me, and he didn’t make any reply to that. I think the automobile ran over me.”
On cross-examination he further said:
“As I came down Western avenue from my work I kept close to the street car track. I should judge that the street car track was about 20 feet from the curb. After I passed the Pere Marquette track I didn’t change my course any to speak of; I couldn’t very well. It is pretty rough there where the street car track crosses the railroad track. At that time I was just going along at an easy gait on a bicycle. The pavement along there is pretty rough in places. You couldn’t very well see the bumps only as you come to them. I kept on that side of the street car track. I might have varied a few feet either way in trying to escape bumps. It had been raining, and there were puddles all over the street. I might have turned a couple of feet either way to get out of the puddles, but I was on the right-hand side of the street car track all the way up. When the accident happened I had crossed the Pere Marquette tracks and had gone on towards the east from that track. The street car track on the east of the Pere Marquette track changes its course a little bit. There is a switch there that commences several feet from the Pere Marquette tracks, and as I was traveling along there I would come in towards the south a little on account of the switch; I don’t think there was any time when I traveled between the rails of the street car track that night. When this accident happened, I was 3 or 4 feet from the rail of the street car track. It was quite dark. I couldn’t see very far. There were street lights all the way up the avenue. There was a street light on the corner by the depot; that would be possibly a third of a block from where I was when the accident happened. The lights were only on the corners.”
It was shown by the assistant city engineer that the westerly end of the switch of the street railway track was about 12 feet east of the Pere Marquette crossing, and that it was 17 feet and 2 inches from the curb on the southerly side of west Western avenue to the first rail of the street railway track.
The defendant’s testimony as to the accident was as follows:
“My place of business is situated about a quarter of a mile from the place of the accident. That evening as_ soon as the whistle blew at the mill I put on my things and went out to my machine. I pressed on the button which threw on the lights so that I could see how to put in my plug in order to start the machine. That switch lighted my pilots and tail light and the lights over my speedometer and clock. I backed out of the shed and came up past Ninth street. There I saw ahead of me on the left a light, and was looking for railroad trains, supposing that light to be the railroad guard there signaling for a train. There was a train due from Chicago that got in about 6 o’clock, and I thought probably that train was coming, so I threw out my clutch, and at the same time I noticed my speedometer, which was in plain sight. I was running at eight miles an hour. My brakes were not brand-new, and so I cut down my power on my throttle and coasted from just the other side of Ninth street up to the Pere Marquette crossing. Just before I reached that crossing I saw a green light almost ahead, but a little to the left of my right of way. It then disappeared and only the one light remained on the left-hand side of the road. Just about as I was crossing the Pere Marquette track I saw a red light. It seemed to be a little bit to the left of where the green light had been, then that disappeared, and the raindrops on my wind shield made the light from Eighth street appear as though there were many white lights there, but as I crossed I saw this light, and I heard the noise of the engine which was blowing off steam or pumping water. I started to put in my clutch, at which time I must have been running slower than when I threw out my clutch and started on up the street. Just at my left fender, back of it, appeared suddenly a green light, and I saw a man go down under my fender. I didn’t know what had happened, but I knew something had happened, so I turned my car and drew up to the curbing, threw out my clutch, and went back to see what was the matter. * * * The automobile is a Henry 40. I think it weighs 3,000 pounds. * * * The lights on my car were not out at any time that night. These pilot lights or small lights usually on the dashboard are on either side. * * * I can see half a block ahead with those lights for anything that is in the way of the line of vision. You can’t see the sides. They are not intended^ to see on the outside. You cannot see on the side with the strong headlights. So far as operating the car is concerned, you can see as well with one as with the other. If Mr. Harnau had been directly in front of my car, I could have seen him. Just before the collision I heard Mr. Harnau call out something, but it was nothing that I could understand any more than, ‘Look out there!’ and was simply as he went down. I knew it was a man and a bicycle. The injury broke my left fender. * * * The front end of my fender was not touched a particle. If I had struck him, it would have struck the front end there, and broken that, instead of breaking it down here. * * * When I saw this man go down under the fender and I ran up to the curb and stopped, I did not apply my brakes. I simply turned my wheel to the right as far as it would go and then brought it up to the curb. I didn’t use my emergency at all; just used my foot brake when I got up there.”
On cross-examination he said:
“I had headlights on the car. Those lights are much brighter than the side lights and they throw a light far ahead of the car in the highway, much farther than the side lights do. I didn’t have those headlights lit that night. The side lights are just ahead of the dashboard. It was a dark night. I had my wind shield up. I had to look through that wind shield. That was the only way that I could look ahead. I was seated on the right side of the car. When I started out from the factory it was raining. The top was up. All the side curtains on the machine were on. The rain and the mist that had accumulated there on the wind shield did not perceptibly obstruct my view. * * * These side lights were electric lights. * * * I saw the tender of the locomotive after I got up there. The tender was towards me. It had no light on it, and I couldn’t see the tender until I crossed the railroad. I was from 20 to 25 feet from the tender before I could see it. * * * I saw a green and a red light. I knew at that time the kind of light they carry on a bicycle. I knew they carried a green and red light. There was no tail light. I couldn’t see anything except the side lights. As the green light came in range of my left pilot light I saw the man and the bicycle and the light all about the same instant, and saw him go down under my fender. My machine was past him before I saw him. I was going straight, right straight up; never changed my wheel at all to speak of. I could see him come into the fender. * * * I claim this man ran into me; that he was headed obliquely towards me and ran into me.
“Q. The back part of that bicycle then, the back wheel, appears to be crushed down, don’t it?
“A. Yes.”
It was charged in plaintiff’s declaration that the defendant drove his automobile at a high, dangerous, and unlawful rate of speed, with a reckless disregard for the safety of others; that he did not keep a proper lookout for persons on the street, nor have his headlights lit, but recklessly disregarded his duty in these respects, and that he “approached this plaintiff from behind,” and “did carelessly and negligently operate and drive said automobile directly upon this plaintiff.”
The injury to plaintiff was severe and painful. There was a compound fracture of both bones of the right leg about halfway between the knee and ankle. The jury awarded him a verdict of $8,000, and the defendant brings the case to this court by writ of error.
1. The first six assignments of error relate to the admission of testimony. One Robert Pearson, a witness produced by the plaintiff, testified as follows:
“I have been an engineer since 1891 on the Pere Marquette road, and am still employed in that capacity. I know Mr. Harnau. On the evening of October 27th I saw him after the accident occurred lying mixed up with his bicycle on the pavement on Western avenue near the Pere Marquette tracks, about 20 or 30 feet east of it; that is, near the Toledo, Saginaw & Muskegon depot. It was on the south side of the street car track. I gbt a glimpse of the automobile that evening before he was struck by it. I noticed the speed at which the automobile was going. I am accustomed to taking speed of trains and other moving objects. I have some knowledge of those things. I have got to have.
“Q. Now, tell us, in your opinion, at what speed that automobile was going?
“Mr. Foote: Just a minute. I object to that. The witness hasn’t shown himself competent to answer it.
“The Court: I will take his opinion anyway.
“Mr. Foote: Exception.
“A. Well, sir, the speed when he shot by the tank the way the machine was, his engine was running, it appeared to me that it was going about 30 miles an hour, but the automobile was going about 20. When I noticed this speed we were standing just north of the street car crossing, just to clear, so that a car could pass us. We were standing on the north side of the street. We were about 20 feet from the automobile and about 25 feet from where Mr. Harnau lay. I couldn’t see him when he was struck. It was dark. * * * I couldn’t see any lights on the automobile. There was nothing to obstruct my view from where I was.”
On cross-examination he said:
“I was on the engine the night when this accident happened. * * * The first time I saw the automobile was when it shot from behind the tank. I did not see it as it approached the tank at all. But just as it shot by from behind the tank — right when it was directly opposite the tank on the engine — I saw it.
“Q. And it didn’t go over 10 feet before Mr. Harnau came in contact with it — 10 or 15 feet?
“A. Well, it was about 20.
“Q. Then, your estimate of the rate of speed that car was going was based upon what you saw it doing there at 20 feet; is that right ?
“A. I based my theory on the rate of speed that automobile was going when it shot from behind the tank until I heard the explosion of the tire.
“Q. You didn’t see any lights on this automobile?
“A. No, sir.
“Q. How far could you see from the cab that night?
“A. Well, I should judge that I could see about 30 feet.”
On redirect examination:
“Q. You said something about determining something by the noise of the engine. What did you mean by that ? What did you say about this engine.
“A. Why, from the exhaust of the engine I thought he was going about 30 miles an hour.
“Mr. Cross: I move to strike out what the witness thought, on the ground that he hasn’t shown any competency to judge the rate of speed from the throb of a gasoline engine. * * *
“The Court: I am going to let it stand.
“Mr. Cross: Exception.”
The testimony of Mr. Pearson about the speed of the engine as indicated by the exhaust was immaterial and incompetent. It is a well-known fact that the speed of the motor has no relation to the speed of the car if the clutch is out, and this was afterwards fully explained in the testimony of the defendant. But the principal reason why the speed shown by the exhaust of the engine was immaterial was because the witness himself did not use it to determine the speed of the car; in fact, he made it clear that the speed of the engine did not indicate the speed of the car, inasmuch as he testified that the car was going about 20 miles an hour, while the exhaust of the engine would indicate a speed of 30 miles an hour. But this testimony as to the speed indicated by the exhaust was undoubtedly made harmless by the witness’ own explanation.
But the testimony of the witness as to what he believed to be the actual speed of the car presents a question of greater difficulty. There is no doubt about Mr. Pearson’s competency to judge speed, but his opportunity to exercise such judgment in this case was very limited. He saw the automobile move through a space of only about 20 feet, “after it shot from behind the tank,” to use his own words, and before the collision with plaintiff. He had no intimation that the automobile was approaching until it came into view from behind the tank, and the night was dark. In Wright v. Crane, 142 Mich. 508 (106 N. W. 71), the testimony of a witness was held incompetent who attempted to judge of the speed of an automobile from what he saw of it when passing over a space of 20 feet. But in that case the automobile was coming directly towards the witness, and the witness himself was not shown to have had any extraordinary knowledge of the speed of moving objects. In the instant case the witness was a railroad engineer of long experience. The court must take notice of the fact that it was part of his business to estimate speed by observation of objects which he was passing while in his engine, both by day and night. He must furthermore be given credit for some knowledge of his own ability in this respect, and he professed to be able to give an opinion in this case. We think the court was not in error in receiving his opinion 'as to the speed of the car. Such testimony should not be rejected unless it is clearly apparent that it can be of no value to the jury. Its weight is, of course, to be determined entirely by them. Detroit, etc., R. Co. v. Van Steinburg, 17 Mich. 99; Guggenheim v. Railway Co., 66 Mich. 150 (33 N. W. 161); Line v. Railway Co., 143 Mich. 163 (106 N. W. 719).
The witness Hazen Wilder was permitted to testify, on rebuttal, that he saw no lights on defendant’s auto mobile. This testimony more properly belonged to plaintiff’s main case, but the propriety of receiving it on rebuttal was discretionary with the court. Kozlowski v. Railway, 174 Mich. 412 (140 N. W. 459).
2. Error is assigned upon a ruling of the trial court excluding an ordinance of the city of Muskegon offered in evidence by counsel for the defendant. The particular provision of the ordinance which counsel wished to place before the jury reads as follows:
“Vehicles moving slowly shall keep as close as possible to the curb on the right, allowing more swiftly moving vehicles free passage to their left.”
The ordinance was offered for the purpose of showing that the plaintiff, who was close to the street car tracks, and nearer to the center of the street than to the curb, was guilty of contributory negligence. The court excluded the ordinance as immaterial.
There are but two theories advanced as to the way in which the accident happened. If plaintiff’s theory is true, the defendant, driving his automobile unlighted and at a high rate of speed, overtook the plaintiff and ran him down. If such was the case, the defendant was guilty of the most reckless conduct. Whether the plaintiff was guilty of contributory negligence or not in being near the center of the street, and in front of the car, such negligence could not have been a proximate cause of the accident. He was where the defendant, exercising any reasonable degree of care, should have seen him. The darkness of the night would have been no excuse whatever. If the plaintiff had come suddenly in front of the car, it would have been another thing, but that is not claimed by any one. According to his theory, he was riding along in the direction the car was taking and directly in its path. And the driver of an automobile cannot excuse himself for running down a man under such circumstances. He is required by law to have such lights as will show objects immediately in front of him, and he must have his machine under such control as not to overtake and run down people within the scope of his lights.
“The contributory negligence of the plaintiff does not prevent recovery in a case where the defendant, who knows, or ought by the exercise of the most ordinary care to know, of the precedent negligence of the plaintiff, by his subsequent negligence does plaintiff an injury.” Richter v. Harper, 95 Mich. 221, 225 (54 N. W. 768, 769).
The only other theory of the accident'is that given by the defendant, who says that he did have lights upon his car sufficient to show him the ground in front of it for the distance of half a block; and he insists that the plaintiff was not riding in front of his car, but at one side, and turned as defendant came by and ran into defendant’s car. If this version of the affair is true, then the defendant is not liable in this action. Plaintiff admits that he heard the automobile coming, and, if he turned and ran into it, he offered no excuse on the trial for doing so.
Hence in either case the ordinance was immaterial, and the court committed no error in excluding it. If defendant recklessly ran plaintiff down, as charged by plaintiff, contributory negligence was no defense. If plaintiff himself ran into defendant’s car, he has advanced no theory by which he should be entitled to recover.
3. At the close of the trial, when the judge had finished his charge to the jury, he asked counsel:
“Is there anything I have overlooked?”
In reply counsel for the defendant said:
“If the court please, there is one claim of the defendant that I don’t think you have specifically covered in your charge to the jury and upon which I ask your honor to charge them. It is claimed here by the defendant that at the place where the accident happened was a street car curve, and that Mr. Harnau, either in getting out between the two street car tracks or in attempting to keep outside of the street car tracks where the turn is made, turned his bicycle towards the south, and therefore was not going in a line along the street, and that in so doing, as the automobile of the defendant was along the side of him, the plaintiff, Mr.- Harnau, collided with the automobile by the bicycle being caught under the fenders of the car. I ask the court to charge the jury that, if it happened in that way, the defendant would not be liable for the accident; and, secondly, that they would have a right to consider that claim in considering this whole controversy.”
In reply to this suggestion of counsel, the court said:
“I have charged you, gentlemen, all I am going to charge you. I charged you fully on the law of this case, gentlemen. You will take the case as I have given it to you.”
Upon looking into the charge of the court, which is otherwise very full and complete, we cannot find that this theory of the defendant as to the cause of the accident was mentioned at all. As we have said, there were but two theories of the way in which it happened, the plaintiff’s, and this of the defendant. The court had very fully stated the plaintiff’s theory, and we think that, upon having his attention called to it, he should have explained to the jury the defendant’s claim also. If, instead of being run down, the plaintiff himself ran into defendant’s car, the latter would not be liable. In such event it was not claimed by any evidence, at the trial that the accident resulted from the negligence of the defendant. It is true that the defendant’s request was not in writing, but the court had asked counsel to mention anything omitted from his charge, and under the circumstances time should have been given counsel to present a written request if that was desired. And the language in which the request was refused could not have been otherwise than detrimental to the defendant.
For this error, the judgment is reversed, and a new trial granted.
Brooke, C. J., and Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Wiest, J.
Defendant, a midwife, acting solely as such, was convicted of practicing medicine without being duly licensed, in violation of the provisions of 2 Comp. Laws 1929, §§ 6737-6747 (Stat. Ann. §§ 14.531-14.541).
Defendant is a midwife, qualified by education, training, and long practical experience.
Defendant appeals and contends that the statute under which the information was laid and conviction had does not apply to one engaged in midwifery only.
The mentioned statute is Act No. 237, Pub. Acts 1899, as amended by Act No. 368, Pub. Acts 1913, and the title thereof reads:
“ An act to provide for the examination, regulation, licensing and registration of physicians and surgeons, and for the punishment of offenders against this act, and to repeal acts and parts of acts in conflict therewith. ’ ’
The statute provides for a board of registration in medicine and license procedure, from which we quote parts involved in this case. 2 Comp. Laws 1929, § 6739 (Stat. Ann. § 14.533), being section 3 of the mentioned act as amended, provides:
‘ ‘ On and after the date of the taking effect of this act, all men and women who are not already legally registered under act number two hundred thirty-seven of the public acts of eighteen hundred ninety-nine, and acts amendatory thereto, and who wish to begin the practice of medicine, surgery and midwifery in any of its branches, in this State, shall make application to the board of registration in medicine, to be registered and for a certificate of registration. * * *
“The applicant shall be registered and given a certificate of registration if he or she shall satisfactorily pass an examination under the immediate authority and direction of the board upon the following subjects: Anatomy, histology and embryology, physiology, chemistry and toxicology, bacteriology, pathology, diagnosis, hygiene and public health, medical jurisprudence, diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat, obstetrics, gynecology and surg’ery, and such additional subjects made necessary by advances in medical education as the board may designate.”
Section 6743, 2 Comp. Laws 1929 (Stat. Ann. § 14.537), being section 7 of the mentioned act, provides :
“Any person who shall practice medicine or surgery in this State, or who shall advertise in any form or hold himself or herself out to the public as being able to treat, cure or alleviate human ailments or diseases, and who is not the lawful possessor of a certificate of registration or license issued under and pursuant to act number two hundred thirty-seven of the public acts of eighteen hundred ninety-nine, or acts amendatory thereto, or without first complying with the provisions of this act, except as heretofore provided in section three of this act, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor. ’ ’
It will be noticed that no penalty is provided for the practice of midwifery apart from the practice of medicine or surgery.
The prosecution, however, contend that midwifery is included within the term “practice of' medicine.”
We are of the opinion that the provisions of the statute apply only to men and women who wish to practice medicine, surgery and midwifery, inclusive.
Our views were well expressed by Lion. Grant Fellows, attorney general of the State of Michigan, in an opinion rendered the secretary of State on February 9,1914. We quote with approval that opinion:
“You have recently requested an opinion from this department as to whether Act No. 368, Pub. Acts 1913, requires those desiring to practice midwifery to pass the examination required of physicians and surgeons and be registered in accordance with the terms of said act. Also whether one practicing' midwifery and in attendance as such in cases of childbirth may legally fill ont and sign the certificate of birth required by Act No. 330, Pub. Acts 1905'.
“Act No. 368, Pub. Acts 1913, is amendatory to Act No. 237, Pub. Acts 1899, entitled ‘An act to provide for the examination, licensing and registration of physicians and surgeons, and for the punishment of offenders against this act and to repeal acts and parts of acts in conflict therewith. ’ Section 3 of the amendatory act of 1913 provides for the application for registration of all men and women who were not already legally registered under Act No. 237, Pub. Acts 1899, as amended, and wished to begin the practice of medicine, surgery and midwifery in any of its branches in this State. The term ‘midwifery’ as used in said section 3 is to be considered as a component part of the practice of medicine and surgery and for the purposes of the act itself should be considered as inseparable from the practice of surgery and medicine. However, the 1913 act seems to be silent as to any separate examination and registration of those desiring to practice midwifery only, and as the act does not specifically refer to the practice of midwifery, it becomes necessary to determine the status of those who were before the passage of this act and who are now, practicing midwifery separate from the practice of medicine and surgery.
“Prior to the passage of the 1913 act, the practice of midwifery in the State of Michigan was recognized by statute, and section 1 of Act No. 330, Pub. Acts 1905, providing for the registration and certificates of births seems to recognize the practice of midwifery separate and distinct from that of medicine and surgery and provides that it shall be the duty of the attending physician or midwife to file a certificate of birth properly and completely filled out with all of the particulars required by the act within 10 days after the date of the birth. And further provides that if there be no attending physician or mid wife, then it shall be the duty of the father of the child, householder, manager or superintendent of public or private institution, or other competent person having* cognizance of the facts, to file said certificate of birth with the registrar in accordance with the terms of the act. The practice of midwifery separate and distinct from the practice of medicine and surgery was again recognized by the legislature in Act No. 43, Pub. Acts 1895, entitled, ‘An act to provide for the prevention of blindness in the newly born by compelling* midwives, nurses and others to report in writing* to the local health officer any redness or inflammation occurring in the eyes of infants under two weeks of age, and to provide a penalty for the neglect of the same.’
“The practice of midwifery separate from that of the practice of medicine and surgery, having been recognized by statute, and certain duties imposed upon such practitioners by the statute and the 1913 act not specifically providing for the registration of those desiring* to practice midwifery only and in no way referring’ to the statutes recognizing* its practice, I am constrained to hold that the term ‘midwifery’ as used in connection with the practice of medicine and surgery in the act of 1913 was intended to be employed only as a component part of the practice of medicine and surgery, the regulation and licensing of which said act was intended to cover, and that there is no provision for a license to those who desire to practice midwifery separate and apart from the practice of medicine and surgery and that those thus practicing the same are still authorized under Act No. 330, Pub. Acts 1905', to fill out and sign certificates of births in accordance with the provisions of section 1 thereof.”
Act No. 105, Pub. Acts 1933 (Comp. Laws Supp. 1935, § 6584, Stat. Ann. § 14.232), still carries substantially the same language found in Act No. 330, Pub. Acts 1905, and Act No. 343, Pub. Acts 1925 (2 Comp. Laws 1929, §6584), its predecessors. We quote:
“The birth of each child born in this State shall be registered within five days after the date thereof. A certificate of such birth shall be filed with the registrar of the district in which it occurred. * * * It is hereby made the duty of the physician, midwife or person acting as midwife in attendance at a birth, to file the certificate.”
Our attention is called to a subsequent opinion by another attorney general of the State in 1925, to the effect “that the legislature contemplated that the practice of midwifery is a branch of the practice of medicine.” We disapprove of that opinion.
We hold, as did the attorney general in 1914, that men and women who desire to practice medicine and surgery and midwifery, as component parts of their practice, must pass an examination and be licensed under the provisions of the act, but the invoked statute does not include the practice of midwifery only.
The conviction is reversed, and defendant discharged.
Butzel, C. J., and Bitshnell, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred.
Act No. 105, Pub. Acts 1933, amended Act No. 343, § 12, Pub. Acts 1925.—Bepokthb. | [
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Potter, J.
Plaintiff claims to have suffered a compensable injury while employed by defendant resulting in loss of vision in his right eye. The department of labor and industry allowed compensation at the rate of $18 a week for 100 weeks from Febru ary 1, 1938, for the specific loss of his right eye. Defendant appeals.
The department of labor and industry is the judge of the facts. If there is testimony to sustain the findings of the department and such findings support the award, the order should be sustained.
The question here is, was there such testimony?
Plaintiff says the hammer which he was using caught a wire and slashed the wire across his right eye, across the pupil; that he went to the first-aid department and was there treated by the nurse; that from and after 1917, until the date of the injury, he had had no trouble with his eye, and that when he went to work for defendant he was examined, that he could see and counted the fingers of the examiner; that before that he had worked for the Ford Motor Company, that he was examined and could see; that later he was examined and granted a chauffeur’s license; that he had vision in his eye in 1920 when he was married.
The department reviewed the testimony. We cannot say there was no testimony to support the department’s finding, and its award is affirmed, with costs.
Btjtzel, C. J., and Wiest, Bttshnell, Sharpe, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Bushnell, J.
This is an appeal from a judgment entered against a garnishee defendant in the sum of $71.11. Leave to appeal was granted because of the importance of the question involved, namely: Is the Federal housing administration, a governmental agency, subject to being sued as garnishee defendant through its State director? Appellant says this' cannot be done in the absence of specific statutory consent.
Plaintiff held an unsatisfied judgment against one Heffner and George Brooks, doing business as Heffner & Brooks. This judgment was obtained on November 5,1930. The writ of garnishment was served on March 5,1938. On March 7,1938, an appearance was entered for the garnishee defendant by the-United States attorney for the eastern district of Michigan. The answer and disclosure filed on March 31,1938, stated that defendant Brooks was no longer-connected with the Federal housing administration, he having died on March 8, 1938, and that there was due and owing to him by the garnishee defendant the sum of $71.11. No question is raised in this appeal as to whether or not the entire sum was garnishable, whether or not the money represented wages due Brooks, or the effect of his death.
The Federal housing administration was created by congressional enactment. See 12 USCA, § 1701 et seq. The statute provides that—
“The administrator shall, in carrying out the provisions of this title and titles II and III, be authorized, in his official capacity, to sue and be sued in any court of competent jurisdiction, State or Federal.” 49 Stat. at L. 722 (12 USCA, § 1702).
In the recent case of Keifer & Keifer v. Reconstruction Finance Corporation, 306 U. S. 387 (59 Sup. Ct. 516), decided February 27,1939, the court called attention to the use of independent corporate facilities for governmental ends and said that:
“In spawning these corporations during the past two decades, Congress has uniformly included amenability to law. Congress has provided for not less than 40 of such corporations discharging governmental functions, and without exception the authority to-sue-and-be-sued was included. ’ ’
The footnote appearing at this point in the court’s opinion contains a list of those referred to, including the “Federal housing’ administrator (August 23, 1935) 49 Stat. at L. 684, 722, chap. 614, 12 USCA, §1702.”
Does the phrase “sue-and-be-sued” include a writ of garnishment?
' A writ of garnishment is a civil process at law, Webster v. Bennett, 247 Mich. 616, in the nature of an equitable attachment, Posselius v. First National Bank-Detroit, 264 Mich. 687 (90 A. L. R. 342). See, also, German American Ins. Co. v. Chippewa Circuit Judge, 105 Mich. 566. The usual test as to the liability of a garnishee is whether the principal defendant could have maintained an action against the g’arnishee to recover the property in question. J. O. Nessen Lumber Co. v. Ray H. Bennett Lumber Co., 223 Mich. 349. The word “sue” is defined in Bouvier’s Law Dictionary (Rawles 3d Rev.) (8th Ed.), p. 3176, as meaning “to commence or to continue legal proceeding’s for the recovery of a right.” See Porto Rico v. Rosaly y Castillo, 227 U. S. 270 (33 Sup. Ct. 352).
Buchanan v. Alexander, 4 How. (45 U. S.) 20, holds that money in the hands of a governmental officer cannot be reached by a writ of garnishment, but the question of waiver of immunity is not considered in the Buchanan opinion. Although the question of garnishment was not before the court in Keifer & Keifer v. Reconstruction Finance Corp., supra, and waiver of immunity was not expressly stated as to the Regional Agricultural Credit Corporation directly involved and which the Reconstruction Finance Corporation was authorized to create, there seems to remain little doubt from the reasoning of the opinion of the court that, if “congress has embarked upon a general policy of consent for suits against the government sounding in tort even where there is no element of contract,” it should follow that, where express consent is given in the Federal act to “sue and be sued” without any limitation upon the permissive language, this provision for suits against the administrator “in any court of competent jurisdiction, State or Federal,” must have contemplated the provisions of the law in the several States, including that of Michigan, where it is settled that a writ of garnishment is a civil process.
In Federal Land Bank of St. Louis v. Priddy, 295 U. S. 229 (55 Sup. Ct. 705), it was held that, although the bank is a governmental instrumentality and subject to suit and judicial process only as Congress may determine, a suit begun by attachment against real estate owned by the bank would not be vacated because of governmental immunity. The statute involved in the case was section 4 of the Federal farm loan act (12 USCA, § 676), which provides that Federal Land Banks “shall have power * * * to sue and be sued, complain, interplead, and defend, in any court of law and equity as fully as natural persons.” The additional language of the Federal Farm Loan Act does not amplify the waiver of immunity. No reported cases are available with respect to writs of garnishments issued ag’ainst the Federal housing administration, but there are cases involving garnishments against the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation. One is Home Owners’ Loan Corporation v. Hardie & Caudle, 171 Tenn. 43 (100 S. W. [2d] 238, 108 A. L. R. 702), in which the supreme court of Tennessee held that the corporation was not subject to garnishment. Another is that of Central Market, Inc., v. King, 132 Neb. 380 (272 N. W. 244), in which the supreme court of Nebraska considered the Tennessee opinion and, nevertheless, held that the Home Owners ’ Loan Corporation was subject to garnishment.
The strength of the Nebraska opinion, which turned upon the question of whether or not the Reconstruction Finance Corporation was engaged in a governmental function, may be questioned in the light of the recent case of Graves v. People of the State of New York, ex rel. O’Keefe, 306 U. S. 466 (59 Sup. Ct. 595, 120 A. L. R. 1466). We agree with the result reached by the Nebraska court. However, we do not plant decision upon this question but rather upon the waiver of immunity expressed in the words “sue and be sued.”
Appellant quotes the following from Berger v. Schenley Distillers Corp., 277 Mich. 159, in support of the argument that in Michigan a State administrative agency is not subject to garnishment.
“The liquor control commission is a State administrative agency, and not a corporate entity of any nature whatsoever within the sense of the mentioned statute (3 Comp. Laws 1929, § 14885 [Stat. Ann. §27.1883]) and, therefore, cannot be served and proceeded against as a garnishee.”
The argument advanced is a distortion of the quoted language of the opinion, because the statute sets up the procedure to be followed where the principal defendant is a nonresident. The meaning of the quoted language is that the State administrative agency does not come within the provisions of the mentioned statute, and that is all.
Appellant urges the controlling value of McCarthy v. U. S. Shipping Board Merchant Fleet Corporation, 60 App. D. C. 311 (53 Fed. [2d] 923). That case was based on the merchant marine act of 1920, 41 Stat. at L. 988 (46 USCA, § 861 et seq.), which does not contain the broad waiver of immunity found in the Federal housing act.
The authority to “sue and be sued” must necessarily include garnishment, and the judgment entered below against the Federal housing administration, garnishee defendant, should be affirmed. It is so ordered, with costs to appellee.
Btttzel, C. J., and Wiest, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Chandler, J.
(concurring). Subsequent to tbe disposition of the prior appeal in this cause, reported in 283 Mich. 471, defendants filed separate answers to plaintiff’s bill, the answer of defendant Struggles alleging that the- stock in question had, prior to October 29, 1936, been delivered to him indorsed in blank by the deceased, and that on the date mentioned was in his possession and was by him delivered to the defendant, E. A. Pierce & Company. The answer further alleged that the transaction constituted a gift of the stock to him, rather than a loan, and alleged the circumstances surrounding the delivery of the certificates which were relied upon in support of the theory of gift.
The trial court found that a gift of the stock had been made by plaintiff’s decedent and entered a decree dismissing the bill of complaint.
It appears to be undisputed that on October 29, 1936, deceased and defendant Struggles appeared at the office of E. A. Pierce & Company, at which time the certificates of stock in question were delivered to the latter, indorsed in blank by Liggett, and that simultaneously with said delivery, deceased executed an instrument, known in the trial court as exhibit “D”, and referred to in 283 Mich. 471, as a letter. This document reads as follows:
“E. A. Pierce & Co. File JJM 10/29/36
£ £ G-entlemen:
“With respect to certificate No. 7905/9 representing 500 shares of Devoe & Raynolds A stock standing-in my name and delivered to you through Mr. T. J. Struggles, I hereby authorize you to dispose of same or the proceeds thereof and any income therefrom in any manner he may direct, including a credit therefor to his personal account with you, and I hereby approve and confirm any accounting respecting same made to the said T. J. Struggles and accept the same to your full discharge.
“Very truly yours,
“(Signed) John L. Liggett.”
Defendants sought to prove by the testimony of one Thompson, an auditor for E.'A. Pierce & Company, facts which, if true and competent testimony, tended to establish that the transaction was a gift rather than a loan. The testimony so offered was taken by the trial court subject to plaintiff’s objection] the court later ruling said testimony to be barred by the provisions of 3 Comp. Laws 1929, § 14219 (Stat. Ann. § 27.914), but concluding, nevertheless, that the facts established a gift. The pertinent statute provides in part as follows:
“No person who shall have acted as an agent in the making or continuing of a contract with any person who may have died, shall be a competent witness in any suit involving such contract, as to matters occurring prior to the death of such decedent, on behalf of the principal to such contract against the legal representatives or heirs of such decedent, unless he shall be called by such heirs or legal representatives.”
Thompson testified that Liggett and Struggles, upon appearing at the office of E. A. Pierce & Company, asked for Mr. Hyslop, the office manager; that because of the absence of the manager, Struggles requested him to transact the business at hand; that Struggles removed the stock certificates from his pocket and said, “This is my uncle, Mr. John L. Liggett ; he has just given me the stock; ’ ’ and that Liggett said nothing when this statement was made by Struggles. The witness then testified that he explained to Mr. Liggett that it would be necessary for him to sign exhibit “D” and that by so doing he was releasing all his rights, title and interest in and to said stock. The witness further explained that the exhibit was required in all instances in which stock was deposited with the brokerage house by some one other than the registered holder thereof, for the purpose, as explained by the witness, of indicating that the registered holder had parted with all his interest in the stock.
It further appears that at the time the stock was delivered, a discussion occurred between Struggles and Liggett as to whom should receive the dividends, and that it was agreed that they should be paid to Liggett. Apparently, to accomplish this result, instructions were given that the stock was to be left registered in the name of Liggett for the time being.
If Thompson acted as agent of E. A. Pierce & Company in the making or continuing of a contract with deceased, and if said contract is involved in this suit, his testimony, given in behalf of his principal against plaintiff, is barred by the statute cited.
Although Thompson testified that he was not a “customers man,” and that he had no authority to open accounts for E. A. Pierce & Company, it appears that subsequent to the date of the transaction in question, and upon the return of manager Hyslop, the matter was explained to him in detail and the action taken by Thompson received his complete approval. It must be said, that assuming Thompson had no authority to act in the first instance, the transaction was subsequently ratified by his principal, and, he, therefore, became the agent of E. A. Pierce & Company in the making of a contract with decedent, if a contract is found to exist.
Defendants contend that a contract did not result and, moreover, that the instant suit sounds in tort, not in contract, and that therefore the testimony is not within the prohibition of the statute.
The suit need not be upon the contract to render the statute applicable. The enactment becomes operative “in any suit involving such contract.” If a contract was consummated, it clearly is involved in this suit. All parties agree that when the stock certificates were received by E. A. Pierce & Company, it was to be held by them as security for the margin account of Struggles. E. A. Pierce & Company, by acceptance of the stock accompanied by exhibit “D” impliedly, at least, agreed to dispose of the certificates, or the proceeds thereof, as directed by Struggles. The instrument also contains a ratification of any accounting which might be made with Struggles with reference to a sale of the stock, and a release from liability upon such an accounting being made. All the essentials of a valid contract are exhibited; namely, parties competent to contract, a proper subject matter, a legal consideration, mutuality of agreement, and mutuality of obligation. Johnson v. Douglas, 281 Mich. 247.
Thus we find an agent who acted in the making of a contract with a person now deceased offering testimony in behalf of his principal in a suit involving such contract. His testimony as to matters occurring prior to the death of Liggett is incompetent. The bar of the statute was not removed because of the fact that the witness was first called for cross-examination by plaintiff. . According to the statute the witness is disqualified under the circumstances presented, “unless he shall be called by such heirs or legal representatives.” This phrase does not remove the disqualification from the witness because of the mere fact that he was first called as a witness by plaintiff for cross-examination. Obviously, it was not intended by tbe enactment that tbe mere calling of the agent as a witness by tbe heirs or legal representatives of tbe deceased person should operate to remove tbe disqualification regardless of tbe nature of tbe testimony elicited thereby, as defendants contend. Tbe statute contemplates a waiver when tbe agent is examined by tbe heirs or legal representatives on matters occurring prior to tbe death of tbe decedent pertaining to tbe making or continuing of tbe contract in question. Here, tbe witness was examined by plaintiff with regard to facts which in no sense can be said to concern tbe making or continuing of tbe contract.
With Thompson’s testimony thus excluded, tbe question remains as to whether plaintiff established facts in support of its claim of title and right to possession of tbe stock. Tbe bill of complaint alleges the stock to have been delivered as a loan thereof, and tbe burden of proof was upon plaintiff to establish a loan.
Tbe competent testimony reveals Mr. Liggett to have been a man 65 years of age, possessed of a fortune of considerable size; that be was a generous individual who frequently made gifts to bis various relatives, some of which, at least, were recorded by him in a book entitled “My Finances,” but which contains no entry of a gift of tbe stock here involved to Struggles; and that Struggles was regarded as deceased’s favorite nephew. Tbe testimony further shows that prior to October 29, 1936, deceased became tbe owner of tbe shares of stock; that on said date they were delivered to E. A. Pierce & Company, indorsed in blank by tbe testator, and exhibit “D” was executed; that prior to Liggett’s death tbe stock remained registered in bis name and be received tbe dividends paid thereon; that subsequent to bis death the shares were transferred to the name of Struggles who thereafter received the dividends, which he paid over to E. A. Pierce & Company; and that the certificates are now in the hands of E. A. Pierce & Company, being held under claim of lien.
In our opinion the foregoing facts are sufficient to support plaintiff’s allegations of a loan. The purpose of exhibit “D” must be ascertained from an examination of its language and not from the testimony of witness Thompson which has been excluded. It partakes of the nature of a power of attorney, authorizing E. A. Pierce & Company to act for Liggett with reference to the disposition of the stock or the proceeds thereof as instructed by Struggles. Rather than indicating that the same had been delivered to the broker with an intent to make a gift to Struggles, the instrument is only compatible with a theory that deceased still considered the stock as belonging to him but with power delegated to the broker to act with reference thereto. Had delivery been made with a donative intent, and with the thought of divesting himself with all dominion and control, no necessity for the execution of exhibit “D” by Liggett can be discerned. The indorsement of the certificates in blank would have been of itself sufficient to pass title; 2 Comp. Laws 1929, § 9520 (Stat. Ann. § 19.331). However, the indorsements in blank are not inconsistent with a loan, as disposition of the securities by E. A. Pierce & Company, if the occasion arose, would have been facilitated thereby.
We conclude, therefore, from an examination and consideration of all the competent evidence, that plaintiff sustained the burden of proof in support of its allegations that the transaction constituted a loan of the stock. Defendants’ answers alleged a gift. Plaintiff having established at least a prima facie case, it was incumbent upon defendants to proceed with, the evidence in support of their theory of a gift inter vivos and establish the same by clear and convincing proof. This they failed to do.
Mr. Thompson’s testimony having been excluded, the instant case, upon analysis, is clearly distinguishable from Judson v. Hatch, 171 App. Div. 246 (157 N. Y. Supp. 182), cited by defendants.
The remaining question relates to the lien claimed by E. A. Pierce & Company. This dispute arises as to when the pledge terminated and as to the amount of the lien, if any. The steps necessary to transfer legal title to E. A. Pierce & Company were consummated when the stock was delivered to them. They acquired the stock to be held as security, in addition to other assets, for sums owing from defendant Struggles. The lien extended generally to all securities deposited for this purpose, and continued until a demand for the return of the shares was made by plaintiff. As no demand was made until the filing of the bill of complaint herein, it follows that E. A. Pierce & Company has a lien on the stock to the amount of the indebtedness of Struggles to them as of the date the bill was filed.
The decree of the trial court is reversed, and one should be entered in accordance with this opinion, with costs to plaintiff.
Potter and McAllister, JJ., concurred with Chandler, J. | [
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Potter, J.
Plaintiff and her husband were the owners as tenants by the entirety of the premises here involved. June 19, 1925, they were mortgaged to the Peoples State Bank of Detroit for $25,000. This mortgage was foreclosed by advertisement and the premises sold February 4, 1935. February 1, 1936, plaintiff, as survivor of herself and husband, claiming to be the owner in fee of the premises, filed a bill in chancery to obtain moratorium relief. An order granting the relief prayed was made February 26, 1936, and this order was extended from time to time until 1938. October 11, 1938, a petition was filed for further extension of the moratorium to July 1, 1939. The trial court found the premises were not within the meaning of Act No. 98, § 14, Pub. Acts 1933,' as added by Act No. 7, Pub. Acts 1938 (Ex. Sess.) (Stat. Ann. 1939 Oum. Supp. § 27.1333 [1]), and that plaintiff was not entitled to the relief prayed. Plaintiff appeals.
There is no dispute about the facts. It is agreed that three buildings constitute the premises involved, being 1229 Hastings street, 1233 Hastings street, and 1245 Hastings street, in the city of Detroit, Michigan. All three buildings are included in the mortgage involved herein. In the building located at 1229 Hastings street there are five rooms and one bath on the first floor, and five rooms and one bath on the second floor. In the building located at 1233 Hastings street there are two stores located on the first floor, and eleven rooms on the second floor. In the building located at 1245 Hastings street, at the corner of Macomb, there are on the first floor a store, a kitchen arid dining room, and two wash rooms; on the second floor there are seven rooms and one bath ; and on the third floor there are nine rooms, one bath and shower and one lavatory and shower. Since 1933, plaintiff and appellant has occupied the second floor of 1245 Hastings street as her home. A daughter of plaintiff and appellant and her 14 year old little girl do, and have, resided with plaintiff and appellant in these premises. Eleven other rooms located on the second floor of these premises and on the second and third floors of 1233 Hastings street are rented ont by plaintiff.
If plaintiff is entitled to a homestead, it must be by reason of her occupation of the second floor of 1245 Hastings street. The question here is, whether those premises constitute a homestead within the meaning of the act.
By Act No. 98, § 14, Pub. Acts 1933, as added by Act No. 7, Pub. Acts 1938 (Ex. Sess.), it is provided:
“The extension of the moratorium provisions of this act from the first day of November, nineteen hundred thirty-eight, to the first day of July, nineteen hundred thirty-nine, shall apply only to any person or persons having any -freehold interest in homesteads as herein defined.”
Act No. 98, § 14, snbd. 2, Pub. Acts 1933, as added by Act No. 7, Pub. Acts 1938 (Ex. Sess.), defines a homestead as:
“Any single dwelling house or two-family house with a private garage and out buildings located on not to exceed four lots in any city, village or recorded plat owned and occupied as a home or legally claimed as a homestead at any time from and after February fourteen, nineteen hundred thirty-three, by the owner of the fee or other freehold interest, or of the vendee’s interest under land contract.”
The premises in question are neither a single dwelling house nor a two-family house, but, as stipulated, the building at 1245 Hastings street contains a store, a kitchen and dining room and two wash rooms on the first floor; on the second floor seven rooms and a bath; and on the third floor there are nine rooms, one bath and shower and one lavatory and shower; and plaintiff occupies the second floor of 1245 Hastings street as her home. In addition to what is occupied, there are eleven other rooms lo cated on the second floor of these premises and on the second and third floors of 1233 Hastings street which are rented out, and in addition to that there is a store on the first floor. The premises do not fall within the provisions of the moratorium act in question. The trial court reached a correct conclusion.
Decree affirmed, with costs.
Btttzel, C. J., and Wiest, Bushnell, Sharpe, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Sharpe, J.
Plaintiff is tbe beneficiary of a fife insurance policy issued to ber husband, Paul M. Hobo lik. The policy was in the amount of $2,000 and contained the so-called “double indemnity” provision providing for the payment of an additional $2,000 in case of accidental death. The policy became effective July 1, 1936, and on the afternoon of July 3, 1936, the insured’s body was found in Lake Calhoun in the city of Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The policy contained the following clause:
“5. Suicide: If the insured, within two years from the date of issue hereof, die by his own hand or act, whether sane or insane, the liability of the company hereunder shall be limited to an amount equal to the premiums which have been received, without interest.”
It appears that in the fall of 1935, Paul M. Hoholik, his wife and two daughters moved to the city of Iron Mountain where Mrs. Hoholik conducted the Harding Hotel. In May, 1936, decedent signed an application for insurance and the policy was delivered June 16, 1936, effective as of July 1, 1936.
The day before the policy for insurance was delivered, Mrs. Hoholik filed a bill of complaint against her husband praying for a divorce, and among other things alleged that for 11 years her husband had been an habitual drunkard, while in the application for insurance it is stated:
“(a) To what extent do you use beer, wine, or other alcoholic beverages'? Yes, occasional glass of beer.
“ (b) Have you ever used any of them to excess? If so, when and for how long? No.”
On June 26,1936, decedent left Iron Mountain and went to the city of Minneapolis where he stayed at the home of his brother, John Hoholik. On the evening of July 2, Michael Urban, a brother-in-law of deceased, took Paul Hoholik to a show. After the show they returned to the home of John Hoholik and on the way home decedent told his brother-in-law, “I love my wife and children, but I haven’t any' home. I have no place to go.” The parties arrived at John’s home about 10 p. m., and shortly after 11 p. m., deceased went to bed. The next morning his bed was found empty and on July 3d, about 2 p. m., four boys swimming in Lake Calhoun found the body of Paul M. Hoholik partially submerged in about six feet of water at a point about 50 feet from the shore. The body was fully clothed and decedent’s hat and glasses were still on. Upon examination it was discovered that there were no marks or bruises on the body. The coroner stated that rigor mortis had set in and that the man had been dead 12 or 14 hours.
Lake Calhoun is about 10 blocks from John Hoholik’s home. The lake is about a mile across. At one place on the lake there is a bathing beach and a red cross life saving station. It was at the bathing beach that deceased’s body was found. There is no tide or current in the lake and the beach slopes off gradually. The deceased was familiar with the particular beach as he had been there before. Extending out into the lake is a roped area for the protection of nonswimmers. Deceased’s body was found about 5 feet beyond the roped area and some 35 to 50 feet south of it. About 150 feet north of the roped area was the red cross dock where the life saving launch was kept. The nearest bridge is 80 rods from the bathing beach.
Plaintiff, as beneficiary in the mentioned policy, brought suit for $3,000, claiming $2,000 on the face of the policy and $1,000 under the indemnity provision of the policy. Defendant company defended the suit on the ground that decedent committed suicide; and on the further ground that the insured in his application for the policy of insurance made a false representation in stating that he was not addicted to the use of intoxicating liquors to excess, when in fact he was so addicted, which representation materially affected the acceptance of the risk as well as the hazard assumed by the insurer, thereby voiding the policy; and that there was no waiver by defendant company of the defense that the application contained false representations.
The cause came on for trial and at the conclusion of plaintiff’s case and at the close of all testimony, defendant company made a motion for a directed verdict for the reasons above given. The motions were denied; the cause submitted to a jury resulting in a verdict of $2,200.
Defendant company appeals. Plaintiff contends that there is ample evidence to support the finding of the jury that decedent did not commit suicide; that defendant should have been limited to the defense of suicide because of its statement of its position before suit was brought; and that the application was not attached to the policy.
It is unnecessary to cite authority to show that the burden of proof is upon defendant to prove that deceased committed suicide. The burden is also upon plaintiff to show that decedent’s death was accidental in order to recover for the accidental death benefit. As we view the verdict, the jury concluded that defendant did not sustain its theory of suicide or that plaintiff did not sustain her theory of accidental death.
In our opinion there is competent evidence to support the finding of the jury that defendant failed to sustain the burden of proof of showing that decedent committed suicide. The presumption is that decedent did not commit suicide. There was some testimony that the divorce proceedings had been discontinued; that deceased was planning on returning to his home in Iron Mountain; that his parting from his wife and family had been friendly; that on the evening before his death he was in a cheerful mood; and that upon returning to his brother’s home, he had gone to sleep.
It is next contended by defendant that plaintiff is barred from recovery because of false representations contained in the application for insurance, while plaintiff contends that this defense is not available to the defendant as such defense was waived by the following letter:
“June 29, 1937.
“In Re: Policy 0677246-SC,
“Paul M. Hoholik, Deceased.
“Ray Derham, Esquire,
“Lawyer,
“Iron Mountain, Michigan.
“Dear Sir:
“Replying to your letter of June 12th.
“We investigated the circumstances surrounding the death of the insured under this policy, and we are firmly of the opinion that he committed suicide.
“We have offered, in accordance with the terms of the contract, to return the premiums paid. Our manager offered our check for $9.30 to the claimant, but she refused to accept it. We are holding it subject to demand. There is no limitation in which to bring suit — of course, in the event of litigation, we reserve to ourselves the right to interpose any and all proper defenses.
“Yours truly,
“John B. Northrtjp,
“Manager of Claim Division.”
The record shows that when the cause was being tried defendant introduced testimony which tended to show the falsity of the answers contained in decedent’s application for insurance. No objection was offered to this testimony. The trial court was not asked to rule upon the admissibility of this testimony. It is now too late to raise this objection; moreover, the letter of the insurance company reserved the right to interpose any and all proper defenses.
The claim is made by plaintiff that at the time of delivery of the policy the application for insurance was not attached thereto. During the trial of the cause there was positive testimony produced by defendant that at the time of delivery of the policy to decedent, the application was attached to the policy, but when the policy was introduced in evidence the application was missing. It also appears that plaintiff produced some positive testimony that the application was not attached to the policy when delivered.
On this question the trial court instructed the jury as follows:
“If you find from the evidence that the application was not attached to the policy when delivered to Paul Hoholik that (then) these questions of misrepresentation in the application are not before you, because the law requires that the application must be attached before the defendant can rely upon any misstatements in it.
“Now it being presumed as a matter of law that a copy of the application was attached to the policy, the burden is on the plaintiff here to prove that it was not attached by a preponderance of the evidence. Now by a preponderance of the evidence we mean the weight, the sufficiency, the convincingness of the evidence. We mean evidence which outweighs that brought against it. We mean the greater weight of the evidence.”
In our opinion the above instruction was correct. Whether the application was attached to the policy when delivered was a question for the determination of the jury.
Defendant also contends that the trial court was in error in giving the following instruction to the jury:
“Now then, in that-case were these answers intended to deceive the insurance company and did they amount to a fraud upon it? Now any false representation intended to deceive which misleads another to his injury amounts to a fraud, which voids a contract made in reliance upon it. Then there are other elements. Did they materially affect the acceptance of this risk or the hazard assumed by it? You have to pass upon that testimony in the case and to remember all of the testimony so if you find that they were false, also consider whether or not they affected the risk. If you find they did not affect the risk, then you will pass on the further questions which I shall submit to you. If you find that they did affect the risk, then I will tell you later how to dispose of that question.”
The trial court also gave the following instruction:
“Now the defendant here denies the right of the plaintiff to recover anything in this case for two reasons. One, that the application contained the questions and answers which I have just read to you and that those answers were false and calculated to deceive the insurance company, and did affect the risk, the acceptance of the risk, and the hazard assumed by the company, and that as a matter of fact the insured was addicted to the use of intoxicating liquors at that time, and that being a part, and those representations, I mean, being a part of the contract between the parties and being untrue, as the defendant claims, the plaintiff is not entitled to recover for that reason, so contends the defendant. I charge you that as a matter of law that misrepresentations, if they were made as to the use of intoxicating liquors, were material and voided the policy, if false.
“The defendant on that issue may rest upon the legal assumption that since the law required that a copy of the application should be attached to the policy that in fact it was attached. Now the plaintiff asserts that it was not attached and therefore was not a part of the contract, and so there is the first question for your consideration. * * *
‘ ‘ Now then the burden was on the plaintiff to prove that that application, or a copy of it, was not attached to the policy. Now if you find as a matter of fact that it was not attached, then it was not a part of the contract, and you will pay no further attention to that question. But, if you find that it was attached, then you will have to move along to the next question with relation to this application and what was in it, and that is, was the deceased, when he made the application, addicted to the excessive use of intoxicating liquors? Now when you get to that question the burden shifts to the defendant, because the defendant asserts it and the plaintiff denies it, and the defendant asserting it the burden is on the defendant to prove that, so the burden is on the defendant to prove that Paul Hoholik when he made that application was addicted to the excessive use of intoxicating liquors. Now if you find, after weighing this question, that he was not, then you needn’t consider the question any further. But if you find that he was addicted to the use of intoxicating liquors, excessive use of intoxicating liquors, I mean, then you know, as a matter of fact, what his answers were to the questions which I have read to you which were in his application.”
Under the foregoing instructions, the duty of the jury was clear, namely, if the application was attached to the policy and decedent used intoxicating liquors to excess, such misrepresentations were material and voided the policy.
We must assume that the jury obeyed the instructions of the court and returned a verdict in accord anee therewith. Under such an assumption we must assume that the jury found that the application was not attached to the .policy and the trial court was correct in refusing to give the following requested instructions of defendant:
“I charge you that plaintiff is not entitled to recover on either claim for the reason that in the application for insurance a question was asked of the deceased:
“ ‘To what extent do you use beer, wine or other alcoholic beverages?’ and the deceased answered:
“ ‘Yes, occasional glass of beer.’
“And another question was asked in the application:
“ ‘Have you ever used any of them to excess, if so when and for how long?’ and the deceased answered:
“ ‘No.’
“I charge you that such a false answer to these questions materially affected the acceptance of the risk and materially affected the hazard assumed by the defendant, and, under the undisputed evidence in this case deceased’s answers to those questions were not true, but were false. Therefore, plaintiff is not entitled to recover anything in her suit.
“If the court refuses to give the two last foregoing instructions, then the court is respectfully requested to instruct as follows (7):
7
“I charge you that if you find by the greater weight of the evidence that the deceased’s answers to the questions:
“ ‘To what extent do you use beer, wine or other alcoholic beverages?’ and the deceased answered:
“ ‘Yes, occasional glass of beer.’
“ ‘Have you ever used any of them to excess, if so when and for how long?’
“ ‘No.’
were not true, but were false, your verdict must be no cause for action in favor of the defendant and against the plaintiff.”
These requested instructions assumed as a fact that the application was attached to the policy when delivered. As we have already said, it was within the province of the jury to decide whether the application was attached to the policy. On the question of instructions given in the instant case, we thinb it timely to restate what we said in Schneider v. C. H. Little Co., 200 Mich. 361:
“The instruction of the court should be considered as a whole, and not by isolated portions. This doctrine has frequently been referred to, and it is hardly necessary to cite cases. * * *
“Viewing the entire case upon this record, we are of opinion that it cannot be said that the trial resulted in a miscarriage of justice, and we find no reversible error in the record, and the judgment of the lower court is therefore affirmed.”
We find no reversible error and the judgment of the lower court is affirmed. Plaintiff may recover costs.
Butzel, C. J., and Wiest, Bushnell, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Ghanhleb, J.
Plaintiff filed his application for compensation which resulted in an award being entered by a deputy commissioner in favor of defendant. Plaintiff thereupon filed his claim for review before the commission of department of labor and industry, which reversed the award of the deputy commissioner and granted compensation. Defend ants seek review by this appeal in the nature of certiorari.
By order of this court entered June 9, 1938, an amendment to the certified record was permitted, which reveals the following facts to have transpired:
“The department of labor and industry on November 2,1937, gave notice by mail to the parties in said matter that the hearing on review before the com7 mission would be held at the county clerk’s office, courthouse, in the city of Marquette, State of Michigan, on the 17th day of November, 1937, commencing at 1:30 o’clock in the afternoon, eastern standard time.
* ‘ The said plaintiff appeared at said time and place by R. W. Nebel, his attorney. The said defendants appeared at said time and place by M. J. Kennedy, their attorney.
“When said matter was reached the said plaintiff, by R. W. Nebel, his attorney, made an application for a continuance to said commission, for the reason that the transcript of the testimony in said matter had not been made and filed.
“The application of said plaintiff for a continuance was granted by the commission. Said cause and matter was not heard upon said 17th day of November, 1937, but was continued on the motion and application of said plaintiff without any date being fixed for said hearing.
“No brief was ever filed by said plaintiff and the said plaintiff was the appellant who appealed from the decision of the deputy commissioner.
“The department of labor and industry did not give notice to the defendants or to their attorney, M. J. Kennedy, of the hearing on the 4th day of April, 1938. On said 4th day of April, 1938, the department of labor and industry, without setting any date for hearing of said matter after the continuance of said matter on November 17, 1937, and without notice to the defendants or to their attorney, M. J. Kennedy, made the order reversing the deci sion of the deputy commissioner, which is hereto attached, and filed the opinion and finding of facts which are hereto attached.
‘ ‘ The said defendants or their attorney, M. J. Kennedy, were not heard on said appeal from the decision of the deputy commissioner before the order and decision on said 4th day of April, 1938.”
The case is controlled by Cardott v. Chevrolet Motor Co., 268 Mich. 378, wherein Mr. Justice Wiest, speaking for the court, said:
“The right to be heard is fundamental and deprivation thereof, as here disclosed, commands vacation of the award and the remanding of the case for a hearing.”
This disposition renders unnecessary the discussion of other questions raised by the appeal.
The award is vacated, and the cause remanded for hearing, with costs to defendants.
Butzel, C. J., and Wiest, Bushnell, Sharpe, Potter, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Bittzel, C. J.
Because of the financial difficulties of the Central West Casualty Company (herein referred to as the Central West), Charles E. Gauss, commissioner of insurance of the State of Michigan, was appointed its custodian on April 4, 1933, by the Wayne county circuit court in chancery. The company had built up a very large fidelity, surety and casualty business which would have been very valuable in the hands of a responsible successor. To preserve this good will by having a solvent corporation continue the business, the Great Lakes Casualty Company (herein called the Great Lakes) was formed pursuant to a court order in June, 1933. Its capital of $300,000 and surplus of $200,100 was obtained by transferring to it assets of the Central West appraised at $500,100 at the then market value, in exchange for 30,000 shares of capital stock with a par value- of $10 per share. All of the stock was turned over to the custodian of the Central West, although qualifying shares for directors were held in the names of individuals.
It was the original intention, as shown by the proposal of the insurance commissioner, to sell, with the approval of the court, the stock of the Great Lakes when it was deemed for the best interests of the creditors of Central West. At that time it was to be offered first to the stockholders of the Central West at a price equal to any offer of any bona fide prospective purchaser and, if no such offer was obtainable, then at a price to be determined by arbitration. The litigation leading up to the formation of the Great Lakes may be found in Gauss v. Central West Casualty Co., 266 Mich. 159.
The underwriting of the Great Lakes increased from year to year. Its earned premiums in 1933 were $137,881. In 1937 they amounted to $793,514, and in the first nine months of 1938 to $650,334. The insurance business, however, had not been profitable for it resulted in an operating loss of $201,481.17. The loss was more than offset by a $216,685.09 gain in the value of investments due to the gradual en hancement in the security values from the low of 1933 to the much higher levels of September, 1938. The Great Lakes was very much handicapped by a lack of capital so that a very large portion of its business had to be reinsured in other companies and its profits therefore were very materially reduced. Its stability was also impaired somewhat because over 80 per cent, of its policies were written by five of its 50 agents. Not only did this limit the field of prospective purchasers, but the company ran a continuous risk that the greater part of its business could be suddenly transferred by the agents to a competitor.
Over five and one-half years after the appointment of the custodian of the Central West and, as stated by the trial judge, at the instance of a creditor holding a $2,500 judgment, it was finally determined that the Central West was insolvent. On October 25, 1938, a bill was filed for the appointment of a receiver, for the sale of the assets, and the winding up of the company, and for the protection and payment of the Central West creditors. Mr. Gauss was appointed receiver and an order was entered for the filing of claims against the Central West. The stock of the Great Lakes was the largest single asset of the Central West. It had also accumulated over $450,000 of cash and other valuable assets. The extent of the liabilities of the Central West had not been definitely determined but they were estimated to be $2,422,098.70. Of this amount $800,000 was claimed to be owed the State of Michigan; this included a judgment of $118,081.01 on a depository bond given to the State by the Capital National Bank on which the Central West was surety. See State Treasurer, for the use and benefit of the State, v. Capital National Bank of Lansing, 287 Mich. 188. There was also an unpaid judgment of $55,312:33, with interest, in favor of the county of Oakland. See Gauss v. Central West Casualty Co., supra; County of Oakland v. Central West Casualty Co., 266 Mich. 438.
In June, 1938, approximately five years after the Great Lakes had been organized, the insurance commissioner and others in the offices of the Great Lakes began to make efforts to sell the stock of the Great Lakes as was originally intended. Although it was recognized that the business was still valuable, reinsurance had greatly reduced its profits and additional capital was needed for successful continuation. Some 40 different firms, corporations and individuals were approached as prospective purchasers, but because of the large sums required, the range of possible customers was limited. In the early part of October, D. F. Broderick, Inc., a Delaware corporation, submitted a conditional offer of $450,000. On October 28,1938, an order was entered directing that sealed bids be delivered and opened on November 16, 1938, for the purchase of the Great Lakes stock. The Broderick bid, which had been reduced to $440,000 on account of the expense of making an audit, was the only one made. However, the appraiser which the court appointed had not completed his appraisal at that time, and since appellants herein, A. W. Shell & Company, and others, desired to inspect the appraisal and determine whether objections would be made, the matter was adjourned until November 29, 1938, at which time appellants opposed acceptance of the bid. Hearing was had on the issue formed, testimony taken, arguments made, and finally on December 21st, an order was made authorizing the receiver to accept the offer of D. F. Broderick, Inc., to purchase all of the capital stock of the Great Lakes for $440,000.
Appellants claim that the bid price was so grossly inadequate as to shock the conscience of the court and render acceptance of the bid an abuse of judicial discretion; that the court should not have insisted on selling the Great Lakes at a forced sale and that there was no necessity for the sale at this time; that it was sold at a price less than it could have been liquidated for; that it was an abuse of discretion to limit the time in which bids might be submitted to 18 days; that although reported to be public, the sale was in reality a private sale to a prospective purchaser at a predetermined price. They point out that the sale was neither one of foreclosure from which there would be a right of redemption, nor one where the delinquency of the defaulting debtor is' largely responsible for the sale. They condemn in various ways and by various arguments the method, fairness, and necessity of the sale, and ask that it be set aside.
It would be of little benefit to the parties or the profession to catalogue the not inconsiderable details of these transactions. We have carefully examined them, and from our examination we are unwilling to say that there was such an abuse of discretion by the trial court as to constitute reversible error. Even if the sale is considered ill-advised from a business standpoint, and of this we are by no means certain, there is no evidence of fraud, overreaching, or gross inadequacy of price. Although the results of the appraisal show a value in liquidation of $569,867.43, or $129,867.43 more than the accepted bid, the testimony leaves considerable doubt whether such an amount could have been realized. One witness testified .that the realization through liquidation would be slightly less than the bid price itself; other witnesses made higher estimates. Even if as much as an additional.$130,000 could have been acquired for creditors by liquidating under the most favorable circumstances, it would have made a difference of only five or six cents on the dollar to the Cen tral West creditors. Furthermore, liquidation would have required from three to seven years. Appellants are correct in their statement that the larger part of the Great Lakes’ assets were quickly reducible to cash, but considerable time would have been consumed before the real estate could be disposed of, mortgage loans collected, and the less liquid holdings of the company converted. The prospect of receiving a certain sum at the present time, rather than a hypothetical though higher amount in the future, appeared satisfactory to a majority of the creditors of Central West as they did not object. None of the creditors had received any dividends during the entire period of the receivership. The county of Oakland, although objecting to the sale when ordered, did not join appellants in this appeal. The State of Michigan holds claims amounting to almost a third of all claims against the Central West. An assistant attorney general of the State, who represented the insurance commissioner, reported that he had consulted the State treasurer who had advised him that if the difference between the cash amount offered and the possible sum that might be realized through prolonged liquidation was not too’ great, he preferred to accept the cash bid. The creditors of the Central West will eventually receive a large dividend from the receiver.
It should be remembered that no other offer for purchase of the property was proposed by appellants or anyone else. There was some suggestion that creditors be given stock in lieu of cash, but this never ripened into more than a suggestion. It was obviously impractical since there were more than 18,000 creditors of the company, many of whom held insignificant claims.
The circuit judge was extremely reluctant about accepting the bid, and did so only after hearing a large amount of testimony. Likewise, he did all in his power to secure a better bid. Even when D. P. Broderick, Inc., threatened to withdraw its offer if the time for hearing was extended beyond the limit stated in its bid, the court extended the time. He further stated in his opinion that he had received a number of informal inquiries from persons asking whether the bids would be reopened, and that he had advised them that if there was a chance of a bid substantially larger than the one offered, he would reopen the bidding.
In the light of such circumstances we cannot say as a matter of law that the bid of D. F. Broderick, Inc., should have been rejected because of the objections of creditors holding less than 10 per cent, of the aggregate claims against Central West. Even if there were no immediate necessity for sale, the business could not be kept in receivership indefinitely, particularly since that receivership was paying no dividends to creditors. As long as the assets are not recklessly sacrificed, receiverships should be wound up within a reasonable time and the process of salvage must necessarily be dictated by practical considerations. Where a sale has been properly advertised, and an honest endeavor has been made to secure bidders, where an opportunity is afforded to reopen the sale if a higher bid is produced, and no higher bid is made, and where there is no showing of misrepresentation, concealment or fraud, the sale may be confirmed even though the value of the property exceeds the bid. See Detroit Trust Co. v. Hart, 277 Mich. 561.
While appellants claim irregularity because a bidder was first obtained and the stock subsequently offered at public sale with comparatively short notice, they have failed to show that there was anything improper in the method pursued. It is neither fraud nor. sharp practice to attempt to interest a purchaser before a sale is held; indeed, it is an effective way to encourage substantial and competitive bidding’. While there possibly may be some question whether it was or was not better business judgment to accept the offer, we find that there was no abuse of discretion whatsoever in confirming the sale.
The order confirming the sale is affirmed, with costs to appellees.
Wiest, Bushnell, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Bush well, J.
On March. 10th last, upon application of the public welfare commission of the city of Detroit, plaintiffs and appellants herein, we granted leave to appeal from an order of the civil service commission of the city of Detroit in the matter of defendant G. R. Harris, who had been discharged from his position as general superintendent of the public welfare, department and whose discharge was not sustained by the civil service commission. This appeal is in the nature of certiorari.
On December 13, 1938, Harris was informed in writing that he had been discharged, effective as of that date, and the department listed in detail the reasons for his discharge, which may be summarized as insubordination, ordering the reduction in rentals to be paid to landlords of welfare tenants without the knowledge or approval of the commission, submission of a proposed budget to the State welfare commission without consulting’ plaintiffs, an antagonistic attitude toward the commission, and with maintaining an attitude of insolence, arrogance and-insubordination which seriously impaired the efficiency of the department. The department also furnished Harris with a bill of particulars in support of the insubordination charge. Harris, under the provisions of the hereinafter-quoted section of the city charter, requested and obtained an investigation of the charges by the civil service commission. The testimony taken and material exhibits produced at the investigation are set up in a printed record of over 500 pages. The civil service commission, with one member dissenting’, found, “after thorough investigation, that the discharge of Guernsey R. Harris was not made for political reasons, but was made for reasons other than the good of the service and therefore the discharge is not sustained.”
Appellants argue that the finding’ of the civil service commission should be set aside because no written reasons were given in support of the finding, that it is arbitrary and illegal and that the evidence submitted to the-civil service commission does not justify a finding’ that the public welfare commission acted in bad faith in entering its order discharging Harris. The civil service commission argues that the only question involved is whether there is substantial evidence in the record to sustain its finding. Appellee Harris says the order of reinstatement was legal and is supported by the evidence.
The civil service commission of the city of Detroit exists by virtue of the provisions of chapter 2, title 4, charter of the city of Detroit. Section 18 of this chapter provides that:
“No person shall, for political or religious reasons, be discharged from the classified service, or reduced in pay or position, or suspended by the departmental head appointing him. In every case of reduction or suspension for more than thirty days and in all eases of discharge, the appointing officer shall furnish the subordinate reduced, suspended or discharged, also the civil service commission, with a copy of the order of removal and his reasons therefor. The commission may, and upon the written request of the subordinate made within ten days, shall investigate. If it shall find as the result of such investigation that the discharge, reduction or suspension was made for political or for reasons other than the good of the service, it shall so report to the departmental head, and the person so discharged, reduced or suspended shall thereupon be entitled to resume his position and to receive compensation for the time lost.5 ’
Appellants cite Dullam v. Willson, 53 Mich. 392 (51 Am. Rep. 128), and other authorities in support of their argument that the civil service commission must set up the factual basis upon which it reached its finding. In the Dullam Case the governor acted ex parte under the constitutional power to remove a State officer, a wholly different situation from that presented in this matter. The court held that the governor’s power of removal could only be exercised in the manner provided in the Constitution. This included a report of “the causes of such removal to the legislature at its next session.” See Constitution of 1850, art. 12, § 8.
The general rule is that in the absence of some positive requirement to that effect it is not necessary that a court rendering a decision should in all cases give a written opinion. See 15 C. J. p. 967, and Constitution of 1908, art. 7, § 7, 3 Comp. Laws 1929, § 13556 (Stat. Ann. § 27.50). All parties agree that the Detroit civil service commission is a quasi judicial body. In the absence of a charter or statutory requirement, we see no reason why it should be held to a stricter rule than courts.
While the charter requires the appointing* officer to furnish the discharged employee with a copy of the order of removal and the reasons therefor, the civil service commission is not required to do other than investigate and report its findings to the departmental head. Nothing is said in the charter to indicate that the civil service commission is required to give any reason for its finding.
The finding that the discharge was not made for political reasons is not challenged, but it is claimed that the finding that the discharge was for reasons other than for the good of the service is not justified by the evidence. Delaney v. Detroit Board of Fire Commissioners, 244 Mich. 64, is cited in support of this argument. Delaney had had a trial before the board of fire commissioners and he was discharged for “intoxication and for the good of the service.” The civil service commission, on review, determined that Delaney was not intoxicated as charged and ordered his reinstatement. Defendants refused to comply with this order and Delaney secured a writ of mandamus from the circuit court. In setting aside the writ we held the authority of the civil service commission under the charter was to inquire into the motives or reasons for the discharge and not into the sufficiency of the evidence upon which the trial hoard acted. The authority of the Delaney Case must be confined to review by a civil service commission of the finding of a trial board.
The law applicable to the case at bar is stated in Carroll v. City Commission of City of Grand Rapids, 265 Mich. 51, where the court said:
“ ‘But the settled rule of law is that if there be evidence upon which the trial tribunal may reasonably found its conclusion of guilt or innocence, this court will not reverse the judgment by weighing the testimony for the purpose of forming’ an independent judgment. If the judgment of the trial court can be fairly supported by the record, the duty of this court is at an end so far as further investigation is concerned.’ Martin v. Smith, 100 N. J. Law, 50 (125 Atl. 142).”
In a subsequent contempt action the court said in Carroll v. City Commission of City of Grand Rapids, 266 Mich. 123:
“On certiorari this court may not review questions of fact. Brown v. Blanchard, 39 Mich. 790. It is not at liberty to determine disputed facts (Hyde v. Nelson, 11 Mich. 353), nor to review the weight of the evidence. Linn v. Roberts, 15 Mich. 443; Lynch v. People, 16 Mich. 472. Certiorari is an appropriate remedy to get rid of a void judgment, one which there is no evidence to sustain. Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Ry. Co. v. Hunt, 39 Mich. 469.
“ ‘The office of a certiorari is not however to review questions of fact, but questions of law. And in examining into the evidence the appellate court does so not to determine whether the probabilities preponderate one way or the other but simply to determine whether the evidence is such that it will justify the finding as a legitimate inference from the facts proved, whether that inference would or would not have been drawn by the appellate tribunal.’ Jackson v. People, 9 Mich. 111 (77 Am. Dec. 491).”
If the civil service system as set up by the people of Detroit is to be effective, there should be finality to the findings made by the commission and review by courts should be limited to the narrow confines of the office of the writ of certiorari.
We are not unmindful of the price that must be paid by the public for the preservation of a civil service system and that it is not conducive to the best administration of public affairs to require a department to be operated with commissioners and their superintendent at swords’ points.
The situation presented by this appeal is not that of an ordinary city employee working under the immediate direction of the head of a department but one involving the superintendent of welfare relief for the city of Detroit, engaged in supervising the aid of thousands of unemployed and their dependents under most unusual conditions, for which he was paid about $10,000 a year. The department of which he was the head was handling large sums of money, including rental at the rate of $3,000,000 a year for about 5,000 families. It is to be assumed that, under such circumstances, he would have more freedom of action than one performing services involving less responsibility.
We are only concerned, however, with the determination of whether or not there was substantial evidence to support the finding* of the commission. The record sustains the finding* that the discharg*e of Harris was for reasons other than for the good of the service. That finding is affirmed. Costs should not be allowed one department of the city against another but will be granted to respondent Harris.
Wiest, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. Btjtzel, C. J., did not sit. | [
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McAllister, J.
Wendell Piester was the apparent owner of a milk route and a truck used in connection therewith. He purchased milk for delivery from the Ideal Creamery Company. At the time he went into the milk business, however, his -wife, Justine, one of the plaintiffs herein, had drawn $1,150 from her savings account to buy the route. During the course of the business, she solicited customers, made certain deliveries and collections incident thereto, and made payments to the Ideal Creamery Company for milk which had been purchased for delivery.
In August, 1933, plaintiff, Justine Piester, instituted suit for divorce against Wendell Piester. The milk deliveries, however, continued to be carried on as before. On December 7, 1933, Wendell Piester owed the Ideal Creamery Company for purchases the sum of $1,062.34. Because of his failure to pay the company, it appears that at a time not disclosed by the record a certain contract was entered into between Piester and the company whereby he agreed to make certain payments and consented to stipulations providing that in case of default therein, the milk route and truck should become the property of the Ideal Creamery Company. Wendell stopped delivering milk and quit the business around the 10th of December, 1933. He did not deliver that day and when officials at the creamery company called Mrs. Piester, she told them to gm ahead and deliver the milk and she would take care of it. The company did so for two days and then told Mrs. Piester they would not deliver unless they had the book and addresses of the customers. There was a meeting thereafter at the office of the company at which Mrs. Piester, her son Theodore, and Henry W. Arning, the general manager of the company, were present. It is claimed by Mrs. Piester and her son that Mr. Arning told them that the company was taking over the route and was going to run the business because Wendell Piester had not paid the bill for milk purchased from the company and “that he would have to have the milk route book;” that in reply, Mrs. Piester told him that she had an interest in the business and a right to it; that she had worked it, had been working all the time on it, and that she was going to run the business herself. William L. Hartsig, president of the company, it is claimed, then joined the meeting, and after considerable discussion it is claimed by the plaintiffs that William Hartsig and Henry Arning agreed that Mrs. Piester would be given $12 a week by the company, which was the amount of alimony decreed by#the court, and that the company would receive the route book and take over the business and make collections until the indebtedness of Wendell Piester had been paid out of the profits, at which time the route would be returned to Mrs. Piester, and her son Theodore. Theodore agreed to notify all the customers on the route not to pay anything further to Wendell Piester, and such notice was given.
There is considerable dispute with regard to the alleged agreement above mentioned. Defendants William Hartsig and Henry Arning claim that such payments were to be made to Mrs. Piester for soliciting customers, and that there was no agreement to return the route to her. In any event, weekly payments were made to Mrs. Piester for more than a year, and for the greater portion of that period were in the amount of $12 per week, later being reduced to $10 a week. Mrs. Piester testified that the reason given to her for the reduction was that some of the previous customers had ceased to order milk. Defendants claim that payments were reduced because Mrs. Piester was not successful in soliciting- new accounts. During this period, plaintiffs were advised by the bookkeeper of the company that about February 1, 1934, Wendell’s indebtedness had been reduced in the amount of $270. Although plaintiffs’ claim that they were continually told by Arning that an accounting would be given, they say that he finally told them the company owned the route and truck by virtue of a court decree and was under no obligation to make any further payments to Mrs. Piester. Plaintiffs then learned for the first time that the company had filed suit against Wendell and nearly a year previously, in February, 1934, had been awarded the milk business and the truck because of default of Wendell in the provision of a certain contract with the cpmpany. Thereupon, they filed their bill claiming enforcement of an oral trust, and an accounting, against the company, Henry Arning, William Hartsig and Alfred Hartsig. The circuit court, after hearing, entered a decree finding that the company had made an agreement as claimed by Mrs. Piester and holding that the company and its officers had declared a parol trust, for the benefit of Mrs. Piester and son, of the milk route and truck. The decree also provided for a reference to the circuit court commissioner, for an accounting by the said defendants, and for a transfer of the automobile truck used in the milk route to plaintiffs. The accounting ordered by the trial court was to ascertain the profits of the route from the books and accounts of defendants; and it was provided that, in event such profits could not be determined therefrom, the circuit court commissioner was to ascertain such profits from other sources than the books; and to take testimony from persons having knowledge of the operation of milk routes; and, in such a case, to determine profits on the same basis as profits are measured on routes owned by defendants. After reciting the foregoing, the decree states the following, which is made a basis of complaint by defendants: “And said circuit court commissioner is hereby directed to ascertain damages sustained by said plaintiffs by virtue of said defendants’ breach of trust, to be measured by the operation of other milk routes by the defendants in good faith. ’ ’
Plaintiffs’ remedy is not in equity. The route at the present time seems to be dissipated and nonexistent. It would be practically impossible for a court of equity to determine the profits to which plaintiffs would be entitled by testimony from witnesses having knowledge of the operation of milk routes conducted on the same basis as those operated in good faith by defendants. The truck is still available and damages for its alleged conversion by defendants can be determined. ■ Plaintiffs have an adequate remedy at law for damages ex contractu.
Decree vacated, with costs to defendants.
Butzel, C. J., and Wiest, Bttshnell, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, and North, JJ., concurred. | [
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Wiest, J.
October 3, 1931, plaintiff obtained a judgment for $2,874.63 against defendant Peter Kooiman. Under a judgment creditor’s bill in which Antoinette, Alice and Angie Kooiman were also made defendants, because they were named payees in three promissory notes, in an aggregate amount of $7,100, executed by George Swart in 1931, the court adjudged such notes to be the property of Peter Kooiman, the judgment debtor, and appointed a receiver. The three notes, with unpaid interest, on June 28,1937, amounted to $9,942.25. Mr. Swart was unable to pay the notes, but with the promised aid of friends was enabled to offer the receiver the sum of $3,500, if accepted in full satisfaction of his indebtedness. Thereupon the receiver petitioned the court for leave to accept the offer. The judgment debtor objected, claiming such a compromise would be unjust; that the amount due plaintiff could be paid without recourse to the notes, and that Mr. Swart could pay the notes in full if given sufficient time.
The court heard the proofs and in January, 1938, authorized the receiver to accept the compromise offered.
The judgment debtor, by appeal, contends that the order was “unjust, unfair, unconscionable and against the rules of equity jurisprudence.”
The procedure was proper.
Mr. Swart was a witness and detailed his assets, and it appears that forced collection against bim would likely lead to a less amount than the.offer made.
We discover no disposition on the part of the debtor to aid in the satisfaction of the judgment.
The evidence justified the order appealed from. Affirmed, with costs to plaintiff.
Butzel, O. J., and Bushnell, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Sharpe, J.
On October 13, 1938, plaintiff filed a declaration in the circuit court of Wayne county in which it is alleged that plaintiff is a resident of Wayne county and defendant is a Michigan corporation with its principal office in the city of Detroit; that on or about February 13, 1930, William Prost, being the owner of certain real estate, appointed defendant company Ms agent to lease, operate and collect rents on said property and such authority was granted by a written instrument; that defendant has operated the premises, collected the rents and is indebted to said William Prost in the sum of $40,000; that on March 19,1936, William Prost sold the premises, including the rents collected by defendant, to plaintiff herein and defendant now refuses to pay plaintiff any part of the rents collected; that prior to March 19, 1938, defendant admitted to plaintiff that it was. owing to said Prost the sum of $15,000 or over; that relying on said statement by defendant, plaintiff purchased the rents and rights of action against the defendant; that, subsequently, plaintiff served on defendant a notice of cancellation of the Prost power of attorney; that on or about March 23, 1938, defendant took possession of the premises and is accountable to plaintiff for all money received as rents, and further liable for treble damages for forcible entry and detainer; that defendant is indebted to plaintiff in the sum of $40,000 for money had and received by it for the use and benefit of plaintiff; and that defendant is indebted to plaintiff in the further sum of $40,000 on account stated between them.
November 18, 1938, defendant filed a motion to dismiss plaintiff’s suit for the following reasons: First, said declaration does not contain a plain and concise statement of facts; the counts of said declaration are not indicated or numbered; the written instrument in the declaration is not set out or described, nor is a copy attached to the declaration, or a statement made that the written instrument is in the possession of defendant. Second, that the declaration does not comply with Court Pule No. 19 (1933) in that it does not contain such specific allegations as will reasonably inform the defendant of the nature of the cause he is called upon to defend; and that the different counts in the declaration are not designated as such and numbered consecutively.
On November 23, 1938, plaintiff’s attorney wrote defendant’s attorney that certain numbered paragraphs in the declaration, namely, paragraphs 11 and 12, are common counts under which plaintiff seeks to recover for items of which the defendant, by reason of its being the collection agent, and having direct knowledge of what was done, and of which plaintiff can learn only from defendant, and because the particulars are more fully within the knowledge of the defendant than of the plaintiff, he is unable to specify.
On December 9, 1938, the trial court entered the following order:
“It is ordered that the plaintiff’s declaration heretofore filed in this cause be and the same hereby is dismissed unless the plaintiff file in said cause within 10 days after date of this order and serve upon defendant’s counsel an amended declaration, which said declaration shall comply with the Michigan court rules and the statutes of the State of Michigan relative thereto; and in default thereof, it is ordered that the said cause shall be and stand dismissed.”
Plaintiff declined further to amend his declaration, furnish a copy of the written instrument relied upon or give any additional information concerning his claim. Plaintiff’s declaration was dismissed and he now appeals. He contends that his declaration complies with Court Rules Nos. 17 and 19 (1933); and that under section 1 of Court Rule No. 20 (1933) it is not necessary to file a bill of particulars.
Court Rule No. 17 (1933) reads as follows:
“1. All pleadings must contain a plain and concise statement without repetition of the facts on which the pleader relies in stating his cause of ae tion or defense, and no other. Each count or division of a pleading shall, so far as practicable, be divided into paragraphs consecutively numbered, each containing as near as may be a separate allegation. Dates, sums and numbers may be expressed in either figures or in words. * * *
“5. Whenever a cause of action or defense is based upon a written instrument or document, the substance only of such instrument or document shall be set forth in the pleading. * * * and except where * * * the same (instrument or document) or a copy thereof is in possession of the opposite party and so stated in the pleading to be, a copy thereof shall be attached to the pleading as an exhibit.”
Court Rule No. 19 (1933) reads as follows:
“1. The declaration shall contain such specific allegations as will reasonably inform the defendant of the nature of the cause he is called upon to defend. Each allegation shall be set forth in a separate paragraph, and the various paragraphs shall be numbered consecutively. * * *
‘ ‘ 3. The different counts of a declaration shall be designated as such and numbered consecutively. ’ ’
Section 14118, 3 Comp. Laws 1929 (Stat. Ann. § 27.812), provides that no declaration shall be deemed insufficient which contains information as' shall reasonably inform defendant of the nature of the case he is called upon to defend.
The record shows that prior to a hearing on defendant’s motion to dismiss, plaintiff and his attorney inspected the books of defendant company and could have furnished such information as was ordered by the trial court. It was not required that plaintiff furnish a copy of defendant’s books, but he should be required to furnish a copy of the written instrument mentioned in his declaration, especially in view of the fact that the written instru ment is a material part of plaintiff’s claim on the theory mentioned in count one of his declaration.
The rules of pleading have been liberalized, Von Zellen v. Westrom, 274 Mich. 555, yet not to such an extent as will excuse the failure to furnish a copy of a written instrument pleaded in the declaration.
The order of the lower court is affirmed, with costs to defendant.
Btjtzel, C. J., and Wiest, Bushnell, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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North, J.
The decisive question presented by this appeal is whether plaintiff, against whom the jury rendered a verdict, was erroneously deprived of a fair examination of the jurors on their voi¥ dire. Plaintiff’s suit arises out of an automobile accident which occurred while defendant was insured in the Detroit Automobile Inter-Insurance Exchange, a mutual insurance company. The suit was defended by the insurance company’s attorneys. The circuit judge, acting under Court Rule No. 37, § 1 (1933), conducted the voir dire examination of the jurors. Before the jury was drawn, he was advised by plaintiff’s counsel that in the city of Detroit and in Wayne county, where the suit was pending, there was a very large number of persons insured in this mutual company, that it was one of the largest insurers of automobile risks in that locality, and that this suit was being defended by the company’s attorneys; and defendant’s counsel upon being asked could not say the number of policyholders in this company in Wayne county was not over 50,000. It was also made known to the circuit judge that this company was not only a mutual company but that “it returns dividends each year to its members, to its policyholders. ’ ’
Upon being called to the jury box, the examination by the trial judge disclosed that none of the jurors knew anything about the case itself, nor did any juror know either of the parties litigant or their attorneys, that none of the jurors or their respective wives or husbands were engaged in the insurance business, that all except two of the jurors drove automobiles. Each juror asserted there was no reason why he or she could not sit in the case as a fair and impartial juror.
But previous to the jurors being called plaintiff’s counsel, after making the showing above related, urged upon the trial judge plaintiff’s right, as a basis of challenging for cause or peremptorily, to have inquiry made of each juror as to whether he or she was insured in a mutual automobile insurance company, and if so in what company, and also whether an immediate member of any juror’s family was engaged by an insurance company. Examination of the jurors in these respects was denied by the circuit judge, and plaintiff took an exception to such denial.
In so ruling there was error. It is indispensable to a fair trial that a litigant be given a reasonable opportunity to ascertain on the voir dire whether any of the jurors summoned are subject to being chai lenged for cause or even peremptorily. In a large measure the scope of examination of jurors on voir dire is within the discretion of the trial judge; but it must not be so limited as to exclude a showing of facts that would constitute ground for challenging for cause or the reasonable exercise of peremptory challenges. So to limit the examination is an abuse of discretion.
“Members of a mutual insurance company liable to be assessed to pay losses incurred by the company, are disqualified from serving as jurors in an action, to which it is a party; or in which it is interested.” 35 C. J. p. 315.
“In an action against a mutual fire insurance company, members thereof, liable to be assessed to pay the loss if the company should be defeated, are interested, and incompetent as jurors. ’’ Martin v. Farmers’ Mutual Fire-Ins. Co. of Calhoun County (syllabus), 139 Mich. 148.
See, also, William R. Roach & Co. v. Blair, 190 Mich. 11; and Church v. Stoldt, 215 Mich. 469.
Fair review of this record requires noting that just before the jury was sworn plaintiff’s counsel announced he was satisfied with the jury. This, however, should not be held to be a waiver of plaintiff’s earlier insistence upon the right to have the jurors examined on voir dire in the manner hereinbefore noted. There is no intimation that counsel was not acting in entire good faith in asking for this further examination. He was eminently fair with the court. He made his position clear, took an exception to the adverse ruling, and acted ethically in accepting the trial court’s decision. So far as could be ascertained from the restricted examination of the jurors they were acceptable. By so announcing plaintiff did not waive his rights under the very definite record he had made.
In view of our decision on the question considered, there is no occasion for reviewing other questions raised on this appeal. Judgment is reversed and a new trial granted. Appellant will have costs of this court.
Btjtzel, C. J., and Wiest, Bushnell, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Wiest, J.
This is a suit in equity to set aside a deed and vest title to certain real estate in plaintiff.
February 10,1928, John J. Marker, a widower and owner of the real estate in suit, executed a will in which he devised the premises to plaintiff, his stepson. Ten days later Mr. Marker executed a deed of the premises to plaintiff, and whether or not that deed was delivered to plaintiff is the pivotal question in the case.
Plaintiff claims that the deed was handed to him at the time it was signed, and he handed it then and there to the attorney who had prepared it, together with money for stamps and recording’. The attorney claims the deed was handed to him by Mr. Marker, the grantor, with instructions to make delivery thereof after his death, and later the grantor called for and received the deed, and no money was paid by plaintiff for recording the deed or stamps thereon. The deed was never recorded.
July 23, 1929, Mr. Marker executed a deed of the-premises to his nephew, Frederick Arthur Marker, in consideration ‘ ‘ of the sum of love and affection to him in hand paid by the said party of the second part, the receipt whereof is hereby confessed and acknowledged, ’ ’ and this deed was accompanied by a written direction to the attorney who had prepared it to deliver the same upon the death of the grantor. This deed was never recorded.
In 1929, Mr. Marker went to live with his nephew, defendant Frederick Arthur Marker, and September 9, 1930, executed another deed to the nephew of the same property, with consideration stated therein as an agreement by the grantee, “to care for the party of the first part during- the term of his natural life, giving him food, clothing, lodging and spending money.” That deed was recorded September 12, 1930. John J. Marker died in June, 1935.
The circuit judge was of the opinion that plaintiff had not established, by a preponderance of the evidence, the delivery of the deed under which he claims and, therefore, dismissed the bill. Upon review, prosecuted by plaintiff, an examination of the record brings us in agreement with the circuit judge.
We think the instant case governed by the rule applied in Burk v. Sproat, 96 Mich. 404. The will, closely followed by the undelivered deed, indicated testamentary purpose only, and recall of the deed from the possession of grantor’s attorney was permissible, and subsequent conveyance, with delivery to defendant Frederick Arthur Marker, vesting* title in press enti, was valid.
Decree affirmed, with costs to defendants.
Butzel, C. J., and Bushnell, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Wiest, J.
Plaintiff held an apartment building under a land contract. Defendant Petz held the vendor’s title, subject to a mortgage. Plaintiff was in default and on March 22, 1935, defendant Petz brought a summary proceeding before a circuit court commissioner and on April 11,1935, obtained a judgment of restitution of the premises unless the sum of $925, then due, was paid within 90 days. June 19, 1935, plaintiff filed a bill in the circuit court for moratorium relief under the provisions of Act No. 122, Pub. Acts 1933, as amended by Act No. 4, Pub. Acts 1935 (Comp. Laws Supp. 1935, § 14988 et seq.), and on the 8th day of July, 1935, the court entered an order that plaintiff:
“deliver sole possession, management, control and operation of the premises described in the bill of complaint to Hal H. Smith, Jr., and William C. McRae, copartners doing business as Smith, McRae & Company. * * #
“That the plaintiff shall grant and give to .Smith, McRae & Company the right and privilege to use, in the operation and management of said premises, all furniture, rugs, lamps, linens and other furnishings owned by her and now located in said premises except those being regularly used by the plaintiff in the apartment in said premises now occupied by her. That any furniture purchased during the continuance of this order is to be used in the operation of said premises until the interest in said premises of either Annie R. Hissey or Eleanor Petz, or their heirs and assigns, is terminated and on said termination title to said furniture shall vest in the one whose interest in said premises has not been terminated.
“That Hal H. Smith, Jr., and William C. McRae, copartners, doing business as Smith, McRae & Company, shall give bond in the amount of $1,000 to Annie R. Hissey and Eleanor Petz, jointly and sev erally, conditioned upon tlieir faithful and proper compliance with the terms of this order.
“That the moneys and income received from the operation of said premises shall be applied by said Smith, McRae & Company in the following order :
“ (a) To Annie R. Hissey $35 on the first of each and every month during the continuance of this order, commencing August 1, 1935.
“(b) For expenses incurred in the operation and management of said premises, including a reasonable sum which may be used in the purchase of new furniture and furnishings to be used in the operation of said premises.
“(c) To the payment of taxes due against said premises and in repayment of any moneys advanced for the purpose of paying and used in paying any taxes now assessed against said property.
“ (d) To Eleanor Petz to be applied as payments upon the principal and interest due upon the land contract referred to in the plaintiff’s bill of complaint.
“That during the continuance of this order the defendants, their agents, servants, counselors and attorneys, be and they hereby are restrained from tailing any further proceedings in a certain cause pending before Hon. Henry G-. Nicol, circuit court commissioner, file No. 392560, in which Eleanor Petz is plaintiff and Annie R. Hissey is defendant.”
As stated in the opinion of the circuit judge:
“This moratorium extended until the expiration of the time fixed by the statute. An order was made terminating the moratorium, and that order dismissed the bill of complaint upon which the moratorium order was based. No request was made in that proceeding for any accounting for the moneys which had been received by the agent in charge of the property either as to the amount of the receipts or as to the application, if any.”
The bill of complaint in that proceeding was dismissed without an accounting requested or had. This order was made on or about November 1, 1938, and lifted all restraint on the judgment of ouster in the summary proceeding.
November 18, 1938, plaintiff filed the bill herein, claiming that she believed the amount due the vendor-had been realized by the court appointees and, if not, then damages to household effects amounted to enough to make such payment and, if not, then she stood willing to pay up. Defendant Petz moved to dismiss the bill, and the court so ordered because plaintiff had full opportunity during the moratorium to have an accounting and all the relief now sought could have been secured under that bill and in the winding up of the moratorium proceeding.
Plaintiff appeals, claiming that the allegations in the bill must be taken as true and the court was in error in holding that the present suit was barred.
The time and place for accounting by the managing appointees was in the moratorium proceeding and plaintiff herein could not reserve such an accounting for a suit in equity like the one at bar. All parties herein were directly interested, at the ending of the moratorium, in final action relative thereto, and if plaintiff herein desired an accounting then and there was the place and time for having it. Plaintiff could not thereafter make an accounting an equitable cause and, by bill and Us pendens, further interfere with defendant Petz’s rights under the unrestrained summary proceeding. The allegations in plaintiff’s bill affirmatively establish a bar and thé court was not in error in dismissing the same.
The decree in the circuit court is affirmed, with costs to defendant.
Btjtzel, C. J., and Btjshnell, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Sharpe, J.
Under date of April 30, 1931, Catherine Barrett, since deceased, and defendant company entered into the following option agreement:
“This agreement, made this 30th day of April, 1931, between Catherine Barrett of Detroit of the first part, and hereinafter referred to and designated as ‘first parties’ and Copper District Power Company, a Michigan corporation, with its principal offices at Ontonagon, Michigan, party of the second part, and hereinafter referred to as ‘the company,’
“Witnesseth, that the first parties are the owners of certain lands bordering upon the shores of Lake Grogebic and the tributaries thereof, which said lake and tributaries are located in the counties of Ontonagon and G-og'ebic, in the State of Michigan, and the companjr desires to establish its power, authority, estate, interest, easement, title and privilege of impounding, raising, flowing and drawing off the waters of said lake and the tributaries thereof and of flooding, covering and inundating the lands bordering upon said lake and the tributaries thereof. •
“Now, therefore, in consideration of the premises and the sum of $1 the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, and for other good and valuable consideration, it is hereby agreed between the parties hereto:
“1st. That the said parties of the first part will, within six months from the date hereof, and at the option of the second party, grant, sell, remise, alien, release and confirm unto the company and to its successors and assigns, forever, the easement, right, title and privilege of impounding, raising, flowing and drawing off the waters of said Lake Gogebic and of covering, inundating and flooding the various parcels of land bordering upon the shores of said Lake Gogebic and the tributaries thereof described as follows:
“N]/2 of government lot 2, section 17, T 47 N, E 42 W.
said lands being situate in the county of Gogebic, State of Michigan, so that said waters in said lake may be impounded, and raised to the height of 4% feet above the low water mark of said lake as established by John Barthels of the Bergland Mill at the outlet of said Lake Gogebic previous to the building of the dam at said outlet in the year 1906 and as established by the building of said dam, and to draw off and control said waters and to exercise said rights and privileges at such times and in such manner as the company, its successors and assigns, may decide from time to time without let or hindrance upon the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.
“In the event that the said company, within the period aforesaid, elects to exercise this option of purchase of said flowage rights, the company shall pay to the parties of the first part hereto the sum of $3,000 upon the execution and delivery of a good and sufficient deed of said rights and privileges hereinbefore mentioned.
“The covenants and agreements herein contained shall run with the land and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors, ad ministrators, successors and assigns of the parties hereto.
“In witness whereof the parties hereto have hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written.
“ (.Signed) Mrs. Catherine Barrett (L. S.)
“Signed, Sealed and Delivered in the presence of:
(Signed) Mrs. Ethelyn B. Hart
* ‘ Copper District Power Company
By: (Signed) Edward W. Massie
Its Attorney-in-fact.”
Under date of October 8,1931, the defendant company accepted the above option in the manner following:
“ To: Catherine Barrett,
1720 Collingwood Avenue,
Detroit, Michigan.
“Notice is hereby given that Copper District Power Company, a Michigan Corporation, in accordance with the terms mentioned in an option agreement between you Catherine Barrett, and said Copper District Power Company, dated the 30th day of April 1931, has elected to exercise its option to purchase the flowage rights on the land described therein, described as follows:
“North half (N%) of government lot 2, section 17, township 47 north of range 42, west, Glogebic county, Michigan.
“You will please prepare abstract of title to said premises that the same may be examined and approved by the attorneys of the Copper District Power Company, and also furnish a tax history, and deposit the abstract and tax history with the Merchants & Miners National Bank of Ironwood, Michigan.
“You are further notified that Copper District Power Company is ready, able and willing to perform each and all of the terms contained in said option agreement, according to the terms of said contract, and said Copper District Power Company is ready, able and willing to deposit the sum of $3,000 to yonr credit at said Merchants & Miners National Bank, or in such other place or manner as may be designated by you.
“Proposed deeds of conveyance have been prepared according to the terms of said option contract, for execution by the parties and have been deposited with the Merchants & Miners National Bank at Ironwood, Michigan.
“Dated: October 8, 1931.
“Copper District Power Company “By: (Signed) Edward W. Massie Its Attorney-in-fact
“Treasurer’s Office
Gogebic County, Michigan — ss.
“The mortgage tax $15 on the within mortgage required by Act No. 91, Pub. Acts 1911, paid in full.
“Sgd. Harold Jacobson, Dep. County Treasurer. “Dated: April 16,1938.”
Under date of April 30, 1931, Ethelyn Barrett Hart also entered into an option agreement with defendant company to sell certain water rights on lot 3 of section 6, township 47 north, range 42 west, Gobegic county. The purchase price mentioned in this option was $7,000 and the option was for a period of six months. On October 8, 1931, the defendant company accepted the above option in the manner following:
“To: Ethelyn B. Hart,
1720 Collingwood Avenue,
Detroit, Michigan.
“Notice is hereby given that Copper District Power Company, a Michigan corporation, in accordance with the terms mentioned in an option agreement between you Ethelyn B. Hart, and said Copper District Power Company, dated the 30th day of April, 1931, has elected to purchase (purchase price to be reduced to $5,500 — and Sulis lot 54" water reservation) the flowage rights on the land described therein, described as follows:
“Lot 3 of section 6, township 47 north of range 42 west, excepting the north 192 feet and the south 60 feet of said lot, Gogebic county, Michigan.
“You will please prepare abstract of title to said premises that the same may be examined and approved by the attorneys of the Copper District Power Company, and also furnish a tax history, and deposit the abstract and tax history with the Merchants & Miners National Bank of Ironwood, Michigan.
“You are further notified that Copper District Power Company is ready, able and willing to perform each and all of the terms contained in said option agreement, according to the terms of said contract, and said Copper District Power Company is ready, able and willing to deposit the sum of $5,500, and deed to the south 60 feet of government lot 3, section 6, township 47 north, range 42 west, Gogebic county, Michigan, 54" water rights reserved, to your credit at said the Merchants & Miners National Bank, or in such other place or manner as may be designated by you.
“Proposed deeds of conveyance have been prepared according to the terms of said option contract, for execution by the parties and have been deposited with the Merchants & Miners National Bank at Ironwood, Michigan.
“Dated: October 8, 1931.
“Copper District Power Company
“By: Edward W. Massie
Its Attorney-in-fact
“Treasurer’s office
Gogebic county, Michigan — ss.
“The mortgage tax $27.50 on the within mortgage required by Act No. 91, Pub. Acts 1911, paid in full.
“Sgd. Harold Jacobson, Dep. County Treasurer. “Dated: April 16, 1938.”
Both of the above options covered certain water rights and also provided that the seller should furnish the buyer a good and sufficient deed of the rights and privileges to be conveyed, conveyance to be made by seller if option accepted within six months.
In the fall of 1931 defendant company attempted to secure a modification of the terms of payment specified in the options, but these suggestions on the part of the defendant company did not meet with the approval of plaintiffs. Under date of December 17, 1931, Ethelyn Barrett Hart, acting for herself and her mother, wrote to Edward W. Massie, the attorney for defendant company, as follows:
“We had very definite things in mind which we hoped to accomplish when we consented to sell the flowage rights to the power company. The time is very near when our plans will be defeated. If the funds the company have contracted to pay are not forthcoming, by failing to receive the $500 which we requested in our telegram, we have lost property of considerable value. We are on the brink of further losses and if the funds do not reach us without further delay, our particular reasons for wanting to sell to the power company will no longer exist, and we will feel we should consider closing on a deal against which we held out for nearly 25 years, and which was entered in against our better judgment.”
On December 23, 1931, defendant company, through its attorney, replied to this letter as follows:
“My dear Mrs. Hart:
“Be: Lake Gogebic Flowage.
“I need not advise you that because of the depression money has become extremely hard to obtain. This is true not only of individuals, but corporations as well. The Copper District Power Company is confronted with the necessity of curtailing its cash as much as possible.
“Some time ago I advised you that money was available to take up your option of $5,500 and the Sulis lot. At that time the company was able to do so, but unforeseen circumstances which have since arisen have made it necessary for them to ask for a modification of the terms of payment.
“I talked to Mr. Schacht, president of the company and Mr. Speese, manager of the company, regarding your case, and they asked me to take up with you again the matter of payments. They stated they could pay $1,000 by the first of the year and give you two notes in equal amounts for the balance due in one and two years from date.
“I am very sorry that it has become necessary to make this request, but it is due to circumstances beyond our control. I might state that nearly all of the owners of lands who have made agreements with the power company have modified the terms of payment, extending them from one to two years.
“I wish you would also take up with Mrs. Barrett the matter of having the terms of payment of the price for her flowage rights modified as follows: $1,000 cash and two promissory notes in the sum of $1,000 each due in one and two years from date, bearing interest at the rate of 5 per cent, per annum.
“If this arrangement is satisfactory to you, contracts could be drawn and deed for the flowage rights could be deposited in escrow at the Merchants & Miners National Bank at Ironwood, Michigan, with the contract providing that the deeds were not to be turned over to the power company till the notes and purchase price had been paid in full.
“Examination of the tax history shows that there are some taxes in arrears on your property.
“Kindly let me hear from you at your earliest convenience.”
Under date of December 31, 1931, Mr. L. D. MacGregor of Detroit, Michigan, wrote to Mr. Massie stating that the matter had been placed in his hands as attorney for Mrs. Hart and Mrs. Barrett. Among other things, the letter contained the following:
“If the title to their properties do not satisfy yon kindly let me know by return mail what your exceptions are.
“There has been so much correspondence in connection with this matter and such a delay since your acceptance of their agreement to sell that my clients feel at liberty and do rescind all agreements in connection with this matter except their offer to sell and your election to purchase.
“You will kindly forward agreement of escrow, deeds for the fiowage rights, deed for Sulis lot, certified copy of your power of attorney, and check covering the initial deposit to the escrow agent of the Highland Park Trust Company. Mrs. Hart and Mrs. Barrett agree to accept or reject your offer within ten days after receipt of notice from you or the Highland Park Trust Company.
“This procedure is required in order that you will feel bound to make your best offer on penalty of forfeiture of your rig'hts or an action for damage, and they, my clients, will feel that they must take a definite position in regard to your requests for deferred payment.
“The escrow charges are 2 per cent, of the moneys or value of consideration passing through our hands. In this case we will accept a smaller fee to assist in closing this matter. You are requesting leniency in the terms of your contract; therefore you are the party to pay these charges.
“Kindly let us hear from you on or before the 10th day of January, 1932.”
Following the above letter nothing further was done by any of the parties until August 16, 1932, when defendant company wrote Mrs. Hart as follows:
“Dear Madam: Subject: Lake Gogebic Flowage.
“This is to notify you that, in accordance with your letter of December 31, 1931 written by your Mr. L. MacGregor of the Highland Park Trust Company, Highland Park, Michigan, that our option with you was and is treated as a termination of the negotiations; that any delays were occasioned by your conduct in neglecting to accept the company’s offer; and that at no time did you comply with the provisions of the proposed option.”
Under date of September 26, 1932, Mrs. Hart requested Mr. Massie to return to her the abstracts and tax histories which previously had been sent to him, requesting that they be returned by October 5th, if possible. These abstracts and tax histories were so returned under date of September 30, 1932.
It appears from the ¡abstract of title to Mr's. Hart’s land that there is a reservation of mineral rights in the William Bonifas Lumber Company, wherein the lumber company may explore, search, dig, and mine for ores and minerals, and to carry on the business of mining and removing ores and minerals, and to use and occupy so much and such parts of said land for such times as the lumber company may deem expedient, without any interference from Mrs. Hart, heirs or assigns. The abstract of title also shows that under date of August 5, 1931, the State of Michigan condemned and took a 200-foot right of way across her lands. No tender of the deeds was made by plaintiffs until March, 1937, nor did defendant company at any time tender the purchase price.
October 15, 1937, Ethelyn Barrett Hart, as executrix of the éstate of Catherine Barrett, deceased, began suit against defendant company for $3,000 damages and on the same day brought suit in her own behalf against defendant company for $5,500 damages. The above causes were tried separately, but it was stipulated that the testimony introduced would apply to each case. The cases were consolidated on appeal.
At the close of plaintiffs’ proof, defendant made a motion for a directed verdict upon the theory that there was a rescission of the contract which bars the present action to reinstate it and sue upon it; and that plaintiff, Ethelyn Barrett Hart, did not have a legal or equitable title to the property which would permit her to convey to the defendant company the rights she agreed to convey.
The trial court denied the motion and granted a judgment in favor of the Catherine Barrett estate in the sum of $3,000 and $157.50 interest and also a judgment in the Ethelyn Barrett Hart action in the sum of $5,500 together with interest in the sum of $288.68. Defendant company appeals and contends that there was no unqualified acceptance of the offers to sell; that if contracts existed, they were terminated by plaintiffs, or not performed within a reasonable time.
Defendant company contends that Ethelyn Barrett Hart is not entitled to a judgment as she never was in a position to convey absolute title to the premises because of certain mineral rights conveyed to the William Bonifas Lumber Company. Plaintiff Ethelyn Barrett Hart claims that defendant company has waived its right to question her title to the property. The letter of December 31, 1931, written by attorney L. D. MacGregor, above mentioned, contains the following, “If the title to their properties do not satisfy you kindly let me know by return mail what your exceptions are. ” The letter of August 16, 1932, above mentioned, contains no statement of defective title as a reason for termination of the option agreements, nor is the question raised in defendant’s pleadings. The record also shows that defendant company had the abstract of title to these properties in its possession for over a year and never raised any question as to the title. We have repeatedly, held that in order to rescind a contract because of defects in a title, the party must act promptly and within a reasonable time. Mestler v. Jeffries, 145 Mich. 598; Tacey v. State Bank of Linwood, 242 Mich. 258; Dertinger v. Lathrup, 251 Mich. 476. Moreover, Court Rule No. 23 (1933) provides that affirmative defenses must be pleaded. No such plea was made in the above case. In our opinion, defendant company may not question the validity of plaintiff’s title.
With reference to the cause of action instituted by Ethelyn Barrett Hart, executrix of the estate of Catherine Barrett, the record justifies the finding of the trial court that on April 30, 1931, there was an offer to sell for $3,000; that on October 8, 1931, defendant company accepted the offer in writing and also stated:
“You will please prepare abstract of title to said premises that the same may be examined and approved by the attorneys of the Copper District Power Company, and also furnish a tax history, and deposit the abstract and tax history with' the Merchants & Miners National Bank of Ironwood, Michigan. # * *
“Proposed deeds of conveyance have been prepared according to the terms of said option contract, for execution by the parties and have been deposited with the Merchants & Miners National Bank at Ironwood, Michigan.”
And that subsequent to the above offer and acceptance, correspondence occurred between the parties consisting mainly of requests on the part of the owner for payment of the price named, and on the part of the defendant company for an extension of time for payment.
Defendant company contends that the letter of December 31,1931, above mentioned, was a termination of the arrangement between the parties by plaintiff. We are not in accord with this theory. The agreement between the parties was clear in all respects except possibly as to place of delivery of deed of conveyance and payment of the money. It is evident that plaintiff did not construe the above letter as terminating the agreement as on July 5, 1932. Mrs. Hart on behalf of herself and Mrs. Barrett wrote defendant company a letter which contained the following:
“Up to this date the company has not fulfilled their agreement to pay the stipulated price, which was to be paid in cash and was due at the expiration of the option on October 31, 1931. * * ' #
“We are reminding you once more regarding your obligations to us before we begin legal proceedings to collect.”
And on July 18, 1932, Mrs. Hart again wrote defendant company which letter contained the following :
“We feel that we have been far too patient in this matter. It is nearly a year since the money was due us, and we plan to start legal proceedings to collect without further delay.”
On August 16,1932, defendant company wrote the following letter:
“Dear Madam:
“Subject: Lake Gogebic Flowage.
“This is to notify you that, in accordance with your letter of December 31, 1931 written by your Mr. L. MacGregor of the Highland Park Trust Company, Highland Park, Michigan, that our option with you was and is treated as a termination of the negotiations ; that any delays were occasioned by your conduct in neglecting to accept the company’s offer; and that at no time did you comply with the provisions of the proposed option.”
It is noticeable that the above letter is merely a claim that plaintiffs terminated the arrangements. It is not a clear-cut termination of the arrangements by defendant company and was not made until threats of legal proceedings were made by plaintiffs.
Defendant company also contends that plaintiffs are estopped by their conduct’ in allowing time to elapse before tendering the deeds and beginning suit. The trial court found as a fact that whatever delays were occasioned by plaintiffs in the consummation of arrangements leading up to the tendering of the deeds were in no way harmful to defendant company. ' The record sustains such a finding. Under the circumstances in this case, we think the tender of the deeds was made in a reasonable time. The rule of damages in such case may be found in Re Urban’s Estate, 271 Mich. 16, and McColl v. Wardowski, 280 Mich. 374.
In our opinion the contract was not rescinded in either of the above cases. Plaintiffs tendered proper deeds and the judgments are affirmed, with costs to plaintiffs.
Butzel, C. J:, and Wiest, Bushnell, Potter, Chandler, North and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Butzel, J.
Clarence Bane et al., some owners and others occupiers of property in the township of Pontiac, Oakland county, sought mandamus against the township and its officers in their official capacity and ás' the township board, as defendants, praying that the housing ordinance of the township of Pontiac be submitted to the electors of the township at the next regular election or at a special election called for that purpose. They ^lso asked for alternate relief in the form of a declaratory judgment holding that the proposed ordinance was void and unconstitutional as to the petitioners. We need not consider claims of petitioners ■ that the ordinance was improperly adopted and should have been submitted to the electors inasmuch as no cross appeal has been taken from the refusal of the court to issue manda mus. Defendants, however, appeal from the declaratory judgment, which held that the ordinance was illegal- and unconstitutional as to plaintiffs.
The ordinance provides that it shall apply-to all unincorporated areas of the township of Pontiac. In effect, it requires running water in dwellings, inside toilets, and adopts the definition of substandard dwellings as defined in the State housing law. It specifically proscribes the use of house trailers not parked in licensed trailer parks after the 15th day following the effective date of the ordinance. It provides for a fine not exceeding $100 or confinement in the county jail for not more than 90 days or both for anyone who violates the ordinance.
There are no sewage or water systems in the unincorporated area of Pontiac township. The exhibits and testimony reveal that plaintiffs have very limited means and their homes are more or less substandard, many of them with privies. Plaintiffs claim that they keep them in sanitary condition and there is no testimony to the contrary. It was shown that plantiffs’ homes were outside of any city and in a rural district which was sparsely populated, although their particular homes were in a 5-acre area. The court below made the following findings of'fact:
“Mrs. June G-oedeke and her husband live at 302 E. Walton -blvd. in said township and own ¡at said address a plat of ground 235 ft. x 100 ft. They ‘live in a basement’ on said plat, which basement structure is within 1,000 feet of ‘houses in every direction.’ Said structure may be described as having all modern conveniences as toilet, grease trap and adequate septic tank. Occupants had been unable to-date of trial to complete home due to high prices, inferiority and scarcity of materials.
■ “Mrs. Myrtle Teller, age 73, lives alone in a trailer which is ‘parked’ on a rented trailer space (paying a rental fee of $8.50 per ino.) at 2600 Shimmons road in said township. Mrs. Teller, who incidentally lives ■ on old age pension, has so resided at said address foi; 11 years. She ‘carries water’ for use in -the trailer and uses a nearby ‘outdoor toilet.’ Her daughter, who has 2 small children and lives on ADC and/or child support money, lives in a trailer 40 feet away and uses the same outside toilet facilities. The people naturally find it much easier to live at this location on their limited means than they would at a regular trailer park where the ‘parking’ fee would be about $20 per month.
“Mr. Clark, one of the plaintiffs, is the owner of a ‘Subdivision farm of 2A’ located at 2088 Commonwealth road in said township. Clark has 4 commercial cabins on said premises that ‘he rents by week but requires residents to stay 6 months.’ Said cabins are 18 feet x 20 feet and were described by the owner as ‘all modern except the showers are on the outside.’ Cabins are served by a large septic tank. The footings under said cabins are some 18 to 20 inches deep with a cement slab floor thereon, in the case of 2 cabins and wood floors in the other 2. Said cabins are heated by Duo-Therm heaters.
“One, Harold Grice, is the owner of a house 24 feet x 28 feet with a partially-completed addition thereto, 18 feet x 20 feet, at 3051 Garden court in said township. Mr. Grice resides in said structure with his wife and 9 children. The water for said family is furnished from a well under the house, but there are no facilities for hot water in the home. The toilet facilities are ‘outside.’ Said outside toilet is 15 or 20 feet from the property and the garden of a neighbor. The outside toilet is as well cared for. by scrubbing and the use of lime as is possible. Mr. Grice, with his 9 children all in school, has found it impossible to complete this home over the period of the last 10 years.
“Plaintiff, Harold Bane, resides at 2605 Shimmons road. Mr. Bane, with his family of 4, lives in a 21-foot trailer which has an anteroom, 8 feet x 12 feet. Said room is described to be of standard con struction with insul-brick on the outside and plaster board on the inside. ‘Said structure’ is without foundation. Plaintiff, Bane, for the living accommodations just mentioned has an acre and a half at his disposal. The family uses an outdoor toilet and quick lime in connection therewith in an effort to render the same sanitary. Other people live within 1,000 feet. The Bane family gets its water from across the street. They take their showers and do their washing across the street, and in: return for the use of said utilities, furnish certain fuel oil.”
Defendants in their answer referred to a letter, introduced as an exhibit, written by a neighbor of plaintiffs who complained that one of his yearling heifers found dead in a pasture was killed by a small bore rifle, and that he had also lost valuable' poultry. He does not show in any way that plaintiffs are to blame. What is more illuminating, however, is the further statement in that letter that some prominent builders were interested in subdividing and building up the 300 acres in the immediate proximity of plaintiffs’ homes but that because'of this 5-acre plot on which the homes were located the offer to develop the 300 acres was withdrawn.
Defendants as appellants claim-that a declaratory judgment may not be rendered in favor of plaintiffs because there is no showing of an actual existing controversy and because all interested parties are not before the court. According to testimony on behalf of plaintiffs some 400 homes would be affected by the ordinance. The supervisor of the township filed an affidavit stating that according to the 1950 Federal census the population of the township (evidently excluding the incorporated part) was 6,157 or some 340 persons per square mile. Plaintiffs’ abodes are all within 1,000 feet of one another. Section 1 of the declaratory judgment statute, CL 1948, §691.501 (Stat Ann §27.501), provides:
“No action or proceeding in any,court of record shall he open to objection on the ground that § merely declaratory judgment, decree or order. is¡ sought thereby, and the court may, in cases of actual' controversy, make binding declarations of rights whether any consequential relief is. or could be claimed, or not, including the determination ■ at the instance of anyone interested in the controversy, of the construction of any statute, municipal ordinance or other governmental regulation, or any deed; will or other instrument in writing, and a declaration of the rights of the parties interested, but the foregoing enumeration does not exclude other cases of actual controversy.”
We have never held that all parties who are interested must be parties plaintiff. On the contrary the statute authorizes an action “at the instance of anyone interested in the controversy.” In Updegraff v. Attorney General, 298 Mich 48, 52 (135 ALR 931), we stated:
“One test of the right to institute proceedings for declaratory judgment is the necessity of present adjudication as a guide for plaintiff’s future conduct in order to preserve his legal rights.”
Surely persons who are interested in maintaining their homes without fear of criminal prosecution and áre thus threatened with the loss of their places of abode are interested in an actual controversy and have a right to bring th¿ suit. We have permitted a declaration of rights under zoning and building regulations, C. K. Eddy & Sons v. Tierney, 276 Mich 333; Long v. Township of Norton, 327 Mich 627, and have permitted the validity as well as the construction of a statute to be the subject of a declaratory judgment. See Evans Products Co. v. State Board of Escheats, 307 Mich 506; 1 Anderson, Declaratory Judgments (2d ed), § 159. No proceedings, as yet, ;have been begun.against any of the plaintiffs but thei insecurity'and danger or possibly the'imminence of such ¡proceedings naturally threaten plaintiffs hud -make them fearful of losing what have' been their homes for years. Under the! circumstances, plaintiffs are entitled .to avail themselves of the. declaratory judgment remedy. .
The primary question is whether the ordinance is valid as applied to plaintiffs. ■ It was enacted pursuant to PA 1943, No 185 (CL 1948, §125.351 et seq. [Stat Ann 1949 Rev § 5:2973(1) et seq.]), a township building regulation enabling statute. After adopting the State housing law in toto, defining the scope of the ordinance and adopting certain definitions, the ordinance provides:.
“Sec. 4. That substandard dwellings, as defined in the said housing law of Michigan,, are hereby declared to be nuisances per se.”
. The trial court ruled this provision invalid on the ground that a municipality is without power to declare something to be a nuisance per se which is not one in fact. See 6-A American Law of Property (1954), §28.27; 37 Am Jur, Municipal Corporations, § 293, p 935. We agree with his conclusion but for-a different reason. The enabling statute, CL 1948, § 125.354 (Stat Ann § 5.2973[4]), provides:'
“The township board shall in any ordinance adopted under the provisions of this act designate the proper official or officials whose duty it shall be to administer and enforce the provisions of such ordinance, and shall provide penalties for the violation thereof.”
In distinction to the township rural zoning enabling act, CL 1948, § 125.294 (Stat Ann 1949 Rev § 5.2963 [24]), the township building regulation enabling act only provides for penalties but not that violations may be declared nuisances per se. Therefore, we. find no statutory authority for this provision of the ordinance and it must fail for that reason.
Section 5 of the ordinance provides:
“That house trailers used as dwellings outside of trailer parks licensed under and conforming to the regulations of the State of Michigan are nuisances per se; that their occupancy as dwellings outside of such State-licensed and State-regulated trailer parks is a menace to the public health, safety and welfare and is hereby prohibited; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall prohibit the parking* without charge therefor, of not more than one occupied house trailer on the premises of any occupied dwelling, provided that the occupant or operator of such house trailer shall, within 3 days of his arrival make application to the township clerk, supervisor or health officer for a permit, which permit, if granted, shall limit the time of such parking to a period not longer than 14 days from the date of application therefor; provided further that the permit shall not be granted in any case where the occupied dwelling on the premises where the house trailer is temporarily parked is either (a) a house trailer, or (b) a substandard dwelling as above defined, or (c) a dwelling whose sanitary facilities are not available to the occupants of such house trailer.”
The trial court held this section invalid on grounds that it conflicted with the State house trailer camp law which covered the entire field of regulation and supervision of trailer parks and occupancy. The court replied solely upon Richards v. City of Pontiac, 305 Mich 666. It is true that in the Richards Case, supra, the Court said of the State house trailer camp law . (p 672):
“Its intent and purpose is to take over the entire field of regulation and supervision of trailer parks in the State.”
However, an examination of later cases clearly shows that the Court has modified this particular statement. In Loose v. City of Battle Creek, 309 Mich 1, 12, we were concerned with an ordinance which we described as follows:
“Section 2 of the ordinance prohibits the parking or use of a trailer anywhere within the city ‘not specifically licensed as a trailer coach park, except only as provided in this ordinance.’
“Section 3 of the ordinance reads as follows:
“ ‘Parking on dwelling premises.
“ ‘Not more than one trailer coach may be parked, used and occupied on the premises of any dwelling as hereinafter limited, provided the occupants of the trailer coach have free access to and the unlimited use of the sanitary facilities of the dwelling of said premises and the operator of such trailer coach secures a permit as provided in this ordinance.’ ”
The State act by its terms and definitions applied to parks occupied by 3 or more trailers. The court held the ordinance valid, saying (p 13): ■ . j
“In my opinion the ordinance occupies only the field left unoccupied by the State trailer coach park act and cannot be held invalid because of conflict with that act.”
In Gust v. Township of Canton, 337 Mich 137, we upheld local trailer zoning and building regulations as against the argument that they usurped the functions of the State under the aforementioned State law. We expressly recognized and reiterated the Loose Case modification of the broad statement previously made in the Richards Case.' Therefore section 5 does not conflict with State law.
Though not noted in the brief of either party we further held in the case of Township of Wyoming v. Herweyer, 321 Mich 611, that an ordinance limiting the occupancy of trailers to licensed areas is not an unreasonable exercise of the police' power and is therefore valid.
However, this. particular provision in regard to trailers has the effect of a zoning, rather than a building, regulation ordinance. See' Township of Wyoming v. Herweyer, supra (where a similar ordinance was enacted pursuant to the township rural zoning act). Trailers are taxable as part of the real property on which they are located. CLS 1954, § 211.2a (Stat Ann 1953 Cum Supp § 7.2[1]). We have repeatedly held that zoning ordinances may not operate retroactively upon vested property rights acquired prior to their enactment, but may only operate in futuro. City of Howell v. Kaal, 341 Mich 585; City of Lansing v. Dawley, 247 Mich 394; Richards v. City of Pontiac, supra. Therefore, as applied to plaintiffs who occupied trailers previous to the enactment of the ordinance, section 5 is invalid, j Section 6 of the ordinance provides:
“That all substandard dwellings, as above defined, except house trailers, may be occupied for 6 months from and after the effective date of this ordinance but, unless within the said 6 months period such dwelling or dwellings shall have been improved so that they may no longer be classified as substandard, occupancy thereafter as dwellings shall be deemed a violation of this ordinance, each day of such illegal occupancy being deemed a separate violation. Penalties for such separate violations may be cumulative.”
The enabling act, CL 1948, § 125.351 (Stat Ann 1949 Rev § 5.2973 [1]), permits the enactment of ordinances which may regulate construction, et cetera, in dwellings as shall “thereafte-r be erected .or altered.” (Emphasis added.) By the very terms of.the enabling act the township was without power to make its ordinance retroactive in .that respect. Therefore, this part of the ordinance, insofar as it relates to'those.of plaintiffs who "occupy other than trailers, is invalid because they .occupied their homes previous to its passage.
Section 7 of the ordinance provides:
“That house trailers, other than those parked in trailer parks licensed by and operated in conformity with the laws of the .State of Michigan, shall, not be occupied as dwellings after the 15th day following the effective date of this ordinance. Occupancy as a dwelling thereafter shall be deemed a. violation of this ordinance and each day of such illegal occupancy shall be deemed a separate’violation.”
This is essentially a reiteration of the first part of section 5, supra, and while not invalid as conflicting with the State law and not unreasonable, it may not operate retroactively. Therefore it is invalid :as applied to plaintiffs whose occupancy of trailers predated the enactment of the ordinance.
Section 8 of the ordinance provides:
“Enforcement. That the supervisor ’ of the township shall have the power to - enforce ; any and all terms of this ordinance and that the township board may at any time, by resolution create the office of building inspector, or any other office it deems essential or proper, appoint such officer and delegate to him or them the duties and authority to enforce the terms of this ordinance.”
We find nothing objectionable’ in this provision which is rendered useless, however, insofar as plaintiffs are concerned, by our decision.
Section 9 of the ordinance provides:
“Enforcement. That any violation of this ordinance shall be a nuisance per se and may be abated or enjoined at the suit of the township or of any occupant or owner of property within 1,000 feet of • the site of the violation.”
As before stated, the township under the enabling act availed of, is without authorization to declare violations nuisances per se. In addition it is to be noted that we have held that adjoining landowners may not enjoin violations of a housing law or other ordinance unless the alleged violations are,, as to them, nuisances in fact. Eross v. Gulewics, 252 Mich 134; Conway v. Gampel, 235 Mich 511; Village of St. Johns v. McFarlan, 33 Mich 72 (20 Am Rep 671).
In view of our decision concerning the quoted provisions of the ordinance, we need not pass upon the remaining provisions. It should be stated that our decision does not preclude the regulation of plaintiffs’ abodes for sanitary, health or other similar reasons under any other law or the police power.
The judgment of the court holding that the ordinance was invalid as to plaintiffs is affirmed, with costs.
Carr, C. J., and Smith, Sharpe, Boyles, Reid, Dethmers, and Kelly, JJ., concurred.
CL 1948, § 125.401 et séq. (Stat Ann 1949 Rev § 5.2771 et seq.) '. —Reporter.
See Ct 1948 and CLS 1954, § 125.751 et seq. (Stat Ann 1953 Cum Supp § .5.278 [1] et seq.).—Reporter. | [
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Sharpe, J.
This is an appeal by Lola Hamilton, a niece of Mollie Williams, from an order of the circuit court of Wayne county allowing the will of Mollie Williams and remitting the same to the probate court of Wayne county for further proceedings.
The record shows that Mollie Williams was born January 2, 1875, and was the widow of Prank Williams who died June 9, 1947; that Mollie Williams lived alone in her home in Detroit after'the death of her husband; that on August 4, 1950, she executed a will in which she left practically all of her real and personal estate to defendants, Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., and Mae Gr. Ziarko; that prior to the: execution of said will Mollie Williams made a transfer of a bank account in the amount of $5,000 to herself and both defendants with right of survivorship; that on June 10, 1949, similar action was taken with another bank account in the amount of $6,400, and on the same day she executed a transfer of 1,000 shares of Detroit Edison stock in a similar manner; that in June or July, 1949, she purchased a new. automobile and gave the same to Albert A. Ziarko, Jr.
The will was offered for probate. Lola Hamilton offered objections to the probate of the will. Upon the filing of the objections to the probate of the will,the probate court certified the proceedings to the circuit court of Wayne county.
In tíre objections filed in the probate court to the probate of the will, we find the following:
“In December, 1948, Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., was an allegedly single man of 26 years, and was employed as a freight car checker with the New York Central Railroad. He apparently lived in poor financial circumstances with his mother, Mae Gr. Ziarko. He was, as contestant is informed and believes, a defrocked Baptist minister, obsessed with a consuming ambition to better his lot by unjust enrichment through preying on wealthy old ladies. In December, 1948, 'while searching for likely victims, he came upon Mollie S. Williams, a person having the desired attributes, including wealth. * * *
“That Mollie S. Williams, being of the age of 74, had for a great number of years considered her physical charms and beauties to be considerably diminished, but Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., who was 26 years of age at the time, gave her the most outrageous, flagrant and passionate compliments as to the beauty of her face and figure. He became sexually intimate with the 76-year-old woman. He administered to her certain treatments or experiences which were peculiarly tendered by him nightly with mechanical devices and apparatuses upon the nude body of the 76-year-old Mollie S. Williams; that he then practiced certain manipulations upon her body and limbs. This was a technique he had perfected and practiced upon other old ladies. * * *
“That at all times herein, Mae Gr. Ziarko was aware of the unlawful, lecherous, lewd and lascivious conduct of her son in relation to Mollie S. Williams, and she aided and abetted and in every way encouraged such conduct for the deliberate purpose of obtaining unjust enrichment to herself and her son, Albert A. Ziarko, Jr. That Mae Gr. Ziarko well knew, or should have known, that the unlawful conduct of her son was practiced upon Mollie S. Williams solely for unjust enrichment, and was not out of companionship or affection to said Mollie S. Williams, and was designed to, and did, cause Mollie S. Williams to give deeds and testaments assigning all her property to mother and son as aforesaid.
“That the association of said Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., with Mollie S. Williams was fraudulent at the inception, and early in 1949 this lecher commenced the practice of taking sums of money from Mollie S. Williams for his own personal use, which practice continued to the date of her death. That shortly after Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., began his perfidious siege upon the person and pocketbook of Mollie S. Williams, he bent her completely to his will, and he kept her under his spell and domination up to the time of her death.
“That said Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., and Mae Gr. Ziarko performed all of the aforementioned acts upon Mollie S. Williams with a deliberate and unlawful intent, in furtherance of a scheme to subvert and bend the mind of Mollie S. Williams to their will and their domination — that said domination over the mind of Mollie S. Williams was desired and secured so as to enable them to have her commit acts she would not have committed otherwise; to-wit: assign over to them her property and name them as principal beneficiaries in her will, all without any lawful consideration passing from them to Mollie S. Williams; or without the intent, sound mind and disposing memory of Mollie S. Williams being exercised. • * * *
“That the said Mollie S. Williams, if indeed she ever executed said instrument, was prevailed upon to execute the same by means of undue and improper constraint or influence exercised upon her by the beneficiaries in said will, Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., and his mother, Mae Gr. Ziarko, at and before the making and execution of the same, or exercised upon her by the' agents, counsel and attorneys for the said beneficiaries.
“That the said alleged will, if executed by said Mollie S. Williams, was executed without comprehension of the consequences of said instrument, wherefore, the same was and is not the valid and enforceable will of said Mollie S. Williams.
“That the said Mollie S. Williams, at the time and occasion of the alleged execution of said purported last will and testament was not possessed of understanding and capacity sufficient to enable her to execute a valid last will and testament.
“That Mollie S. Williams, at the time of her death, was 76 years of age and due to said advanced age was physically and mentally feeble and senile and ryas much more susceptible to the undue influence, which is claimed by contestant to have been exercised upon her by Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., and Mae Gr. Ziarko, his mother.
“That the said Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., and Mae Gr. Ziarko did exercise fraud, duress and undue influence upon Mollie S. Williams up to and at the time of her signing of the said alleged will.”
The cause came on for hearing in the circuit court without a jury. At the close of all testimony, the trial court rendered an opinion and entered an order allowing the will to probate. We quote, in part, the opinion of the circuit judge:
“The issues are: (1) Was Mollie Williams mentally incompetent at the time of the execution of said will ?
“I think it will be practically admitted that there is no testimony in this case which would warrant the court in finding Mollie Williams mentally incompetent at the time the will was executed.
“The only other question in the case is: Was the will that was executed by Mollie Williams, leaving everything to Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., and his mother, secured through the undue influence of Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., his mother, Mae G. Ziarko, or anyone else in their behalf! * * *
“An important factor that enters into this question as to whether' or not there is sufficient testimony in this case to warrant a finding by the court that undue influence was used and exercised by Albert A. Ziarko and his mother to get Mrs. Williams to leave them this property, is the length of time that Mr. Barnard and his assistants were drafting the will and fixing it up so that this property could lawfully and legally, without any fraud or undue influence, descend from Mrs. Williams to the Ziarkos. If it had been crooked or dishonest, not true, or a fraud, it would have been discovered long before Mrs. Williams’ death.”
We have examined the record carefully and are in complete accord with the trial court in finding that Mollie Williams was mentally competent to execute a will at the time the will was executed. The record supports a finding of fact that Mollie S. Williams was mentally and physically alert at the time of the execution of the will.
Whether the execution of the will was secured through the undue influence of Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., and his mother presents a question of fact.
It is the elaim of contestant that Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., exercised such influence over Mollie S. Williams that her will does not speak her real wishes. In this connection it should be noted that Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., was born in 1922. He quit high school at the close of finishing the 10th grade. He was arrested for stealing 2 fox furs, but the prosecution was dropped before trial. He was married and divorced. He aspired to the ministry and was ordained in 1944 at the Congregational Baptist Church in Detroit. He remained there for 2 to 2-1/2 years as associate pastor. In 1947 he served a similar capacity in the Linden Park Baptist Church in Detroit. He was convicted on a charge of accosting and soliciting a policeman for an immoral sexual act and served some time in Ionia State Hospital. In 1948 he was employed as a night traffic clerk at the New York Central Railroad. He met Mollie S. Williams on Christmas day in 1948 when he was 26 years of age and she was 73 years of age. In June of 1949 he moved in to live in the home of Mollie S. Williams and lived there for more than 1 year.
It is the claim of contestant that during the last 2 years Mollie S. Williams was forgetful, was a little senile, fell asleep during conversations, was depressed, had heart trouble, cried a great deal, frequently dressed like a 16-year-old girl, and began to wear a flaming pink negligee. Contestant offered evidence in support of the above claim.
Aaron Priebe, a witness for proponents and an attorney in the office of Edward Barnard, testified:
“I am a lawyer, admitted to practice in Michigan in 1930. In 1949 and 1950 I was in your office. My signature is on the will of Mollie S. Williams which you hold in your hand. It is dated August 4, 1950. Agnes Secor and Theresa C. Flower, an attorney, also witnessed the will. These 2 witnesses and myself and Mollie S. Williams all signed the will in the presence of each other. Mrs. Williams stated in the presence of all of us that it was her last will and testament. You put the question to her. I observed Mrs. Williams carefully. Physically, she was about as sound and able as a woman her age would be, in fact she looked like a small, rugged type. Apparently her age had no effect on her soundness of mind. Before signing she was asked if she wanted to read the will first. She said, ‘Of course, I always read everything I sign.’ You handed her the will. She read it before signing. She stated that she regretted that in the will she was leaving even a dollar to Lola Hamilton. Mr. Crossley was also present and these 3 witnesses and yourself when the will was signed.”
Similar evidence by other witnesses was introduced. It is apparent that there is an issue of fact regarding undue influence. The rule relative to reversing a judge who heard the cause without the aid of a jury is to be found in Leonard v. Hey, 269 Mich 491, 495 (37 NCCA 111):
“We do not substitute our judgment on questions of fact unless they clearly preponderate in the opposite direction.”
In the case at bar Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., lived at the home of Mollie S. Williams for approximately a year or more and had an opportunity to influence her thinking, but opportunity to influence is not sufficient to deny a will to probate,, see In re Alvord’s Estate, 258 Mich 497, and In re Vreeland’s Estate, 323 Mich 316. Nor can it be said that suspicion of Albert A. Ziarko, Jr., and his mother is of sufficient force to vitiate a will, see In re Williams’ Estate, 185 Mich 97.
The record shows that Mollie S. Williams knew what property she possessed at the time she executed the will and'also knew the natural object of her bounty. The record also shows that she consulted with attorney Edward N. Barnard and his assistants over a period of 15 months prior to the execution, of the will. It is our opinion that if there was an issue of fact-as-to undue influence, contestant has failed to sustain the burden of proof of showing the same.
The judgment is affirmed, with costs.
Carr, C. J., and Butzel, Smith, Boyles, Beid, .Dethmers, and Kelly, JJ., concurred. | [
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Sharpe, J.
This is a petition for a writ of mandamus following an order denying plaintiff’s motion to quash service of the body executions issued against him. The facts are not in dispute and are as follows: Plaintiff was arrested and convicted of embezzlement from Carl Berg and sentenced for a term to Southern Michigan Prison at Jackson. On April 23, 1953, a decree was entered in the amount of $26,169.67 plus costs and interest against plaintiff. The decree provided that in case of default of payment Carl Berg would have execution thereof. On November 1, 1954, plaintiff was to be released on parole, but prior to his release the circuit judge of Ottawa county authorized the issuance of 2 body executions, one to the sheriff of Jackson county and one to the sheriff of Ottawa county.
Pursuant to the body execution issued' to the sheriff of Jackson county, plaintiff was apprehended in Jackson county and placed in the county jail in Jackson county. On November 1,1954,- plaintiff was returned to Ottawa county by an undersheriff of Ottawa county and placed in the Ottawa county jail.
A return to the body execution issued to the sheriff of Jackson county was executed by a deputy sheriff of said county dated November 1, 1954, showing the taking and custody of the body of Francis M. Taylor. A return to the body execution issued to the sheriff of Ottawa county was executed by an undersheriff of said county dated November 1, 1954, showing the taking and custody of the body of Francis M. Taylor. Both returns were filed in the cause of Carl Berg against Francis M. Taylor on November 4, 1954. •
On January 13, 1955, plaintiff filed a petition in the Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus directing-the circuit judge of Ottawa county to quash servicé of the body executions. Upon the filing of the above petition we issued an order to show cause directed to the circuit judge. On March 22, 1955, the circuit judge filed an answer to the above petition in which we find the following:
“(1) That mandamus is not the proper action for review of the order of the court denying petitioner’s motion to quash service of the body executions. in ,the instant case.
“(2) That if mandamus be held to be the proper action, petitioner has not properly complied with the provisions of Michigan Court Rule No 60 (1945) in that the matter here involved is in the nature of appeal and petitioner failed to first obtain leave to appeal in the nature of mandamus and there has been no application in propér form in accordance with the provisions of Rule No 60.
“(3) That petitioner has no clear legal right to the relief sought and there is no clear legal duty, on the part of the defendant to perform the act sought to be compelled.
“(4) That petitioner has not been denied any substantial right in the service of the body executions issued by the circuit court for the county of Ottawa as would entitle him to a writ of mandamus.”
The statute involved is CL 1948, § 623.10 (Stat Ann § 27.1510) which reads as follows:
“Executions, whether against the property of any person, or against the body of any person, for’ the collection of judgments and decrees of courts of record in this State, may be issued at the same time to sheriffs of different counties and enforced therein by them, but no execution against the body of any person shall issue, while there is an execution against his property not returned, nor shall an execution a.gainst the property of any person be issued while there is an execution against his body unreturned, unless by order of the court rendering such judgment or decree.”
Pláintiff urges that an undersheriff of Ottawa county had no right to take the body of plaintiff in Jackson county and imprison him in Ottawa county. Plaintiff relies on Higgins v. Hampshire Products, Inc., 319 Mich 674 (175 ALR 1083), where we held that a sheriff has no jurisdiction to serve process outside the limits of his own county unless specially authorized to do so. The facts and law involved in the above case are not controlling of the issue in the case at bar. Under the above act the circuit judge was authorized to issue body executions against plaintiff in both Ottawa and Jackson counties. We note that the above statute is silent as to how the body of a person, taken under body execution, is to be returned to the jurisdiction of the county issuing the body execution. In coming to our conclusion on the issue involved herein, we note that there was a final decision and judgment by the Ottawa circuit judge upon the motion of plaintiff to quash the service of the body executions in the case at bar. In Hartz v. Wayne Circuit Judge, 164 Mich 35, 36, we said:
“It is settled by a long line of decisions in this State that mandamus is not the proper proceeding where the relief sought is the revision of a final judgment of matters of record, and where everything necessary to a determination may be returned on a writ of certiorari. Wiley v. Allegan Circuit Judge, 29 Mich 487; Mabley v. Judge of Superior Court, 32 Mich 190; O’Brien v. Tollman, 36 Mich 13; Stall v. Diamond, 37 Mich 429; Olson v. Muskegon Circuit Judge, 49 Mich 85; Reed v. St. Clair Circuit Judge, 122 Mich 153; Dages v. Sanilac Circuit Judge, 122 Mich 490.
“In the last-cited case it was held that mandamus will not lie to compel a circuit judge to vacate an order quashing, with costs, a writ of replevin, since the order is final, and reviewable on error; To the! same effect is Cattermole v. Ionia Circuit Judge, 136 Mich 274, relating to an order quashing a writ of capias ad respondendum.
“Unless the writ of certiorari is to lose its office, it should be resorted to here. The writ will be denied on this ground.”
In Toan v. McGinn, 271 Mich 28, 34, we said:
“The applicable rules are clear. To support; mandamus, plaintiffs must have a clear legal right to performance of the. specific duty sought to be compelled; defendants must have the' clear .legal duty to perform such act; and it must be a ministerial act, one ‘where the law prescribes and defines the duty to be performed with such precision and certainty as to leavé nothing-to the exercise of discretion or judgment.’ 38 CJ, Mandamus, § 72, p 598. See, also, Globe Indemnity Co. v. Richer, 264 Mich 224; Sezor v. Proctor & Gamble Soap Co., 267 Mich 128.”
It is well established that mandamus will not be granted when the action of the court is not ministerial and involves the exercise of judgment; In the case at bar the circuit judge had occasion to construe the statute relating to body executions. It was not á ministerial duty. Plaintiff’s remedy from the order denying the quashing of the writ was by appeal in the nature of certiorari. There was no clear legal right on the part of plaintiff to have the writ quashed and there was no clear legal duty on the part of the circuit judge to quash the writ.
The writ of mandamus is denied, with costs to defendant.
. Carr, C. J., and Butzel, Boyles, Reid, Dethmers, and Kelly, JJ., concurred.
Smith, J., took no part in the decision of this case. | [
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Reid, J.
Plaintiffs, subcontractors, brought this action in assumpsit on express and implied contract for extras furnished defendant in connection with the construction of an addition to a children’s hospital and orthopedic center owned and operated by defendant. The case was tried by the trial judge without a jury. Plaintiffs appeal from a judgment for defendant of no cause of action.
Defendant entered into a general contract with Barnes Construction Co., Inc., on April 13, 1950 for construction of an addition to the hospital for a total cost of $165,361. The general contract did not include electrical, plumbing and heating and kitchen installations, which were covered by other contracts.
The general contract, among other things, contained the following:
“Paint colors shall be selected by the engineér. Before any work is done the engineer will furnish the contractor with a set of color cards and a schedule showing where the various colors shall go.”
The general contract also contained the following:
Page 2, paragraph 5. “Supervision. All work shall be done under the supervision of the architect designated by the owner. The architect shall determine the amount, quality, acceptability and fitness of all parts of the work, shall interpret the specifications, contract documents and any extra work orders, and shall decide all other questions, in connection with the work. The architect shall have no authority to approve or order changes in the work which alter the terms or conditions of the contract. Upon request, the architect shall confirm in writing any oral order, direction, requirement or determination.”
Page 7, paragraph 23. “Subcontracts, (a) Nothing contained in the specifications or drawings shall be construed as creating any contractual relationship between any subcontractor and the owner. The divisions or sections of the specifications are not intended to control the contractor in dividing the work among subcontractors or to limit the work performed by any trade.”
Plaintiffs were the successful bidders on the painting of the new addition and agreed to complete the painting and decorating in accordance with the plans and specifications. Their bid in final form was for $4,992. The subcontract was between Barnes Construction Company, the general contractor, and plaintiffs as subcontractors. Defendant was not a party to the subcontract.
The general contract between Barnes Construction Company and defendant also contained the provision :
Page 14, paragraph 44. “Extras. Except as otherwise herein provided, no charge for any extra work or material will be allowed unless the same has been ordered in writing by the owner and either the price stated in such order or definite acknowledgment made that a change in price is involved subject to later determination.”
Page 14, paragraph 45. “Changes in Work, (a) The owner may at any time, by a written order, and without notice to the sureties, make changes in the drawings and specifications of this contract and within the general scope thereof (except that no change will be made which increases the total contract price to an amount more than 20% in excess of the original contract price without notice to sureties).”
Plaintiff did not get written approval for the extras sued for. No price was discussed for the extras. If an area was finished and the owner did not like it, and had the painter do it over, that would constitute an extra, according to the claim of plaintiffs.
Plaintiffs made no claim for extras, either against Barnes the general contractor or against the defendant, until the work was virtually all done. A claim for the extras was by way of letter written by plaintiffs to defendant dated June 7, 1951, in which letter plaintiffs set forth factors claimed by plaintiffs to cause the work covered by the plaintiffs’ contract with the general contractor, to cost more than anticipated. Among other , things, the letter specified (1) that Baxter in making the bid contemplated that the building would be ready for decorating during the last winter months of 1950-1951, which were plaintiffs’ customary “slow months,” but that plaintiffs were not given a. chance to start their work until “after our ‘spring rush’ was under way;” (2) that before plaintiffs were permitted to start their work there was one wage increase and that a second wage increase occurred after the job was under way; (3) that it became apparent before the job was half done that the plaintiffs would lose money on the contract; and (4) plaintiffs further state in their letter that plaintiffs did not specifically seek requisitions for any of these items but have gone ahead and completed items that needed doing. None of the above statements indicate anything for which the owner (defendant) would be liable. i
In their bill of particulars filed June 30, 1953, the plaintiffs specify the number' of hours of labor and total cost of labor and also, items of material used and total cost thereof, totaling in all, $8,316.07,-“less credit for payment by Barnes Construction Company for portion of above work supplied under contract, $4,992, balance due $3,324.07.” This balance is “for labor and materials furnished in connection with the painting and decorating of the new Mary Free Bed addition from March 5,1951 to June 15, 1951,” which words seem to indicate a total cost for labor and materials furnished by subcontractors (plaintiffs) on the job rather than for extras furnished on the job on orders from the owner (defendant). On January 7, 1954, the same day of the conclusion of the trial, the plaintiffs filed a “supplemental bill of particulars,” containing some 17 specifications as follows:
“The following is a supplemental bill of particulars of the plaintiff’s demands covering extra items not included in plaintiff’s bill to Barnes Construction Company, and for the recovery of which this suit is brought:
“Material and labor used in applying an extra coat to all third floor ceilings .. . $220.00
“Material and labor used in repainting certain wall areas in stairway, as a result of damage by men who installed railings ............................ 70.00
“Material and labor used in repairing and repainting third floor walls due to damage from leaks...................... 50.00
“Material and labor used in changing color of third floor walls, including boys dormitory, girls dormitory and two 4-bed wards.......................... 220.00
“Labor and materials to repair and repaint nursery and isolation rooms on second floor due to damage resulting from installing new pipes in toilets . . 110.00
“Labor and materials to repaint physical therapy room due to change of color (2 coats) .......................... 150.00
“Labor and material for repairing and repainting miscellaneous walls throughout due to installation of electric outlets .. . ............ _ ____....... 150.00
“Labor and materials in repairing, spot priming and repainting of about 10 toilets due to pipe installation after we had completed our work.............. 280.00
“Labor and materials in repainting wall areas due to installation of cupboards . ! 60.00
“Labor and materials in applying 2 extra coats with an enamel finish to 2 showers in basement ........................ 80.00
“Labor and material in repainting laundry and parts of corridors due to damage by others.............................. 30.00
“Labor and materials in applying 3 coats of enamel finish to laundry room instead of 1 coat of water paint covered by specifications .................... 140.00
“Labor and materials in applying 3 coats of oil paint to basement walls in place of 2 coats of water paint as required by specifications ....................... 120.00
“Labor and materials for miscellaneous work not in specifications including finishing (4 coats) a door, painting of ornamental iron, refinishing baseboards in basement school rooms, painting of panel-board installed by plumber, touching up areas where new building joined old, touching up baseboard after damage by floor men.................... 90.00
“Labor and materials used in repairing and repainting various walls throughout upon which cracks appeared and surfaces where others had injured freshly painted surfaces .................... 150.00
“Amount paid Grand Rapids Window Company for washing of windows ....... 170.00
“Additional costs of-labor and materials resulting from work being changed at defendant’s request from the institutional decorating job in accordance with plans and specifications to the decorator’s job which was furnished in its place .............................. 1,234.07
$3,324.07”
The record does not sufficiently establish the defendant owner’s liability for repainting “as a result of damage by men who installed railings” or for leaks or-' damage resulting “from installing new pipes in toilets,” or for labor and materials “due to installation of electric outlets,” or “due to pipe installation ’after we had completed our work,” or “due to damage by others,” or for “touching up areas where new building joined old,” or for “touching up baseboard after damage by floor men,” or for labor and materials “where others had injured freshly painted surfaces,” or for “amount paid Grand Rapids Window Company for washing of windows.” It is to be noted that the contract between defendant and the general contractor included, “cleaning by painter:.. * .* * wash all glass.”
Plaintiffs’ witness Tornga gave testimony as to some extra colors of paints which he claimed were suggested by some of the ladies serving on the committee for defendant. Also, Mr. John H. Baxter, one of plaintiffs, testified that Baxter Brothers had done work for defendant guild for approximately 10 or 11 years. He testified:
“I always assumed Mrs. Cary [superintendent for defendant _ corporation] was representing the officers and my conversations with the Mary Free Bed Guild were usually through Mrs. Cary.”-
Mrs. Cary testified:
“I did not assume any authority in the way of making any variations in the contract.”
Defendant’s witness Mr. W. B. MacWhirter (the architect and supervisor on the job) testified:
“I was in charge of the job and Mrs. Spencer and her committee only approved the colors. They had no power to change the type or quality of paint or do anything but approve the color that was used. * * * To my knowledge there was only 1 change in color and that was on the third floor on the prime coat. I wouldn’t say that there were not other changes in colors from the plans and from the original choice. I wouldn’t know about that, but coming through my office there was no indication of it, hut to my own knowledge there was only 1 change that I told you about.”
Mr. MacWhirter further testified:
“To my knowledge there was no conversation between me and Baxter Painting Company in regard to price of extras except on 1 occasion. So far as I know the specifications were completely and exactly met. Baxter Brothers did a good job. I had no complaint of their work at all. As a matter of fact, 1 complimented them orally on the quality of their work. The only time a question of price came up' during the course of the construction, was when Mr. Tornga came into our little field office one morning and said: We put an extra coat of paint on the laundry room and on the ironing room. The 1 coat of paint which was specified in the specifications did not cover too well. I thought it needed an extra coat of paint so I went ahead and put it on.’ I. said, ‘I agree with you that they look a lot better with 2 coats of paint on them than 1 coat of paint.’ And I said, T will try to get the board of directors of the Mary Free Bed Guild to authorize an extra for those 2 rooms if you will let me know what you think it is worth.’ He put the extra coats on those 2 rooms of his own volition and not through any change from my office. Those rooms were in the basement of the building.”
Mr. Baxter testified as follows on cross-examination:
“Q. You never made any charge on the books against the Mary Free Bed Guild until after the job was finished, on your books ? If you did, I wish you would bring in the books, and show the judge this afternoon.
“A. As I say, there was no itemization made of the cost.
“Q. So the Mary Free Bed Guild did not appear on your books at all up to the time you finished the job f
“A. No, sir.”
There is no showing that any officer of defendant corporation knew that plaintiffs furnished any item as an extra for which the defendant would be making itself liable or furnished any item outside of plaintiffs’ subcontract with the Barnes Construction Company. Plaintiffs kept no records to show and its books do not show, what part of their work was done under their contract with Barnes Construction Company, what that part cost, nor what part furnished by plaintiffs was outside of the general contract and what that part cost.
The trial court concluded that the defendant was not liable for any extras nor for any item to the plaintiffs. After a careful consideration of the whole record, we conclude that the finding by the trial judge is not contrary to the clear weight of the evidence. The judgment in favor of defendant of no cause of action is affirmed. Costs to defendant.
Carr, C. J., and Btjtzel, Smith, Sharpe, Boyles, Dethmers, and Kelly, JJ., concurred. | [
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Smith, J.
This is a suit for divorce. The plaintiff and appellant is Dorothy M. Whittaker,. The .defendant -and. appellee is Stanley W. Whittaker, president of the Whittaker Electric Company. The parties were married in 1940, lived together' until 1952, and their union was blessed with 3 children, 8,10 and 11 years jrf .age.' ^ ^ ^
Appellant filed a bill for separate maintenance against her husband. She charged that he was infatuated- with another- woman, an employee of the company, and, in addition, that he conducted himself in an uncultivated and boorish manner. He filed a cross bill for divorce, denying both charges and complaining, in turn, that her false- accusations of infidelity had impaired his business and social reputation and were destructive of company morale. He charged, also, that she was reckless in her care of the family funds, thus injuring his credit standing, and that she had alienated the affection of his children.
More of the details of this domestic tragedy we need not recount. Nor need we summarize the testimony adduced by the parties in support of their respective contentions. The trial court found that appellant had wholly failed to establish the allegations in her bill of compaint. As to her charges of misconduct with a company employee, the court found that appellant, after having brought these charges and allegations to the attention of many persons, including various employees of the company, had failed to substantiate them and, in fact, had placed “unwarranted interpretations” upon ordinary conduct. As for -the cross bill, the court found that appellant’s constant accusation of immorality had had a bad effect upon appellee and his business, and that her conduct, taken as a whole, including her disregard of the financial obligations and responsibilities of the parties, had amounted -to a course of extreme and repeated cruelty* Accordingly, appellee was awarded a decree of divorce.
It is the claim'of appellant in this Court that (1) the court erred in dismissing her bill for separate maintenance and in granting appellee a decree of divorce, and (2) the court’s division of the property was inequitable. ,-
" We hear chancery cases de/novo on the record presented. MacDonald v. MacDonald, 339 Mich 500; Scherba v. Scherba, 340 Mich 228. However, the trial conrt had the advantage of seeing and hearing the witnesses, and the decree of the trial court will not he reversed unless the record fails to sustain the decree. Irvine v. Irvine, 339 Mich 375.
With respect to the first claim made, we have searched the record and we find no basis for disagreeing with the conclusion of the trial court. The •record is convincing that the proofs sufficiently establish a case for granting appellee a divorce on the ground of extreme cruelty and we so find.
The marriage having thus ended, it remained to determine custody of children and divide the property of the parties. Custody was awarded to appellant, with appropriate rights of visitation, and no issue is raiséd with respect thereto. The property, however, hás been productive of much acrimony.
Under the terms of the decree, appellant was awarded the home of the parties, having an approximate valuation of $17,000, for the purchase of which $4,000 was advanced by plaintiff’s mother, and against which stands a mortgage of $5,800; the household furniture, having a replacement value of approximately $7,000; and an automobile valued at $700. Appellee’s income is derived from salary, a bonus, based upon profits, awarded in the discretion of the board of directors, and director’s fees. In the year 1953 these totalled $12,300 and for the year 1954 the testimony set the figure at $13,300. The salary alone is $8,000 per year which, appellee contends, amounts to approximately $132 per week after deduction of withholding tax. The order of the court as to payments provided for $65 per week for the support and maintenance of the minor children, plus $15 per week alimony.
The' defendant was left with his stock in the Whittaker Electric Company which, in the opinion of the trial court, it was necessary that he retain “in order that he may produce the income necessary to make the payments hereinafter required.” Upon this record, considering the small size of the corporation, and appellee’s position and stockholdings therein, we cannot disagree with the trial court’s conclusion, and it is unnecessary that we decide whether the hook value or the fair market value thereof controls its valuation. In addition, defendant was left with the assets of a subordinate business venture, having a net value of approximately $2,900, together with his continuing responsibility for debts theretofore incurred in the sum of approximately $6,400, and costs of suit.
• The parties differ widely in their valuation of assets, much of the discrepancy turning upon the' proper valuation of the corporate stock retained by defendant. Appellee urges upon us that his wife received a net award of approximately $15,400, while he retained a net, above indebtedness, of approximately $16,000. Appellant, on the other hand, urges that she received less than 1/3 of the assets and that the decree “should he modified to award appellant 60% of all the assets, and the alimony and support for plaintiff and her minor children should he increased to $150 per week.”
We do not propose to reconcile the arithmetical differences between the parties for we do not decide the division of property and income upon a mathematical basis. We stress again that there is no rigid rule for division of property in divorce actions, Hallett v. Hallett, 279 Mich 246; Morrish v. Morrish, 338 Mich 261. Our standard is the standard of fairness and equity. We recently had occasion, in Cartwright v. Cartwright, 341 Mich 68, to pass upon the question of division of property and income in a suit for divorce. We there said (p 76):
“We have held that under the law of this State a division of property need not be equal but rather should be fair and equitable under all of the circumstances involved.”
Among the circumstances we consider the situation and needs of the minor children, the conduct of the parties, the duration of their marriage, the contributions of the parties to the joint estate, the age of the parties, their health and station in life, together with their circumstances and necessities. Where the wife is the party at fault,' as here, and she complains to us that her allotted portion of the property and income has not been sufficiently generous, social considerations of the most complex nature arise. The chancellor may be forgiven if his eyes narrow when he hears a wife at fault complaining that she did not get enough of the property when the family broke up. At the same time she remains, in spite of her fault, the custodian and mother of the children, whose interests are paramount. We agree with appellant that her health must receive, in view of her responsibilities, careful consideration, but we cannot say it did not. The trial court states with respect thereto:
“I have' in mind the medical testimony introduced in this case that the plaintiff has a heart condition which she has had practically all of her life, and which was present before these parties were married, but which prevents her from carrying on to some extent the ordinary activities of a woman of her age.”
Upon the record made we cannot conclude that the decree of. the trial court was unfair or inequitable. The husband, it is true, retains his corporate stock,.which-i§ of substantial value, but its retention-should benefit all parties. He seems not unduly favored upon the whole record. We note that he lives in one room in the factory, cooks his own meals, and has sold his car to help pay his debts. We are not convinced that inequity has been done. The slender assets as well as the sorrows and the burdens seem to have been fairly equated. We will not disturb.
The decree is affirmed, but without costs. Reuter v. Reuter, 338 Mich 46.
Carr, C. J., and Butzel, Sharpe, Boyles, Reid, Dethmers, and Kelly, JJ., concurred. | [
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Carr, C. J.,
Plaintiff’s intestate, Thomas Lauder, entered the employ of defendant Paul M. Wiener Foundry in 1945, working as a molder for several years. He contracted silicosis and on March 2,1951, his employment was terminated. Subsequently he applied for compensation under the statute and following a hearing was awarded $26 per week for total disability from March 3, 1951, to March 5, 1951, and partial disability at the rate of $4.34 per week for the period between March 6, 1951, and August 3, 1952. During said period plaintiff was employed other than by defendant foundry. On the date last mentioned he had a position with an employer referred to in the record as the Manning, Maxwell, Moore Company and, also, as the Shaw-Box Crane. In such employment Lauder was in charge of a stockroom and his position involved not only the care of property but the keeping of records. It is conceded that in this employment he received wages equal to or greater than those paid to him by defendant foundry at the time of his disability from silicosis in March, 1951.
On or about September 1, 1953, it was discovered that Lauder was suffering from carcinoma of the throat, a condition that incapacitated him for further work. It is conceded that such condition was not related in any way to his silicosis. Under date of July 15, 1953, he made application for further compensation based on the occupational disease that brought about his release by defendant Paul Wiener Foundry in March, 1951. The matter was heard on stipulated facts and an award of compensation made at the rate of $26 per week from September 1, 1953, until the further order of the commission, but not exceeding the aggregate amount of $6,000. On review the award was affirmed by the workmen’s compensation commission. On leave granted by this Court, defendants have appealed, claiming that under the facts involved the award was not authorized by statute.
The legal question presented involves the interpretation of part 7, § 3, of the workmen’s compensation law of the State. Said section (CL 1948, § 417.-3 [Stat Ann 1950 Rev §17.222]) read as follows:
“If an employee is disabled or dies and his disability or death is caused by a disease and the disease is due to the nature of the employment in which such employee was engaged and was contracted therein, he or his dependents shall be entitled to compensation for his death or for his disablement, and he shall be entitled to be furnished with medical and hospital services, all as provided in part 2 of this act, except as hereinafter stated in this part: Provided, however, That if it shall be determined that such employee is able to earn wages at another occupation which shall be neither unhealthful nor injurious and such wages do not equal his full wages prior to the date of his disablement, the compensation payable shall be a percentage of full compensation proportionate to the reduction in his earning capacity.”
It does not appear that any case involving facts substantially identical with those in the case at bar has previously come before this Court under the section above quoted. However, in Byrne v. Clark Equipment Co., 302 Mich 167, the question arose whether plaintiff had established by proof her right to compensation for the death of her husband, of whom she was a dependent. The death of the employee resulted from infection following an operation for an occupational hernia in connection with which an infected appendix was removed. The testimony taken on the hearing before a deputy commissioner did not disclose affirmatively that the death resulted from the operation for hernia. The infection causing the result, under the medical testimony, might have had its source in the appendix. The award was set aside on the ground that it was obviously based on speculation and conjecture, the Court emphasizing that the burden was upon plaintiff to establish her claim. In discussing the situation, and after reference to statutory provisions relating to hernia, it was said, in part (p 176):
“Section 3 of the same part [7] of the act (CLS 1940, § 8485-3 **§[Stat Ann 1941 Cum Supp § 17.222]) • provides, in part:
“ ‘If an employee is disabled or dies and his disability or death, is caused by one of the diseases (hernia) mentioned in the schedule contained in section 2 of this part and the disease is due to the nature of the employment in which such employee was engaged and was contracted therein, he or his dependents shall be entitled to compensation for his death or for his disablement.’
“Section 8421, CL 1929 (Stat Ann § 17.155), provides that, ‘if death results from the-injury,’ the employer shall pay the dependents of the employee the prescribed compensation for a period of 300 weeks from the date of the injury.
_ “Section 8428, CL 1929 (Stat Ann § 17.162), provides, in part:
“ ‘If the injury so received by such employee was the proximate cause of his death, and such deceased employee leaves dependents, as hereinbefore specified, wholly or partially dependent on him for support, the death benefit shall be a sum sufficient, when added to the indemnity which shall at the time of death have'been paid or become payable under the provisions of this act to such deceased employee, to make the total compensation * * * equal to the full amount which such dependents would have been entitled * * * in case the accident had resulted in immediate death.’ ” ...
It will be noted that certain words and phrases in the statutory provisions quoted by the Court were italicized for emphasis. It was, as before stated, a claim for compensation resulting from the death of the employee. If in the instant case the claim were of like character an award of compensation would be improper against these defendants unless death resulted from the silicosis; It may be noted that following the making of the award in his favor and after the appeal to this Court was taken Lauder died, inferentially from the throat condition and not because of the silicosis that he contracted while in the employ of the Paul M. Wiener Foundry. The administratrix was substituted as plaintiff. While the claim here is based on disability rather than on death, it will be noted that the statute groups the words together and contains nothing implying that different rules shall apply in a death case than under a claim for disability compensation.
Under part 2 of the workmen’s compensation law, which governs compensation for disability resulting from personal injuries, other than' occupational diseases, arising out of and in the course of employment, questions have arisen in prior cases involving the rights of the parties when an employee, previously suffering a compensable disability, is prevented in some way from earning wages in another employment. Th,e statute above quoted, which controls the case at bar, obviously contemplates that if an employee is able to earn wages at another occupation, equal to those received prior to his disablement, he is not entitled to compensation. The. amount of pay received in another employment is not necessarily controlling. Rather, the matter at issue in such ease is wage-earning capacity. In Hood v. Wyandotte Oil & Fat Co., 272 Mich 190, the Court in discussing this question said, in part (pp 192, 193):
“What is meant by the term ‘wage-earning capacity after the injury?’ It is not limited to wages actually earned after injury, for such a holding would encourage malingering and compensation is not a pension. On the other hand mere capacity to earn wages, if ‘nondescript’ by reason of injury, affords no measure unless accompanied by opportunity to obtain suitable employment. Opportunity is circumscribed by capacity of the injured and openings to such a wage earner. In the instance at bar plaintiff’s present wage-earning capacity, if he has any, appears to be limited to problematical employment as a barber under conditions suitable to, and favoring his physical condition and, therefore, in an existing labor market with an opening for such a handicapped employee.
“An injured person may recover to the point where he can, if favored, perform special service, if such is obtainable, but, if none can be obtained because of his injury, his capacity to work and earn cannot be measured against his incapacity. If his injury isolates him from employment then, of course, he is not to be held to have capacity to work and earn wages. If his injury has reduced his capacity to work and relegated him to the rating of ‘odd lot’ or ‘nondescript’ workers for whom labor openings are extremely limited, then opportunity, within his capacity, should be made to appear.”
The foregoing language was quoted with approval in Pigue v. General Motors Corporation, 317 Mich 311, 316, 317. In that case plaintiff sustained a compensable injury and received compensation. Thereafter he was given a position by his employer doing clerical work. Subsequently the union of which he was a member called a strike, which continued for several weeks. Plaintiff made application for com pensation covering the period when he was not work-' ing because of such strike. An award in his favor was set aside by this Court on the ground that the inability to earn wages during the period in question was not the result of the previous injury but solely for a reason not in any way connected therewith. In discussing the situation, it was said (p 316):
“The principle upon which compensation is awarded is, that the employee has suffered a loss in his wage-earning capacity as a result of a compensable injury suffered while in the employ of his employer.”
A like result was reached in Dunavant v. General Motors Corporation, 325 Mich 482. In that case the plaintiff sustained an injury to his left hand and was paid compensation for total disability for a period of approximately 6 weeks. Thereafter the employer furnished him with work at which he received wages equal to those paid prior to his injury. However, the employee had been afflicted with pulmonary tuberculosis, and suffered a recurrence of such ailment which rendered him unable to carry on the work in which he was at the time engaged. The workmen’s compensation commission allowed compensation for total disability from the time that tuberculosis prevented employment until the further order of the commission. Following the decision in the Pigue Case and other decisions of similar import, it was held that plaintiff’s inability to continue in his employment was not the result of the accidental injury to his hand,'that the employment in which he was engaged was available to him, and that the sole reason for his not continuing therein was the recurrence of the ailment from which he had previously suffered.
In the recent case of Adkins v. Rives Plating Corporation, 338 Mich 265, the plaintiff sustained an injury while in the employ of the defendant and re ceived compensation for total disability. Subsequently he returned to work at wages equal to those that he formerly received. Approximately 3 months later he sustained an accidental injury while riding a bicycle on a public street, and made application for further compensation covering, the period during which he was unable to work because of the second injury. The award was made but on appeal was set aside by this Court on the ground that there was no causal relationship between the first and second injuries. In reaching such conclusion the Court distinguished prior decisions on which plaintiff relied, citing with approval Rucker v. Michigan Smelting & Refining Co., 300 Mich 668, in which an award of compensation because of a so-called “second injury” was set aside on the ground that no causal connection was shown between such injury and the first compensable disability.
Summarizing the reasons for reversal in the Adkins Case, it was said (p 273):
“The affirmation of the award in the instant case would establish a precedent allowing compensation for subsequent injuries which have not arisen out of and in the course of the employment, which bear no relationship to the scope thereof and are but remotely connected with the original injury.”
The Court also quoted with approval from Simpson v. Lee & Cady, 294 Mich 460, 463, as follows:
<■ a compensation law is to be construed liberally to provide indemnity for accidents peculiarly incidental to employment, but it was not intended to be health,- accident and old-age insurance and spread general protection over risks common to all and not arising out of and in the course of employment.’ ”
Each case of this nature must be determined under proper legal principles and in accordance with' the facts involved. In the case at bar plaintiff’s intes tate, after leaving the employ of the defendant Paul M. Wiener Foundry, obtained a position with another company, which position he held until suffering a disability not connected in any way with his silicosis. There is nothing in the record to suggest that such position constituted “favored employment” as the term is commonly used. No reason is shown, or suggested, why the last employer had. reason to give Lauder light work. The prior compensable disability had not been sustained in its employ. Apparently Lauder held a responsible position involving not only the care of property but the keeping of records that, inferentially, required some measure of skill and ability. Certainly such work was not of the type referred to in Hood v. Wyandotte Oil & Fat Co., supra. Lauder was not in the category of a “nondescript” or “odd lot” worker.
It is a fair inference that if Lauder had not been stricken with the malady that resulted finally in his death he could and would have continued in his employment, or in other employment consistent with his abilities. There is nothing in this record suggesting that such work was not available. Assuming that he could not return to work as a molder, his ability to establish a wage-earning capacity in other employment was not thereby prevented. Having in mind the provisions of the statute above quoted, it is apparent that he was able to earn wages at occupations not unhealthful nor injurious, at wages equal to or greater than those paid to him at the time of his release by Paul M. Wiener Foundry in March, 1951.
It is the position of counsel for the plaintiff that if an employee sustains a disability preventing him^ from re-engaging in the particular kind of work in which he was employed at the time of such disability, but is able to do other kinds of work and to earn the same or higher wages as in the prior employment and is prevented for any reason other than his own fault from continuing therein, he is entitled to demand the reinstatement of full disability compensation benefits payable for the original disability. In other words, an employer who has paid compensation because of loss of earning capacity in one line of work may find that his obligation is revived because of some occurrence having no relation to the employment in his service and not connected in any way with the disability there incurred. Under plaintiff’s theory such result would follow in the instant ease if Lauder had been injured in a traffic accident and permanently disabled, or had suffered a disabling injury arising out of and in the course of his employment by another. If plaintiff’s argument is well-founded, the fact that resort might be had under the workmen’s compensation law against the. later employer would not be a bar to asserting further liability on the part of the employer paying the compensation in the first instance.
Such an interpretation' of the statute obviously leads to the conclusion that an employer, situated as is the defendant, Paul M. Wiener. Foundry in the present case, becomes an insurer as to an employee prevented from following one line of work but having an established wage-earning capacity in other lines. If plaintiff here is entitled to an award, such an employer is faced with possible added liability, that might arise in many different ways for reasons not connected with the original disability or with the employment in which it was sustained. We do not think that the statute may properly be so construed., Had the legislature intended such result, we think appropriate language indicating such liability would have been used.
Under the statute as interpreted in the Byrne Case, supra, a claim by dependents for benefits in the event of death of the employee, based on the pro visions of the statute relating thereto, would not be well-founded and, as before noted, the language used by the legislature indicates that the same principles shall control in the event of compensation for disability as are applicable where claim is based on the death of the employee. The principles suggested by the language above quoted from the Adkins Case are applicable here.
An order will enter remanding the case to the workmen’s compensation commission with directions to set aside the award. No costs are allowed, the interpretation of a statute being involved.
Sharpe, Boyles, Reid, Dethmers, and Kelly, JJ., concurred with Care, C. J.
PA 1912 (1st Ex Sess), No 10, as amended (CL 1948 and CLS 1952, § 411.1 et see/. [Stat Ann 1950 Rev and Stat Ann 1953 Cum Supp § 17,141 et seq.]).
This section, when amended, became CL 1948, § 417.3, previously cited. Other sections here mentioned, when amended, became CL 1948, § 412.5, as amended by PA 1949, No 238, and CL 1948, § 412.12.—Reporter. | [
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PER CURIAM.
In this divorce proceeding, the parties agreed that the friend of the court would determine the custody of their children and that the circuit court could not review the decision. Honoring this, the circuit court entered the friend of the court’s recommended order awarding sole custody of the children to defendant and denied plaintiffs motion for a hearing to review the matter.
The Court of Appeals vacated the circuit court’s order and remanded the case for a hearing de novo. We affirm that opinion, but write to provide clarification. Regardless of the type of alternative dispute resolution that parties use, the Child Custody Act requires the circuit court to determine independently what custodial placement is in the best interests of the children. We write to clarify the responsibility of the trial court in making that determination.
I. BACKGROUND
A. TRIAL COURT PROCEEDINGS
Two daughters were born during the parties’ marriage, one in 1994 and the other in 1996. In February 2000, plaintiff filed a complaint for divorce with the Family Division of the Oakland Circuit Court. A variety of issues were disputed, including custody of the children.
Instead of proceeding directly to trial, the parties opted for a form of alternative dispute resolution. On May 15, 2001, the circuit court entered a consent order, approved by both parties’ counsel, for binding arbitration. Its object was to resolve all property matters and provide for an evidentiary hearing and binding decision by the friend of the court referee regarding custody, parenting time, and child support issues. The order stated that the referee’s decision could not be reviewed by the circuit court:
7. Issues of custody, parenting time and child support shall be referred to the Oakland County Friend of the Court for an Evidentiary Hearing in front of a Referee.
8. The decision of the Referee, after hearing, shall be binding on the parties and shall not be reviewable by the trial court. The Appellate rights to the Court of Appeals are again preserved.
Following an evidentiary hearing, the friend of the court submitted findings to the circuit court with a recommended order awarding legal and physical custody of the children solely to defendant. Plaintiff filed timely written objections to the order.
The circuit court entered the recommended order, over plaintiffs objection, changing the existing custodial arrangement. The court denied her motion for an evidentiary hearing de novo and refused to set aside the order when defendant argued that the parties’ stipulation restricted its authority to review the order.
B. APPELLATE court proceedings
Plaintiff appealed as of right. The Court of Appeals vacated the custody order and remanded for a hearing de novo in the circuit court.
In its opinion, the Court of Appeals acknowledged that the Child Custody Act governs all child custody disputes and gives the circuit court continuing jurisdiction over custody proceedings. MCL 722.26. The Court discussed two statutory schemes that operate concurrently with the Child Custody Act to provide the parties with alternative methods of dispute resolution: the domestic relations arbitration act and the Friend of the Court Act. MCL 600.5070 et seq. and 552.501 et seq.
The domestic relations arbitration act permits parties to agree to binding arbitration of child custody disputes. It contains numerous protections for them, including mandatory prearbitration disclosures and detailed procedural requirements. MCL 600.5072. The parties can seek circuit court review of the arbitration award. MCL 600.5080 specifically addresses awards concerning child custody:
(1) Subject to subsection (2), the circuit court shall not vacate or modify an award concerning child support, custody, or parenting time unless the court finds that the award is adverse to the best interests of the child who is the subject of the award or under the provisions of section 5081.
(2) A review or modification of a child support amount, child custody, or parenting time shall be conducted and is subject to the standards and procedures provided in other statutes, in other applicable law, and by court rule that are applicable to child support amounts, child custody, or parenting time.
(3) Other standards and procedures regarding review of arbitration awards described in this section are governed by court rule.
A separate provision, MCL 600.5081, generally addresses the manner in which the circuit court shall review a motion to vacate or modify an arbitration award.
Alternatively, parties to a custody dispute can present the issue to a friend of the court referee. If they elect this option, the circuit court may review the referee’s recommendation in accordance with MCL 552.507(5). That subsection provides that the circuit court “shall hold a de novo hearing on any matter that has been the subject of a referee hearing” if either party requests such a hearing within twenty-one days after receiving the referee’s recommendation.
The Court of Appeals concluded that, under either statute, the parties were entitled to have the circuit court review the custody determination. For this reason, it held, “an agreement for a binding decision in a domestic-relations matter with no right of review in the court, as in this case, is without statutory support under either scheme.” 257 Mich App 278, 289; 668 NW2d 187 (2003).
The Court then determined that the parties had not complied with the detailed procedural requirements of the domestic relations arbitration act. As a consequence, it held that the parties’ agreement was governed by the Friend of the Court Act, MCL 552.507(5). The trial court should have addressed plaintiffs objections by holding a hearing de novo to review whether the custody recommendation was in the best interests of the children. The Court of Appeals summed up as follows:
In the absence of any review by the trial court, as discussed above, and in the absence of a valid agreement for binding arbitration or an otherwise valid waiver of procedural requirements, plaintiff was improperly denied a hearing regarding her objections to the friend of the court’s findings and recommendation. [257 Mich App 292.]
It vacated the custody order and remanded for a hearing de novo in the circuit court.
Defendant now seeks leave to appeal, asking this Court to reinstate the custody order awarding him sole legal and physical custody of the children.
II. STANDARD of review
Whether parties to a divorce can by stipulation restrict the circuit court’s authority to decide a custody issue is a question of law that we review de novo. Cardinal Mooney High School v Michigan High School Athletic Ass’n, 437 Mich 75, 80; 467 NW2d 21 (1991).
III. ANALYSIS
The Child Custody Act is a comprehensive statutory scheme for resolving custody disputes. Van v Zahorik, 460 Mich 320, 327; 597 NW2d 15 (1999). With it, the Legislature sought to “promote the best interests and welfare of children.” Fletcher v Fletcher, 447 Mich 871, 877; 526 NW2d 889 (1994). The act applies to all custody disputes and vests the circuit court with continuing jurisdiction. MCL 722.26.
The act makes clear that the best interests of the child control the resolution of a custody dispute between parents, as gauged by the factors set forth at MCL 722.23. MCL 722.25(1). It places an affirmative obligation on the circuit court to “declare the child’s inherent rights and establish the rights and duties as to the child’s custody, support, and parenting time in accordance with this act” whenever the court is required to adjudicate an action “involving dispute of a minor child’s custody.” MCL 722.24(1); Van, supra at 328. Taken together, these statutory provisions impose on the trial court the duty to ensure that the resolution of any custody dispute is in the best interests of the child.
Thus, we affirm the Court of Appeals decision to remand this case to the circuit court for a hearing de novo, but not for the reason stated by the Court of Appeals. It is irrelevant that the parties did not have a “valid agreement for binding arbitration or an otherwise valid waiver of procedural requirements . ...” 257 Mich App 292. The Child Custody Act required the circuit court to determine the best interests of the children before entering an order resolving the custody dispute.
Our holding should not be interpreted, where the parties have agreed to a custody arrangement, to require the court to conduct a hearing or otherwise engage in intensive fact-finding. See MCL 552.513(2) and 600.5080(1). Our requirement under such circum stances is that the court satisfy itself concerning the best interests of the children. When the court signs the order, it indicates that it has done so. A judge signs an order only after profound deliberation and in the exercise of the judge’s traditional broad discretion. See Greene v Greene, 357 Mich 196, 202; 98 NW2d 519 (1959).
However, the deference due parties’ negotiated agreements does not diminish the court’s obligation to examine the best interest factors and make the child’s best interests paramount. MCL 722.25(1). Nothing in the Child Custody Act gives parents or any other party the power to exclude the legislatively mandated “best interests” factors from the court’s deliberations once a custody dispute reaches the court.
Furthermore, neither the Friend of the Court Act nor the domestic relations arbitration act relieves the circuit court of its duty to review a custody arrangement once the issue of a child’s custody reaches the bench. The Friend of the Court Act states that the circuit court “shall” hold a hearing de novo to review a friend of the court recommendation if either party objects to that recommendation in writing within twenty-one days. MCL 552.507(5).
Likewise, MCL 600.5080 authorizes a circuit court to modify or vacate an arbitration award that is not in the best interests of the child. It requires the circuit court to review the arbitration award in accordance with the requirements of other relevant statutes, including the Child Custody Act. The court retains authority over custody until the child reaches the age of majority. MCL 722.27(l)(c).
Thus, even when parties initially elect to submit a custody dispute to an arbitrator or to the friend of the court, they cannot waive the authority that the Child Custody Act confers on the circuit court. As the Court of Appeals has previously explained, parties “cannot by agreement usurp the court’s authority to determine suitable provisions for the child’s best interests.” Lom-bardo v Lombardo, 202 Mich App 151, 160; 507 NW2d 788 (1993). See also Napora v Napora, 159 Mich App 241, 246; 406 NW2d 197 (1986). Permitting the parties, by stipulation, to limit the trial court’s authority to review custody determinations would nullify the protections of the Child Custody Act and relieve the circuit court of its statutorily imposed responsibilities.
IV CONCLUSION
We agree with the Court of Appeals that parties cannot stipulate to circumvent the authority of the circuit court in determining the custody of children. In making its determination, the court must consider the best interests of the children. Child custody determinations or agreements are not binding until entered by court order.
The Court of Appeals judgment in favor of plaintiff, remanding this case to the Family Division of the Oakland Circuit Court for a hearing de novo is affirmed, but for a reason different from that stated by that Court. MCR 7.302(G)(1).
Corrigan, C.J., and Cavanagh, Weaver, Kelly, Taylor, Young, and Markman, JJ., concurred.
MCL 722.21 et seq.
We recognize that parents sometimes reach agreements regarding custody and visitation matters either informally through direct negotiations or through mediation procedures made available by dispute resolution organizations. Our decision does not restrict the ability of parties to address disputes through alternative dispute resolution processes. We hold only that the statutory “best interests” factors control whenever a court enters an order affecting child custody. An initial agreement between the parties cannot relieve the court of its statutory responsibility to ensure that its adjudication of custody disputes is in a child’s best interests.
Likewise, parties must understand that a child custody determination resulting from alternative dispute resolution processes is not enforceable absent a court order.
The parties subsequently signed a binding arbitration agreement and arbitrated the marital property issues, which are not on appeal. | [
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PER CURIAM.
In this sexual harassment action, plaintiff claims to have suffered an adverse employment action as a consequence of a prior romantic relationship with one of the defendants, MCL 37.2103(i) (ii), and a hostile work environment, MCL 37.2103(i) (iii). We conclude that plaintiffs complaint does not allege facts sufficient to show sexual harassment under either theory and, therefore, fails as a matter of law. We reverse the Court of Appeals decision pertaining to plaintiffs sexual harassment claims and reinstate the trial court’s order granting summary disposition for defendants.
I. FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY
Plaintiff and defendant Joseph Smith were employed by the Detroit Board of Education to work in its adult education program at the Golightly Vocational Center. Plaintiff was employed part-time as a counselor, and defendant Smith was her supervisor. During the course of their employment, plaintiff and Smith became romantically involved in a relationship that lasted three or four years. The relationship ended when Smith started dating another employee, defendant Barbara Finch. Plaintiff alleges that after Smith and Finch became involved, defendant Smith repeatedly threatened plaintiff with adverse employment action if she said or did anything that interfered with his relationship with Finch. Plaintiff also alleges that Finch taunted, embarrassed, and humiliated her by causing plaintiffs work station to be moved and by engaging in “catty” conversations with others that were about plaintiff and intended to be overheard by her. According to plaintiff, the alleged harassment culminated when she was discharged at the conclusion of the 1995-1996 school year.
Plaintiff filed suit, claiming sexual harassment, breach of contract, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Regarding the sexual harassment claim, plaintiff alleged that she was subjected to two species of harassment prohibited by the Michigan Civil Rights Act: a hostile working environment, MCL 37.2103(i)(iii), and quid pro quo sexual harassment, MCL 37.2103(i)(ii). Pursuant to MCR 2.116(C)(8) and (10), the circuit court granted defendants’ motion for summary disposition, ruling that plaintiff failed to state a claim on which relief could be granted and that there was no genuine issue of material fact.
The Court of Appeals affirmed in part and reversed in part. The panel reversed the trial court’s order granting summary disposition regarding the sexual harassment claims, reasoning that the alleged persistent and hostile communications could reasonably be considered communications of a sexual nature because defendants “disliked” plaintiffs “continued presence in the workplace as Smith’s former paramour.” Furthermore, the Court determined that plaintiff submitted sufficient evidence of quid pro quo sexual harassment because she suffered adverse employment actions as a result of “her ‘submission’ to Smith’s prior” romantic overtures. The panel additionally reasoned that the alleged threats, offensive remarks, and adverse working conditions established sufficient evidence of a hostile work environment. Defendants seek leave to appeal to this Court.
II. STANDARD OF REVIEW
This Court reviews de novo the resolution of a summary disposition motion.
A motion “under MCR 2.116(C)(8) tests the legal sufficiency of the complaint on the basis of the pleadings alone.” “The purpose of such a motion is to determine whether the plaintiff has stated a claim upon which relief can be granted. The motion should be granted if no factual development could possibly justify recovery.”
“A motion under MCR 2.116(0(10) tests the factual sufficiency of the complaint.” In evaluating such a motion, a court considers the entire record in the light most favorable to the party opposing the motion, including affidavits, pleadings, depositions, admissions, and other evidence submitted by the parties. Where the proffered evidence fails to establish a genuine issue regarding any material fact, the moving party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law.
III. ANALYSIS
We turn initially to whether plaintiff alleges facts sufficient under MCR 2.116(0(10) to establish a claim of sexual harassment actionable under either a quid pro quo theory or a hostile work environment theory, MCL 37.2103(i)(ii), (iii).
“Sexual harassment” is defined in MCL 37.2103(i) as:
[UJnwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature under the following conditions:
(ii) Submission to or rejection of the conduct or communication by an individual is used as a factor in decisions affecting the individual’s employment, public accommodations or public services, education, or housing.
(iii) The conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s employment, public accommodations or public services, education, or housing, or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive employment, public accommodations, public services, educational, or housing environment.
Thus, as a threshold matter, plaintiff must allege facts showing that she was subjected to “unwelcome sexual advances,” “requests for sexual favors,” or “conduct or communication of a sexual nature” before she can establish actionable sexual harassment under a hostile work environment theory or a quid pro quo theory. MCL 37.2103(i).
Plaintiff does not contend that defendants made either unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors. We thus turn to the third element of MCL 37.2103(i) to determine if she was subjected to “conduct or communication of a sexual nature.” “Sexual nature” is not defined in the statute. Where a term is not defined in the statute, we will review its ordinary dictionary meaning for guidance. “Sexual” is defined, in part, as “of or pertaining to sex” or “occurring between or involving the sexes: sexual relations” “Nature” is defined as a “native or inherent characteristic.” Utilizing these two commonly understood definitions, we conclude that actionable sexual harassment requires conduct or communication that inherently pertains to sex.
The conduct and communication alleged by plaintiff do not meet this definition. Plaintiff contends that defendant Smith repeatedly warned plaintiff not to interfere with his relationship with Finch and threat ened her with consequences if she did. The Court of Appeals, viewing the evidence in a light most favorable to plaintiff, concluded that the threats could constitute unwelcome sexual communications because they stemmed from Smith’s past intimate relationship with plaintiff. 'We disagree.
After their intimate relationship ended, their working relationship became difficult, but defendant Smith’s alleged threats that he would fire plaintiff if she interfered with his new relationship were not inherently sexual in nature. Verbal or physical conduct or communication that is not sexual in nature is not sexual harassment. For this reason, we conclude that plaintiff cannot meet the threshold requirement to establish either a quid pro quo sexual harassment claim or hostile work environment sexual harassment claim against defendant Smith.
Regarding defendant Finch, plaintiff alleges that Finch contributed to a hostile work environment by engaging in “catty” conversations about plaintiff and by causing plaintiffs work station to be relocated. As discussed above, plaintiff must establish that the asserted conduct or communication were of a sexual nature. That is, that Finch’s conduct or communication inherently pertained to sex. Here, the asserted communication by Finch conveyed nothing more than Finch’s personal animosity towards plaintiff. MCL 37.2103(i) does not forbid the communication of enmity between romantic rivals, even if the predicate for the dislike is sexual competition, as long as the conduct or communication is not inherently sexual. In summary, what may have been sexual in this case did not involve harassment, while what did involve harassment was not sexual. It cannot be said by any understanding of the language of MCL 37.2103 that plaintiff was subject to “sexual harassment.” Thus, we conclude that plaintiff has failed to meet the threshold requirement to establish sexual harassment by Finch because this connection between sex and the alleged conduct and communication is missing.
IV CONCLUSION
Plaintiffs claim fails as a matter of law because she has not established evidence of conduct or communication of a “sexual nature” as required to support a claim of sexual harassment. Therefore, we reverse the decision of the Court of Appeals with respect to plaintiffs sexual harassment claims and reinstate the circuit court’s order granting summary disposition for defendants under MCR 2.116(0(10).
Corrigan, C.J., and Weaver, Taylor, Young, and MARKMAN, JJ., concurred. .
Plaintiff simultaneously held full-time employment with the Detroit Board of Education. The facts relevant to this case involve only plaintiffs part-time employment at Golightly.
Defendants Smith and Finch have since married.
The Court of Appeals affirmed summary disposition regarding breach of contract and intentional infliction of emotional distress. 246 Mich App 15, 25-26; 632 NW2d 147 (2001). Plaintiff did not appeal those rulings.
246 Mich App 22.
246 Mich App 23.
Stanton v Battle Creek, 466 Mich 611, 614; 647 NW2d 508 (2002).
Mack v Detroit, 467 Mich 186, 193; 649 NW2d 47 (2002).
Beaudrie v Henderson, 465 Mich 124, 129-130; 631 NW2d 308 (2001).
Maiden v Rozwood, 461 Mich 109, 119; 597 NW2d 817 (1999).
Id. at 118-120.
Cox v Bd ofHosp Managers, 467 Mich 1, 18; 651 NW2d 356 (2002).
Random House Webster’s College Dictionary (1990).
Id.
See Haynie v Dep’t of State Police, 468 Mich 302, 312; 664 NW2d 129 (2003); see also Barrett v Kirtland Community College, 245 Mich App 306, 321; 628 NW2d 63 (2001) (reiterating that the Civil Rights Act is not so broad as to bar all conduct that is in any way related to sex).
Haynie, supra at 310.
Because plaintiff has failed to plead sufficient facts under MCR 2.116(C)(10), we need not decide the legal sufficiency of plaintiff’s complaint under MCR 2.116(C)(8). | [
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WEAVER, J.
The sole issue before the Court is whether the safety belt use statute’s cap on the reduction of damages, MCL 257.710e(6), applies when suit is brought against a county road commission under the highway exception to governmental immunity. MCL 257.710e(6) provides that a plaintiffs damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle can be reduced by no more than five percent because of a plaintiffs failure to wear a safety belt. We adopt Justice BOYLE’s concurrence in Klinke v Mitsubishi Motors Corp, 458 Mich 582; 581 NW2d 272 (1998), and hold that MCL 257.710e(6) by its express terms limits application of its cap on the reduction of damages to cases arising under the no-fault act, MCL 500.3101 et seq. Here the plaintiffs’ claim is not brought under the no-fault act; instead, the suit is based on the civil liability of a county road commission for its maintenance of a highway under the highway exception to governmental immunity, MCL 691.1402. Thus, the safety belt statute’s cap on reduction of damages does not apply. We reverse the decisions of the Court of Appeals and the trial court and remand to the trial court for entry of an order consistent with this opinion.
FACTS & PROCEDURAL HISTORY
On October 26, 1997, Patrick Mann, Sr., lost control of his pickup truck after he left the roadway and attempted to bring his vehicle back onto the paved surface. Mann collided with a tree on the side of the roadway, resulting in injures to both himself and Patrick Mann, Jr. There is a dispute over whether the Manns were wearing their safety belts during the accident.
Patrick Mann, Sr., and Gayle Mann, for herself and as next friend of Patrick Mann, Jr., a minor, brought suit, alleging that the accident was caused by a roadway “edge drop,” and that defendant, the county road commission, is liable under the highway exception to governmental immunity for failing to keep the roadway in reasonable repair. Defendant seeks to offer at trial testimony of a biomechanical expert that the vehicle occupants (plaintiffs) were not wearing safety belts at the time of the accident and that they would have escaped with minor, superficial injuries had they been wearing safety belts.
Before trial, defendant brought a motion in limine, asking that the circuit court enter an order holding that the safety belt statute’s cap on the reduction of damages, MCL 257.710e(6), does not apply. If the safety belt statute’s cap were to apply, then plaintiffs’ negligence in failing to wear a safety belt could reduce their damages by no more than five percent. Defendant sought to have plaintiffs’ damages reduced by more than that amount under common-law comparative negligence. Following argument on defendant’s motion in limine, the trial court denied defendant’s motion. The trial court declined to extend the rationale of Klinke, beyond a products liability action, and held that the safety belt statute’s cap on reduction of damages does apply.
The Court of Appeals granted defendant’s application for leave for an interlocutory appeal and affirmed. 254 Mich App 86; 657 NW2d 517 (2002). This Court granted leave to appeal, limiting the grant to “whether the limitation on the reduction of damages based on a plaintiffs negligence established by MCL 257.710e(6) applies in this case.” 468 Mich 944 (2003).
ANALYSIS
The issue before us is whether the safety belt statute’s cap on the reduction of damages, MCL 257.710e(6), applies to a suit against a county road commission brought under the highway exception to governmental immunity, MCL 691.1402. This case presents a question of statutory interpretation, which is reviewed de novo. Stozicki v Allied Paper Co, Inc, 464 Mich 257, 263; 627 NW2d 293 (2001).
A
Before 1985, evidence of a plaintiffs failure to use a safety belt was not admissible in any tort action. Romankewiz v Black, 16 Mich App 119; 167 NW2d 606 (1969). In 1985, the Legislature adopted a safety belt law, MCL 257.710e, requiring front seat passengers in automobiles to wear safety belts and providing that failure to use a safety belt “may be considered evidence of negligence and may reduce the recovery for damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle.” MCL 257.710e(6). The safety belt law limits the amount by which recovery for damages may be reduced to no more than five percent of the damages: “such negligence shall not reduce the recovery for damages by more than five percent.” MCL 257.710e(6).
Two years later, in deciding an automobile products liability action, this Court held that under the common law a plaintiffs failure to wear a safety belt could be used at trial for purposes of comparative negligence. Lowe v Estate Motors Ltd, 428 Mich 439; 410 NW2d 706 (1987). In Lowe the accident occurred before the effective date of MCL 257.710e, and the Court’s decision was not based on the statute.
As a result, in a tort suit there are two alternative grounds for admitting evidence of the failure to use a safety belt—the safety belt statute or common-law comparative negligence. The primary difference between the two is that when evidence of the failure to use a safety belt is admitted under the safety belt statute, there is a five percent cap on the reduction of damages; when evidence of the failure to use a safety belt is admitted under common-law comparative negligence, the safety belt statute and its cap do not apply.
B
The question here is whether the safety belt statute’s cap on the reduction of damages, MCL 257.710e(6), applies to a suit brought under the highway exception to governmental immunity, MCL 691.1402.
The safety belt statute, MCL 257.710e, requires the use of safety belts in an automobile. It allows evidence of the failure to use a safety belt to be admitted in court to prove comparative negligence, while limiting the reduction for recovery of damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle to no more than five percent:
Failure to wear a safety belt in violation of this section may be considered evidence of negligence and may reduce the recovery for damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle. However, such negligence shall not reduce the recovery for damages by more than five percent. [MCL 257.710e(6).]
We hold that the safety belt statute’s cap on the reduction of damages is applicable only to tort actions brought under the no-fault act, MCL 500.3101 et seq.
By its own terms, § 710e(6) is limited to “damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle.” A loss involving the ownership, operation, maintenance, or use of a motor vehicle as a motor vehicle is a “motor vehicle accident” under the no-fault act. Tort liability arising from the ownership, maintenance, or use of a motor vehicle within Michigan has been abolished, allowing for certain exceptions within MCL 500.3135(3). Thus, the cap on reduction of damages for failure to wear a safety belt, § 710e(6), can only apply in those limited tort suits allowed under the no-fault act. As Justice BOYLE stated in her concurrence in Klinke, supra at 594 “[t]he fact that the safety-belt statute tracks the language of the no-fault act demonstrates the Legislature’s clear intent to apply the five-percent limitation on reduction of damages for a plaintiffs negligence within the context of the no-fault act.”
The question in this case is whether the safety belt statute’s cap on the reduction of damages applies when suit is brought against a county road commission under the highway exception to governmental immunity. We hold that because the plaintiffs suit was not brought under the no-fault act, the safety belt statute’s cap on the reduction of damages, § 710e(6), does not apply.
c
The safety belt statute’s cap on the reduction of damages is also inapplicable in this case because the plaintiffs do not allege that their damages arose out of the “ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle.” Rather, plaintiffs allege that the accident and their damages were caused by a roadway “edge drop,” and that defendant is liable under the highway exception to governmental immunity for failing to keep the roadway in reasonable repair. Plaintiffs allege that their damages arose from the failure to keep the roadway in reasonable repair, not from the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle.
In its opinion, the Court of Appeals panel held that the safety belt statute’s cap on the reduction of damages applied here, in a suit under the highway exception to governmental immunity, because the damages did arise out of the operation of a motor vehicle. This is an incorrect interpretation of “damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle.”
This Court has construed almost identical language, “tort liability arising from the ownership, maintenance, or use within this state of a motor vehicle,” as referring to liability caused by the ownership, maintenance, or use of a motor vehicle. Citizens Ins Co of America v Tuttle, 411 Mich 536, 544; 309 NW2d 174 (1981). In Tuttle, the liability arose from the defendant’s improper keeping of his cow, not the ownership, maintenance, or use of a motor vehicle. Here the damages arose from the improper maintenance of the highway, not the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle.
This interpretation is in accord with the Court of Appeals decision in Klinke v Mitsubishi Motors Corp, 219 Mich App 500; 556 NW2d 528 (1996), written by Judge MARKMAN, and with Justice BOYLE’s concurring opinion in Klinke, 458 Mich 595 n 5, which recognized that there “[t]he only damages ‘arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle’ in this litigation are the damages caused by plaintiffs fault. To the extent that plaintiffs damages were caused by a product defect, they do not arise out of ‘ownership, maintenance, or operation.’ Thus, the five-percent cap would not apply.”
In Klinke the Court of Appeals concluded that the five percent cap on the reduction of damages for failure to wear a safety belt found in the Vehicle Code does not apply to products liability actions against automobile manufacturers. “[B]y its plain meaning, this provision is expressly limited to damages arising out of the ownership, maintenance or operation of a motor vehicle.’ ” 219 Mich App 509. “Conspicuously absent is any reference to the design or construction of a motor vehicle. Even the most liberal interpretation of the words ‘ownership,’ ‘common maintenance’ and ‘operation’ cannot stretch far enough to include design and construction.” Id., quoting LaHue v Gen Motors Corp, 716 F Supp 412 (WD Mo, 1989).
Likewise, even the most liberal interpretation of the words “ownership,” “common maintenance,” and “operation” cannot stretch far enough to include maintenance of a highway. Plaintiffs here are attempting to recover damages arising out of the road commission’s failure to maintain the highway; they are not attempting to recover damages arising out of “the ownership, maintenance, or operation of a motor vehicle.” In other words, plaintiffs are not seeking damages for the “operation of a motor vehicle”; rather, they are seeking damages for the road commission’s failure to maintain the highway in a condition reasonably safe and fit for travel.
Because the plaintiffs’ suit is based on the civil liability of a county road commission for its maintenance of a highway, the safety belt statute’s cap on reduction of damages does not apply.
CONCLUSION
The trial court erred in denying defendant’s motion in limine to preclude application of the five percent damage reduction cap in MCL 257.710e(6). We reverse the decisions of the Court of Appeals and the trial court, and remand the case to the trial court for entry of an order granting defendant’s motion, consistent with this opinion.
Corrigan, C.J., and Taylor, Young and Markman, JJ., concurred with WEAVER, J.
For purposes of tins appeal, we accept plaintiffs’ allegations as true.
In this case, if the evidence of plaintiffs’ failure to wear safety belts were not admitted under the safety belt statute, it would be admitted under the common law for the purpose of comparative negligence. MCL 691.1412 of the governmental immunity act provides that “[c]laims under this act are subject to all of the defenses available to claims sounding in tort brought against private persons.”
MCL 257.710e(3) states:
Each driver and front seat passenger of a motor vehicle operated on a street or highway in this state shall wear a properly adjusted and fastened safety belt, except that a child less than 4 years of age shall be protected as required in section 710d. If there are more passengers than safety belts available for use, and all safety belts in the motor vehicle are being utilized in compliance with this section, the driver of the motor vehicle is in compliance with this section.
MCL 500.3101(2)(f) provides:
“Motor vehicle accident” means a loss involving the ownership, operation, maintenance, or use of a motor vehicle as a motor vehicle regardless of whether the accident also involves the ownership, operation, maintenance, or use of a motorcycle as a motorcycle.
The no-fault act applies to motor vehicle accidents occurring on or after October 1, 1973. MCL 500.3179.
MCL 500.3135(3) provides:
(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, tort liability arising from the ownership, maintenance, or use within this state of a motor vehicle with respect to which the security required by section 3101 was in effect is abolished except as to:
(a) Intentionally caused harm to persons or property. Even though a person knows that harm to persons or property is substantially certain to be caused by his or her act or omission, the person does not cause or suffer that harm intentionally if he or she acts or refrains from acting for the purpose of averting injury to any person, including himself or herself, or for the purpose of averting damage to tangible property.
(b) Damages for noneconomic loss as provided and limited in subsections (1) and (2).
(c) Damages for allowable expenses, work loss, and survivor’s loss as defined in sections 3107 to 3110 in excess of the daily, monthly, and 3-year limitations contained in those sections. The party liable for damages is entitled to an exemption reducing his or her liability by the amount of taxes that would have been payable on account of income the injured person would have received if he or she had not been injured.
(d) Damages for economic loss by a nonresident in excess of the personal protection insurance benefits provided under section 3163(4). Damages under this subdivision are not recoverable to the extent that benefits covering the same loss are available from other sources, regardless of the nature or number of benefit sources available and regardless of the nature or form of the benefits.
(e) Damages up to $500.00 to motor vehicles, to the extent that the damages are not covered by insurance. An action for damages pursuant to this subdivision shall be conducted in compliance with subsection (4).
Contrary to the dissent’s assertion, our holding is not based solely on the similarity of language in the safety belt statute and the no-fault act. Rather, as explained above, we recognize that the terms of the safety belt statute limit its applicability to motor vehicle accidents under the no-fault act. Thus, the only tort suits to which the safety belt statute will apply are those allowed under the no-fault act.
Because we conclude that this cap only applies to cases arising under the no-fault act, and that since this case does not arise under the no-fault act the safety belt statute’s cap on the reduction of damages does not apply, we do not address whether the application of the cap in this case would violate the Title-Object Clause.
But we note that in its analysis the Court of Appeals applied the wrong test to determine whether the Title-Object Clause was violated. The Court of Appeals panel reasoned that applying the safety belt cap in a suit for a defective highway did not violate the scope of the title of the Vehicle Code because “there is a natural correlation or connection between governmental liability for failing to maintain a highway in reasonable repair and the Michigan Vehicle Code, which governs the operation of vehicles on those same public highways.” 254 Mich App 99. The proper test for determining whether a statute violates the Title-Object Clause is whether it contains “subjects diverse in their nature and having no necessary connection,” People ex rel Drake v Mahaney, 13 Mich 481, 494-495 (1865), Pohutski v City of Allen Park, 465 Mich 675, 691; 641 NW2d 219 (2002), not whether there is a “natural correlation or connection.”
The Court of Appeals opinion stated:
Subsection 710e(6) does not provide that “liability” must arise out of the operation of a motor vehicle, but rather that “damages” must so arise, and subsection 710e(6) does not provide that damages must arise out of the operation of a particular party’s motor vehicle, but rather only that the damages arise out of the operation of a motor vehicle. Therefore, the clear language of subsection 710e(6) required only that plaintiffs suffered damages arising out of the operation of a motor vehicle as alleged here. If plaintiffs had not been operating a motor vehicle, there would not have been an accident, injuries, and damages. The operation of a motor vehicle was a necessary component giving rise to plaintiffs’ cause of action, and there was a nexus between their damages and the operation of a motor vehicle. [254 Mich App 86,103; 657 NW2d 517 (2002).] | [
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Taylor, J.
We granted leave to appeal in this case to consider the relationship between the “common work area doctrine” and the “retained control doctrine,” and to address the scope of each doctrine. At common law, property owners and general contractors generally could not be held liable for the negligence of independent subcontractors and their employees. In Funk v Gen Motors Corp, 392 Mich 91, 104-105; 220 NW2d 641 (1974), however, this Court set forth a new exception to this general rule of nonliability, holding that, under certain circumstances, a general contractor could be held liable under the “common work area doctrine” and, further, that a property owner could be held equally liable under the “retained control doctrine.”
In this case, the Court of Appeals reversed the trial court’s grant of summary disposition for both defen dants, holding that these doctrines are two distinct and separate exceptions to the general rule of nonliability of property owners and general contractors concerning the negligence of independent subcontractors and their employees. We disagree with the Court of Appeals and clarify today that these two doctrines are not two distinct and separate exceptions, rather only one — the “common work area doctrine” — is an exception to the general rule of nonliability for the negligent acts of independent subcontractors and their employees. Thus, only when the Funk four-part “common work area” test is satisfied may an injured employee of an independent subcontractor sue the general contractor for that contractor’s alleged negligence.
Further, the “retained control doctrine” is a doctrine subordinate to the “common work area doctrine” and is not itself an exception to the general rule of nonliability. Rather, it simply stands for the proposition that when the Funk “common work area doctrine” would apply, and the property owner has sufficiently “retained control” over the construction project, that owner steps into the shoes of the general contractor and is held to the same degree of care as the general contractor. Thus, the “retained control doctrine,” in this context, means that if a property owner assumes the role of a general contractor, such owner assumes the unique duties and obligations of a general contractor. Accordingly, we reverse the decision of the Court of Appeals and reinstate the trial court’s grant of summary disposition for both defendants.
I. FACTS AND PROCEEDINGS BELOW
This case arose out of a construction accident that occurred during the construction of a Rite Aid store in Troy, Michigan. Property owner Rite Aid hired defen dant Monarch Building Services, Inc. (Monarch), as the general contractor for the project. Monarch subcontracted the steel fabrication and steel erection work to defendant Capital Welding, Inc. (Capital), which then subcontracted the steel erection work to Abray Steel Erectors (Abray). Plaintiff Ralph Ormsby was employed by Abray as a journeyman ironworker on the site.
Capital delivered the steel for the project, at which time a crew from Abray began erecting the building using the steel. During the unloading process, Abray personnel allegedly disregarded an express warning that Capital had attached to the steel beams that stated, “Under no circumstances are deck bundles or construction loads of any other description to be placed on unbridged joists.” The warning also cautioned against loading bundles of steel decking, weighing between two and three tons each, onto the unsecured erected steel structure.
Plaintiff began working on the unsecured joists to properly align the joists into position. To do so, he would strike the unsecured joist with a hammer. While performing this task, there was a sudden shift in an unsecured joist that, coupled with the fact that the joist was loaded with decking, allegedly caused the collapse of the structure, resulting in plaintiffs fifteen foot fall and subsequent injuries.
Plaintiff filed suit against Capital, alleging, among other things, that Capital retained control of and negligently supervised the project, and acquiesced to unsafe construction activities, including loading unwelded bar joists. Plaintiff later amended his complaint and added the same claims against Monarch.
Capital filed a motion for summary disposition contending that there was no genuine issue of material fact regarding whether it retained control over the project because plaintiff failed to present any evidence that he was injured in a common work area. Plaintiff opposed the motion, contending instead that the two doctrines were separate and distinct, and thus Capital could be held liable under the “retained control doctrine” even if he failed to satisfy the elements of the “common work area doctrine.”
The trial court agreed with Capital and granted its motion. Combining the doctrines of “common work area” and “retained control,” the trial court determined that “the retained control theory applies only in situations involving ‘common work areas.’ ” The trial court further stated, “This Court finds that there was no common work area that created a high degree of risk to a significant number of workers” and “there is no evidence that other subcontractors would work on the erection of the steel structure.” That is, the trial court found that plaintiff had failed to satisfy two elements of the “common work area doctrine,” and thus no genuine issue of material fact existed regarding whether either doctrine applied to Capital.
Following Capital’s successful motion, Monarch filed its own motion for summary disposition under MCR 2.116(0(10), contending that plaintiff had failed to .provide any evidence to satisfy each of the four elements of the “common work area doctrine.” In response, plaintiff moved for leave to amend his complaint to assert that plaintiff was in fact injured in a “common work area” as defined in Funk. The trial court granted Monarch’s motion for the same reasons that it had granted the earlier Capital motion and denied plaintiffs motion to amend his complaint, ruling that the amendment would be futile in light of its ruling that there was no genuine issue of material fact regarding the existence of a common work area.
The Court of Appeals reversed in part, holding (1) that the “common work area doctrine” and “retained control doctrine” are two distinct and separate exceptions and (2) that evidence that “employees of other subcontractors would be or had been working in the same area where plaintiffs injury occurred. . . create[d] a genuine issue of material fact regarding whether plaintiffs injury occurred in a common work area.” 255 Mich App 165, 188; 660 NW2d 730 (2003). Accordingly, the Court permitted plaintiffs “retained control” claim to proceed against Capital, and permitted plaintiffs “common work area” claim to proceed against both Capital and Monarch. Further, the Court held that the trial court had erred in denying plaintiffs motion to amend his complaint concerning his allegations that he had been injured in a “common work area.” Both defendants filed applications for leave to appeal with this Court, which we granted.
II. STANDARD OF REVIEW
Summary disposition under either MCR 2.116(C)(8) or (C)(10) presents an issue of law for our determination and, thus, “[w]e review a trial court’s ruling on a motion for summary disposition de novo.” Straus v Governor, 459 Mich 526, 533; 592 NW2d 53 (1999).
When a trial court grants summary disposition pursuant to MCR 2.116(C)(8), or (C)(10), the opportunity for the nonprevailing party to amend its pleadings pursuant to MCR 2.118 should be freely granted, unless the amendment would not be justified. MCR 2.116(I)(5). An amendment, however, would not be justified if it would be futile. Weymers v Khera, 454 Mich 639, 658; 563 NW2d 647 (1997). We will not reverse a trial court’s decision to deny leave to amend pleadings unless it constituted an abuse of discretion. Id. at 654.
in. ANALYSIS
As discussed briefly above, at common law, property owners and general contractors generally could not be held liable for the negligence of independent subcontractors and their employees. However, in Funk, this Court set forth an exception to this general rule of nonliability. There, property owner General Motors (GM) hired general contractor Darin & Armstrong (Darin) to expand one of its plants. The general contractor, in turn, subcontracted a portion of the work to Funk’s employer, Ben Agree Company. Funk was injured in a fall from a platform and sued GM and Darin, alleging that each owed him a duty to implement reasonable safety precautions and to ensure that workers on the project used adequate safety equipment to protect against falls. Gm and Darin defended on the basis that, under the common law, neither had a duty to protect plaintiff from these types of dangers. Departing from established law, this Court set forth an exception in circumstances involving construction projects and affirmed the verdict against Darin:
We regard it to be part of the business of a general contractor to assure that reasonable steps within its supervisory and coordinating authority are taken to guard against readily observable, avoidable dangers in common work areas which create a high degree of risk to a significant number of workmen. [Funk, supra at 104.]
That is, for a general contractor to be held liable under the “common work area doctrine,” a plaintiff must show that (1) the defendant, either the property owner or general contractor, failed to take reasonable steps within its supervisory and coordinating authority (2) to guard against readily observable and avoidable dangers (3) that created a high degree of risk to a significant number of workmen (4) in a common work area.
Having established that a general contractor could be held liable for negligence regarding job safety, the Court then addressed the potential liability of a property owner. The Court held that, under the new rule, a property owner could itself be liable if it had “retained control” in such a way that it had effectively stepped into the shoes of the general contractor and been acting as such. The Court first stated:
This analysis [i.e., the “common work area” test quoted above in reference to the general contractor] would not ordinarily render a “mere” owner liable. In contrast with a general contractor, the owner typically is not a professional builder. Most owners visit the construction site only casually and are not knowledgeable concerning safety measures. ... Supervising job safety, providing safeguards, is not part of the business of a typical owner. [Id. at 104-105 (emphasis added).]
Then it continued by outlining the circumstances in which the ordinary rule would not control, saying:
[T]he law does not... absolve an owner who acts in a superintending capacity and has knowledge of high degrees of risk faced by construction workers from responsibility for failing to require observance of reasonable safety precautions. [Id. at 106-107.]
The Court’s use of the word “ordinarily,” italicized above, considered in conjunction with its statement that a property owner cannot escape liability if that owner acts in a “superintending capacity and has knowledge of high degrees of risk faced by construction workers,” necessarily implies that, under certain circumstances, the “common work area” doctrine would render a property owner liable. Thus, it is clear that this Court was applying the identical “common work area” analysis to GM, as property owner, on the basis that it “retained control.”
Applying these new doctrines to the facts in Funk, the Court noted that Funk had largely created his own circumstances because he essentially “dug a hole and.. . [he] fell into it,” id. at 100. The general contractor, Darin, was fully knowledgeable of the subcontractor’s failure to implement reasonable safety precautions for a readily apparent danger where such precautions likely would have prevented Funk’s fall. Further, the Court held that GM had exercised “an unusually high degree of control over the construction project,” and thus was also liable for Funk’s injuries. Id. at 101. Thus, this Court stated that the evidence supported a finding of GM’s tacit, if not actual, control of safety measures or the lack thereof “in the highly visible common work areas.” Id. at 107.
Accordingly, we conclude that, on the basis of this Court’s analysis in Funk, the “common work area doctrine” and the “retained control doctrine” are not two distinct and separate exceptions. Rather, the former doctrine is an exception to the general rule of nonliability of property owners and general contractors for injuries resulting from the negligent conduct of independent subcontractors or their employees. Thus, only when the Funk four-part “common work area” test is satisfied may a general contractor be held liable for alleged negligence of the employees of independent subcontractors regarding job safety. The “retained control” doctrine is merely a subordinate doctrine, applied by the Funk Court to the owner defendant, that has no application to general contractors.
In her dissent in Funk, Justice COLEMAN was concerned that the “common work area doctrine” would devolve in practice into a strict liability regime where general contractors would be responsible for any common work area injury that an employee of an independent subcontractor suffers. Id. at 116. Although Justice COLEMAN’s concerns have not come to fruition, Funk has morphed from a straightforward doctrine conferring liability, under certain circumstances, on property owners or general contractors for the negligence of independent subcontractors, into a “two exception” creation. Indeed, the instant opinion by the Court of Appeals outlined that progression and proceeded to erroneously conclude that even an entity that is neither a property owner nor a general contractor (subcontractor Capital) can be liable under Funk.
IV APPLICATION
To establish the liability of a general contractor under Funk, a plaintiff must prove four elements: (1) that the defendant contractor failed to take reasonable steps within its supervisory and coordinating authority (2) to guard against readily observable and avoidable dangers (3) that created a high degree of risk to a significant number of workmen (4) in a common work area. Id. at 104.
Funk is simply inapplicable to Capital in this case because Capital was neither the property owner nor the general contractor. Thus, the trial court’s order granting it summary disposition was proper. Accordingly, we reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and reinstate the trial court’s order granting summary disposition for Capital.
Because Monarch was the general contractor, the “common work area doctrine” may be applicable. The trial court determined that plaintiff had failed to satisfy element three, danger creating a high degree of risk to a significant number of workmen, and element four, a common work area, and thus granted summary disposition for Monarch. This approach is consistent with Funk and reflects the understanding that a plaintiffs failure to satisfy any one of the four elements of the “common work area doctrine” is fatal to a Funk claim.
The Court of Appeals, misapprehending the merit of the trial court’s approach, reversed the decision of the trial court on the basis that it erred in finding that no genuine issue of material fact existed regarding element four — a “common work area.” Regardless of whether a genuine issue of material fact existed with respect to element four, reversal was erroneous because the Court of Appeals overlooked the fact that the trial court’s order was premised not just on a deficiency of evidence regarding element four, but also on the fact that no genuine issue of material fact existed regarding element three — danger creating a high degree of risk to a significant number of workmen. Inasmuch as Funk requires a plaintiff to establish all four elements of the “common work area doctrine” to prevail, the trial court ruling should have been affirmed. Thus, the trial court did not abuse its discretion by refusing to allow plaintiff to amend his complaint concerning the existence of a “common work area,” because such an amendment would have been futile. Accordingly, we reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and reinstate the trial court’s grant of summary disposition for Monarch.
V CONCLUSION
The doctrines of “common work area” and “retained control” are not two distinct and separate exceptions. Rather, under the “common work area doctrine,” a general contractor may be held liable for the negligence of its independent subcontractors only if all the elements of the four-part “common work area” test set forth in Funk have been satisfied. Further, the “retained control doctrine” is subordinate to the “common work area doctrine” and simply stands for the proposition that when the “common work area doctrine” would apply, and the property owner has stepped into the shoes of the general contractor, thereby “retaining control” over the construction project, that owner may likewise be held liable for the negligence of its independent subcontractors. Because neither Capital nor Monarch satisfies all four elements of the “common work area” doctrine, we reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and reinstate the trial court’s grant of summary disposition for both defendants.
Overruled in part on other grounds Hardy v Monsanto Enviro-Chem Sys, Inc, 414 Mich 29; 323 NW2d 270 (1982).
Although both Ormsby and his wife filed complaints, his wife’s suit is wholly derivative. Therefore, we use “plaintiff” in the singular.
Regarding Monarch, the Court of Appeals concluded that the trial court’s order granting Monarch summary disposition on plaintiffs retained control theory was proper because no genuine issue of material fact existed that Monarch had not retained control over plaintiffs work.
469 Mich 947 (2003).
The Court also stated that “[a]n owner is responsible if he does not truly delegate — if he retains ‘control’ of the work — or if, by rule of law or statute, the duty to guard against the risk is made ‘nondelegable.’ ” Id. at 101 (emphasis added).
The Funk Court applied the “retained control” doctrine to the property owner defendant in that case. The owner of the subject property in this case, Rite Aid, was dismissed early in the litigation, and its liability is not at issue. It is therefore unnecessary to address owner liability, and we express no opinion regarding the Funk “retained control” doctrine as it applies to property owners.
Neither defendant nor any brief amicus curiae has urged the Court to overrule Funk, but only to clarify the nature of the Funk holding.
As the Court of Appeals read the cases, Erickson v Pure Oil Corp, 72 Mich App 330, 335-336; 249 NW2d 411 (1976), distinguished the doctrines of “retained control” and “common work area” and applied them separately; Signs v Detroit Edison Co, 93 Mich App 626, 632; 287 NW2d 292 (1979), addressed general contractor liability based on “retained control” even though it found that the plaintiff was not injured in a “common work area”; Samhoun v Greenfield Constr Co, Inc, 163 Mich App 34, 45; 413 NW2d 723 (1987), blended the doctrines of “retained control” and “common work area”; Johnson v Turner Constr Co, 198 Mich App 478, 480; 499 NW2d 27 (1993), separately addressed the two doctrines; Phillips v Mazda Motor Mfg (USA) Corp, 204 Mich App 401, 408; 516 NW2d 502 (1994), addressed the doctrines of “retained control” and “common work area” separately; Hughes v PMG Building, 227 Mich App 1, 8; 574 NW2d 691 (1997), discussed the “common work area doctrine” without reference to the “retained control doctrine”; Kubisz v Cadillac Gage Textron, Inc, 236 Mich App 629, 636; 601 NW2d 160 (1999), discussed the “retained control doctrine” as a “second main exception” to the general rule of nonliability for the negligence of an independent contractor without mentioning the four-part test in Funk or addressing whether the plaintiffs injury occurred in a “common work area”; Candelaria v B C Gen Contractors, Inc, 236 Mich App 67, 74; 600 NW2d 348 (1999), stated that the “retained control doctrine” applies only in those situations involving “common work areas.”
Unfortunately, our post-Funk decisions that have addressed the “retained control” and “common work area” doctrines have been plurality opinions, and, as explained in Dean v Chrysler Corp, 434 Mich 655, 661 n 7; 455 NW2d 699 (1990), are not binding authority. See Beals v Walker, 416 Mich 469; 331 NW2d 700 (1982), Plummer v Bechtel Corp, 440 Mich 646; 489 NW2d 66 (1992), and Groncki v Detroit Edison, 453 Mich 644; 557 NW2d 289 (1996).
With reference to element four — a common work area — we agree with the following statement from Hughes, supra at 8-9, in which the court concluded that an overhang on a porch did not constitute a common work area:
If the top of the overhang or even the overhang in its entirety were considered to be a “common work area” for purposes of subjecting the general contractor to liability for injuries incurred by employees of subcontractors, then virtually no place or object located on the construction premises could be considered not to be a common work area. We do not believe that this is the result the Supreme Court intended. This Court has previously suggested that the Court’s use of the phrase “common work area” in Funk, supra, suggests that the Court desired to limit the scope of a general contractor’s supervisory duties and liability. We thus read the common work area formulation as an effort to distinguish between a situation where employees of a subcontractor were working on a unique project in isolation from other workers and a situation where employees of a number of subcontractors were all subject to the same risk or hazard. In the first instance, each subcontractor is generally held responsible for the safe operation of its part of the work. In the latter case, where a substantial number of employees of multiple subcontractors may be exposed to a risk of danger, economic considerations suggest that placing ultimate responsibility on the general contractor for job safety in common work areas will “render it more likely that the various subcontractors ... will implement or that the general contractor will himself implement the necessary precautions and provide the necessary safety equipment in those areas.” Funk, supra at 104 (citations omitted).
Justice Kelly has concluded in her partial dissent that plaintiffs’ lawsuit against Capital should be allowed under Funk. This deviates from Funk because Funk only authorized claims against owners and general contractors. Capital is neither.
It is potentially confusing and, indeed, may have misled some courts, that a test with four elements has been referred to by only one of its elements — the “common work area.” What is commonly referred to as the “common work area doctrine,” however, has four separate elements, all of which must be satisfied before that doctrine may apply.
Justice Kelly asserts in her dissent that the Court of Appeals disagreed with the trial court’s conclusion that plaintiff had failed to establish a genuine issue of material fact that a high degree of risk to a significant number of workers existed. This is incorrect. The Court of Appeals specifically stated that it limited its discussion and decision to the question whether plaintiff was injured in a common work area. 255 Mich App at 188. Justice Kelly goes on to indicate that she would find a genuine issue of material fact whether a significant number of workers were exposed to danger on the basis that a mason was right below plaintiff when he fell, and because any worker at the site would be working in, around and under the steel structure after it was erected and all such workers would he exposed to an extremely dangerous condition if the structure was not competently constructed. We disagree. The fact that one worker was below plaintiff when he fell certainly does not establish a genuine issue of material fact regarding whether a high degree of risk to a significant number of workers existed. Justice Kelly’s vague reference to “any worker” being exposed to danger if the structure was not competently constructed is likewise insufficient to create a genuine issue of material fact. The high degree of risk to a significant number of workers must exist when the plaintiff is injured; not after construction has been completed.
We reiterate that we are merely clarifying Funk and we express no opinion concerning whether the Funk Court properly imposed liability on an owner under the “retained control” doctrine. | [
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Per Curiam.
This case presents the question whether a complaint alleging medical malpractice that is filed before the expiration of the notice period provided by MCL 600.2912b tolls the period of limitations. The Court of Appeals held that a prematurely filed complaint invokes the tolling provisions of MCL 600.5856(a). We disagree. MCL 600.2912b(l) unambiguously states that a person “shall not” commence an action alleging medical malpractice until the expiration of the statutory notice period. A complaint filed before the expiration of the notice period violates MCL 600.2912b and is ineffective to toll the limitations period. We reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and reinstate the Osceola Circuit Court’s grant of summary disposition for the defendants.
I. FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY
On January 17, 1998, plaintiff went to the emergency room of defendant Reed City Hospital complaining of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Tests revealed the presence of an ulcer. Plaintiff was hospitalized and treated with medications until January 23, 1998. On January 26, 1998, the individually named defendants performed stomach and gall bladder surgery on plaintiff.
On February 10, 2000, plaintiff filed a medical malpractice complaint, alleging that his common bile duct and pancreatic duct were negligently transected during the surgery and that corrective surgery had to be performed in November 1998. Plaintiff alleges that he suffered residual, permanent damage as a result of the individual defendants’ negligence.
The alleged malpractice occurred on January 26, 1998. The period of limitations for a medical malpractice action is two years. MCL 600.5805(6). Absent tolling, the statutory period of limitations would therefore have expired on January 26, 2000.
Plaintiffs counsel sent defendants a notice of intent to file a claim on October 18, 1999. Under MCL 600.5856(d), if the period of limitations would expire during the notice period, the period of limitations is tolled for 182 days and then resumes running after the 182-day period. In this case, the limitations period was tolled until April 17, 2000, and then resumed running, expiring on July 26, 2000.
Plaintiff filed a complaint and an affidavit of merit under MCL 600.2912d on February 10, 2000, 115 days after he provided his notice of intent. After receiving from plaintiffs counsel two extensions of time in which to answer, defendants filed an answer to the complaint on May 8, 2000. Defendants’ affirmative defenses included the following:
5. That plaintiffs claim is barred by the applicable Statute of Limitations.
12. That plaintiff has failed to comply with the provisions of MOLA 600.2912b and MCLA 600.2912d, et seq\.], and plaintiffs complaint must, therefore, be dismissed.
A pretrial status conference was held on June 29, 2000. The summary of that conference provides that “Counsel stated that the status of the pleadings is satisfactory, pending discovery.”
On August 24, 2000, defendants moved for summary disposition pursuant to MCR 2.116(C)(8) or (C)(10), alleging that plaintiff failed to comply with the notice provisions of MCL 600.2912 et seq. Defendants’ motion pointed out that plaintiffs complaint was filed only 115 days after the date the notice of intent was sent. Defendants’ motion alleged that the prematurely filed complaint did not toll the limitations period, which expired on July 26, 2000.
Plaintiff acknowledged 'that the complaint was filed before the expiration of the notice period, but argued that the filing of the complaint nevertheless tolled the period of limitations, such that the proper remedy was dismissal without prejudice. Plaintiff also asserted that defense counsel had engaged in misconduct by expressing satisfaction with the state of the pleadings at the pretrial conference and by waiting until after the limitations period had run to bring the motion for summary disposition. Plaintiff argued that defense counsel’s misconduct resulted in a waiver, or that defendants were estopped from challenging the premature filing of the complaint.
The trial court initially denied the motion for summary disposition. Although the trial court rejected the plaintiffs argument that defendants’ expression of satisfaction with the state of the pleadings at the pretrial conference waived the premature filing defense, it held that defendants’ failure to bring their motion for summary disposition before the expiration of the limitations period resulted in a waiver. The court therefore denied defendants’ motion for summary disposition.
Defendants filed a motion for reconsideration. On reconsideration, the trial court reversed its prior decision and granted summary disposition to defendants. The trial court concluded that the affirmative defenses were sufficiently pleaded to place plaintiff on notice of a problem before the expiration of the limitations period.
Plaintiff appealed the trial court’s order to the Court of Appeals, which reversed in a published opinion. 259 Mich App 74; 673 NW2d 135 (2003). While acknowledging that dismissal is an appropriate remedy for noncompliance with the provisions of MCL 600.2912b and that when a case is dismissed the plaintiff must still comply with the applicable statute of limitations, the Court of Appeals nevertheless concluded that MCL 600.5856(a) operated to toll the period of limitations. Burton, supra at 85.
The Court of Appeals distinguished the present case from Scarsella v Pollak, 461 Mich 547; 607 NW2d 711 (2000), in which the plaintiff filed the complaint without also filing the affidavit of merit. The Court of Appeals determined that because the affidavit of merit was filed with the complaint in this case, the filing tolled the period of limitations. Burton, supra at 85-86. Finally, the Court of Appeals concluded that tolling is permissible where a complaint is filed prematurely because it does not result in unfair prejudice to the defendant. Id. at 87-89. It thus reversed the trial court’s order granting defendants’ motion for summary disposition.
Defendants filed an application for leave to appeal to this Court.
II. STANDARD OF REVIEW
We review the trial court’s grant of summary disposition de novo. Roberts v Mecosta Co Gen Hosp, 466 Mich 57, 62; 642 NW2d 663 (2002) (Roberts I). This case involves questions of statutory interpretation, which are also reviewed de novo. Id. The cardinal principle of statutory construction is that courts must give effect to legislative intent. Morales v Auto-Owners Ins Co (After Remand), 469 Mich 487, 490; 672 NW2d 849 (2003). When reviewing a statute, courts necessarily must first examine the text of the statute. Dressel v Ameribank, 468 Mich 557, 562; 664 NW2d 151 (2003). If the Legislature’s intent is clearly expressed by the language of the statute, no further construction is permitted. Helder v Sruba, 462 Mich 92, 99; 611 NW2d 309 (2000).
III. ANALYSIS
A. RELEVANT STATUTES
MCL 600.2912b(l) precludes a medical malpractice claimant from commencing suit against a health professional or health facility unless written notice is provided to that professional or facility before the action is commenced. Section 2912b(l) provides:
Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person shall not commence an action alleging medical malpractice against a health professional or health facility unless the person has given the health professional or health facility written notice under this section not less than 182 days before the action is commenced. [Emphasis supplied.]
After providing the written notice, the claimant is required to wait for the applicable notice period to pass before filing suit. The claimant generally must wait 182 days after providing the notice of intent before commencing an action alleging medical malpractice. MCL 600.2912b(l). A claimant may file an action after 154 days if no response to the notice is received as contemplated by MCL 600.2912b(7).
MCL 600.5856(d) provides that the two-year period of limitations for medical malpractice actions is tolled during the notice period if notice is given in compliance with MCL 600.2912b. Defendants do not dispute that the notice given in this case tolled the period of limitations during the statutory notice period, so that the limitations period was extended through July 26, 2000.
The Court of Appeals concluded that the period of limitations was further tolled by plaintiffs prematurely filed complaint. It relied on MCL 600.5856(a), which states that the period of limitations is also tolled “[a]t the time the complaint is filed and a copy of the summons and complaint are served on the defendant.”
B. PLAINTIFF’S PREMATURELY FILED COMPLAINT DID NOT TOLL THE PERIOD OF LIMITATIONS
Section 2912b(l) unequivocally provides that a person “shall not” commence an action alleging medical malpractice against a health professional or health facility until the expiration of the statutory notice period. This Court has previously construed other such imperative language in the statutes governing medical malpractice actions. For example, in Scarsella, we held that a complaint alleging medical malpractice that is not accompanied by the statutorily required affidavit of merit is not effective to toll the limitations period because the Legislature clearly intended that an affidavit of merit “shall” be filed with the complaint. Id. at 549 (citing MCL 600.2912d[1]). In adopting the Court of Appeals opinion in Scarsella, we noted that the Legislature’s use of the word “shall” indicates a mandatory and imperative directive (citing Oakland Co v Michigan, 456 Mich 144, 154; 566 NW2d 616 [1997]). Scarsella, supra at 549. We concluded that the filing of a complaint without the required affidavit of merit was insufficient to commence the lawsuit. Id.
In Omelenchuk v City of Warren, 461 Mich 567; 609 NW2d 177 (2000), a case involving tolling during the notice period, we held that a plaintiff cannot file suit without first giving the notice required by MCL 600.2912b. Omelenchuk, supra at 572. We further held that the limitations period cannot be tolled unless a plaintiff complies with the provisions of MCL 600.2912b. Omelenchuk, supra at 576.
In Roberts I, another case involving tolling during the notice period, we again emphasized that a plaintiffs compliance with MCL 600.2912b is mandatory before tolling under MCL 600.5856(d) may occur. Roberts I, supra at 65, 67. We also held that MCL 600.2912b clearly places the burden of complying with the notice of intent requirements on the plaintiff and that this clear, unambiguous statute requires full compliance with its provisions as written. Roberts I, supra at 66.
In the instant case, the Court of Appeals correctly determined that dismissal is an appropriate remedy for noncompliance with the notice provisions of MCL 600.2912b and that when a case is dismissed, the plaintiff must still comply with the applicable statute of limitations. See Gregory v Heritage Hosp, 460 Mich 26, 47-48; 594 NW2d 455 (1999); Scarsella, supra at 552. The Court of Appeals erred, however, by basing its decision to reverse the decision of the trial court on the alleged lack of prejudice to the defendants, a factor that is not contained in the relevant statutes.
The directive in § 2912b(l) that a person “shall not” commence a medical malpractice action until the expiration of the notice period is similar to the directive in § 2912d(l) that a plaintiffs attorney “shall file with the complaint an affidavit of merit.. . Each statute sets forth a prerequisite condition to the commencement of a medical malpractice lawsuit. The filing of a complaint before the expiration of the statutorily mandated notice period is no more effective to commence a lawsuit than the filing of a complaint without the required affidavit of merit. In each instance, the failure to comply with the statutory requirement renders the complaint insufficient to commence the action.
The fact that defendants did not bring their motion for summary disposition until the period of limitations had run does not constitute a waiver of the defense. MCL 600.2912b places the burden of complying with the notice provisions on the plaintiff. Roberts I, supra at 66. As we explained in Roberts I, the purpose of a tolling provision is to protect a plaintiff from a statute of limitations defense. Here, defendants specifically raised the statute of limitations and plaintiffs compliance with MCL 600.2912b in their answer and affirmative defenses. Such a direct assertion of these defenses by defendants can by no means be considered a waiver. Roberts I, supra at 68-70. To the contrary, it was a clear affirmation and invocation of such defenses. Defendants’ pleadings were more than sufficient to comply with the requirements of MCR 2.116(D)(2) (requiring the statute of limitations to be raised in the first responsive pleading or in a motion filed before the responsive pleading).
The dissent contends that defendants’ failure to comply with the pleading requirements of MCL 600.2912e(l) and MCR 2.108(A)(1) acts as a forfeiture of the statute of hmitations defense. In Roberts v Mecosta Co Gen Hosp, 466 Mich 57, 69; 642 NW2d 663 (2002), we stated that “a forfeiture necessarily requires that there be a specific point at which the right must be asserted or be considered forfeited.” Id. (emphasis omitted). In this case, that specific point must have either occurred at defendants’ first responsive pleading or at a motion filed before that pleading. MCR 2.116(D)(2). Here, defendants asserted the statute of hmitations argument in their May 8,2000, answer to plaintiffs complaint.
The dissent concludes, however, that defendants’ failure to either answer or provide an affidavit of meritorious defense within the statutory time frame requires forfeiture. While the medical malpractice statute is silent on the remedy for a violation of the pleading requirements, generally, the remedy against a party who “fail[s] to plead or otherwise defend” in an action is default. MCR 2.603(A)(1). But this remedy was unavailable to plaintiff, because he afforded defendants two extensions of time in which to answer and also agreed to extend the time for service of the affidavit of meritorious defense through May 28, 2000. In sum, a party that stipulates an extension of the time permitted for a filing may not be heard to complain that the filing, when submitted within that extended period, is untimely.
IV CONCLUSION
Plaintiff did not fulfill his obligation under § 2912b. Accordingly, the limitations period was not tolled by the prematurely filed complaint. We therefore reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and reinstate the judgment of the trial court granting summary disposition to defendants.
Taylor, C.J., and Weaver Corrigan, Young, and Markman, JJ., concurred.
Plaintiff, Dale Burton, died following the proceedings in the trial court. The personal representative of his estate, Jack Burton, was substituted as plaintiff. For ease of reference, the term “plaintiff” refers to the decedent.
Defendants also challenged the sufficiency of the affidavit of merit filed with the complaint. The trial court held that the affidavit met the statutory requirements. Defendants have not appealed that ruling.
The case was remanded for consideration of other issues. Roberts v Mecosta Co Gen Hosp (On Remand), 252 Mich App 664; 653 NW2d 441 (2002); (After Remand) 470 Mich 679; 684 NW2d 711(2004).
The assertion by the dissent that defendants implicitly waived their statute of limitations defense is not supported by the evidence. We agree that a waiver sometimes “ ‘may be shown by a course of acts and conduct, and in some cases will be implied therefrom.’ ” Klas v Pearce Hardware & Furniture Co, 202 Mich 334, 339; 168 NW 425 (1918) (citation omitted). However, neither of the acts cited by the dissent implies an “intentional abandonment” of defendants’ right to assert a statute of limitations defense. See Roberts I, supra at 64 n 4.
First, the request for additional time to answer plaintiffs prematurely filed complaint was not, in fact, “inconsistent with” their statute of limitations defense. Defendants did not, as a result of the extension granted them, file their answer after the limitations period had expired. Had they done so, the dissent’s theory would be more compelling. Rather, defendants filed their answer more than two months before the expiration of the limitations period. In addition, defendants’ express incorporation of such a defense in their answer makes clear that they were not intentionally abandoning that defense when they sought the extension.
Second, defendants’ expression during a pretrial conference that “the status of the pleadings is satisfactory” was also not “inconsistent with” their statute of limitations defense. This statement was offered only after defendants had filed their answer, which included the statute of limitations defense. There is nothing in the record to support an implication that defendants were willing to waive this defense on the basis of their “satisfaction” with the status of the pleadings.
As noted earlier, the answer and affirmative defenses were filed on May 8, 2000, more than two months before the period of limitations expired. | [
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Bird, J.
William W. Deem, husband of claimant, had been employed by the Kalamazoo Paper Company for nearly 20 years prior to his death. During that time he had been in reasonably good health, and had lost very little time. For several years prior to his death he had acted in the capacity of “beater” engineer. On the morning of June 29, 1914, he was engaged in renewing the screen on one of the “beater” cylinders. To accomplish this he stood on a plank placed across the top of the “beater” tub. The plank extended about 18 inches beyond the edge of the tub. During the temporary absence of his helper he slipped or made a misstep on the wet plank and fell to the cement floor, striking on his head and right shoulder. He was picked up in an unconscious condition .by the superintendent, but he regained consciousness soon after, and complained of being dizzy and of a pain in his right shoulder. Plis face was red and he tried to vomit. Later he was assisted to a street car which carried him to his home. The family physician was called, and found him with a badly bruised head and shoulder. These were cared for by the doctor, and his recovery was rapid enough, so that on July 6th he returned to his work, and continued to.work until his death. On the morning of July 16th he was seen to fall through the' doorway leading from the “beater" room into the engine room. The engineer saw him, and went at once to his assistance, but found upon reaching him that he was dead.
A claim for compensation was filed with the Industrial Accident Board by his widow, alleging that deceased came to his death as a result of injuries received in a fall on June 29th. The matter received the attention of a board of arbitration, and she was given the statutory allowance of $3,000. An appeal to and re-argument before the Industrial Accident Board resulted in an affirmance of the award. The claimant contended before the arbitration board that the deceased came to his death on July 16th as a result of concussion of the brain caused by his fall on June 29th. The claim was contested on the ground that death was caused by heart disease which had no connection with his injury, and, further, that the proofs left it to conjecture as to the cause of death.
It is obvious that the injury arose out of and in the course of deceased’s employment, and, if his death was traceable to this injury, the award should be affirmed. To establish the fact that it was so traceable, claimant offered the testimony of Dr. Henwood, the family physician, who testified in part as follows:
“His death would be possible as the result of the blow he received on the 29th of June. From what I know of his condition, his physical condition on that morning when I examined him, I don’t think there was anything else, as far as I know, that would prob ably cause that at that time. There was no organic trouble of any kind, to my knowledge. Assuming there may have been, it would be possible for it to have been accelerated by that injury, and death may have been hastened as a result of that injury.”
He also testified that-as a result of his examination and treatment it was his opinion that it was probable he died from the results of the blow, and that a period of two weeks was not an unusual time in which a concussion of the brain might produce its results.
Dr. Paul Butler, in answer to the hypothetical question as to the cause of death, answered that:
“Assuming for the purpose of this case that the facts are that he suffered from sleeplessness, loss of appetite, dizzy spells, I would say that he was suffering from concussion of the brain due to the original blow or injury of June 29th, or due to ah injury, anyway.”
And later this.' witness gave it as his opinion that death resulted from concussion caused by the injury.
Dr. Rush McNair, a witness for the respondent, admitted that from the description given by Dr. Hen-wood he “would judge there was some concussion.”
As opposed to this, there was testimony which tended to show that the deceased had been troubled about three years prior to his death with a cardiac disturbance, and testimony was offered and received from which an inference might have been drawn that the deceased came to his death from that cause. The testimony of claimant, however, brought the question as to the cause of death into the domain of fact, and, as the Industrial Accident Board has passed upon the question of fact, and found that her claim was established, there is nothing left for us to do but to affirm the award.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Steere, J.
This appeal involves a judgment, in an action begun in the Wayne county circuit court, May 9, 1912, upon a promissory note dated at Toronto, Ontario, November 20, 1902, due in three months, made and signed by defendant Francis A. Hilton, payable to the order of I. G. Hilton, his wife, at Molson’s Bank, Toronto. Plaintiff became owner of the ’note when, or shortly after, it was made, and discounted it at Molson’s Bank. When it became due the bank protested it for nonpayment, and, having indorsed the same, plaintiff was subsequently obliged to pay the amount due upon it to the bank, again becoming owner of the paper. The note fell due on February 23, 1903. Defendants moved from Toronto to Detroit, Mich., on December 1, 1906, and have resided in that city ever since. Plaintiff is still a resident of Ontario. Under a plea of the general issue, defendants gave notice in defense that the note was barred by the Michigan statute of limitations, and that defendant I. G. Hilton was a married woman when she indorsed the same. Upon the trial, the genuineness of the note and plaintiff’s ownership for value were not questioned. It was also conceded that when said note was given defendants were, and yet remained, husband and wife, and that nothing had been paid upon the same by defendants since it fell due. The statutes of Ontario were introduced in evidence, from which it appeared that the statute of limitations in that jurisdiction is the same as that of Michigan, as applied to actions upon negotiable paper of the kind involved here, and under the Ontario law in force when defendant I. G. Hilton indorsed the note no disability existed as to her by reason of coverture. No testimony was introduced by the defense beyond proving the Canadian statute of limitations. After both parties rested, each asked the court for a directed verdict. The court directed a verdict in favor of plaintiff against defendant Francis A. Hilton for the amount of the note, but held that his wife, I. G. Hilton, was not liable, on the ground that she was under disability of coverture, and directed a verdict of no cause of action as to her. Defendant Francis A. Hilton and plaintiff each sued out a writ of error.
This peculiar situation brings in juxtaposition the two principles involved in the general rule that, in determining whether a domestic or foreign law is applicable in a case under consideration, the validity and construction of a contract are controlled and to be determined by the laws of the situs, or place where the contract was entered into, while the remedy for enforcing a foreign contract is regulated by the laws of the forum, or country where such remedy is pursued.
At the time defendants left Canada and moved to Detroit, this note had been past due some three years and nine months. Six years had not expired since they established their residence in Detroit before this action was brought. The statute of limitations had not run in either country. Defendants seek to tack the running of the statutes of limitations in Canada and Michigan which, combined, would bar action upon the note. This cannot be done. The Michigan statute of limita tions contains no special provisions recognizing the bar of limitations under the statute of a foreign jurisdiction, as is the case in some States, while even under such provisions to be effectual it must appear that 'the period fixed by the foreign statute had fully run and the bar there was complete before the defendant came within the jurisdiction of the State where the action was brought. 25 Cyc. p. 1241, and cases cited.
The Ontario statute of limitations forms no part of the contract here sued upon and out of which the right of action arises. The action is based on a common-law right entirely independent of the statute, which may or may not later act upon the remedy. The statute does not create the right itself, nor extinguish it, though it may through lapse of time bar, ex post facto, the remedy when pleaded. But laws relating to remedies on contracts are not a matter of comity. The rule is well settled by an abundant and long line of authority that remedies are governed and applied according to the law of the place where the action is instituted, rather than by the law of the place of the contract. The rule is clearly stated in Wood on Limitations (2d Ed.), vol. 1, § 8, and note, as follows:
“ ‘Where an action is brought in one country or State upon a contract made in another, a plea of the statute of limitations existing in the place of contracts is not a good bar, but a plea of the statute existing in the country or State where the action is brought is.’ This rule is in conformity with the universal rule that, as the statute operates merely upon the remedy, the law of the forum, and not the law of the situs of the contract, controls.”
In the early and leading case of Bulger v. Roche, 28 Mass. (11 Pick.) 36 (22 Am. Dec. 359), where the debt was barred between the parties in a foreign jurisdiction by the law of that country before either left it, Chief Justice Shaw, in the concluding paragraphs of his illuminating discussion of the subject, says:
“The plaintiff, having a right to sue in our courts, must conform to our law, as to the time of bringing his action, and all other particulars affecting his remedy. That remedy is not barred or taken away by our statute of limitations, until six years have elapsed after both the plaintiff and the defendant have been within the jurisdiction of the commonwealth. How does the existence of a foreign law of the like kind, which would merely affect the remedy within its own jurisdiction, control or affect the statute of limitations which regulates the remedy here? The statute itself makes no such distinction, and none can be implied either from its letter or spirit.”
This case, with others to the same effect, is cited and recognized as controlling in Belden v. Blackman, 118 Mich. 448 (76 N. W. 979), where it is said:
“Our statute is like that of Massachusetts and New York. The statutes of those States have been construed as applying to causes of action which accrued without the State between nonresidents (citing cases). We think the last-named cases should be followed here.”
This rule is also recognized in Blackburn v. Blackburn’s Estate, 124 Mich. 190 (82 N. W. 835, 83 Am. St. Rep. 325).
Defendants’ contention that the ruling of the trial court is “anomalous” and introduces a “strange doctrine,” because it is elementary that the cause of action accrued when the note fell due and a cause of action can accrue but once, while the statute of limitations having once started to run will continue, demands, to give it point, recognition of the Ontario statute of limitations and its application in combination with the Michigan statute to the case under consideration. Eliminating the foreign remedial statute, the strange doctrine vanishes. The cause of action has accrued but once in this State, and since then the statutory period of limitations has not intervened. In the absence of special statutory provisions, the law upon the question is too well settled in this State, and elsewhere, to be questioned.
It is also well settled in this State, in harmony with the prevailing rule elsewhere, that foreign contracts, when the subject of litigation in. this jurisdiction, are to be given effect, interpreted, and the contractual rights of the contending parties determined according to appropriate statutes and decisions of the territory where the contract was entered into, unless by some provision of the contract it is manifest the parties have otherwise intended and agreed. Douglass v. Paine, 141 Mich. 485 (104 N. W. 781). The promissory noté upon which the action is based is clearly a foreign contract without qualification, intended to be performed where made. It was negotiated, dated, signed, indorsed, delivered, and made payable in Toronto, Ontario, where all parties in interest then resided. It was not paid there or elsewhere. Actions upon commercial paper are transitory, and the creditor may pursue and sue the debtor in any State where his person or property can be found; but the contractual rights of the parties are tested by the law of the place of contract, as before stated.
The trial court, referring to the disability of coverture in this State as applied to commercial paper, expressed a doubt as to whether “the rule of law is any different in the Province of Ontario than in Michigan, and for the purpose of this case” directed a verdict in favor of Mrs. Hilton.
The applicable statute of Ontario in force at the time this note was given provided as follows:
“A married woman shall be capable of entering into and rendering herself liable in respect of and to the extent of her separate property on any contract, and of suing and being sued, in all respects as if she was a feme sole, and her husband need not be joined with her as a plaintiff or defendant, or be made a party to any action or other legal proceeding brought by or taken against her. * * * Every contract entered into by a married woman on or after the 13th day of April, 1897, otherwise than as an agent (a) shall be deemed to be a contract entered into by her with respect to and to bind her separate property whether she is or. is not in fact possessed of or entitled to any separate property at the time when she enters into such contract, and it shall not be necessary in any proceeding to prove that she had any separate property at the time when such contract was entered into, or subsequently; (b) shall bind all separate property which she may at the time or thereafter possess or be entitled to; and (c) shall also be enforceable by process of law against all property which she may thereafter while discovert, possess or be entitled to.” R. S. Ont. 1897, chap. 163.
The doubt expressed by the trial court as to the law of that Province differing from ours may have arisen from a once somewhat unsettled condition of their decisions touching presumptions and burden of proof where a married woman executed or indorsed paper with or for the benefit of her'husband. This uncertainty became marked in the case of Cox v. Adams, 35 Can. S. C. R. 393, where, out of a diversity of opinions by the justices, it was inferable that a wife so signing was presumed to have acted under undue influence or duress of her husband, and the burden of proof rested upon those relying upon her signature to prove that she did not. In Stuart v. Bank of Montreal, 41 Can. S. C. R. 516, the Cox v. Adams Case was discussed at length by different members of the court whose views were not altogether in harmony, and a majority of the court inclined to the view that it was a controlling precedent; but, on appeal of the case from the Supreme Court of Canada to the Privy Council of England, it was squarely held without hesitation, accepting the law as laid down in Nedby v. Nedby, 5 De G. & Sm. 377, that in case of husband and wife the burden of proving duress or undue influence lies upon those who allege it. This rule as to burden of proof and presumption was also declared in the English case of Field v. Sowle, 4 Russ. 112, where the wife had joined her husband in a promissory note to plaintiff for money advanced by him to her husband. Undue influence and coercion were urged as a defense, with no other proof than coverture. The court there said:
“The signature .of the promissory note by the defendant Sarah Sowle is prima facie evidence to charge her; and it is upon her to repel the effect of her signature by evidence of undue influence, and not upon the plaintiff to prove a negative.”
Gold Medal Furniture Co. v. Stephenson, 10 D. L. R. 1 (1913), fully recognizes this rule of prima facie liability with citation of authorities; the court quoting with approval from Talbot v. Van Boris, 1 K. B. 854 (1911), which is an action against a wife upon joint and several promissory notes of her husband and herself signed by her as surety. It was there held that the only substantial defense of the wife was duress, and she was not relieved by the relation of husband and wife from the burden of proving it; that:
“To support such a defense, where the alleged duress is that of a person other than the person contracted with, it must be shown that the duress by which the contract was procured was known to the plaintiff when he entered into the contract.”
It is manifest that under the law of Ontario the wife is liable on her indorsement with the same force and effect as though she were unmarried, in the absence of proof of duress or undue influence.
Proof of this note and her signature made out a prima facie case against Mrs. Hilton. No presumptions existed by reason of coverture which placed upon plaintiff the burden of proving a negative, and no evi dence was offered to meet the case made. Plaintiff was also entitled to a judgment against her.
For the reasons above given, the judgment rendered by the trial court herein is sustained and affirmed against said Francis A. Hilton, but reversed as to defendant I. G. Hilton, and a new trial granted plaintiff as to her.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, and Moore, JJ., concurred. | [
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Moore, J.
Plaintiff is an attorney. This action is based on a promissory note dated March 4, 1914, for $250. Plaintiff claimed and gave testimony to the effect that the note sued was one of two notes the defendant executed, and that the consideration of the two notes was professional services. Plaintiff gave further testimony to the effect that defendant executed another note to contractors, which note he purchased. Defendant claimed that he executed two notes for services, and also another note some time in March, 1914, for plaintiff’s accommodation, to enable plaintiff to discount it at a bank, the plaintiff promising to meet payment of the note when it became due. Defendant further testified the note involved in the present suit' was the accommodation note, as the other two promissory notes were involved in the two suits before the justices of the peace, and judgments rendered thereon. The record discloses the following:
“Q. These notes you never paid any one, did you?
“A. I gave you two notes—
“Q. Did you pay anybody this note?
“A. This note of March 4th?
“Q. This note given for my services. I rendered services for you, didn’t I, for which you gave me this note?
“A. I gave you two notes for services.
“Q. These are the two notes you gave me for services?
“A. Yes.
“Q. You did not pay either one of them yet?
“A. No. (Defendant rests.)
“Mr. Alpert: We now ask you honor to direct a verdict in favor of the plaintiff against the defendant because he admits that the note on which we are suing has- not been paid, and he admits that neither one of these notes have been paid, and both notes given on March 4th were given for services.
“Mr. Beckenstein: He testified that two notes were signed for personal services and one note for an accommodation, and the one you were suing on is for accommodation, and the question for the jury is whether this would be the accommodation note.
“The Court ’: His last testimony was that he gave two notes on March 4th for services, and one has been paid by judgment, and this note remains and nothing has been paid on it. I will direct a judgment for the plaintiff.”
A verdict and judgment was rendered for $253.87. The case is brought here by writ of error.
Previous to his cross-examination defendant testified that the note sued upon was an accommodation note which plaintiff was to pay when it matured. He also testified that the two notes given for professional services were sued and put in judgment. We quote:
“Q. Did he say when the money became due he would take care of it?
“A. He would pay it.
“Q. And the only notes that you signed for which you owe money were the two notes ?
“A. The two notes.
“Q. You were beaten on the other two notes?
“A. On these notes.
“Q. Did you sign a bond to stay execution on those notes ?
“A. Yes.
“Q. When the time is up will you pay?
“A. Yes, I would pay them right away, but it made me mad, you know, and that’s why.
“Q. And the note which is in this suit was signed for the purpose of enabling him to get the money out of the bank?
“A. Yes, for his own use.
“Q. You received no cent of it.
“A. No.”
The record also shows a judgment before Justice Richter on a note for personal services in the sum of $251.96 and costs, and a judgment before Justice Degaw on a promissory note for services for $253.96 and costs. We think it clear this testimony raised a question of fact for the jury.
Judgment is reversed, and a new trial ordered.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Stone, J.
This is an action of assumpsit wherein the plaintiff seeks contribution from the defendant as a cosurety upon a certain promissory note hereinafter described. The issue was tried before the court without a jury, and the following findings of fact and conclusions of law were filed:
“I. On the 6th day of June, 1911, the following note was executed, indorsed, and delivered to the Hackley National Bank of Muskegon, Mich., viz.:
“ ‘Muskegon, Mich., June 6, 1911.
“ ‘On or before one month after date we promise to pay to the order of Hackley National Bank five thousand and no/100 dollars, at the Hackley National Bank. Value received, with interest at six per cent, per annum. Protest waived. $5,000.00 and int. Due July 6. No. 24986.
“ ‘Racine Boat Manufacturing Co.,
‘By W. J. Reynolds, Pres.’
“On the back of which was indorsed the following:
“ ‘The undersigned indorsers hereby expressly waive demand of payment, notice of nonpayment, protest, and notice of protest of the within note.
“ ‘W. J. Reynolds,
“ ‘Paul B. McCracken,
“ ‘Wji. W. Butterfield,
“ ‘National Boat and Engine Co.,
“ ‘Per G. W. Thompson, Asst. Treas.’
“II. Prior to April 6, 1911, the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, a corporation, had sold and conveyed all its property to the National Boat & Engine Company, a corporation, which had assumed all its indebtedness, included among which was one to the Hackley National Bank for the sum of $5,000, evidenced by a promissory note indorsed by Walter J. Reynolds, Paul B. McCracken, and William W. Butter-field. When that note became due, it was renewed in form by the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company because the bank declined to take the note of the National Boat & Engine Company and release the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, but the National Boat & Engine Company added its indorsements to that of the other three persons in order to make itself liable thereon. The note mentioned in paragraph one is a renewal of that note.
_ “III. In September, 1911, the National Boat & Engine Company was adjudicated a bankrupt in the District Court of the United States for the District of Maine. The Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, in form the maker of said note, is insolvent. Paul B. Mc-Cracken, one of the indorsers thereon, is insolvent, and is not a resident or within the jurisdiction of this State.
“IV.. The Hackley National Bank having made demand upon the plaintiff for the payment of said note, on the 3d day of January, 1913, he made a compromise with the bank and paid to the bank in extinguishment of its claim on the note the sum of $4,212.50, and on the 17th day of October, 1914, made due demand on the defendant for the payment to him of one-half of said amount, which was refused by the defendant.
“V. On the 6th day of April, 1911, the National Boat & Engine Company, the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, and the plaintiff entered into the following agreement:
“ ‘Whereas, there have differences existed between the National Boat & Engine Company, a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maine, the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, a corporation organized under, the laws of the State of Michigan, and William W. Butterfield, of Muskegon, Mich., and all of those differences having been settled and adjusted with the exception of the contingent liability of the said Butterfield as an indorser on the outstanding notes of the said corporation; and
“ ‘Whereas, the said Butterfield has agreed to continue his indorsements on said outstanding notes until the said corporations are able to pay and retire the same;
“ ‘It is mutually agreed by and between the corporations aforesaid and the said Butterfield that he shall be protected and secured by the deposit in escrow with the firm of Cross, Vanderwerp, Foote & Ross, of Muskegon, Mich., of a sufficient number of first mortgage gold bonds of the National Boat & Engine Company, at the ruling market value thereof, and-per cent, more to fully and generously indemnify and protect the said Butter-field upon his said indorsements.
“ ‘It is further understood and agreed that this paper writing is but the memorandum of a contract, which is to be reduced to legal form and phraseology at Muskegon, Mich., with all convenient speed and dispatch to carry out the purposes and intentions of the parties, as embraced in a settlement and adjustment of their differences as made this day.
“ ‘And it is further understood and agreed that the personal note of the said Butterfield for one thousand dollars ($1,000), secured by a one thousand dollar bond owned by the said Butter- field, is the note and obligation of one or both of the said corporations, and not the personal indebtedness of the said Butterfield, and that, should a demand be made for the payment of said note, the said corporations, one or both of them, shall cause the same to be paid, and return the said bond to the said Butterfield.
“ ‘In witness whereof the said corporations have on this 6th day of April, A. D. 1911, caused to be executed in triplicate this memorandum to be signed by their presidents and the seal of said corporations to be affixed by their secretaries; and the said William. W. Butterfield has signed the same with his hand and seal.
“ ‘National Boat and Engine Company,
“ ‘By W. J. Reynolds, Its President. [SealJ
“ ‘Attest:
“ ‘C. A. Williams, Secretary.
“ ‘Racine Boat and Manufacturing Company,
“ ‘By W. J. Reynolds, Its President.
“ ‘Attest:
“‘W. W. Butterfield, Secretary.’
“VI. On the same day the plaintiff executed and delivered to the defendant the following release:
“ ‘Know all men by these presents that I, William W. Butter-field, of the city of Muskegon and State of Michigan, for and in consideration of the sum of one dollar to me in hand paid by Walter J. Reynolds, of the city of Muskegon, State of Michigan, do hereby release and forever discharge the said Walter J. Reynolds, his heirs, executors, and administrators, of and from all actions, causes of action, suits, controversies, claims, and demands whatsoever for or by reason of any matter, cause, or thing from the beginning of the world down to the 6th day of April, A. D. 1911. W. W. Butterfield.
“ ‘In presence of C. A. Williams.’
“At the time of the execution and delivery of said release there had been and were no contractual relations between plaintiff and defendant other than the contingent liability of each to the other as coindorsers upon notes of the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company.”
The finding also sets forth a supplemental agreement made and entered into on June 20, 1911, between the National Boat & Engine Company, the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, and the plaintiff, reciting that whereas, the National Boat & Engine Company was the successor to and had taken over the property of the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, and had assumed the. indebtedness of said Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, and whereas, a part of the indebtedness of said Racine Boat Manufacturing Company was represented by promissory notes given by said Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, and indorsed by said William W. Butterfield, and whereas, for the purpose of protecting said William W. Butterfield, said Racine Boat Manufacturing Company executed and delivered to him a certain deed of trust covering its property, to protect him against liability on said indorsements, and whereas, it was necessary that a portion of said promissory notes should be renewed by said National Boat & Engine Company, and whereas, said William W. Butterfield was the secretary of said Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, and was an employee of said National Boat & Engine Company, and whereas, there were certain items of indebtedness existing between said William W. Butterfield and said National Boat & Engine Company and said Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, it was among other things agreed as follows:
“Now, therefore, it is hereby agreed that all of the matters in difference, and all claims of any kind or character growing out of the relationship existing between the parties hereto, or any of them, or between said William W. Butterfield and Walter J. Reynolds and Paul B. McCracken, two of the stockholders and officers of said Racine Boat Manufacturing Company, and of said National Boat & Engine Company, are fully settled, paid, and discharged”—
apart of the consideration for said settlement being:
“First. That said William W. Butterfield shall surrender to the National Boat & Engine Company the deed of trust dated January 8, 1909, given to him by the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company for the pur pose, of securing him from liability of any kind incurred by his indorsement on the promissory notes of said Racine Boat Manufacturing Company.
“Second. That said William W. Butterfield shall continue his indorsements on outstanding notes until said corporation or corporations are able to pay and retire the same; it being understood and agreed that said notes are to be paid and retired in the same relative proportion as other similar indebtedness of the National Boat & Engine Company.
“Third. That he shall be protected and secured in the making of said indorsements by the deposit in escrow with the firm of Cross, Vanderwerp, Foote & Ross, of Muskegon, Mich., of an amount of first mortgage gold bonds of the National Boat & Engine Company of the par value of double the amount of the total of the notes indorsed by said William W. Butterfield, which at this time are as follows: [Here follows a list of notes, including the note here sued upon, aggregating $44,000.]”
The findings of fact concluded as follows:
“VIII. That in order to secure the payment of the note, and of other indebtedness owing by the National Boat & Engine Company to the Hackley National Bank in January, 1911, the National Boat & Engine Company delivered to the bank as collateral security first mortgage bonds of the par value of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) ; that in the month of May, 1911, in order to indemnify the plaintiff against any loss by reason of his indorsement of said note, and of other notes indorsed by him for which the National Boat & Engine Company was liable, the National Boat & Engine Company delivered to Cross, Vanderwerp, Foote & Ross, as trustees, to be held in escrow for the benefit of the plaintiff $88,000 par valué of the first mortgage bonds of the said corporation.
“IX. That the Hackley National Bank duly filed its claim for said note, and the bonds securing the indebtedness to it with the referee in bankruptcy for the District Court of the District of Maine, and on payment being made to it, as set forth in paragraph 4,_ it assigned said claim to the plaintiff; that the plaintiff also .filed a claim with the said referee based bn the $88,000 of bonds above mentioned; that the claim of the Hackley National Bank on the note was duly allowed, subject to the surrender by plaintiff of certain preferences claimed by the trustee, and determined by the referee, to have been received by him, but that the claim on all the bonds was disallowed by the referee; that his decision was reviewed in the District Court for the District of Maine, and the bonds delivered to- the Hackley National Bank were allowed, subject to said preferences, but that the bonds 'delivered to Cross, Vanderwerp, Foote & Ross, as trustees, were disallowed, and that an appeal has been taken by the plaintiff to the Circuit Court of Appeals for the First Circuit of the United States, and is now pending and undecided; that the plaintiff has received nothing on account of said claims.”
The following conclusion of law was found by the trial court:
“I find that the plaintiff is entitled to recover from the defendant one-half of the amount paid by him as aforesaid, to wit, the sum of $2,106.25, with interest thereon at the rate of 5 per cent, per annum from January 3, 1913, to the date of judgment, and that judgment be entered accordingly.”
The defendant proposed the following amendment thereof, which was refused:
“I find as a conclusion of law that any right of action which plaintiff might otherwise have against defendant for contribution, by reason of his payment of the said note, is barred by the release of April 6, 1911, and the release contained in the contract of June 20, 1911, hereinbefore mentioned, and that judgment of no cause of action be entered accordingly.”
Exceptions were duly taken to the conclusion of law and to the refusal of the court to amend the conclusion as proposed.
From a judgment for plaintiff entered' pursuant to said finding, the defendant has brought error. By appropriate assignments of error the defendant claims:
(1) That the court erred in finding as it did in its conclusion of law, in refusing to find as proposed, and in entering judgment for plaintiff.
(2) That the judgment entered is not supported by the evidence, or by the law of the case.
(3) That the judgment entered is erroneous because plaintiff’s supposed cause of action is barred by the release of April 6, 1911, and by the release contained in the contract off June 20, 1911.
(4) That the judgment is erroneous for the reason that, if plaintiff is entitled to recover at all, he can recover only one-fourth of the amount paid by him, with interest thereon, and not one-half of such amount as found by the court.
The first three assignments of error will be considered together. It is the claim of appellant that there is no liability of defendant for contribution on account of plaintiff having paid the note of June 6, 1911, because defendant was released from such liability by the general release executed and delivered by plaintiff to him on April 6, 1911; that said release was a general release and comprehensive in its terms, and the circumstances under which it was executed, and the purpose and intention of the parties, showed that it was intended to absolve defendant from all liability for contribution on account of his being a cosurety with the plaintiff on any and all indebtedness of the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company or the National Boat & Engine Company prior to April 6, 1911; that the note of June 6, 1911, which is the basis of this suit, is not a new indebtedness, but is a continuation of an indebtedness existing prior to April 6, 1911, and was therefore covered by the release executed and delivered by the plaintiff to defendant. We are impressed with this claim of the defendant. The closing words of the sixth finding of fact are significant:
“At the time of the execution and delivery of said release there had been and were no contractual relations between plaintiff and defendant other than the contingent liability of each to the other as coindorsers upon notes of the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company.”
It will be noted that the release given was of the most general kind, and very broad in its terms. Taken in the light of the circumstances under which this release was drawn and the purpose for which it was executed and delivered, we think that it was intended, not alone to release defendant from liability arising from his being a cosurety with plaintiff on any particular note or notes then existing, but that it was also intended to release defendant from all liability arising out of his being a cosurety on any indebtedness, as distinguished from evidence of indebtedness, existing at the time. The plaintiff testified that he did not consider either the defendant or McCracken as being financially responsible, and that he alone would probably be the one to whom the holders would ultimately look for the payment of this indebtedness, if it were not paid by the company; and he further testified that it was for the purpose of protecting himself against such contingent liability that he demanded security in the form of $88,000 of bonds of the National Boat.& Engine Company, which he at the time considered ample security for all the indebtedness for which he was a surety. Having taken the security, it was only reasonable that he should release his cosureties. The claim of the plaintiff is not that the release was without consideration, or that it was obtained by fraud, but that:
“The release purports to discharge the appellant from all actions, causes of action, suits, controversies, claims, and demands .whatsoever to the sixth day of April, A. D. 1911. It is apparent, therefore, on the face of the papers, that the note executed two months after the 6th day of April could give rise to no action, suit, controversy, or demand whatsoever that was contemplated by the release. The intention of the parties as disclosed by the written instruments, the release, and the subsequent note is clear, and cannot be misunderstood. The release does not contemplate a discharge of the obligation of the appellant arising from the indorsement of the note. A release does not apply to any transaction in the future, unless it so specifies. Whipple v. Parker, 29 Mich. 369; Mouat v. Hildebrand, 15 Colo. 382 (24 Pac. 1042).”
In Whipple v. Parker it was held that a settlement could not, without evidence to that effect, reasonably be supposed to include or acknowledge payment, for what the party had not yet paid, and which at the time did not constitute an item of account, but accrued afterwards.
We think that the testimony of the plaintiff takes the instant case outside of the doctrine of the cited case. We think the position of the plaintiff, above quoted, too narrow. We should look to the substance of things, and consider the position of the parties and the nature of the surroundings. In the light of the circumstances under which the release was made, we think the fact that the original loan was made prior to the date of the release is material and important. We think there can be no question that it was the intention of the plaintiff to release defendant from any and all liability arising out of his being a cosurety, not alone on the notes which were only evidences of an indebtedness, but from all liability arising out of his being a cosurety for the indebtedness of the Racine Boat Manufacturing Company existing on April 6, 1911, and of which the note in suit is only a renewal or continuation, and not at all a new indebtedness. The bank had demanded the same indorsers upon renewal. While on the surface, and in so far as the bank was concerned, the old note was canceled by the giving of the new one, for the purpose of getting at the proper construction of the' release in question and as between the parties here, we should consider, as the fact really was, that it was only one of the evidences of the indebtedness that was canceled, and not the indebtedness itself. It is a general rule of construction of releases that a release shall be construed from the standpoint which the parties occupied at the time of its execution. 24 Am. & Eng. Enc. Law (2d Ed.), p. 290.
“Where only general words are used, they will be construed most strongly against the party executing the release, and so a release is held to include all demands embraced by its terms, whether particularly contemplated or not, and direct parol evidence that a certain claim was not in the minds of the parties is not admissible.” Id. p. 294.
See 34 Cyc. p. 1076; Rowe v. Rand, 111 Ind. 206 (12 N. E. 377); Seymour & Co. v. Butler, 8 Iowa, 304; The Cayuga (Cir. Ct. of App. 6th Cir.), 59 Fed. 483 (8 C. C. A. 188); Swinburne v. Swinburne, 36 R. I. 255 (90 Atl. 121).
In Rowe v. Rand, supra, the court said:
“A release ought to be construed from the standpoint which the parties occupied at the time of its execution. To enable a court to so construe a release, extrinsic evidence is admissible to explain the circumstances under which it was executed, and the nature: of the transaction to which it was designed to apply,, without adding to, or subtracting anything from, the words used by the parties to the instrument. 1 Greenl. Ev. § 277; Reed v. Insurance Co., 95 U. S. 23; 7 Wait on Actions and Defenses, 464.
“The particular purpose for which a release was. executed ought always to be kept in view, and, where only general words are used, they are to be construed.. most strongly against the party executing the release.. Seymour & Co. v. Butler, 8 Iowa, 304; Rich v. Lord, 18 Pick. [Mass.] 322; Fazakerly v. McKnight, 88 Eng. C.. L. 795; Solly v. Forbes, 4 Moore, 488; Lyall v. Edwards, 6 Hurl. & N. 336; Jackson v. Stackhouse, 1 Cow. [N. Y.] 122 [13 Am. Dec. 514].”
In the Cayuga Case Judge Severens said:
“A release is held to include all demands' embraced ¡by its terms, whether particularly contemplated ot not; ¡and direct parol evidence that a certain claim was not In the minds of the parties is not admissible. Deland v. Manufacturing Co., 7 Pick. [Mass.] 244; Hyde v. Baldwin, 17 Pick. [Mass.] 303; Sherburne v. Goodwin, 44 N. H. 271. The surrounding facts and circumstances may, as in other cases, be shown in order to apply the language of the instrument to its proper subject-matter, and prevent its application to a matter not involved in the transaction. Littledale, *J., in Simmons v. Johnson, 3 Barn. & Adol. 175; 1 Greenl. Ev. §§ 286, 288.”
To the same effect are Palmer v. Corbin, 1 Root (Conn.), 271; Duff v. Hutchinson, 57 Hun, 152 (10 N. Y. Supp. 857).
That the general release given by plaintiff to defendant was such as to release the latter from the contingent liability because of their being cosureties, see 32 Cyc. p. 284; 24 Am. & Eng. Enc. Law (2d Ed. ), p. 312, and cases there cited.
In Pierce v. Parker, 4 Metc. (Mass.) 80, the court said:
“From the best examination I have been able to give to the question before us, I come to this conclusion: That, while a possibility merely is not the subject of a release, yet that in all cases where there is an existing obligation or contract between parties, although such obligation or contract is .executory and dependent also upon contingencies that may never happen, still, if the party, in whose favor such obligation or contract is made, or who is liable, by force of it, to suffer damages if it is not performed by the other when the contingency happens, shall execute a release of all claims and demands, actions and causes of action, etc., correct in point of form, and having at the time of executing the release such obligation or contract in view, as one of the subjects upon which the release shall operate, then such release shall be held as a good and valid bar to any suit which may be afterwards brought upon such obligation or contract, or for money had, received, or paid, upon the future happening of the contingency, in consequence of which the plaintiff sustains damage, and but for such release would have had a perfect right of action.”
In our opinion, the release of April 6, 1911, was a valid bar to this action, and we need not consider thé contract of June 20, 1911, only to remark in'passing: that the defendant was not a party to that contract. The conclusion which we have reached renders it unnecessary to consider the last assignment of error.
The judgment of the circuit court is reversed, and a new trial granted.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Ostrander, Bird, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Moore, J.
This is certiorari to review the action of the Industrial Accident Board in confirming an award made in favor of the claimant. The questions involved are so clearly stated in the opinion rendered by the board that we quote from it:
“It is conceded in this case that Joseph Matwiczuk, the husband of the applicant, met his death on May 22, 1918, as a result of the injuries received while in the employ of respondent. It is undisputed that the injuries resulting in his death arose out of and in the course of his employment, and that his widow would be entitled to the compensation .fixed by law, if claim therefor was made within the time fixed by the compensation act. It is undisputed that, on the day following the death of deceased, his brother-in-law, Joseph Postinack, consulted an attorney in the city of Detroit, and that said attorney wrote a letter to respondent, notifying It of the death of Joseph Matwiczuk, and further stating that his death was due to an injury re ceived while working for respondent, that deceased had a wife and four children living in Poland, who were dependent upon him, and closing the letter as follows:
“‘If you care to offer reasonable compensation, in settlement, there is no doubt that it will be considered. Awaiting an immediate reply, I remain. [Signature.]’
“The widow of deceased in fact resided in Poland as stated in said notice, and the brother-in-law of deceased above mentioned assumed to act for her in consulting said attorney and making the aforesaid claim. It is conceded that Postinack, at the time he consulted said attorney, had not been authorized so to do by the widow, as this was done very shortly after the death, and before the widow even had knowledge of the accident; her residence being in a small town in the interior of Poland. It is contended in this case that the claim made through the action of Postinack is a nullity, because he was not authorized so to act, and that the letter from said ■ attorney did not constitute the making of a claim for compensation within the meaning of the law. '•
“In the opinion of the board the provision of the compensation law relative to making claims for compensation should not be technically construed, and that the communication which was sent to the employer in this case was sufficient to fairly apprise it of the fact that compensation was claimed for the death of the decedent. The essential function to be performed by notice of claim for injury under this law is to bring home to the employer at some time within six months after the accident knowledge of the fact that a claim for compensation therefor is being asserted. We think that the letter in question must be held to have fairly apprised respondent of this fact. At the time of making the claim, Postinack had not been authorized to act for applicant as before stated, but about five months after the death of deceased applicant executed at her home in Poland a written power of attorney authorizing Postinack to act in her behalf in all things relating to the prosecution of her claim for compensation. When this power of attorney reached Postinack in this country a little more than six months had elapsed since the death of decedent, and it is con tended by respondent that the power of attorney did not take effect until it was actually delivered in this •country, and that being iafter the expiration of the six-months period, it could not operate as a ratification of the previous acts of Postinack. This contention is largely technical and without merit. We are inclined to the opinion that the mailing of the power of attorney in Poland constituted a sufficient delivery. We are •unable to find any provision in the act requiring the person who makes the claim on behalf of the dependents of a deceased workman to be a fully authorized agent. It is the evident intention of the law that such claim may be made by near relatives or friends, without formal authorization from the dependents. To hold otherwise would defeat compensation in many cases where the dependents of deceased workmen live in distant lands, or where such dependents are minors. The decision of the committee on arbitration awarding compensation to the applicant is affirmed.”
Counsel for appellant argue two propositions:
(1) Was the letter sent by Daniel Minock to the American Car & Foundry Company a claim for compensation such as is contemplated by the terms of the workmen’s compensation act?
(2) If this letter was a claim sufficient to comply with the terms of the workmen’s compensation law, was it sufficiently authorized to be binding upon the American Car & Foundry Company?
Under the first of these propositions it is argued that when the attorney sent the letter he was not presenting a claim under the compensation law, but had in mind liability under the common law for negligence. Under the second proposition it is urged that the power ■of attorney did not take effect until after the six months had expired, and that, as the claimant could not file a claim at that time, she could not ratify what has been done before. It is also claimed that the power of attorney related to the future, and not to what had already been done. Counsel for appellant admit that the propositions involved in this case are new and therefore undecided.
It may be helpful to quote in full the letter which was sent:
“Detroit, Mich., May 22, A. D. ’13.
“American Car & Foundry Co.
“Gentlemen:
“Joseph Posternack, who resides at No. 621 Palmer Ave., this city, informs me that his brother-in-law was killed while working in your employ about 1 p. m. Wednesday, May 21, A. D. 1913.
“He claims that his brother-in-law, whose name is Joseph Matfechuck was working on an electric drill, that the electric wires were not properly insulated and that the wires were lying in water, that owing to that fact that when this man came in contact with the wires, he received a shock through his body which finally caused his death.
“This man is married, and his wife and four children are living in Poland, and are and were dependent on him for their support and maintenance. If you care to offer a reasonable compensation in settlement, there is no doubt that it will be considered.
“Awaiting an immediate reply, I remain,
[Signed] “Daniel L. Minock.”
The record discloses that the claimant was advised of the death of her husband. It does not appear whether she was advised of the sending of the letter just quoted. On October 28, 1913, she executed before a notary public a formal power of attorney authorizing her brother Joseph Postinack to look after her claim growing out of the death of her husband. The concluding part of the power of attorney reads as follows:
“Said Mary Matwiczuk hereby consents to and agrees with everything that said Joseph, son of Michael Pasternak, her duly appointed attorney in fact, or his duly selected attorneys, may legally do or perform, and she further ratifies any of their actions.”
By due course this power of attorney reached her brother, Joseph Postinack, though not until more than, six months after the death of her husband.
We may now consider the compensation law (Act No. 10, Pub. Acts 1912). The provisions of the compensation law applicable are section 15 of part 2, which reads:
“No proceedings for compensation for an injury under this act shall be maintained, unless a notice of the injury shall have been given to the employer three months after the happening thereof, and unless the claim for compensation with respect to such injury shall have been made within six months after the occurrence of the same,” etc.
And section 16, which reads:
“The said notice shall be in writing, and shall state in ordinary language the time, place and cause of -the injury, and shall be signed by the person injured, or by a person in his behalf, or, in the event of his death, by his dependents or by a person in their behalf.”
Section 18 provides:
“Want of such written notice shall not be a bar to proceedings * * * if it be shown that the employer had notice or knowledge of the injury.”
See, also, Purdy v. City of Sault Ste. Marie, 188 Mich. 573 (155 N. W. 597), in which an opinion was handed down this term.
It is clear that what was done gave the employer notice of the injury, thus affording an opportunity for a full investigation. It also gave notice of who were, dependents. We think it is also clear that the company was informed that the brother-in-law, by employing the attorney who wrote the letter giving this information, was seeking to protect the interests of the widow and minor children, who were in Poland, and the inference follows almost as of course that a claim was urged in their behalf, growing out of the' death of the husband and father. The language of the statute indicates that the notice and claim might be' in ordinary language, and might be signed by dependents “or by a person in their behalf,” and what would be more natural than to assume that a brother of the widow in her absence would act for her.
What was done gave to the employer every opportunity to investigate the accident, and knowledge of all material things relating thereto, as fully as though an application had been made in a formal way by the widow upon the day when the letter was written. The next day after the injury the employer was notified of it, the result of it, the time and place and cause of its happening, and of the persons who were dependent. This notice was given, not by an outsider, but through the agency of the brother-in-law of the deceased, the brother of the widow. What was done was notice of a claim by the deceased’s dependents, made by a person in their behalf. We think it too technical to say that a notice and claim made within 24 hours after the accident, caused to be given, as in this case, in behealf of the widow, who could not make the claim herself, because of the distance from where she lived, which action was ratified by her on being advised of the situation, must fail because the ratification did not reach this country within 6 months from the time of the accident. To so hold would not be according to the letter or the spirit of the employers’ liability Act.
The action of the Industrial Board is affirmed.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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AFTER REMAND
Taylor, J.
This case is before us for the second time. In Allstate Ins Co v McCarn, 466 Mich 277; 645 NW2d 20 (2002) (McCarn I), we held that the shooting death of Kevin LaBelle was “accidental” and, thus, an “occurrence” within the meaning of the insurance policy at issue. Because the shooting was an “occurrence” covered under the policy, it gave rise to Allstate’s potential liability. However, because the Court of Appeals had not addressed whether the criminal-acts exception in the policy precluded coverage, we remanded the matter to that Court. On remand, the Court of Appeals held that the criminal-acts exception precludes coverage in this case. We disagree and reverse the decision of the Court of Appeals. We remand to the trial court for further proceedings.
I. FACTS AND PROCEEDINGS
We set forth the facts in our previous opinion, McCarn I at 279-280:
This case arises out of the death of sixteen-year-old Kevin LaBelle on December 15, 1995, at the home of defendants Ernest and Patricia McCarn, where their grandson, then sixteen-year-old defendant Robert McCarn, also resided. On that day, Robert removed from under Ernest’s bed a shotgun Robert’s father had given him the year before. The gun was always stored under Ernest’s bed and was not normally loaded. Both Robert and Kevin handled the gun, which Robert believed to be unloaded. When Robert was handling the gun, he pointed it at Kevin’s face from approximately one foot away. Robert pulled back the hammer and pulled the trigger and the gun fired, killing Kevin.
Nancy LaBelle, representing Kevin’s estate, brought the underlying action against Robert and his grandparents, Ernest and Patricia McCarn, who had a homeowners insurance policy with plaintiff Allstate. Allstate brought the present action, seeking a declaratory judgment that it had no duty to indemnify defendants Robert, Ernest, or Patricia McCarn.
Plaintiff and defendants moved for summary disposition in the declaratory action. The trial court granted defendants’ motions for summary disposition and denied plaintiffs, holding that the events constituted an “occurrence” within the meaning of Allstate’s policy. The trial court also held that Robert McCarn’s conduct was not intentional or criminal within the meaning of Allstate’s policy.
Allstate appealed to the Court of Appeals, which reversed the trial court in an unpublished opinion. The Court attempted to apply our recent decisions in Nabozny v Burkhardt and Frankenmuth Mut Ins Co v Masters and concluded that “Robert’s intentional actions created a direct risk of harm that precludes coverage.”
This Court reversed the decision of the Court of Appeals, holding that the “accident” was an “occurrence” as defined in the insurance policy at issue, thus giving rise to Allstate’s potential liability. Id. at 291. Once a court decides that liability may exist under an insurance policy, it may then determine whether coverage is precluded by an exception. Allstate Ins Co v Freeman, 432 Mich 656, 668; 443 NW2d 734 (1989). Because the Court of Appeals originally found no liability, it did not determine whether the criminal-acts exclusion precluded coverage under the policy. Because the Court of Appeals had not addressed this exclusion, we remanded the issue to that Court to determine if it applied. McCarn I at 291.
On remand, the Court of Appeals, in a split opinion, applied the two-pronged test from Freeman and concluded that Robert acted criminally under the first prong of the test because his actions constituted manslaughter under MCL 750.329. Slip op at 2-4. The Court of Appeals determined that the applicability of the exclusionary clause “turns on whether LaBelle’s death was reasonably expected to result from Robert’s crimi nal act.” Slip op at 3. The panel then concluded that “a person who points a gun at another person’s face and intentionally pulls the trigger without checking to see whether the gun is loaded can reasonably expect that injury will result.” Slip op at 4. The dissenting judge also applied the two-pronged test from Freeman, but concluded that “reasonable minds could differ regarding whether Kevin’s death occurred as the natural, foreseeable, expected, and anticipated result of Robert’s” acts. Slip op at 3 (White, J., dissenting). We granted defendants’ application for leave to appeal. 469 Mich 947 (2003).
II. STANDARD OF REVIEW
To determine whether Allstate is obligated to indemnify the McCarns, we examine the insurance policy at issue. Issues involving the proper interpretation of insurance contracts are reviewed de novo. Cohen v Auto Club Ins Ass’n, 463 Mich 525, 528; 620 NW2d 840 (2001).
An insurance policy must be enforced in accordance with its terms, which are given their “commonly used meaning” if not defined in the policy. Frankenmuth Mut Ins Co v Masters, 460 Mich 105, 112, 114; 595 NW2d 832 (1999).
III. ANALYSIS
When this case was last before us, in interpreting the following language, “Allstate will pay damages . .. arising from an occurrence,” we concluded that, on the basis of undisputed facts, the shooting was an accident triggering Allstate’s liability. Justice CAVANAGH, writing for the Court, said:
[T]his case does not present a question of fact. The fact that Robert believed the gun was unloaded is a matter about which there is no genuine issue of material fact. This is because there is nothing in the record to reasonably support a conclusion that, contrary to Robert’s testimony that he believed the gun was unloaded, he consciously believed the gun was loaded, or even contemplated that there was any possibility that it was loaded when he pulled the trigger. Even plaintiff, the insurer, acknowledged that Robert believed the firearm was unloaded when he pulled the trigger .... [McCarn I, supra at 285-286.]
To this set of facts we then applied the requisite subjective test and concluded that Robert’s expectation that no bodily harm would result from an unloaded gun was reasonable. Id. at 291. The wisdom of shooting even an unloaded gun at another in the first place was, and is, not before us.
In this case, we deal with other policy language, which is commonly described as the criminal-acts exclusion. It states:
We do not cover any bodily injury or property damage intended by, or which may reasonably he expected to result from the intentional or criminal acts or omissions of, any insured person. This exclusion applies even if:
a) such insured person lacks the mental capacity to govern his or her conduct;
b) such bodily injury or property damage is of a different kind or degree than intended or reasonably expected; or
c) such bodily injury or property damage is sustained by a different person than intended or reasonably expected.
This exclusion applies regardless of whether or not such insured person is actually charged with, or convicted of a crime.
This language directs us to apply a two-pronged test. There is no insurance coverage if, first, the insured acted either intentionally or criminally, and second, the resulting injuries were the reasonably expected result of an insured’s intentional or criminal act. We agree with the Court of Appeals that the first prong of this test — that there was an intentional or criminal act— has been met.
Answering the second prong of the test, whether the resulting injury was the reasonably expected result of this criminal act, requires this Court to engage in an objective inquiry. Allstate Ins Co v Freeman, 432 Mich 656, 688; 443 NW2d 734 (1989) (opinion by Riley, J.). That is, we are to determine whether a reasonable person, possessed of the totality of the facts possessed by Robert, would have expected the resulting injury. This requirement to base the objective reasonability test on all the facts has been discussed by scholars of tort law: “The conduct of the reasonable person will vary with the situation with which he is confronted. The jury must therefore be instructed to take the circumstances into account. . . .” Prosser & Keeton, Torts (5th ed), § 32, at 175. We have held similarly in our cases, “[T]he reasonable person standard examines the totality of the circumstances to ensure a fair result.” Radtke v Everett, 442 Mich 368, 391; 501 NW2d 155 (1993). This means that here we must consider not just that Robert, as the Court of Appeals described it, “point[ed] a gun at another person’s face and intentionally pull[ed] the trigger,” but also, as Allstate itself acknowledges, that Robert thought the gun that he pointed was unloaded. Slip op, November 15, 2002, p 4; McCarn I, supra at 286. Thus, we are called on to determine if a reasonable person would have expected bodily harm to result when the gun, in the unloaded state Robert believed it to be, was “fired.” The answer is no because, obviously, an unloaded gun will not fire a shot. As this Court explained in McCarn I, supra at 290-291:
[No] bodily harm could have been foreseen from Robert’s intended act, because he intended to pull the trigger of an unloaded gun, and, thus, it was not foreseeable, indeed it was impossible, under the facts as Robert believed them to be, that shot would be discharged.
To recapitulate, the proper test is that we are to first determine what Robert actually believed about the gun being loaded, not what a reasonable third party would have believed on that issue. Then, using that belief as a starting point, we are to determine in the second step if a reasonable person, possessed of Robert’s belief, would have expected bodily harm to result from pulling the trigger. In fact, because reasonable minds could not differ that an unloaded gun will not fire a shot, it is appropriate under MCR 2.116(C)(10) to grant summary disposition to defendants.
IV RESPONSE TO DISSENTS
The dissent of Justice WEAVER is predicated on the notion that insurance policies should not cover the acts of foolish, reckless, or even lawless people. This is a peculiar view because these are among the very people that society wishes to be insured and, in some circumstances, such as motor vehicle insurance, even requires to be insured. MCL 500.3101. She seems to regard insurance as solely benefiting the insured and thus when it pays out it is a form of reward. This overlooks, however, the societal benefit that insurance provides to those injured or damaged by the acts of insured but otherwise uncollectible individuals. The true beneficiary of liability insurance is not the insured, but his injured victim. The Court of Appeals said this aptly twenty years ago:
[I]t is unlikely that [an] insured [is] induced to engage in the unlawful conduct by reliance upon the insurability of any claims arising therefrom or that allowing insurance coverage.. . would induce future similar unlawful conduct .... Nor does it appear that the policy was obtained in contemplation of a violation of the law. Furthermore, coverage does not allow the wrongdoer unjustly to benefit from his wrong. It is not the insured who will benefit, but the innocent victim who will be provided compensation for her injuries. [Vigilant Ins Co v Kambly, 114 Mich App 683, 687; 319 NW2d 382 (1982) (citations omitted).]
As for Justice Young’s dissent, he posits that the majority opinion is based on the majority’s public policy notions. We disagree. Rather, our decision is based entirely on the language of the insurance policy at issue here. The policy excludes coverage of injuries which “may reasonably be expected to result from the intentional or criminal acts” of the insured. Because one would not reasonably expect injury to result from pulling the trigger of an unloaded gun, coverage is not excluded.
He further indicates that the majority has conflated the subjective and objective inquiries called for by the policy and has gutted the exclusion of any use to the insurer. We again disagree. We have simply drawn the line the policy calls for between what the insured believed at the point of the intentional or criminal act and applied to that belief what a reasonable person could expect to result from that act. Thus if, as here, an insured believes a gun is unloaded, and in this case it is conceded by the insurer that Robert indeed did believe that, then no reasonable person could believe, given that starting point, that a shot would come from the gun when fired. On the other hand, if an insured believes a gun is loaded and operable when he points it at someone and pulls the trigger but, for whatever reason, expects no shot to come from it and thus does not expect harm to result, there would be no coverage because a reasonable person would expect a shot to come from a loaded, operable gun and that harm would result from that. The point is the insured’s expectations of what will result from his act are irrelevant.
It should also be pointed out that we believe that the effect of Justice YOUNG’s position would be that if a harm or injury results from an intentional or criminal act it will almost never be covered under a policy with this exclusion. This result can be seen in his approach to this case. Because he can reason back and know that the gun was loaded, he concludes that the policy exclusion dictates that there is no insurance coverage. Yet, we believe such hindsight reasoning is an improper mode of analysis for this accident. In hindsight, an insurer might always be able to reason backwards from an accident and conclude that, by definition, a reasonable person would not have done whatever precipitated such accident.
The dissents’ approaches would eviscerate insurance policies of much of their value to insureds, leaving only “occurrences that were truly unexplainable” covered. McCarn I, supra at 289. Yet, unforeseen, unfortunate consequences of explicable or even intentional acts are “the very purpose of insurance . ...” Id. at 288. As this Court stated in McCarn I, supra at 288, “We must be careful not to take the expectation of harm test so far that we eviscerate the ability of parties to insure against their own negligence.” “Otherwise, liability insurance coverage for negligence would seem to become illusory.” Id. “The problem, as we see it, with the dissent’s opinion is that it undermines the ability of insureds to protect themselves against their own foolish or negligent acts.” Id. “However, the impetus for insurance is not merely, or even principally, to insure oneself for well thought out and reasoned actions that go wrong, but to insure oneself for foolish or negligent actions that go wrong. Indeed, it is obviously the latter that are more likely to go astray and to precipitate the desire for insurance.” Id. To the extent that the dissents would erode the ability of insureds to protect themselves against theirs — or their family members’ — foolish or stupid acts, they would eviscerate insurance contracts of much of their purpose and value. This is simply to say that with Justice YOUNG’s approach there would be seemingly no coverage for any intentional or criminal act where there was injury resulting from the act. This would narrow those having insurance in such circumstances greatly and perhaps entirely. This disturbing outcome cannot be what this policy provision intended, nor is it what the policy language calls for.
V CONCLUSION
We hold that there is no question of fact whether Kevin’s death was the reasonably expected result of Robert’s act. Accordingly, we reverse the judgment of the Court of Appeals and remand to the trial court for further proceedings.
Kelly and Markman, JJ., concurred with Taylor, J.
CAVANAGH, J., concurred in the result only.
Unpublished opinion per curiam, issued October 3, 2000 (Docket No. 213041).
Unpublished opinion per curiam, issued November 15, 2002 (Docket No. 213041).
Issued October 3, 2000 (Docket No. 213041).
461 Mich 471; 606 NW2d 639 (2000).
460 Mich 105; 595 NW2d 832 (1999).
That Robert believed the gun was unloaded is uncontested. Allstate has never argued, as it might have, that Robert did not believe the gun was unloaded. To the contrary, Allstate’s brief in support of its motion for summary disposition notes that Robert pulled the trigger even though “he thought the gun was unloaded.” Even when arguing most recently before this Court, counsel for Allstate said, “It is a fact that he subjectively believed that the gun was unloaded,” and, “Subjectively he believed it wasn’t loaded.” Because Allstate did not contest this issue, there is no disputed issue of fact regarding his belief.
This is essentially what happened in Freeman. | [
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Person, J.
One Charles G. Bush brought an action against the relator in the circuit court for the county of Charlevoix to recover for certain commissions alleged to be due on the sale of lands. The action was tried in July, 1914, beginning on the 7th, and terminating on the 8th. The trial was had before the respondent, who is circuit judge of the twenty-seventh judicial circuit, but who at the time was holding court in the county aforesaid. Before, or during the progress of, the trial, the attorneys for the defendant, relator here, filed a request in writing for findings of law and fact. A copy of this request was served upon the attorneys for plaintiff, and before the conclusion of the trial was brought to the attention of the circuit judge, who stated that he would comply with the request. He announced, however, that his mind was made up as to the merits of the case, and that he should enter judgment for the plaintiff for $3,139. On the same day the clerk did enter judgment 'for this amount without waiting for the special findings. The circuit judge states in his return that this judgment was entered inadevertently by the clerk, without request or direction so to do, and this must be taken as a correct explanation, although the language of the court in announcing his view of the case might well have been understood by the clerk as a direction to enter the judgment at once. The respondent, having closed his work in Charlevoix, returned to his home in Big Rapids, and thereafter mailed his findings of law and fact to the clerk of the court, and these were filed on the 20th day of July aforesaid. No notice of the filing of these findings was given to the attorneys for the relator, and no such notice was directed by the circuit judge to be given. That such special findings had been filed was not discovered by the attorneys for relator until the 20th day o,f the following August; and thereafter, on the 8th day of September, they filed a motion, which was heard by respondent on the 25th day of that month, asking that the judgment be vacated, and that relator have 20 days in which to propose amendments to the findings of fact and law, and to file exceptions. This motion was denied by respondent, and, as stated by him in his return to this court, for the following reasons:
“The motion was not accompanied by the proposed amendments and exceptions, although the request as set forth in the motion referred to them as ‘therein made,’ and counsel did not present for my consideration the amendments and exceptions proposed. The hearing of the motion was held at Charlevoix in the forenoon of September 25, 1914, Mr. R. W. Kane appearing for the motion. Mr. Gilbert was not present and did not appear at this hearing. On my own motion, after calling the attention of counsel to the absence of the proposed amendments and exceptions, I held the hearing open until the afternoon to enable counsel to prepare and present the proposed amendments, stating that I would give counsel all the time reasonably required to properly present the matter so that a proper disposition could be made of all the questions raised. At the afternoon session counsel appeared, but offered no proposed amendments or exceptions, renewing the request for the time asked in the motion. In view of the length of time that had elapsed and the opportunity afforded counsel to prepare and present such amendments and exceptions as they desired, I declined to grant the leave asked. No claim was made by counsel for the motion that the findings were not sufficiently full and definite on the facts and law, nor did counsel point out or indicate wherein or in what respect the findings were erroneous, insufficient, or indefinite.”
On the 12th day of October counsel for the relator brought on a second motion before respondent that the preceding motion be vacated and set aside. No new or further showing was made as the basis for this last motion, nor did counsel then tender any proposed amendments or exceptions. The motion was denied by the circuit judge. Thereupon relator makes this application for a mandamus to compel the respondent to vacate his order last mentioned, and to grant the motion of September 8th, that the judgment be set aside and relator given permission to propose amendments and exceptions to the findings of law and fact.
We believe it is the practice of many circuit judges to have the clerk notify counsel of the filing of findings of law and fact, and of other determinations by the court, and we think this very commendable, but we know of no rule or authoritative requirement that it be done, except as hereinafter stated.
Counsel are supposed to take notice of all orders and judgments entered during term. There is, however, a statutory provision that the clerk shall give notice to the parties or their attorneys of any judgment entered in vacation, in such manner as the circuit court shall, by general or special order, direct. Section 10265, 8 Comp. Laws; 4 How. Stat. (2d Ed.) § 11847. And it is from the entry of the judgment that the period begins to run in which amendments may be proposed to the findings of fact and law, and not from the filing of such findings. Circuit Court Rule No. 26 (b).
And upon the trial of an issue of fact by the court without a jury, the judgment cannot properly be entered until after the findings of fact and law shall have been filed. Stansell v. Corning, 21 Mich. 242; Ells v. Rector, 32 Mich. 379. The findings are the basis for the judgment; yet a judgment inadvertently entered before the filing of the findings is not void, and may “be regarded as in the nature of provisional action, which only becomes perfected when the findings are completed.” O’Blinskie v. Circuit Judge, 34 Mich. 62; Preger v. Barnett, 175 Mich. 494 (141 N. W. 587). And the time for proposing amendments to the findings should date from the day when the judgment properly could have been taken. O’Blinksie v. Circuit Judge, supra. We are not informed by this record whether the findings of fact and law were filed during term, or were filed during vacation when the parties would be entitled by the statute to notice of the judgment, but in either case, if the premature entry of the judgment tends to deprive any party of his rights, it should, if necessary, be vacated and set aside. Some’injury, however, must be shown; for such a judgment will not be set aside simply as a matter of abstract right.
But we cannot see, on this record, where any right of' the relator has been impaired by the premature judgment. The only injury claimed by him is that the ten days allowed him by rule for the filing of amendments, and the subsequent four days for taking exceptions, had passed before he learned that the findings of the court had been filed. But by the terms of Circuit Court Rule No. 26 amendments to the findings follow the entry of judgment, and do not precede it; and the court has the power to make any reasonable extension of the time for filing them that may be necessary. When the relator made his motion of September 8th, which was really a motion for. further time in which to propose amendments and take exceptions, the court did not peremptorily overrule the motion, but requested relator to submit the amendments which he wished made to the inspection of the court. This the court had a perfect right to do, not only for the dispatch of business, but also to be assured that the proposed amendments were such as should be considered, and not immaterial or frivolous. School District No. 4 of Easton v. Snell, 24 Mich. 350; Slocomb v. Thatcher, 20 Mich. 52; Wiley v. Lovely, 46 Mich. 83 (8 N. W. 716). In fact, the court held the motion open for a time to permit counsel to formulate such amendments and exceptions as he might desire to offer, although there had elapsed some three weeks in which to do this after the discovery that findings had been filed. And when counsel declined to accede to this very proper request of the court, or to render any excuse for not doing so, we think the court was justified in overruling his motion. Even when the order overruling this motion was subsequently sought to be set aside, no proposed amendments or ex ceptions were offered for the consideration of the court. We do not think that relator has been wrongfully deprived of his right to propose amendments and exceptions, and the writ of mandamus must be denied.
The writ is denied.
Brooke, C. J., and Kupin, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Stone, J.
The bill of complaint herein was filed to enforce a mechanic’s lien. The question involved seems to be as to the sufficiency of the description of the premises contained in the statement of lien filed, as affecting the defendant People’s Savings Bank, which alone has appealed from the decree below.
From the statement of facts, in lieu of evidence, contained in the record, we gather the following facts:
On October 27, 1913, the defendant Meyer Finbarg was the owner of a piece of land described as lots. 11 and 12, of block 2, of Hosmer & Earl’s addition to the village of Coopersville, Ottawa county, Mich., except therefrom 40 feet off the east side of said lot 12. On that date the complainant and the defendant Finbarg made and entered into the following written contract, viz.:
“It is agreed between M. Finbarg, party of the first part, and Art Hicks, party of the second part, that, the party of the second part will build, and furnish all material, a cement building and basement of the following size, 35x35 feet, 10 feet high in front and 8 in rear, cellar must be 7 feet deep in the clear, have a cement floor three inches thick, c'ement supporters for upper floor made of blocks, walls to be made of cement blocks above the ground and four feet of concrete in the ground, sidewalk in front of building and in rear of building, five feet wide by thirty-five feet for rear sidewalk, and front sidewalk 2 feet wide by 35 feet. Also a tile shall be laid from cellar to sewer of 6 in. tile. Also a chimney shall be built, flue 10 in. by 10 in., 22 feet high. Then cement steps shall be built in front of building 2 feet wide, also wooden frames will be put up on place by party of the second part. The party of the first part agrees to pay four hundred and fifty dollars upon completion of work.
[Signed]
“Aet Higks.
“M. Finbaeg.”
This agreement was drafted by a Mr. Ter Avest, the cashier of the said People’s Savings Bank, defendant herein, and was signed by the parties thereto, within the knowledge of the said cashier.
Immediatetly after the execution of said contract, the complainant commenced to construct a building as described in the contract, upon a part of the piece of land above described. The construction work was continued with certain temporary interruptions from 'October 27, 1913, until March 30, 1914. There was standing upon a part of said piece of land, at the time of the execution of said contract, an old building of frame construction. Previous to December 10, 1913, the complainant constructed a wall under said old building. On said last-named date the parties to the original contract made a further agreement in writing, on the back of the paper on which the first contract was written, in the following words:
“Dec. 10, 1913.
“Upon completion of the building according to this contract, M. Finbarg agrees to pay forty-five (45) dollars, in addition to contract price, for putting wall under old building belonging to him. Building to be completed in reasonable time.
“M. Finbarg.
“Art Hicks.”
The land owned by defendant Meyer Finbarg consists of the lot, and part of a lot above described. This land lies across the street from a piece of land owned by Frank Hedges, and is between the street, called Main street, and the railroad known as the “D. & M.” Lots 11 and 12 are 50 feet wide, respectively, and the lots in block 2 of Hosmer & Earl’s addition are numbered in order from the west toward the east, thus, 10, 11, 12, 13, No. 13 being farthest east. Lots 13 and that part of lot 12, which was not owned by defendant Finbarg, were and are owned and occupied by the com plainant. The buildings are actually located upon said land as follows: The new building constructed by the complainant begins at the east line of Finbarg’s land, and extends, westward 35 feet, so that its west wall touches the east wall of said old building, under which the new wall was built as above mentioned. The old building extends from that line west to the west line of the property belonging to defendant Finbarg.
On January 13, 1914, the owner, Meyer Finbarg, executed a mortgage to the defendant People’s Savings Bank, of Coopersville, Mich., for the sum of $1,-000, covering the property described in the first paragraph of said statement of facts, which was recorded in the office of the register of deeds, of said county on the following day. This mortgage was executed after the complainant had begun work upon the buildings. As a result of the construction of said new building, and the wall under the old building, in pursuance of said agreements, and after the payment of certain sums by said defendant Finbarg to complainant, there was due to said complainant from said defendant Finbarg, on April 23, 1914, the sum of $207, which was, and is. still, unpaid. The last of the work, and materials furnished by said complainant, were on March 30, 1914. On the 23d day of April, 1914', the complainant made and filed with the register of deeds of said county a verified statement and notice of his lien, in which the premises were described as foilows:
“And that the premises are described as the west one-half of lot twelve, which lies across Main street in the village of Coopersville, from the property owned by Frank Hedges, and between said Main street and the D. & M. Railway Company right of way, and lies right west of lots twelve and thirteen, and the east one-half of lot eleven, in said village of Coopersville, owned and occupied by this affiant.”
In another part of said statement of lien the old building is referred to as an “old building belonging to Finbarg.”
The trial court found for the complainant for the amount claimed by him, and that the same was a lien on the premises described in the notice of lien, and that said bank knew of the work and the construction of said new building at the time said mortgage was taken, and that said mortgage lien would be a subsequent lien to complainant’s lien for the work and material done on said building.
“And it is further found that the land described in said mortgage from said Finbarg to said People’s Savings. Bank of the village of Coopersville, Mich., is as follows: Lots 11 and 12, block 2, Hosmer and Earle’s addition to the village of Coopersville, excepting therefrom 40 feet off the east side of said lot 12; and that Finbarg and People’s Savings Bank understood and knew that the building that said complainant so built for said defendant Finbarg was on the land described in said mortgage, and that the same is, in fact, the land described in the notice of lien, although described in different words and figures.”
Upon this appeal it is the claim of the complainant that the description in the statement and notice of lien is sufficient to locate the land on which the building was erected, and is sufficient for the purpose of a lien. On the other hand, it is the claim of appellant that the statement is insufficient in the following particulars:
(1) The description of the premises therein fails to identify any land or property whatever, and is void.
(2) The name of the owner of the premises supposed to be charged with a lien is no,t correctly given.
Counsel for appellant calls attention to the language of the statute (section 10714, 3 Comp. Laws), which provides that the -statement filed with the register of deeds shall contain “a correct description” of the property to be charged with the lien. He does not claim that a description under this statute must follow any prescribed form of words, or that it must follow any description which had been previously used, but that it must identify some certain premises; in other words, that the premises must be identified by the description used, although external evidence may be used in applying the description. Counsel refers to Sheldon, Kamm & Co. v. Bremer, 166 Mich. 578 (132 N. W. 117), wherein we held that mechanics’ liens rest in strict right, not upon mere equities. It is also urged that the finding of the lower court upon the subject of description was not supported by any evidence. It was stipulated by - counsel that the “statement of facts” in the record should be received by this court “with the same effect as a transcript of the evidence in said suit duly settled and certified by the circuit judge.” Turning to such statement, we first find a correct description of the premises, as containéd in appellant’s mortgage. We further find that:
“Immediately after the execution of said contract, the complainant commenced to construct a building as described in the contract upon a part of the piece of land above described.”
Also:
“There was standing upon a part of said piece of land at the time of the execution of said contract, an old building of frame construction.”
It further appears as a fact that the land owned by defendant Finbarg
“lies across the street from a piece of land owned by Frank Hedges, and is between the street called Main street, and the railroad known as the ‘D. & M.’ Lots 11 and 12 are 50 feet wide, respectively, and the lots in block 2 of Hosmer & Earl’s addition are numbered in order from the west toward the east, thus, 10, 11, 12, and 13 from the west, No. 13 being farthest east. Lot 13 and that part of lot 12 which was not owned by Finbarg were and are owned and occupied by the complainant, Art Hicks.”
Applying the rule as stated by counsel for appellant that, “to constitute a valid lien under the statute, the lot or land on which the building is situated should be described with such certainty that it may be definitely ascertained and located,” the pertinent question is whether there was sufficient evidence to support the finding, that “the land described in said mortgage is in fact the land described in the notice of lien, although described in different words and-figures.”
We are of the opinion that, although the description in the statement and notice of lien was ambiguous, yet that there was sufficient evidence to identify it as the same land as that described in the mortgage. In addition to what has been already stated, it appeared that the land owned by defendant Finbarg was across the street from a piece of land owned by Frank Hedges, was between the street called Main street and the railroad known as the “D. & M.,” and was bounded on the east by land owned and occupied by the complainant. Is there any doubt that the premises described in the statement and notice of lien, in the light of this record, could be definitely ascertained and located? We think not. False and impossible parts of descriptions in conveyances may be rejected, where, by doing so, a good description remains. Tuthill v. Katz, 163 Mich. 618 (128 N. W. 757), and cases there cited.
2. The remaining claim urged by appellant’s counsel is that the statement of lien is insufficient because it fails to give the name of the owner of the premises, and does not show that his name is unknown. The specific objection is that the name of M. Finbarg was used, the correct name of the defendant being Meyer Finbarg. In the contract signed by the parties, the name M. Finbarg was used throughout, and it was so signed. As there is no dispute as to the identity of the person or party, we think this claim purely technical, and without merit.
The decree of the circuit court is affirmed, and the complainant will recover his costs in this court against the defendant People’s Savings Bank.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Ostrander, Bird, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Moore, J.
The trial judge charged the jury in part as follows:
“The plaintiff, the Hydrex Silent Exhaust Works, a corporation, and manufacturers of the Hydrex silent exhaust silencer, claims that the defendant, the Seager Engine Works, a corporation, was employed to manufacture certain gasoline engines for the Lackawanna Manufacturing Company to be equipped with the Hydrex engine exhaust silencer, and to obtain the silencer their plant agreed with plaintiff upon terms of purchase, and gave plaintiff orders for 275 silencers to be specially made; that they manufactured the silencers ordered, and delivered 146 of them to defendant, for which the defendant has paid, and had the remainder for delivery and offered delivery of them to defendant, and defendant refused to take them; that, being a special make, the silencers were held in plaintiff’s storeroom subject to defendant’s order until the storeroom burned in January, 1914, when they were destroyed by fire.
“This suit was brought to recover the value of the silencers ordered by defendant and manufactured on such orders by plaintiff and refused to be taken and paid for by defendant. Defendant denies that it ever entered into contract with plaintiff, and denies that it ever gave orders of purchase of the silencers. It admits making a contract with the Lackawanna Manufacturing Company under which it was to manufacture gasoline engines for the Lackawanna Manufacturing Company to be equipped with silencers; that it was agreed with Mr. Hall, who made the contract for the Lackawanna Manufacturing Company, and also was president and general manager of both the Lackawanna Company and the plaintiff company, that it would be absurd for the plaintiff company to sell silencers to defendant to go with the gasoline engines made for the Lackawanna Company, because, if that was done, a charge of 10 per cent, would have to be added merely for their passing through this shop, and because of the relations between the plaintiff company and the Lackawanna Company the silencers should be furnished to the Lackawanna Company by the plaintiff, and not by the plaintiff to defendant. Defendant also claims that the orders given by its purchasing agent to plaintiff for silencers were not purchasing orders, but were memorandum under the agreement with Mr. Hall that the plaintiff might know what silencers it furnished the Lackawanna Company through the defendant. * * *
“Plaintiff, in order to recover, must satisfy you by a preponderance of the evidence that there was a contract of sale of the silencers to defendant. A contract of sale, to be valid, must designate the kind of articles, the subject of the sale and the price to be paid; and such a contract may be partly in writing and partly verbal, provided it has been performed in part after its making. So in this case the parties were at liberty to contract for the silencers, and to agree verbally upon the price to be paid for the same. And if you find that with an agreement as to the price of the silencers to be paid for on orders given for the same defendant gave written orders for specified silencers, and such orders were accepted by plaintiff and performed in part by delivery of some of the silencers, then there was a valid contract, and, if plaintiff made the silencers under such a contract, then defendant was under obligation to take and pay for the same when offered delivery of what it had ordered. * * *
“You are to have in mind that, in order to make a contract binding between parties, the minds of the parties must have met upon the subject-matter of the contract. One may not be held to have made a contract unless it was his intention to make a contract. That intention is to be gathered from the writings entered into, providing the writing covers the matter. In case the writing does not cover all of the claimed contract, and a part of it is claimed to have rested in mere words passing between the parties, then the jury should take into consideration, not only the writing, but all the evidence disclosed relating to the intention and understanding of the parties upon the question of contract or no contract. * * *
“Was there a contract made between these parties? Was it understood and agreed between the defendant company and the plaintiff company that the silencers to be used upon the Lackawanna gasoline engine should be the silencer manufactured by the plaintiff company, and that this silencer should be sold and charged to the defendant company? * * *
“Was there a contract under which plaintiff was to manufacture for defendant at agreed prices special designs of silencer, and under which defendant was to accept and pay for the same, or was the manufacture of silencers for the Lackawanna Manufacturing Company, and not for defendant, and the dealings between plaintiff and defendant relative to the silencers less than contract relations for the sale by plaintiff to defendant and purchase by defendant from plaintiff of the silencers in question? * * *
“Was it the intention of these parties, the one in giving the order, and the other in making the silencer, that there was a contract binding upon the defendant to buy and take, and upon the plaintiff to make and' to sell, the silencer in question? If any order was given as a purchase.and accepted by the plaintiff, and the goods made and some of them delivered, and the rest of them ready for delivery and tender of delivery made, then there was a good contract. If the order was given, on the other hand, under ah arrangement that it should operate merely as a memoranda, so that it might be known afterwards, in case of inquiry, what silencers, if any, were furnished to go with the Lackawanna Company engine through the shop of the defendant, and without a contract that such silencer should be paid for by the defendant company, then there was no contract upon the giving of these orders. I mean by that this: These orders may be explained. The defendant is at liberty to come in here and ex plain the circumstances under which they were given so far as such circumstances were known to the plaintiff. The defendant claims that the orders were given after an agreement between the defendant company and the plaintiff company that the silencers should be furnished, not to defendant company, but to the Lackawanna Company. * * *
“If the silencers were made to order, then, when completed and tendered defendant, in case they were tendered, and in case you find there was a valid con-' tract, then they became the property of the defendant, and plaintiff might store them subject to defendant’s order, and in case of their destruction by fire the loss was that of defendant, and does not excuse defendant from paying for the same.
“Now, it is the claim of the plaintiff in this case that this was an order for a specially made silencer, and because of its special make upon the order of the defendant it completed them and tendered them to the defendant company, and upon its refusal to take them, the title having passed, it held them as the property of the defendant company and subject to defendant’s order; that in January, 1914, while they were being stored subject to defendant’s order, they were destroyed by fire. If they were made upon the special order, a special design of silencers, if there was a valid contract between the parties, then it was the duty of the defendant to take them when completed and ready for delivery and, if it refused, and after that they were destroyed by fire, the loss must fall' upon the defendant. * * *
“The item I have just given, being the amount claimed by the plaintiff, is $439.75. The defendant claims it does not owe the plaintiff anything, and that the payments made upon the silencers delivered were not intended as a recognition of an obligation; and the defendant has explained the circumstances under which he claims such payments were made.
“If you find for the plaintiff, then you will determine the amount due the plaintiff, and award the plaintiff the interest at the rate of 5 per cent, per annum from the 20th day of May, 1912. In case you cannot find from the evidence and by a preponderance of it that there was a contract made as claimed by the plaintiff, then your verdict will be that of no cause of action.”
A verdict was rendered for plaintiff, and judgment, entered thereon. Later a motion was made for a new trial. The judge overruled that motion, giving his. reasons in writing for doing so. The case is brought, here by writ of error.
Counsel for appellant say the questions involved are:
(1) Was the verdict of the jury supported by the weight of testimony?
(2) Should the motion of a new trial have been granted on the ground of newly discovered evidence ?
(3) Did the court err in his charge to the jury relative to the special design of the silencers ?
(4) Did the court err in submitting the question of •an oral agreement as to price and design of silencers, to the jury?
(5) ' Did the court err in refusing to admit evidence-as to the terms of settlement between the Lackawanna Manufacturing Company and the defendant and in excluding the Defendant’s Exhibit 6?
(6) Did the court err in refusing to consider the silencers offered as physical exhibit in connection with a motion for a new trial ?
(7) Did the court err in refusing to strike out the Plaintiff’s Exhibits 2, 3, 4, and 5?
(8) Should the defendant have been permitted to show that the Plaintiff’s Exhibit J was a routine letter ?
We approach these questions in the order in which they are presented in the brief:
1. It is argued that plaintiff’s case depends wholly upon the testimony of Mr. Hall, and that the weight of testimony is against him. An examination of the record does not sustain this contention. It shows a sharp conflict in the testimony; witnesses flatly contradicting each other. There are letters and order sheets that standing by themselves tend to support the testimony of Mr. Hall. There is testimony on the part of defendant explaining these letters and the giving of the order sheets, which explanation, if accepted, would do away with that tendency. There were two payments made by the defendant which tend to support the claim of the plaintiff. Explanations are made of the circumstances under which these payments were made, which explanations, if accepted, would remove, that tendency. All this testimony is within the domain of fact, and presented a case for the jury. Gardiner v. Courtright, 165 Mich. 54 (130 N. W. 322), and the many cases cited therein. Druck v. Lime Co., 177 Mich. 364 (143 N. W. 59), and the cases cited therein.
2. Should the motion for a new trial have been granted on the ground of newly discovered evidence? In overruling the motion the trial court said:
“The so-called newly discovered evidence is no more than cumulative upon one of the issues presented by defendant at the trial. Defendant’s witness Bert Wood-ruff testified that he examined all the silencers sent out by defendant, and that none of them had a flange, and now to open the case for the purpose of letting others testify that the silencers Woodruff examined and others did not have flanges and to bring some of such silencers into court would only be adding some testimony to that already in the case.”
A reference to the record shows that Mr. Woodruff was employed in the stockroom, and that he examined all of the silencers that ci'me to the stockroom, and that:
“Those silencers were not provided with a flange at the inlet end. * * *
“Q. Then the figure that you have marked here with the pencil is the figure that you identified as being the same as the silencer that you examined?
“A. The same as the silencer I was taking card of in the stock room.
“Q. Were there a large number of these silencers?
“A. The nearest I could remember was something ■near 10 or a dozen that were taken care of especially by me and examined. There may have been more, but not handled by me. All I remember is approximately 10 or 12 that I personally handled.”
The amended declaration was filed in April, 1914. In referring to the contract which is the basis of this litigation, it is said:
“For that whereas heretofore, to wit, on the 11th day of March, 1911, at New York, in the State of New York, the plaintiff and defendant entered into a contract whereby the plaintiff agreed to manufacture and sell to plaintiff (defendant) a quantity of specially manufactured engine parts to wit, 275 Hydrex engine exhaust silencers, and the sai$ defendant agreed to accept and pay for the same the sum of $955.35.”
The case was tried in December, 1914, so that for eight months before the trial defendant knew it was claimed the silencers were of special manufacture. The motion for a new trial was filed within a month after the judgment was rendered. The so-called newly discovered evidence was to contradict the plaintiff when he testified the silencers were of special design and would be along the same line as the testimony of Mr. Woodruff, and is clearly cumulative. It is not explained why, if the same diligence had been used between the filing of the amended declaration and the trial that, was used after the trial, the testimony might not have been produced upon the trial.
In Canfield v. City of Jackson, 112 Mich. 120 (70 N. W. 444), it was said:
“ ‘A motion for a new trial upon the ground of newly discovered evidence is not regarded with favor. The policy of the law is to require of parties care, diligence, and vigilance in securing and presenting evidence/ Elliott, App. Proc. § 857. To entitle one to a new trial upon this ground it should be shown: First, that the evidence, and not merely its materiality, be newly discovered; second, that the evidence be not cumulative merely; third, that it be such as to render a different result probable on a retrial of the cause; fourth, that the party could not with reasonable diligence have discovered and produced it at the trial. Hayne, New Trial & App. §§ 88-92, and many cases there cited; Gray v. Barton, 62 Mich. 186 [28 N. W. 813].”
We do not think there has been such an abuse of the discretion of the trial judge as to call for our intervention. See Burke v. Traction & Electric Co., 147 Mich. 172 (110 N. W. 524); Leonard v. Leahy, 169 Mich. 406 (135 N. W. 335); National Surety Co. v. Grant, 177 Mich. 348 (143 N. W. 5).
3. Did the court err in his charge to the jury relative to the special design of the silencers? It is the claim of counsel for defendant that the court erred in that part of the charge which we have quoted by omitting any reference to the obligation of the plaintiff to minimize the loss. Counsel say it is not sufficient that goods should be “specially ordered,” but it is also essential that the goods should have had no market value. We have been unable to find in the record any request proffered on the part of the defendant asking the judge to charge upon the subject of minimizing the loss.
In discussing the respective rights of the vendor and vendee the following has been stated:
“The vendor of present property in a suit against the vendee, for not taking and paying for the property, has a choice ordinarily of one of three remedies: (1) He may store or retain the property for the vendee and sue him for the entire price; (2) he may sell the property, acting as agent for this purpose of the vendee, and recover the difference between the contract price and the price of resale; or (3) he may keep the property as his own and recover the difference between the market price at the time and place of delivery and the contract price.” Benjamin on Sales (7th Am. Ed.), p. 820.
In 1 Mechem on Sales, § 754, it is said:
“Under a contract for the manufacture of an article, as for the building of a ship or the construction of any other chattel, not existing in specie at the time of making the contract, it is the general rule that no title vests in the purchaser during the progress of the work, nor until the chattel is finished and delivered, or at least is ready for delivery, and, by tender or other equivalent act is appropriated to the buyer. A few cases hold that the title will not pass until there has been, on the part of the buyer, either an acceptance of the chattel or some “acts or words respecting it from which an acceptance can be inferred.” But, by the weight of authority, acceptance by the buyer is not indispensable. If the chattel is produced at the time, and of the kind and quality specified, and in all other respects in compliance with the order, so that the buyer ought to accept it, the title will pass upon a tender or offer of delivery, even though the buyer refuses to accept it.”
See, also, Whitcomb v. Whitney, 24 Mich. 486; Haynes v. Quay, 134 Mich. 229 (95 N. W. 1082).
In Black River Lumber Co. v. Warner, 93 Mo. 374 (6 S. W. 210), the following language is used in the opinion:
“Where, however, the subject-matter of the contract is a specific article to be manufactured by the vendor for the vendee, and the vendor has completed his contract, and performed all that the contract requires him to do, it is but just and fair that his damages, in case of a refusal of the vendee to accept the article, should be the contract price. The vendor will, of course, in such case, hold the property for the vendee. And so it has been held in a number of cases. As some of them we cite Shawhan v. Van Nest, 25 Ohio St. 490 [18 Am. Rep. 313]; Ballentine v. Robinson, 46 Pa. 177; Smith v. Wheeler, 7 Or. 49 [33 Am. Rep. 698].
See, also, Goddard v. Binney, 115 Mass. 450 (15 Am. Rep. 112), and other cases found in the brief of counsel.
5. Did the court err in his rulings about the settlement between defendant and the Lackawanna Manufacturing Company ? It is true, as contended by counsel, that both companies had the same manager, and some of the same stockholders, though it is a matter of dispute when Mr. Hall severed his relations with the Lackawanna Manufacturing Company, but it is a fact that the corporations were separate entities. To enter upon the terms of settlement between the defendant and a corporation not a party to the record would open a new field of inquiry. Could plaintiff dispute what was claimed by defendant as to the settlement? To ask the question is to suggest that a new issue would be presented which is not the subject of litigation herein. The pivotal question was, Between whom was the contract made ?
We have discussed the important and determining questions, and will content ourselves with saying we have examined the other assignments of error, and think them not well taken.
judgment is affirmed.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Bird, J.
This bill in aid of execution is filed by complainant, as a judgment creditor of the Truscott Boat Manufacturing Company, to set aside a conveyance of certain premises situate in the city of St. Joseph, made hy it to the National Boat & Engine Company, on the theory that it was in fraud of its creditors. Defendant Mann demurred to the bill, and upon a hearing thereof the demurrer was overruled.
The bill alleges that complainant on December 20, 1910, recovered a judgment for damages and costs in the St. Joseph circuit court against the Truscott Company in the sum of $10,163.58, and that thereafter execution was duly issued out of said court and levied upon said premises. Then follows the usual allegations in such a bill. In addition to them, it is alleged that the Truscott Boat Manufacturing Company in December, 1910, was engaged in manufacturing motor boáts in the city of St. Joseph; that it was then a going and solvent concern, and was the owner of real and personal property amounting to the sum of $100,-000, and that its indebtedness did not exceed $25,000; that, while its financial affairs were in this condition, it was induced to and did enter a merger of boat companies to be called the National Boat & Engine Company, a Maine corporation. The consideration therefor was preferred and common stock of the National Boat & Engine Company in the amount of $542,170,. and first mortgage bonds of that company in the sum of $42,000. These stocks and bonds were turned over to and accepted by the stockholders of the Truscott. Company in consideration of a conveyance of all of its corporate property. After said transfers of the Truscott Company, and the transfers of the other companies constituting said merger, the said National Boat & Engine Company executed a trust deed upon the entire assets conveyed to them to the Astor Trust Company to secure an issue of bonds of $3,000,000. Subsequently William H. Mann was substituted as trustee in place of the Astor Trust Company.
It is further represented that the said National Boat & Engine Company was declared bankrupt in the District Court of the United States for the District of Maine on or about the 15th day of September, 1911, and that such proceedings were thereafter had that one Walter I. Woodman was appointed trustee in bankruptcy of the estate of said bankrupt, and that the said Walter I. Woodman claims to be in possession of the real estate, the buildings, and manufacturing plant of the said Truscott Company in said city of St. Joseph. It is further charged that the Truscott Boat Manufacturing Company in and by said transfers divested itself of all of its property, and on information and belief it is charged that the National Boat & Engine Company was a corporation without capital, and that it paid no consideration for said conveyances from the said Truscott Company, and that said transfers are fraudulent and void, and were made for the purpose of defrauding the complainant and the other creditors of the said Truscott Company, and delaying the collection of their judgments. And the following relief is prayed for:
(a) “That the warranty deed whereby said premises were conveyed to the National Boat & Engine Company may be decreed to be null and void.”
(b) “That said trust deed to the Astor Trust Company as trustee be decreed null and void so far as the premises in question are concerned.”
(c) “That said Walter I. Woodman, trustee in bankruptcy, be decreed to have no interest whatever in the premises described in paragraph 2 of this bill of complaint, as trustee in bankruptcy of the National Boat & Engine Company, and that said Walter I. Woodman be enjoined from asserting any rights of possession or ownership over said premises, and especially the said Walter I. Woodman, as trustee, be enjoined by the final decree of this court from selling, mortgaging, or offering for sale the said premises, and from in any manner- interfering with the sale of said premises pursuant to the final decree of this court.”
(d) “That said William H. Mann, as successor in trust to the Astor Trust Company, be enjoined from asserting any right or control over said premises by virtue of said trust deed, and the said William H. Mann, as such trustee, be enjoined from the foreclosure of said trust deed, or taking any action whatever thereunder in any manner interfering with the sale of said property and conveyance to the purchaser under sale of a title free and clear of any claim or lien which said William H. Mann, as trustee, but for the said decree, might assert under said trust deed against said premises.”
(e) “That said property described in the bill of complaint be. decreed to be the property in fee simple of the Truscott Boat & Engine Company, free and clear from any claims of the National Boat & Engine Company, or of Walter I. Woodman, its trustee in bank ruptcy, and free and clear of any claims or liens of William H. Mann, as successor in trust to the Astor Trust Company, under said trust deed.”
With a further prayer for general relief.
The grounds of demurrer are:
“(1) That the allegation in the sixteenth paragraph of said bill of complaint that the trust deed dated October 1, 1910, from the National Boat & Engine Company to the Astor Trust Company, is fraudulent and void, and constitutes a cloud upon the title of the premises in said bill of complaint described, is a mere conclusion of law, and that the said bill of complaint contains no allegations of fact upon which the complainant is entitled to any relief as against this defendant.
“ (2) The' said complainant in the twelfth paragraph of its said bill of complaint alleges that $42,000 of the bonds of the National Boat & Engine Company, which were delivered to the stockholders of the Truscott Boat Manufacturing Company, were secured by the said mortgage to the Astor Trust Company under which this defendant is trustee as the successor of the said Astor Trust Company.
“(3) It does not appear from the said bill of complaint that this defendant, or his predecessor-in said trust, had any notice of the claims of the complainant in said bill of complaint set forth prior to the delivery of the said Astor Trust Company mortgage, or prior to its recording, or prior to the issuance and sale of the bonds thereby secured.
“ (4) It does not appear from the said bill of complaint that the bondholders, who have paid value for their bonds secured by the said trust deed to the Astor Trust Company under which this defendant is successor in trust, had any notice of the claims of the said complainant prior to the purchase by the said bondholders of their said bonds.
“(5) It does not appear from the said bill of complaint that the rights of the beneficiaries of the said Astor Trust Company mortgage, under which this defendant is successor in trust, are inferior to the rights claimed by the complainant in this cause.
“(6) The said complainant does not in and by its said bill of complaint offer to redeem the property on which it claims a lien, and in which it can obtain its rights only by first paying the indebtedness secured by the deed of trust of the National Boat & Engine Company to the Astor Trust Company, under which this defendant is successor in trust.
“ (7) It appears from the said bill of complaint that this court has no jurisdiction of the subject-matter of the said bill of complaint, but that the jurisdiction of said subject-matter is with the District Court of the United States in and for the District of Maine.”
1. It is asserted in support of the demurrer on the question of jurisdiction that the court in which this proceeding was launched, it being a State court, had no jurisdiction to determine the title of the property in question, because the entire assets, including these premises, are in the possession and under the control of the bankruptcy court, and therefore are in the custody of the law. While counsel for the demurrer does not assert in so many words that, where the res is in the custody of the law, the case must be tried in the bankruptcy court, still his argument implies that. Counsel for complainant concedes that, where the bankruptcy court has possession of the res, it has jurisdiction to determine the question of title between the trustee in bankruptcy and an adverse claimant, but he also insists that, while this is true, the State court has concurrent jurisdiction to determine the same thing. We think the cases of Bardes v. Bank, 178 U. S. 524 (20 Sup. Ct. 1000), and Whitney v. Wenman, 198 U. S. 539 (25 Sup. Ct. 778), settle the controversy in favor of the contention of the complainant. In the Bardes Case the bankruptcy court did not have the custody of the property, which was the subject-matter of the suit, and the court held that the bankruptcy court did not have jurisdiction to entertain the action. In the Whitney Case the court by construction held that the property was in the possession of the bankruptcy court, and therefore held that the question of the title to the property could be adjudicated by that court. Both opinions make it clear that the controversies might have been settled in the State court.
The same question arose in a case in the State of New York, where a creditor sought to enforce his chattel mortgage lien against property in the possession of the bankruptcy court. It was held by the Court of Appeals that the State courts had jurisdiction thereof. Skilton v. Codington, 185 N. Y. 80 (77 N. E. 790, 113 Am. St. Rep. 885). In the course of that opinion it is said (quoting from Eyster v. Gaff, 91 U. S. 521):
“ ‘The opinion seems to have been quite prevalent in many quarters at one time that the moment á man is declared a bankrupt the District Court which has so adjudged draws to itself by that act not only all control of the bankrupt’s property and credits, but that no one can litigate with the assignee contested rights in any other court, except in so far as the Circuit Courts have concurrent jurisdiction, and that other courts can proceed no further in suits of.which they had at that time full cognizance, and it was a prevalent practice to bring any person who contested with the assignee any matter growing out of disputed rights of property or of contracts into the bankrupt court by the service of a rule to show cause, and dispose of their rights in a summary way. This court has steadily set its fact against this view. The debtor of a bankrupt or the man who contests the right to real or personal property with him loses none of those rights by the bankruptcy of his adversary. The same courts remain open to him in such contests, and the statute has not divested those courts of jurisdiction in such actions.’
“This statement is quoted with approval by Judge Gray in Bardes v. Bank, supra. Of course, we do not mean to assert that under the judgment of the State court the fund or property could be taken from-the possession of the bankruptcy court; the contrary is the law.”
The jurisdiction of the bankruptcy court appears to turn upon the question whether or not it has the possession of the fund or property over which the controversy arises. If it has such possession, jurisdiction follows. If it does not have possession, it is without jurisdiction. In cases of this character, where the bankruptcy court has no jurisdiction, the State court has jurisdiction. In cases where the bankruptcy court has jurisdiction, the State court has concurrent jurisdiction with it.
2. As to the other causes of demurrer aside from the one of jurisdiction, the chancellor, in passing upon it, observed that:
“It seems unnecessary to consider assignments number 1 to 6, inclusive. Such claims may or may not warrant a denial of the bill on final hearing after the evidence is all in.”
After considering these causes of demurrer, we are led to the same conclusion. Should complainant establish the allegations of his bill to the satisfaction of the chancellor at the hearing, it will be entitled to some relief.
The order overruling the demurrer is affirmed.
Stone, C. J., and Kuhn, Moore, Steere, and Brooke, JJ., concurred with Bird, J.
Ostrander, J. I think the court is without jurisdiction.
The late Justice McAlvay took no part in this decision. | [
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Bird, J.
Claimant was a carpenter foreman in the employ of his brother, David Clark, who was erecting a dwelling on Churchill avenue, in the city of Detroit. David also owned the adjoining lot upon which he in tended to erect a dwelling, and had let the contract to excavate for the cellar. Claimant received instructions from him to permit no building materials for other dwellings being erected in the vicinity, to be deposited on the adjoining lot. On March 23d two men with a wagon load of bricks drove onto the adjoining lot and began unloading them. Claimant advised them that the bricks were not for his employer, and warned them to desist. They refused- to obey the instructions, and then a fight ensued, in which claimant got the better of it. The following day the teamster returned with a reserve force, with the evident purpose of “getting even.” Some intemperate language passed between them and claimant, who was at work on the rear porch. David overheard the talk in the basement, and came out and ordered them away. They refused to go, and he engaged in a fight with them. Claimant, thinking that his brother David needed help, went to his aid and kept back some of the reserve force, but did not himself engage in the fight. While so engaged, one of the assailants threw an iron missile and struck claimant in the eye, thereby permanently destroying the sight. Compensation was demanded by him under Act No. 10, Extra Session 1912. The insurance company refused to respond, and he thereupon made an application to the Industrial Accident Board. The claim took the usual course before the board, and resulted in allowance being made of $10 per week for 100 weeks. Respondents have brought the proceedings here for review, with the claim that the award should be set aside on the ground that the injury did not arise out of and in the course of claimant’s employment within the meaning of said act.
The theory upon which claimant seeks to bring his claim under the statute, is that he received the injury while protecting his master’s property against trespassers. Testifying as to his duties claimant said:
“I was in fact over all of the excavating, and from then on up until the work was finished, representing my brother when he wasn’t there and when he was there.”
Conceding claimant’s authority and duty as are stated, he fails to make a satisfactory connection between them and his acts at the time he received the injury. Had he received the injury on the previous day while he was endeavoring to protect his master’s property against trespassers, the connection would be obvious. That incident happened the previous day, and appeared to be a closed incident except for the ill feeling which it engendered. The following day the same parties reappeared, not for a like purpose as on the previous day, but evidently for the purpose of getting revenge, although they claimed to be in search of a lost work ticket. They assailed claimant with words only, but their attitude toward him was threatening. David overheard it and came out of the basement and took- charge of the controversy himself. After he had •engaged in the fight and appeared to be succeeding, •claimant, who had been an observer, came unsolicited to his brother’s aid by keeping off the reserve force, and while doing so was hit with a flying missile and injured. It may have been commendable in him to volunteer to assist" his brother against such great odds, but that does not satisfactorily answer the question what connection his acts had with his employment. He was not called upon to protect his master’s property, as on the previous day. He was not asked to assist his master in the fight on the second day. His action was purely a voluntary one, and it seems to us no different than as though he had discovered the same men fighting with his brother a week afterward ten blocks away, or as though claimant had observed a fight going on across the street and had gone there to get a better view, and while there had been hit by a flying missile and injured. Had claimant remained at his work he would not have been injured. His presence at the place of fighting was in pursuance of no demand of his employment. Neither was it in aid of any material interest of his master. His presence there and the assistance which he rendered was solely in the interest of his master’s personal safety. An injury received under such circumstances cannot be said, under a fair construction of the act, to have, arisen out of and in the course of his employment. See Collins v. Collins, 2 Ir. R. (1907) 104; Mitchinson v. Day Bros., 6 B. W. C. C. 190.
But claimant says he was in charge of his brother’s work while he was away, and also while he was present. If his brother David were present and did not assume to act, claimant probably had the authority to act, but when the master was present, and took personal charge of the matter himself, it necessarily excludes the idea of claimant’s having charge of it.
The finding of the Industrial Accident Board must be reversed, and the award set aside.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Stone, J.
In this case the bill of complaint was filed July 7, 1914, to obtain an injunction to restrain the defendant as the supervisor of the First ward of the city of Grand Haven, from spreading taxes upon the property of complainant on the valuations fixed by the board of review, or on a valuation in excess of that placed thereon by defendant as supervisor. The complainant is a foreign corporation engaged in the manufacture of pianos and player pianos in said city — the same being a city of the fourth class — and having a factory in the First ward thereof. Defendant was, in the year 1914, supervisor of that ward, and as such assessed the real estate of the complainant at $72,000, and its personal property at $59,000, when he made up his assessment roll in the month of April. The board of review of the city met on the second Monday of May and remained in session 24 days thereafter, reviewing the rolls, examining the property throughout the city, and revising the tax rolls as prepared by the supervisors. At its session of June 11, 1914, the board of review, among other actions, increased the assessed valuation of complainant’s real estate to $100,000, and the assessed valuation of its personal property to $100,000. On June 12th, the complainant filed with the board its protest against such increases, which protest was considered by the board on June 13th, and rejected. This protest is set forth in full in the bill of complaint. Thereafter this bill was filed.
We shall consider the claims of complainant in the ■order in which they were treated by the court below. There are three principal propositions:
(1) The claim that the board of review did not keep a suitable record of its proceedings, and that its action was therefore without jurisdiction and void.
(2) The claim that the valuations placed on the real estate and the personal property by the board of review are excessive.
(3) The claim that the supervisors and the board of review omitted from the tax rolls more than $100,-000 in assessable property in the form of household goods, furniture, etc., thereby causing complainant to bear more than its just share of the burden of taxation.
There is in the bill of complaint no express charge that the board acted fraudulently or with any improper intention or purpose. The bill does claim, however, that the action of the board of review under the second and third headings constituted a fraud on complainant and wrongfully and fraudulently would compel complainant to pay more than its just share of taxes in the said city; and, generally, that the action of said board of review «constituted a fraud in law against complainant, which, if not remedied, would compel complainant to pay more than its just share of the burden of taxation in said city. The case, being at issue, was heard, by the trial judge, upon the testimony taken in open court as in a suit at law. The hearing resulted in a decree dismissing the bill of complaint with costs to the defendant. The complainant has appealed.
The record is a voluminous one, for the reason that about 50 witnesses were sworn upon the question of the omission of personal property from the roll. We have read the record with care, and in disposing of the case shall not quote therefrom at any great length.
1. We will consider the claim that the board of review did not keep a sufficient and suitable record of its proceedings. During the progress of the work of the board, one of its members, in the absence of the clerk, kept what might be termed rough minutes or memoranda of its proceedings. They were afterwards filed, with the city clerk, and from them the clerk made up a permanent typewritten record to remain in his office, as.' testified to by him. It appears in evidence-that on June 11th the board acted on the assessments of what are termed manufacturing properties of the city, including complainant’s property. At that time the condition of the roll was as above stated in so far as it relates to complainant’s property. On this day a motion was made to increase the real estate assessment to $100,000, and a further motion was made to increase the personal property assessment of the complainant to $100,000, also. The evidence shows that the roll was called by the chairman, and all the members of the board voted, “Yes.” It further appears that, at the time, the supervisor of the First ward entered in his assessment roll, in the proper columns, the true cash value of the real estate as fixed by the board of review at $100,000, and the same amount as fixed by the board on the personal property. So far as it affected this property, the memorandum was as follows:
Story & Clark Real ........................... $100,000
Personal ....................... 100,000
$200,000
All yes on roll call.
This memorandum of the proceeding was filed with the clerk, as above stated, and from it he made the following permanent typewritten record:
“Moved and supported that Story & Clark Piano Company’s personal assessment be placed at $100,000 and the real at $100,000. Total $200,000. Which motion was carried.”
On June 11th, the attorney for complainant was notified of the board’s action, appeared at the board meeting, examined the rolls, noted the action of the board in increasing the valuations of complainant’s property, and announced that he would file a protest. On June 12th, the same attorney filed with the board a long protest in writing signed by complainant, and, as we have above stated, on June 13th, this protest was considered by the board and rejected.
Upon the foregoing facts, complainant insists that the action of the board of review in increasing the valuation of its property was without jurisdiction, and was void, because the record of its proceedings kept by such board did not comply with the statute.
Section 3323, 1 Comp. Laws, (2 How. Stat. [2d Ed.] § 5853), relates to the assessment and collection of taxes in fourth-class cities. That section requires the board to keep a record of their proceedings and of changes, made in such rolls, and provides that the amounts added to, or deducted from, the total valuation in each ward, shall be entered upon such record, which record shall be deposited with the city clerk, who shall be clerk of said board.
It is, the claim of the defendant that the record kept by the board sufficiently meets the requirements of the statute referred to, and it is urged that the record consists, not only of the brief memorandum complained of, but also of the tax rolls, in which, as each assessment was considered and acted upon, a supervisor set down in the proper column the valuation agreed upon by the board of review. The completed rolls, with the changes made, were duly indorsed by the clerk, and the minutes or memoranda of the proceedings were afterwards filed with the city clerk, and from them the permanent typewritten record was afterwards made by the clerk for his files. It is true that these records do not show, item by item, the several amounts added to or deducted from the supervisors’ valuations; but these amounts can be ascertained by computation, and in our opinion this makes a sufficient record, and is a substantial compliance with the statute. Auditor General v. Ayer, 109 Mich. 694 (67 N. W. 985); Auditor General v. Sparrow, 116 Mich. 574 (74 N. W. 881); Auditor General v. Ayer, 122 Mich. 136 (80 N. W. 997).
The real purpose of the law requiring the keeping of a record is, of course, to enable interested taxpayers, by an examination thereof, to learn what the board of review has done. . Certainly, under the evidence in this case, this record was sufficient to inform the attorney for complainant of what had been done, because we find him promptly filing a protest against the action of the board. Under the statute referred to, when reviewed and certified to, as the roll in question was, it must be conclusively presumed by all courts and tribunals to be valid, and cannot be set aside except for causes mentioned in the general tax law of the State (section 3899, 1 Comp. Laws) relative to the assessment of property and the levy and collection of taxes thereon; and failure of the board of review to keep a record of its proceedings is not one of the causes mentioned in the statute.
Another reason is that, by statute (section 3922, 1 Comp. Laws [1 How. Stat. (2d Ed.) § 1870]) it is provided that no tax assessed upon any property shall be held invalid by any court on account of any irregularity in any assessment, or on account of any other irregularity, informality, or omission, or want of any matter of form or substance in any proceeding, that does not prejudice the property rights of the person whose property is taxed.
This is a curative statute, and, while it cannot cure want of jurisdiction, yet irregularities and omissions which are not jurisdictional, and do not prejudice the property owner, will not void the tax. In our opinion the above statute applies to the failure of the board of review to keep a record of its proceedings. Auditor General v. Iron Co., 132 Mich. 454 (93 N. W. 1080). In that case the single question was presented whether failure of the board of review to keep a record of its proceedings rendered the tax spread upon the roll invalid as against one who had suffered no injury by reason of such omission, and it was held that it did not. It is true that in that case the taxpayer’s property was reduced in value by the board of review, but the point decided was that failure to keep a record would not invalidate the tax where the taxpayer was not injured or prejudiced by the omission to keep such a record; and we think, under the evidence in this case, the complainant was not injured or prejudiced by such claimed omission. Upon this branch of the case the trial court, in its findings, said:
“The proofs show that the board of review kept a record of its proceedings, but it is the claim of the complainant that the record is insufficient to show what action was taken by the board of review. After the board of review raised the valuation of the property of the complainant, the complainant was notified of its action, and complainant filed a protest with the board of review. The protest is set forth in paragraph 6 of the bill of complaint, and fully sets forth the action of the board of review in so far as the proceedings affected the property of the complainant. The protest clearly shows that the complainant had full and complete knowledge of the action of the board of review, and complainant cannot now complain that the record was insufficient to give complainant the desired information.”
We agree with the conclusion reached by the trial judge upon this branch of the case.
2. We will next consider the claim that the valuations placed upon both real estate and personal prop erty by the board of review were excessive. This claim was made by the protest filed. It is worthy of suggestion that, upon the trial of this case, none of the officers or employees of the complainant was produced and sworn as a witness. Neither did the officers present before the board of review, although requested to do so, their inventory and appraisahof the property, both real and personal, or their insurance policies.
It is urged strenuously by counsel for the complainant, in their brief, that the members of the board of review acted, not only carelessly but recklessly, and that such board exercised no proper judgment and followed no proper method in arriving at the valuation of complainant’s property. As we have said, nowhere have they charged fraud or discrimination, or an intentional overvaluation by the members of the board of review.
We have examined with great care the testimony on this branch of the case, and we fail to find any evidence that weakens the testimony of the members of the board, who were sworn, that they exercised their best judgment as to the value of the real estate. And, as to the personal property, there had been a showing that the inventory value of complainant’s personal property on January 1, 1914, was $143,000; that this personal property had been reduced $40,000 since the first of the year; leaving a balance on hand in April; 1914, of $103,000. It is true that complainant asked that this be reduced, but in our judgment it failed to produce any adequate evidence to warrant such reduction, and there is nothing in the record to show that the board of review did not act 'in the utmost good faith in making the assessment of both real estate and personal property. The property of complainant was not the only property the valuation of which was in-' creased. Its assessed value was increased 53 per cent. Nine or ten other manufacturing properties were in creased above the assessed valuations, ranging from 24 per cent, to 265 per cent. The statute provides that the valuation fixed by the board of review must be conclusively held by the courts and tribunals to' be valid, unless it is proved that the board acted without jurisdiction, or fraudulently. Section 3899, supra.
This court has held that, before a court is justified in holding a tax to be illegal because the supervisor or the board of review acted fraudulently, that fact should be clearly shown by the evidence. Williams v. City of Saginaw, 51 Mich. 120 (16 N. W. 260); Peninsula Iron, etc., Co. v. Township of Crystal Falls, 60 Mich. 510 (27 N. W. 666); Brown v. City of Grand Rapids, 83 Mich. 101 (47 N. W. 117); Pioneer Iron Co. v. City of Negaunee, 116 Mich. 430 (74 N. W. 700); Aurora Iron, etc., Co. v. City of Ironwood, 119 Mich. 325 (78 N. W. 126); Power v. City of Detroit, 139 Mich. 30 (102 N. W. 288, 5 Am. & Eng. Ann. Cas. 645); Island Mill Lumber Co. v. City of Alpena, 176 Mich. 575 (142 N. W. 770).
We think the trial court was justified in its finding upon this branch of the case wherein it said:
“The bill of complaint does not allege that the board of review acted fraudulently, from improper motives, or that the valuations were purposely made too high through prejudice, or a reckless disregard of duty. The proofs show that the board of review acted fairly, honestly, and in good faith, and that their only purpose was to fully perform the trust that had been conferred upon them as public officials, that they honestly believed that the property was really worth what it was assessed by them, and that they acted in good faith, in the exercise of their best judgment, in fixing the valuations.”
3. This brings us to consider the claim that the supervisors and the board, of review omitted from the tax rolls more than $100,000 of assessable property in the form of household goods, furniture, etc., thereby causing complainant to bear more than its just share and burden of taxation. In support of its claim the complainant called the four supervisors of the city. We have examined their testimony with care and are impressed with the candor of it. Complainant then called about 50 witnesses, residents of the city, and we have laboriously gone through their testimony. Counsel for appellant have, in their brief, tabulated this testimony; but we are not satisfied with the conclusion there reached. We think the conclusion is not warranted by the testimony of the witnesses. Many of them testified to insurance upon their personal property, household furniture, etc., in larger sums than the value would warrant. In many instances the witnesses testified that their household goods and effects had been in use for many years, and while the insurance was in excess of $500, the exempted amount, yet they testified that in all probability their household goods and effects would not sell for more than $500. In some instances the witnesses had been requested to make statements, and had made statements of their taxable property, omitting household furniture and effects. Two of the supervisors testified that the residents of their wards were laboring people, and they did not believe that they had household goods of a value in excess of $500. That the testimony of these witnesses does not warrant the claim put forth for it, by appellant’s counsel, is evident from the cross-examination of one of them, wherein the following occurred:
“Q. Are the witnesses in this case, Mr. Lillie, that you have subpoenaed and produced, practically all of the residents of this city whom you think might have taxable property?
“A. No, not a quarter of them; and, if the balance of them would come in and swear as some of them have here, I think there would be too many donations that would be required to be taken up, to have them have something in their home to use.
“Q. The witnesses whom you have subpcenaed are some of the leading citizens and leading business men of the city?
“A. Yes, sir.
“Q. You selected them as at least fair samples, or fair representatives, of the better or higher class of householders in the city?
“A. I selected them because I believed that they would have more than some other people here that I knew. Some of them, of course, I was mistaken in; some of the wealthy class haven’t got as much as some of the poor men sworn here.”
We can only consider the testimony as it stands, whether disappointing to counsel or not.
We are not satisfied that any considerable amount of property liable to taxation was omitted from the rolls in the city of Grand Haven, and we say this after carefully reading the entire testimony. We have looked in vain in this record for any claim made by complainant, or its. attorney, before the board, of undervaluations, or any failure to place on the rolls assessable property of any kind. The protest filed in no manner refers to the subject.
This court held, in Fletcher Paper Co. v. City of Alpena, 172 Mich. 35 (137 N. W. 640), that before resorting to either recover taxes paid, or to avoid taxes on the theory that the property of another had been undervalued or omitted from the rolls, the taxpayer must appear before the board of review and complain that other property was assessed too low, or omitted entirely. We think a complete answer to complainant’s claim upon this branch of the case is that it has wholly failed to prove even an inadvertent, unintentional omission from the tax rolls of household goods, furniture, etc., liable to assessment, in any appreciable amount at least, and we are constrained to hold that there is no evidence that any supervisor or member of the board of review intentionally or fraudulently, or intending or desiring to discriminate in any way, omitted from the tax rolls any taxable property; and all of these things complainant is bound to prove before it is entitled to relief.
There is a class of cases in this State where relief has been granted. They are cases in which the taxpayer was held justly to complain; where there was a studied effort or combination on the part of the assessing officers to shift taxation from one class to another, or where the officers designedly discriminated against certain property owners in favor of others, or where large amounts and values of property were designedly left off the rolls. Some of these cases are the following: Merrill v. Humphrey, 24 Mich. 170; Walsh v. King, 74 Mich. 350 (41 N. W. 1080); Solomon v. Township of Oscoda, 77 Mich. 365 (43 N. W. 990); Auditor General v. Jenkinson, 90 Mich. 523 (51 N. W. 643); Auditor General v. Prescott, 94 Mich. 190 (53 N. W. 1058); Auditor General v. Iron Co., 123 Mich. 521 (82 N. W. 260); Fletcher Paper Co. v. City of Alpena, 160 Mich. 462 (125 N. W. 405).
Upon the other hand, this court held, in City of Muskegon v. Boyce, 123 Mich. 535 (82 N. W. 264), that the mere fact that some of the property upon an assessment roll was undervalued, or that taxable property was omitted from the roll, was insufficient to invalidate an assessment; but to have that effect it must also be made to appear that such action on the part of the assessing officer was intentional, and that the person complaining was thereby compelled to pay more than his just proportion of taxes. Neither of these two essential elements was proved to be present in the instant case.
We think the court below reached the correct conclusion wherein it said:
“The proofs fail to show that personal property was intentionally left off from the assessment roll by the board of review. An examinatioñ of the testimony in the case will convince any one that men differ in judgment as to the value , of household goods, but the testimony fails to show that the board of review acted fraudulently or with any design or intention to omit any personal property from the assessment roll. They acted fairly, and exercised their best judgment, and attempted to fully perform their duties, and the complainant has failed to make- out a case for relief.”
The decree below is affirmed, with costs to the defendant.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Ostrander, Bird, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Moore, J.
In April, 1912, the late Senator Thomas W. Palmer and his wife deeded to the city of Port Huron about 10 acres of land. The deed contained the following language:
“It is provided that the intent and purpose of this indenture is to convey to the city of Port Huron the above-described land and premises to be used only as a public park and for such use only the land above-described is conveyed in perpetuity; which said land is to be improved and properly cared for by the grantee herein, and is hereby dedicated to the use of the public forever. And provided further that nothing in this conveyance contained shall be so construed as to defeat reversion to the grantor or his heirs in case said property should ever be used for any other purpose than that above designated.”
The testimony is that the defendant, the North End Improvement Association, is incorporated.
■ “It was organized for the purpose of improving the north end of the city in any way they could, to put it in a more sanitary condition, and trying to induce the people to keep their premises in a sanitary condition, and to beautify-.the same.”
On July 23, 1912, a communication in writing from the North End Improvement Association to the city commission requested permission to build aspavilion on Palmer Park close to the corner of Ghrfield street and Gratiot avenue. On August 14, 1912, permission .in writing was issued by the city commission to the North End Improvement Association to erect this building on the northeast corner of Gratiot avenue and Garfield street, the building to be 16 feet wide, 30 feet long, and 8 feet in height, and was to conform in construction to a type open-pavilion-class building. The building was started in August, 1912, and was completed in October, 1912.
The complainant owns a house and grounds valued .at $5,000 across the street from Palmer Park. He claimed his premises were decreased in value by the erection of the pavilion, that it shut off his view of the river, that it and its surroundings constituted a nuisance, and that it was used simply as a railroad waiting station and was not an adjunct of the park, and filed this bill praying, among other things:
“That the building erected on said park property may be required to be removed. * * * That said premises may be decreed to be used for park purposes only. * * * That your orator may be awarded such damages as it may be shown he has wrongfully sustained. That your orator may have such other and further relief in the premises as equity may require and to your honor may seem meet.”
The city filed an answer in which appears the following:
“Says, however, that it understands that the inhabitants of the city located in the vicinity of the said park are greatly interested therein, and proposed to this defendant that for the purpose of promoting the public convenience, safety, and pleasure, and to facilitate the use by the public of the said park, that they would construct thereon with the permission of the city a public waiting room wherein persons resorting to the park might find shelter in the event of rain, inclement weather, or excessive sunshine. That for this purpose this defendant permitted the erection on the southeast corner of said park, adjoining the street railway, of a small structure designed as a waiting room and public shelter. * * * And submits that under the terms of the gift the officials of the city are made the sole judges as to the character and extent of the changes to be made in the said park and as to what modification thereof is best needed to secure the comfort, convenience, and public enjoyment of the aforesaid park. * * *
“This defendant avers that the building so erected is suitable and sufficient for the purposes for which it is constructed; that its location will best serve the convenience of the public.”
The improvement association also filed an answer. After a full hearing before a circuit judge who lives at Port Huron, he dismissed the bill of complaint. The case is brought here by appeal.
The trial judge filed an elaborate written opinion, from which we quote:
“During the summer of 1912, the North End Improvement Association promoted a scheme to place a building on the southeast corner of said out-lot 16 for reasons which will presently appear. Gratiot avenue is a part of the main thoroughfare through the city of Port Huron in a northerly and southerly direction. In this street and its extensions is a street railway track upon which are operated electric cars. Garfield street is about two miles north of the center of the business part of the city of Port Huron and about two miles south of the northerly city limits. In the northerly part of the city are located .two cemeteries, a large public park, a private park an'd resort, and several beaches which are used by many people, both by inhabitants of the city and by strangers, as summer resorts. During some portions of the year only part of the cars of the street railway are operated north of Garfield street; hence, people going from the city to points north of Garfield street frequently have occasion to wait at this street for cars which will carry them to the cemeteries, parks, or resorts in the northerly part of the city. The main object which the North End Improvement Association had in placing the building heretofore mentioned on the southwest corner of lot 16 was to provide a shelter for people who had occasion to wait for cars at Garfield street.
“In the summer of 1912 this association, by voluntary labor and contributions, cleared the ground of shrubs and rubbish, took down an old unsightly post and wire fence, and constructed a one-story building in its dimensions 10 feet north and south and 30 feet east and west, on the southwest corner of lot 16 directly across Gratiot avenue from complainant’s residence. A partition was run through this building so that the west end of the building nearest Gratiot avenue is an open pavilion 12 feet by 16 feet in size and in the east end an inclosed room about 18 feet by 16 feet in size. This building was constructed of good materials and neatly painted. It was completed as it now stands when this suit was commenced on June 25, 1913. It was lighted by electric lights. This building was planned and constructed with the full knowledge and approval of the city commission of the defendant city, without cost to the city. The object which inspired the North End Improvement Association to construct this building was to furnish a shelter for people who had occasion to wait at Garfield street for the north-bound street cars to the cemeteries, parks, and resorts located in the northerly part of the city. In order that the building might be looked after properly, the North End Improvement Association placed the defendant Mary I. Thayer in charge of the building and gave her permission to sell light refreshments therein such as are usually sold in public parks, as compensation to her for looking after the building. At the time _this hill of complaint was filed. Mrs. Thayer was in charge of the building selling light refreshments therein.
“It is now contended by both defendants that the building is not only useful as a waiting room for street car passengers, but also for such uses in connection with out-lot 16, called Palmer Park, as a pavilion in a public park is usually serviceable, to furnish a shelter for such pleasure and recreation seekers as come to the park, to furnish refreshment, and to provide a shelter to be used in connection with the ice skating rink which it is contemplated to establish during the cold months.
“Both defendants now claim that the construction of this building is but a preliminary step in the improvement of this park so as to make it available and useful for recreation seekers.
“The North End Improvement Association has also made, under the control of the city officials and with their approval, several improvements to out-lot 16 towards making this lot available and serviceable for park purposes, and I find that all that has been done in this way, including the construction of the building, has been done by the North End Improvement Association at the private expense of the members, and with the approval of the city officials, in the utmost of good faith, and with the object in view of the improving of Palmer Park and the benefiting of the north part of the city of Port Huron, and that these efforts have resulted in improving that park and thus directly benefiting the north part of the city of Port Huron, and indirectly the whole of the city.”
The position of complainant is tersely stated by his counsel in the brief as follows:
“The first proposition complainant makes is that this land dedicated to the people of the city of Port Huron as a public park has been subverted to a use foreign to that of a public park for which it was granted to the city.
“We maintain that, when property is dedicated for a public park, abutting property owners have a right to enjoin its use for any other purpose than a park, and that the erection of this building to be used as a transfer station for the patrons of the city electric railway is not using the property as a park.
“The city of Port Huron is merely the trustee of the park, which belongs to the public forever, and as such trustee it is the duty of the city of Port Huron by its officers and agents to cultivate, adorn, and decorate such park for park purposes only, and that to do anything else would be a violation of the trust. .
“We maintain that the building erected as the proofs show has nothing whatever to do with the park as a park; that it was not put there for the purpose of adorning and decorating the park or as an improvement to it, but was put there for the intent and purpose of a waiting room, not for people who wish to visit the park, but for those who, having taken the wrong car to go through to their destination, are obliged to wait on the corner for one going through to-the point they wish to reach.”
If the facts warranted the conclusion of counsel that-the gift of Senator Palmer has been subverted to a use foreign to that of a public park, there is.no doubt that-complainant as an abutting property owner might seek the aid of a court of equity. See 21 Am. & Eng. Enc. Law, p. 1072; City of Chicago v. Ward, 169 Ill. 392 (48 N. E. 927, 38 L. R. A. 849, 61 Am. St. Rep. 185); Church v. City of Portland, 18 Ore. 73 (22 Pac. 528, 6 L. R. A. 259).
We think it helpful to quote some of the testimony. One of the witnesses for the. complainant who did not approve of the building erected, nor of its location, and. who testified it depreciated the vaue of complainant’s property, testified, in part, as follows:
“The most desirable part of that park is on the north side in the grove for picnic purposes. The only" point from which that grove can be reached is from' the corner of Gratiot avenue and Garfield street, except to go around, and in order to reach that high part north of the depression, you have to cross the ravine or depression. I have been over the cinder path and the rustic bridge built by the North End Improvement Association. They offer as short and direct communication with the high ground there perhaps as anywhere.
“Palmer Park is a little over 2% miles from the center of the city, and the citizens desiring to use it for recreation purposes would have to go by street car if they came from the south. That would be the most natural and convenient means of transfer at any time of year. Patrons going to that park by that line of transfer would find it convenient to disembark at the corner and to use the cinder path and rustic bridge to the higher ground on the north side of the park. It is a great convenience to people who visit that park in going to 'and from it in case of storm and inclement weather to have a building there for their protection or anybody who wants to take the car at that point.”
Another witness for complainant testified on cross-examination, in part, as follows:
“Q. In your judgment the acquirement of that property as a public park is no benefit to that locality?
“A. Not at this time.
“Q. Would it be if improved as a park?
“A. Yes.
“Q. It would not be if left in its natural state?
“A. No.
“Q. What would you say as to a building for the accommodation of people coming to the park? Would that be a convenience to the public?
“A. It would be quite a convenience to the public.
“Q. How far is that park located from the center of the city?
“A. I should think it is probably two miles.
“Q. What would be the means of conveying the general public from the downtown district to the park?
' “A. By street car.
“Q. Is it not a necessary convenience for the traveling public, people going to the park, to have located there a building for their accommodation?
“A. If they are going to the’park, yes. * * *
“Q. From your knowledge of parks and real estate, if the city were building a pavilion for the accommodation of patrons of that park, always^ taking into consideration that the city was cultivating that for park purposes, would that be a suitable location from that point?
“A. I think that would be the proper place for it; the cars transfer there, I would think it would. * * *
“Q. Would it not be a convenience to the people using the park and coming to it by the street railway to have that building there to receive them?
“A. I think it would, yes.
“Q. That is true? .
“A. Yes, sir.
“Q. When the park is prepared for a skating rink on that low marshy place, it will be a great convenience to the people coming to that skating rink to have that building there to wait for the cars and to put their wraps there, would it not?
“A. It would be a benefit to the public in that way.
“Q. The public using the park?
“A. Yes. * * * There is a building in Pine Grove Park that has stood there 12 or 15 years. That pavilion has a sort of soft drink place underneath in the summer time. In connection with that building, there are also toilet rooms. From my experience in traveling about the country, I think it is a necessity to have such a building in these parks.
“Q. You think because of the fact that people transfer on that corner, and people going to that park would get off on that corner, and that being the most accessible point to the park for people coming on street cars, that is the proper place for such a building, if you are going to have one in the park?
“A. I take it, if the city is going to build a building, that would be the proper place.”
One of the witnesses for defendants testified, in part:
“The preparation of the ground and the construction of the building has made Palmer Park more desirable for park purposes. It is an improvement to the corner there. It is a starter. We have a starter, and if they continue on they will soon make the park a great place for private picnics. In my estimation, it has made the park more desirable since these improvements have been made, for little picnics and park purposes other than it was before, and the building is used as park pavilion as much as it is for a waiting room.”
Another witness testified, in part:
“Q. That park there has not been so developed as to make it a place for people to go and congregate for park purposes?
“A. I have seen a number of people there at once.
“Q. In what part of the 10 acres were they?
“A. In the low portion of the park.
“Q. You did not see any of them having occasion to use this building?
“A. They used the building because they were skating, a hundred or more at a time,.and I have seen them going from the pavilion down there and skating in the winter time.
“Q. They were using McNeil creek to skate on as you passed four times a day?
“A. Yes, sir.”
A member of the improvement association testified, in part:
“I am a member of the North End Improvement Association, and am familiar with the purposes of that association. It is composed of citizens in the north end and some from other parts of the city. The purposes and objects are set forth in our articles of association.
“Q. What can you say to the court as to what the policy of the association is as to this pavilion and waiting room, and whether or not the work is to stop there, or whether it is the purpose of the association to carry the work further ?
“A. The.work as projected was partially for the waiting room and partially for a pavilion for the park. It was partially outlined to make improvements on the park, as funds of the association could be gotten together by voluntary work of the members and sympathizers in this work.
“Q. Now, has the end of the project been reached by the construction of this building?
A. By no means.
“Q. Tell the court what that purpose is?
“A. * * * First, the building has not been completed as outlined. Further, the matter was talked over of connecting the two parts of the park by a rustic bridge and cleaning up and making the park presentable, so it would be more like a park for park purposes. Of course, it cannot be done all at once with voluntary subscriptions. The matter of' rest rooms and toilet rooms has been talked over several times, and, as to toilet rooms, that matter was discussed at one of our last meetings, and generally agreed upon that, it being an open building, it would be impractical to put in toilets with the water flushed, but it was talked of putting in a dry closet, which can be made very sanitary and put in very cheaply. It _ is the intention to continue this work of which the building of this pavilion is but the beginning and the installation of toilet rooms and rest rooms for the accommodation of the people who are obliged to assemble there at this point, and for whose benefit this waiting room was constructed.”
There was testimony as follows:
“The object 'of the association is to improve the conditions in the north end of the city wherever we have an opportunity. I think it was at least partly due to our influence that Elmwood street bridge was placed back in place, and the road fixed in condition and the bridge over. We built the pavilion in Palmer Park, cleared the ground, built a rustic bridge, and cinder path. The purpose of having that building on the corner of the park was as a pavilion for the park and the other as a waiting room.”
On examination by Mr. Wellman, witness stated:
“I have visited parks in other cities. In any parks that I have ever seen, there has been a waiting room of some sort to accommodate the people, for people coming and going. That is a recognized park purpose. * * * The majority of the land in that park is low. There is not much difference between the quantities of high land on the south side and that on the north side of the ravine. In connection 'with the use of the pavilion during the winter months, we have made arrangements to block McNeil creek up and flood that low ground and make a skating rink for the people, and to take the question up of opening up that pavilion and put in a heating system so that people may go in there and hang up their clothing and put on their skates, etc. That is part of the program planned by the association for this winter. I think Mr. Draper has the written resolution to that effect.
“The resolution was received in evidence.”
In Words and Phrases there are several definitions of the words “park” and “public park.” One of them xeads:
“A park is variously defined to be a pleasure ground in or near a city, set apart for the recreation of the public; a piece of ground inclosed for the purposes of pleasure, exercise, amusement or ornament; a place for the resort of the public for recreation, air and light; -a place open for every one. State, ex rel. Attorney General, v. Schweickardt, 109 Mo. 496, 19 S. W. 47, 51 (citing Perrin v. New York Cent. R. Co., 36 N. Y. 120; Price v. Inhabitants of City of Plainfield, 40 N. J. Law [11 Vroom] 613).”
..Another definition is:
“In its common and ordinary significance, a public park is an open or inclosed tract of land and adapted for, set apart, maintained at public expense, and demoted to the purposes of pleasure, recreation, ornament, light and air for the inhabitants of the town near or in which it is located.” 3 McQuillin, Mun. ■Corp., pp. 2533, 2534, and cases cited in footnote.
In 28 Cyc. p. 936, it is said:
“Property constituting parks, public squares and commons may, in the absence of express restriction, he used in such manner as will promote the public interest and is not inconsistent with the purpose for which it was intended.”
Again:
“A park may be devoted to any use which tends to promote popular enjoyment and recreation, although primarily involving the ideas of open air and space, occupation in part by monuments, statues, museums, galleries of art, free public libraries and other agencies contributing to the aesthetic enjoyment of the people, is not a perversion of the lands from park purposes. These are maintained for the use, convenience and recreation of persons resorting to and using public parks.” 3 Dillon, Mun. Corp. pp. 1749, 1750.
“Some of the powers of control and regulations for their use held to be reasonable and valid are: * * * Power to lay out pleasure drives around the borders of a public square, authority to erect a building in a park for public purposes, and if a building called a casino so erected is adapted to a public use, the court will not assume that is to be used for private purposes; to erect a dwelling house on park property to be used by the park superintendent and his family as a residence and also for an office by such superintendent and his associates.” 3 McQuillin, on Corp. p. 2541.
We think it clear that the use made of the building is a public use, and that such use is not foreign to that of a public park.
The decree is affirmed, with costs.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Kuhn, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, and Steere, J'J., concurred. | [
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Kuhn, J.
The plaintiff recovered a judgment in the sum of $500 for injuries claimed to have been received by him on October 26, 1912, while standing on the back platform of one of the defendant’s cars when it was struck by another car going in the same direction. It is claimed that as a result of the collision he was thrown against the dividing rail, which broke off, and in consequence of the injuries suffered he was confined to his bed for a period of five weeks; that he did not go to work until January 3, 1913, and for two months after the accident he suffered pain; that during the time he was confined to the house the doctor called on him twenty times; and that he paid him the sum of $40 for his services. It was the contention of the defendant that the collision was an unavoidable accident, and that the books of Caille Bros., where the plaintiff was working at the time of the accident, show that at that time there were employed by Caille Bros, four people by the name of Ponke, viz., John Ponke, Dave Ponke, B. Ponke, and F. Ponke, and that the F. Ponke is the plaintiff in this case and was away from work from October 26, 1912, to November 4, 1912. The defendant moved for a new trial on the ground that the verdict was excessive and contrary to the weight of the evidence, and appended to the motion was an affidavit of Wilford Elliott, who, it appears, was the timekeeper for Caille Bros, at the time of the accident; the substance of the affidavit being that he was personally acquainted with Frank Ponke, and that Frank Ponke’s name appeared on the pay roll of the company as “F. Ponke,” and that the same F. Ponke was absent from his work only from October 26, 1912, until November 4, 1912. On this appeal it is the contention of counsel for the defendant and appellant that the court erred in not granting a motion for a new trial, made, on the grounds that the verdict was grossly excessive and contrary to the great weight of the evidence.
The plaintiff testified that immediately upon his .arrival home after his injury he called Dr. Thomas Dowling, who, upon being sworn, testified that upon being called to treat the plaintiff on October 26, 1912, 'he found him in bed and suffering severe pain on his side and down the leg; that he found plaintiff had a fracture of the twelfth rib, and that there seemed to he a crepitus between the two bones where the rib was broken on the right side; that the plaintiff’s right hip was bruised and swollen, and seemed to be pretty painful ; that he put on bandages to hold the rib in position, which remained on between a week and two weeks; that the discoloration on the right hip remained for nearly two weeks; and that the pain in the right leg was probably due to pressure on the sciatic nerve; that he called on the plaintiff 20 times. He stated further that the plaintiff was in bed over two weeks; nearly three weeks, he thought. The records of Caille Bros, further show that F. Ponke appears to have drawn as pay 37% cents an hour in November and December of 1912. The plaintiff testified that he was' not paid by the hour during that time, as he was working in the experimental department, and was paid by the week.
It is quite true that this record presents a case in which it is impossible to reconcile the testimony of the plaintiff and the physician with that of the defendant’s witnesses. It may be, as the trial judge in denying the motion for a new trial said, either that the plaintiff had committed perjury in testifying as to the length of time he was confined to his house, or the witnesses of the defendant, the employees of Caille Bros., were mistaken as to the identity of the plaintiff. To determine the credibility of these witnesses, however, was. a. matter peculiarly within the province of the jury, and we are not satisfied that the verdict was against the great weight of the evidence so as to require this court to overrule the decision of the circuit judge in refusing a new trial on that ground, under the rule announced in Gardiner v. Courtright, 165 Mich. 54 (130 N. W. 322) Fike v. Railroad Co., 174 Mich. 167 (140 N. W. 592); Druck v. Lime Co., 177 Mich. 364 (143 N. W. 59); McGary v. Motor Co., 182 Mich. 345 (148 N. W. 722) ; Silverstone v. Assurance Corporations, 187 Mich. 333. (153 N. W. 802). Neither are we of the opinion, if the jury believed the testimony of the plaintiff and his physician as to his injuries, that the amount of the verdict was grossly excessive or unreasonable.
Judgment is affirmed.
Brooke, C. J., and Person, Stone, Ostrander, Bird, Moore, and Steere, JJ., concurred. | [
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Wiest, J.
Defendant, Dan H. Gilchrist, under a cost-plus contract, built a house and garage for plain tiffs. In order to finance the job various transactions relative to real estate were entered into and finally resulted in plaintiffs’ losing their property. The building contract was in writing and entered into November 7,1929. Plaintiffs took possession of the erected buildings in March, 1930, and moved out in June, 1932. In June, 1930, while occupying the premises, plaintiffs filed a bill in equity against defendant Dan H. Gilchrist and his wife and one Peter P. Verner to have rescission or cancellation of the various financing transactions involving real estate for claimed fraudulent representations by Mr. Gilchrist and to have damages sustained by reason thereof. The bill also alleged that the building was defective in materials and workmanship. That bill was dismissed for want of prosecution. November 16,1931, plaintiffs filed a like bill, which was also dismissed for want of prosecution. December 28, 1933, plaintiffs filed a third bill, again alleging fraud by Mr. Gilchrist in the financing transactions, and asking for relief against the same and restraint of a summary proceeding before a circuit court commissioner. The only allegation therein relative to faulty construction of the building was the following:
“Your plaintiffs further show unto the court that the house and premises agreed to be erected and completed by the defendant, Dan H. Gilchrist, for your plaintiffs, has not been completed and the same are defective in materials and workmanship throughout.”
No specific relief, by way of damages for such alleged faulty construction or for breach of the building contract was asked, and such reference to the building contract was only explanatory of the financing transactions based thereon, and the breach thereof, as an added reason for rescission or cancellation of the real estate transactions and not in affirmance with claimed damages for breach of the contract. Plaintiffs dismissed the bill as to defendants Yerner and the circuit court commissioner.
May 28, 1937, the court, upon a finding that the equitable cause of action of the plaintiffs herein no longer existed, transferred the “cause of action” for breach of contract to the law side of the court and gave plaintiffs 15 days in which to file a declaration.
Plaintiffs filed a declaration, in count one alleging fraud perpetrated in the mentioned real estate transactions for financing purposes. This count was waived at the trial. In count two, they alleged an action of assumpsit upon the common counts, and especially for breach of the building contract, and again alleged fraud in the financing transfers with damage to plaintiffs. Count three was the common counts in assumpsit.
Plaintiffs abandoned the action against Mrs. Gilchrist.
Mr. Gilchrist gave notice that plaintiffs, in filing the bills for rescission, elected to have such remedy, if any, and are thereby estopped from having remedy under count two of the declaration. Mr. Gilchrist also pleaded the statute of limitations.
The trial was by jury and plaintiffs had verdict and judgment thereon for $1,100. Defendant Dan H. Gilchrist reviews by appeal.
Plaintiffs were aware of the breach of the construction contract when they filed the first bill of complaint in June, 1930. The six-year statute of limitations, 3 Comp. Laws 1929, §13976 (Stat. Ann. § 27.605), had barred the action in assumpsit for breach of the building contract at the time the declaration was filed in April, 1937, unless saved by the suits in chancery. The suits in chancery were to obtain relief from alleged fraud, in relation to trans fers of real property interests, and not to have recovery of damages as in assumpsit for breach of the building’ contract, and did not toll the running of the statute as to a cause of action not therein asserted nor embraced.
Plaintiffs do not now, by their declaration, sue for fraud, as in the equity suit, hut sue on building contract rights for the first time and such action is barred by the statute of limitations.
The judgment is reversed without a new trial, and with costs to defendant Dan H. Gilchrist.
Btjtzel, C. J., and Btjshnell, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Butzel, C. J.
Plaintiff’s decedent suffered a compensable injury on January 31, 1928, and, under the terms of an approved agreement, compensation was paid for a period of 34 weeks. On October 12, 1928, defendants filed a petition to stop compensation on account of decedent’s refusal to sign a settlement receipt and his further refusal to report to defendant’s doctor for medical examination. After a hearing, the deputy commissioner entered an order stopping the compensation until such time as plaintiff’s decedent should appear before the doctor for a physical examination. Decedent did not appeal from the order nor take any steps in his lifetime to review compensation payments or to petition for further compensation. He died July 23, 1936, more than 300 weeks after the accident. The death certificate gave the cause of death as “heat stroke, pneumonia, hemolytic strep, throat.” Plaintiff thereupon filed petition for compensation on account of the death of decedent, her husband. The deputy commissioner disallowed compensation because death occurred over 300 weeks after the date of the injury. On application for review before the department, the award of the deputy was reversed and plaintiff’s claim was remanded for hearing on its merits before a deputy commissioner, in accordance with the rules of the department. Appeal was allowed by this court.
The department purported to follow Seifman v. Ford Motor Co., 282 Mich. 342, a case where no compensation was awarded during the lifetime of the employee. It is claimed that this decision overruled the doctrine of Anderson v. Fisher Body Corp., 239 Mich. 506. Rather than being overruled, the doctrine of the Anderson Case and Pardeick v. Iron City Engineering Co., 220 Mich. 653, was specifically followed in the Seifman Case. These decisions establish that where compensation has been paid to an employee during his lifetime and he later dies as a result of his injuries, compensation to dependents begins at the date of his death and continues for a period of not more than 300 weeks from the date of the injury.
Here the injured employee died after the expiration of the 300 weeks ’ period. The order of the department of labor and industry is reversed and the case remanded to the department with instructions to affirm the decision of the deputy commissioner denying compensation to dependents. Defendants will recover costs.
Wiest, Bushnell, Sharpe, Potter, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Potter, J.
Default having been made in the payment of the amounts imposed by the trial court as a condition of granting the continuance of a moratorium order, the trial court set aside such order, and plaintiffs appeal.
The underlying facts appear in Harrow v. Metropolitan Life Ins. Co., 285 Mich. 349, which held the order then under consideration involving the propriety of the application of the proceeds of payments imposed as a condition of the continuance of the moratorium order, insofar as it directed the Greater Detroit Mortgage Corporation to pay to the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company from the balance of the money remaining in its hands, after the payment of taxes and insurance premiums, the sum of $1,216.75 in satisfaction of that portion of the mortgage debt which was not satisfied by the sheriff’s sale, was void. That case, however, did not involve or pass upon the validity or the amount of the order of the trial court insofar as the amount ordered paid was concerned. Plaintiffs have not paid these amounts. The trial court was within its rights in setting aside the moratorium order by reason of such default under Act No. 98, Pub. Acts 1933, as amended by Act No. 20, Pub. Acts 1934 (1st Ex. Sess.), Act No. 3, Pub. Acts 1935 (Stat. Ann. § 27.1321 et seq.), and Act No. 1, Pub. Acts 1937.
Decree of the trial court affirmed, with costs.
Butzel, C. J., and Wiest, Bushnell, Sharpe, Chandler, North, and McAllister, JJ., concurred. | [
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Smith, J.
The plaintiff is Ronald Field. At the time of the incidents described he was a little over 16 years of age, working for defendant Jack & Jill Ranch. This is described in the record as a “dude ranch.” It caters to vacationers interested in horseback riding. Plaintiff, however, was not hired for work in the barn, or with horses. He was hired as kitchen help, more specifically for pot washing. In this capacity he worked from 8 a.m. until noon, then he was off for 2 or 3 hours, when he returned and worked through the supper hoiir and until the supper dishes and utensils were cleaned. On his day off (Sunday) he was allowed to use the recreational facilities of the camp and to have a 1-hour horseback ride'.
So far the facts are fairly well agreed. The area of disagreement coincides with the area of the injury' and prominent with respect thereto is the' operation described as “wrangling.” The horses were pastured some little distance from the barn. Wrangling, “what it amounted to was just going-down and when you rode behind the horses they would go and turn to the barn.” They were then brushéd down, given their morning oats, and saddled fqr the guests’ breakfast ride, which left the barn at 7 a.m. The wrangling thus took place at an early hour.
On the morning in question plaintiff was engaged in wrangling. His horse sidestepped into a post which' struck him in the stomach, resulting in a rupture of the cortex of the kidney. He was hospitalized for approximately 2 weeks, and thereafter suffered intermittently from cramps following upon heavy lifting. Application for hearing and adjustment of claim resulted in a hearing before a deputy commissioner who denied compensation on the ground that plaintiff’s injury did not arise out of and in the course of his employment, in that he' was voluntarily participating in riding. Upon appeal to the commission the award was reversed and plaintiff found to he entitled to compensation, doubled because of a finding of the illegal employment. From the award of the commission defendants appeal upon leave granted.
Plaintiff, as we have seen, was employed as a pot washer. How, then, did he find himself engaged in wrangling? It is the position of defendants that plaintiff requested the additional riding for his own recreation and pleasure, because he, like the other employees, was “somewhat overcome by the glamor of the horses.” Since it cannot be denied that the permission, if asked, was given, defendants go on to deny the authority of the agent to grant such permission, and to assert, finally, that the whole wrangling operation (as accomplished, on horseback) was unnecessary, since: “You could walk in the pasture and walk behind the horses and they would come in the barn.” This latter the defendants direct to the point that no benefit accrued to the ranch from the wrangling operation, thus doubly riveting the' point that only plaintiff’s personal pleasure was involved.
The plaintiff’s version differs markedly, in substance, in detail, and in emphasis. He asserts that he had been at the ranch only a matter of days when he was approached by one Tuck, who was then in charge of the barn. The barn foreman, Tex, was at that time in the hospital. Tuck, according to plaintiff, “had seen me riding and he just asked me if I would like' to get in some extra riding because they were short of help and I could help wrangle if I’d like to.” We note, in passing, that plaintiff testified that after Tex returned from the hospital he, Tex, also asked- plaintiff to assist in the wrangling. There-was no extra pay involved. “He said he (Tex) couldn’t guarantee' any pay for it,” hut there was a possibility, in the spring, that “I could have a job in the barn if I would have went back to work at the ranch.” -It seems clear from the record that plaintiff preferred horseback riding to washing pots and pans, and it is a reasonable inference that a barn job would- have been more to his liking. Plaintiff was not the only kitchen helper, however, so favored as to ■ wrangling. One Hamatree also assisted. “I (plaintiff) would wrangle one morning and he’d (Hamatree) wrangle the next, or I would -wrangle 2 and- he would wrangle 2.” To go out wrangling it-was necessary. that plaintiff be awakened about 4:30 in the morning, which was accomplished by Tuck or Tex. It also appears from the record that, of those regularly assigned the task of wrangling (Tex, Baron, and Tuck, and sometimes Glenn) one (Tex) could not ride, because of a leg injury, and another (Baron) was favored in the wrangling because he had “to work on social activities at nights and he quite often stayed up for the dances and he wouldn’t get to bed until possibly 1 o’clock or so.” There thus seems to be corroboration for the.statements made by Tex to plaintiff’s mother and sisters that plaintiff was wrangling because “they were short of help.’?
As to the necessity for wrangling on horseback, we find nothing more than the suggestion that it “could” be done on foot. If it ever was so done, no such incident -was" described in the record. The usual and customary method appears, to have been on horseback. That it was necessary to prepare the horses for -the breakfast ride is- not disputed, nor that the breakfast ride was one of .the customary ranch privileges enjoyed by the paying guests. It cannot, then, be doubted that it was^to the benefit of the defendant Jack & Jill Ranch that the horses be prepared for the breakfast ride and the ride itself successfully accomplished. That the plaintiff enjoyed the additional work he wás requested to do renders the task nonetheless a benefit to the employer. At the most it renders the act a benefit to both.
All of this, however, is legally immaterial, according to defendants’ theory, because of fatal defect in the agency relied upon. The hierarchy of command at the dude ranch seems to have been from the owner, Mr. Storms, to James Day, the manager and ranch director, to the department heads. Mr. Day’s duties were mánifold: “I have full charge of all personnel, operation of the ranch, disbursements, purchasing, operation of the entertainment, sports and program,” he testified. He was, himself, also the head of 2 departments, sports and social activities. Under him as manager, were the various departments and other department heads. Plaintiff’s activities as a washer of pots and pans came under the steward’s department, while his activities as a part-time wrangler came under the sports department. As to authority at the barn, there seems to be confusion in the minds of those most directly-concerned. The manager asserted that it was Tex who was in charge “when Baron wasn’t there.” But Tex himself asserted that, as between them, “We were neither each other’s boss.”
It is unnecessary, however, that we pinpoint the exact shade of authority so far down the chain of command because of the situation at the top. As for the authority of Mr. Day, the general manager, it was comprehensive and not challenged in the record. He was to all intents and purposes the alter ego of the owner. Even without his unequivocal testimony it would be clear that his powers were prima facie coextensive with the businéss entrusted to his care. Grossman v. Langer, 269 Mich 506. See, also, 1 Restatement, Agency, § 73. Clear it is, also, on plainest principles of agency, that the authority of an agent includes not only those things he is expressly told to do, but those things the principal knowingly acquiesces in his doing. The principal is liable in such case not on any principle of estoppel or apparent authority but because the agent is exercising authority that is as real and actual as though expressed in words. Here it is expressed in conduct, implied in fact. It is clear from the record that both the owner, Mr. Storm, and the manager, Mr. Day, knew that Tex received assistance from the kitchen help, and particularly from this plaintiff, in doing and having performed the duties of barn hands. The manager testified, referring to wrangling, not only at times by guests but by others of the staff: “Actually, it can happen, it has been done quite often and we have known it.”
The knowledge thus obtained was not followed by measures effective to put an end to the practice, if, indeed, it was not encouraged, in view of the shortage of help and the time of day involved. (The plaintiff testified that he was called at around 4:30 in the morning for this work.) Thus it is that we find a 16-year-old boy, hired for washing pots and pans, engaged in the activity which resulted in his injury. The owner himself also knew that upon one occasion, described in the record, Tex had assigned plaintiff the job of “rear guide” for a trail ride — a job ordinarily performed by one of the barn hands. As to his approval or disapproval of such work assignment, we do not have his testimony, since he did not return from Miami for the hearing, but the record before us is silent as to rebuke, reprimand, or admonition, and his consent thereto may fairly be presumed.
The commission finding that “plaintiff’s participation in wrangling was with the knowledge and consent and possibly even at the direction of the employer” was thus amply supported by competent evidence and is accepted by this Court. Shaw v. General Motors Corporation, 320 Mich 338. Likewise is its conclusion justified that “the work he was doing when injured was permitted and encouraged and conferred a benefit upon the employer.” The work done by the employee in this instance, as has been noted, was for the benefit of the employer. That it was not distasteful to the employee, that it may, in fact, have been embraced eagerly by him, either from hope of relief next spring from the washing of pots and pans, or from sheer pleasure of horseback riding, renders it nonetheless a benefit to such employer. The injury clearly arose out of and in the course of the employment.
It remains to consider the matter of double compensation. The statute relating thereto provides as follows:
“Any minor under 18 years of age whose employment at the time of injury shall be shown to be illégal shall, in the absence of fraudulent use of permits or certificates of age, in which case only single compensation shall be paid, receive compensation double that provided elsewhere in this act.” (CL 1948, § 411.7, as amended by PA 1949, No 284 [Stat Ann 1950 Rev § 17.147].)
It will be noted that the compensation act itself does not define illegal employment. For that we turn to the Hittle juvenile employment act (PA 1947, No 157 [CL 1948, §409.1 et seq. (Stat Ann 1950 Rev §17.701 et seq.)~\), which regulates the employment of minors in this State. It is provided in section' 3 thereof (CL 1948, §409.3 [Stat Ann 1950 Rev § 17.703]) that a work permit must be ob tained for the employment of any minor under the age of 18 years.
“No minor under 18 years of age shall he employed, permitted or suffered to work in, about, or in connection with any gainful occupation, not excepted by this act, unless and until the person employing such minor shall procure from the minor and keep on file a work permit for each minor so employed.”
The act further defines “legal employment” in section 24 thereof (CL 1948, § 409.24 [Stat Ann 1950 Rev § 17.724]) in the following terms:
“Any minor engaged in an occupation specified in a work permit issued for the employment of such minor, therein in accordance with provisions of this act shall he considered to he legally employed: Provided, That the employer has on file such work permit and the same has not expired or been revoked.”
The defendants point to section 2 of the act, barring the employment of minors under 18 years of age “if such occupation is injurious to health or morals or is unduly hazardous,” referring us to Van Sweden v. Van Sweden, 250 Mich 238, a case decided before the act under consideration was. passed, and not here controlling, and argue, quite correctly, that the commission did not find the work to he hazardous. But defendants misconceive the' issue at this point. The act does, it is true, bar employments which carry a physical or moral hazard to the child. But it does not stop here. The exploitation of children through the' cupidity of avaricious parents or guardians, to the detriment of their health, education, and welfare, was for years a national disgrace. Even factory employment for the nimble fingers and small bodies of children of the age of 5 and 6 could be found by and for those who were not squeamish. (Administration of Child Labor Laws, U. S. Department of Labor, Children’s Bureau, Publication No. 133 [1924], p 2.) The amelioration of such conditions came with the awareness of our people of the malodorous traffic, resulting in remedial State and Federal legislation. The purpose of the act here under consideration was not only to protect our young from hazardous employment but to regulate the terms and conditions of their labor in general. It is a beneficent law and we are not disposed to construe it in a frosty atmosphere or frustrate its purpose by a strict construction. The plaintiff’s work permit, which he turned over to his supervisor, was for washing pots and pans, not for wrangling horses. His occupation was thus not sanctioned by his work permit (section 3), was therefore not legal under section 24, and the award of double compensation was properly made.
Affirmed, with costs to plaintiff.
Carr, C. J., and Butzel, Sharpe, Boyles, Reid, and Kelly, JJ., concurred with Smith, J.
Dethmers, J., concurred in the result.
September 12,1951.
See CL Í948, § 411.7, as amended by PA 1949, No 284 (Stat Ann 1950 Rev § 17.147).—Reporter. | [
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Carr, C. J.
Plaintiff brought this suit in circuit court asking that certain conveyances executed by him of interests in a parcel of land in the city of Detroit be cancelled. Said property is referred to in the record as located at 6560 Canton avenue. In 1943 plaintiff and his wife acquired the vendee’s interest under a land contract for the sale and purchase of the property. Mrs. Kolasinski deceased in 1948. Plaintiff alleged in his original bill of complaint that on the 24th of February, 1950, he signed a quitclaim deed conveying the premises to defendant, reserving a life interest in himself. The pleading further averred that defendant procured the execution of said deed by falsely representing to him that it was a power of attorney. The cancellation of said conveyance was sought on the ground of fraud. No claim was asserted that there was undue influence employed against plaintiff, or that he was at the. time mentally incompetent.
It further appears from the record that at the time of the execution of the deed, above referred to, a contract was prepared by the terms and conditions of which defendant, by way of consideration for the deed, agreed to provide plaintiff with necessities when required, including medical and hospital expenses, and a home. It further appears that in September, 1951, plaintiff assigned to defendant the vendee’s interest under the land contract, above mentioned, said assignment reciting that the unpaid balance owing was the sum of $985.97, with interest from July 9, 1951. This amount the defendant assumed and agreed to pay. By amendment to his bill of complaint plaintiff alleged that he had no recollection of executing this assignment, but ad mitted that his signature appeared thereon. ..The amendment prayed cancellation of the assignment on the ground that.it had been procured by fraud. It may be noted in this connection that the pleading does not set forth ¡the. means by which such alleged fraud was. accomplished. ¡On the trial of the case, plaintiff testified that he.did not recall executing the assignment but-identified his. signature thereon. It is somewhat significant'ip-this connection that he recalled the giving of, a mortgage on the property that defendant was1' supposed to pay. ’ • ;
-, Defendant, by answer to the. bill of complaint and, the amendment thereto, denied that the executiomof the instruments in question was procured by fraud or misrepresentation. She -was the- daughter of plaintiff’s wife who died in 1948,. and on the trial ip circuit court she testified that over a period of years prior to the mother’s death she had continually as-, sisted plaintiff and her mother in financial matters and by performing services for them. She claime.d specifically that when the vendee’s interest under the land contract was acquired in 1943 .she- contributed $1,000 toward the purchase price. On behalf of. plaintiff it was asserted-that-the amount sp advanced had been repaid to. defendant’s then husband.. There, is no explanation, however, of the failure- to make, payment to defendant. She disclaimed any knowl-¡ edge of it, and the record does not justify the conclusion • that she either- received the, payment or acquiesced in her husband’s doing so.,
■Following the death of her mother, it is undisputed that defendant endeavored to assist plaintiff in the conduct of his affairs. It was her claim on the trial that the quitclaim deed executed February 24,-1950, and the collateral agreement for plaintiff’s support as required, resulted from - the understanding and agreement of the parties therefor. She denied-that the deed was represented to be a power of attorney. In substance it was her claim that plaintiff had indicated to her by his statements that certain other persons were endeavoring to get control of his property, and that the deed and support agreement were executed in part to protect plaintiff and also as a recognition of obligations owing to defendant by plaintiff because of various acts on her part in his behalf. These included payments by her on the land contract, services rendered, the payment of obligations arising by way of hospital bills due to the illness of the mother for some period of time prior to her death, and also the purchase for plaintiff and Mrs. Kolasinski of various articles for use in their home as well as for improvements within the home. The record fully supports the finding of the trial judge that such payments had been made and services rendered as claimed by defendant.
In his testimony plaintiff denied many of defendant’s claims. It is significant, however, that insofar as the claim of fraud is concerned her testimony is corroborated by that of the attorney who prepared the quitclaim deed and the accompanying contract. In his testimony the attorney stated that the partiés came to his office together, that he had known plaintiff previously, having performed professional services in his behalf,.and that he was also acquainted with defendant. According to his version of what occurred at the time, directions were given to him as to what the parties desired. Plaintiff did most of the talking for himself and defendant, explaining that they wanted a deed prepared and the collateral contract drawn. The witness stated very positively that he talked with plaintiff in the Polish language; that he explained the transaction carefully, and that he repeated his explanation to the end that plaintiff might, be fully informed as to his rights and the effect of the deed and contract. The trial judge, after listening to the testimony of the parties and their witnesses, came to the conclusion that plaintiff’s claim of fraud was not sustained, and that the facts were' as claimed by defendant and by the attorney who prepared the deed and contract. A decree was accordingly entered dismissing the bill of complaint. From such decree plaintiff has appealed.
"While we hear the cause de novo on the record before us, we cannot say that had we listened to the testimony of the witnesses, and determined the issue involved in the first instance, we would have reached a conclusion at variance with the opinion of the trial judge. Plaintiff at the time of the execution of the deed that he now seeks to set aside was 74, or possibly 75, years of age. He was then working in Detroit and continued in his employment until the latter part of December, 1950. As before noted, no claim of undue influence or lack of mental capacity is involved. The sole issue under the pleadings is whether plaintiff has'established that he was induced to sign the deed because of fraudulent representations on the part of defendant that it was a power of attorney. We are in accord with the finding of the trial court that the claim was not sustained.
In Atzinger v. Atzinger, 325 Mich 78, 84, in discussing an analogous question, it was said:
“In the case at bar the trial court had the advantage of seeing and hearing witnesses present and observing the mental and physical condition of plaintiff at the time of the trial. In speaking of plaintiff the court said: ‘She did not appear to this court to be a person who was mentally incompetent in any way/ We hear chancery cases de novo and arrive at our own conclusion on the issues involved. We are not restricted by the findings of the trial court, but due weight is given to such findings of fact. On the record before us we think the trial court correctly determined the issue relating to the deed.”
The foregoing statement is applicable-to the situation presented in the instant case. See, also, Knight v. Behringer, 329 Mich 24.
The decree is affirmed, with costs to appellee.
Butzel, Smith, Sharpe, Boyles,'Reid, Dethmers, and Kelly, JJ., concurred. | [
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Reid, J.
Plaintiff brought suit against defendant city alleging that while she was a pedestrian walking on the sidewalk in defendant city she was injured, thrown to the sidewalk with great force and violence, suffered physical injuries, without negligence and without contributory negligence on her part, and that her injuries were due to the sole negligence of the defendant because of the hazardous condition of the sidewalk as maintained by defendant, the sidewalk being not in a reasonably safe condition fit for travel and negligently maintained by the defendant. The declaration describes the condition of the sidewalk claimed to be hazardous, unsafe and so maintained by the defendant. After the filing of a declaration and answer thereto, with reply of plaintiff to the affirmative allegations in the answer, the defendant moved to dismiss the plaintiff’s suit for failure to comply with ordinance of the city of Detroit 506-E, § 1, which, in part (as set forth in defendant’s brief), is as follows:
“Power is hereby delegated to the corporation counsel to audit and allow or reject, subject to the approval of the common council, all damage claims, including personal injury and property damage, (exclusive of any such claims against the department of street railways), and such other claims as are the immediate subject of litigation.”
Acting under authority of ordinance 506-E, § 1, defendant’s corporation counsel notified plaintiff’s attorney that a hearing on her claim would be held in the corporation counsel’s office. Plaintiff refused to comply with said city ordinance, and notice thereunder. Plaintiff offered compliance with CL 1948, § 242.8 (Stat Ann § 9.598), the pertinent portions of which (after specification of what notice must be given the city in cases of this sort) are as follows:
“The notice will specify the location and nature of said defect, the injury sustained, and the names of the witnesses known at the time by claimant. If required by the common council or committee thereof, said claimant shall produce his witnesses before said common council or committee, and they may be sworn and examined as to the nature of the claim, the amount thereof, and the extent of the injury. The common council or committee shall have power to subpoena witnesses for such'hearing. No other or further notice shall be required. The intent and purpose of the provisions of this chapter are to make the law of liability on the part of townships, villages and cities for injuries sustained by persons because of the defective condition of the highways and the procedure in giving notice thereof, uniform throughout the State, and to' repeal all laws or acts of the legislature be the same general, local or special which are inconsistent with or contravening the provisions herein.” (Italics supplied.)
The court cited and in part based his opinion on Detroit city charter, title 6, ch 7, § 11, and title 3, ch 1, § 13(c), which charter provisions were not offered by counsel nor received in evidence nor do they appear in the record. Defendant did not base its motion to dismiss upon charter provisions, hence, they are not before us for consideration.
The trial court dismissed plaintiff’s suit, for failure to comply with the notiee served on her by defendant.
In the instant ease the claim was filed with the city council and the corporation counsel received notice; hence, plaintiff complied with the requirements commented on in Grand Trunk Western Railway Company v. City of Detroit, 342 Mich 537. But differing from the Grand Trunk Company Case, in the instant case defendant demanded plaintiff to come to a hearing before the corporation counsel. No hearing before the corporation counsel, but notice to the corporation counsel, is spoken of in the Grand Trunk Railway Company Case, which case has, therefore, no bearing upon the decisive question involved in the instant case, namely, hearing before the corporation counsel.
In Knapp v. City of Detroit, 295 Mich 311, we say (syllabus 8):
“Unsworn written notice of claim for injuries, sustained by plaintiff because of defective street, given to city within 60 days from injury, was sufficient notice, notwithstanding charter requirement that claim be verified, especially in view of requirement of the general highway law in respect to such claims that ‘no other or further notice shall be required’ than written notice upon the municipality within 60 days.”
“No provision of any city charter shall conflict with or contravene the provisions of any general law of the State.” CL 1948, § 117.36 (Stat Ann § 5.-2116).
In support of her opposition to the motion to dismiss, plaintiff offered the affidavit of her attorney which, among other things, recites:
“That deponent arranged for an investigator of the defendant to interview his client the above-named plaintiff, and had her appear for a medical examination at Receiving Hospital for the city of Detroit; that on July 8, 1954, deponent advised the city clerk, that he was willing to arrange for his client and her witnesses to appear before the common council, or a proper committee of said body, in accordance with the statute, to-wit * * * [CL 1948, § 242.8 (Stat Ann § 9.598)].”
The ordinance in question attempts to alter and enlarge the permissive authority conferred upon the common council or committee thereof to conduct a hearing and would substitute for such common council or committee thereof, an appointive official contrary to the plain meaning of the statute. The statute had set forth the procedure.
The ordinance in question as construed and applied by the trial court contravenes the statute and would tend to defeat the purpose of the statute as set forth in the portion thereof above cited, namely, uniformity of procedure throughout the State of giving notice to municipalities of injury because of defective condition of highways. It is fairly to be implied that there should be, after notice is served, uniformity of procedure including - hearing of the nature in controversy. The ordinance is void in respect to the hearing in controversy. Other questions raised herein, need not in view of our decision, be directly answered.
The order of dismissal is reversed. The matter is remanded to the trial court for further proceedings. Appellant may have costs of this appeal.
Carr, C. J., and Sharpe, Boyles, and Dethmers, JJ., concurred with Reid, J. | [
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Butzel, J.
Avery C. Macklem, plaintiff, brought suit against the Warren Construction Company, a Michigan corporation, for specific performance of a verbal agreement which he alleged provided for a 30-day extension of .the redemption period of 1 year after a foreclosure of a mortgage by advertisement.
For some years plaintiff owned a 2-family flat centrally located in the city of Detroit. He had received a deed to the property from one of his parents, who 'had. previously owned it for a considerable length, of time. He occupied the upper flat with his 91-year-old mother and rented the lower flat for $80 per month: There was a mortgage of some $750 on the property. It appears that plaintiff failed to pay the interest on the mortgage for many years and the mortgage was in default, so that the amount bid in at the salé by defendant was $1,405.21 which was sufficient to fully pay the amount due. In addition, plaintiff failed to pay taxes aggregating $1,-'396.25 which defendant has also paid. It is stipulated by the parties that the property is worth $15,-000.
The mortgage was foreclosed and the 1-year equity of redemption expired on October 10, 1953. However, plaintiff claims in his sworn bill of complaint as well as in his testimony that on or about October 2, 1953, he called Vincent Lukas, president of the defendant company, and asked him for a 30-day extension of the redemption period during which he could make arrangements to pay the amount necessary to redeem including taxes paid by defendant. This amounted in toto to $3,004.85, including interest to the' date of tender. Plaintiff claims that Lukas agreed to such an extension and on October 26, 1953, plaintiff deposited with the county clerk the amount necessary to redeem the property. Lukas absolutely denied that there was a telephone call and the agreement.
Was there or was there not such an agreement? Who is telling the truth? This is the sole question in this case, and it was answered in defendant’s favor by the court below.
In reaching a conclusion all of the testimony and surrounding circumstances must be considered. Both plaintiff and Lukas were experienced in the real estate held, particularly in regard to foreclosures. Plaintiff is a real-estate broker and for some 8 years was employed in the State land office board in charge of collections and foreclosures. He claims that he knew Lukas because the latter had bought considerable property through the State land office board and had appeared before plaintiff a number of times. Lukas, an attorney, first said that his sole contact was with the auctioneer, and then only upon a few occasions, but in later testimony extended the number of times to 2 or 3 dozen and finally stated he had bought some 300 lots in all. Of course, there might have been a large number of lots sold as 1 or more parcels.
Plaintiff undoubtedly knew what his rights were. He found out by examining the records that defendant had purchased the property at the foreclosure sale, the regularity of which is not questioned. Early in the redemption period he made arrangements to refinance the mortgage but apparently he never followed through. He testified that during the period of the alleged extension of time he borrowed $2,000 from one Harold McGregor which, in addition to $1,-000 of his own, was sufficient to pay the amount required. This, however, was not entirely consistent with the testimony of plaintiff’s witness, one Harry Bott. Bott testified that he advanced the $3,000 which was paid into court and that plaintiff did not pay it because the McGregor loan was to have been repaid in 30 days. Just what plaintiff did in regard to the $1,000 he testified he had is not shown by the record. Bott also testified that he was present on one occasion when Lukas appeared before the State land office arbitration board of which plaintiff was a member, and that it was exceedingly improbable that Lukas did not recognize plaintiff or had not seen him prior to this litigation. Bott further testified as to a phone conversation with Lukas on October 23, 1953, regarding this whole matter. There was some question as to how Lukas’ phone number was ascertained .on. .that. .occasion,. Bott was. apparently • mis taken, insofar as he testified that he obtained it from the phone directory, at least under- the name -he claimed he knew Victor Lukas by.
Lukas claimed that at the, time of the alleged agreement over the telephone he was not at .his office and had not been there the entire week; that defendant was moving its offices to- a larger space in the same building that previous summer and, because of the limited space in the temporary quarters occupied that summer,- he had-taken his books and files home and had not yet returned them at the time of the alleged extension agreement; that consequently, having been notified that an income tax examiner would come to examine his returns, he had remained home to review his records and files. He thus claims that he was away from his office for a week at the time the alleged conversation and agreement took place.
It would seem improbable that a person with a large business would remain incommunicado from his office for an entire week when he was at home in the city. He could have corroborated such vital testimony by someone from his office or home, or the income tax examiner, but did not see fit to do so. Plaintiff cites us to the rule that failure to produce evidence within a party’s control raises a presumption or inference that if produced it would operate against him. See e.g., Brandt v. C. F. Smith & Co., 242 Mich 217; Leeds v. Masha, 328 Mich 137; Gibbons v. Delta Contracting Co., 301 Mich 638; Griggs v. Saginaw & Flint Railway Co., 196 Mich 258. However, we have also stated in Cole v. Lake Shore & Michigan Southern R. Co., 81 Mich 156, 161, 162:
“But the mere omission of a party to call a witness, other than the party himself, who might with equal propriety have been called by the other party, is no ground for a presumption that the testimony of the. witness, would have been unfavorable.”
• Without discussing the specific applicability of these rules to a case such as this where the evidence not produced would have been corroborative, it is evident that even if applied to these facts, merely an inference of fact results in favor of the plaintiff. It does not, in and of itself, justify a reversal of the finding made by the court below that the plaintiff “failed to meet the burden of proof showing any extension whatsoever of the statutory period of redemption from foreclosure of the mortgage involved herein.”
While such verbal extensions are not within the statute of frauds and thus are enforceable, Moore v. Muskegon Trust Co., 286 Mich 21, they must be established by a preponderance of the evidence and á plaintiff’s inattention and indifference to his rights weighs against him. See Chauvin v. American State Bank, 242 Mich 269; Markoff v. Tournier, 229 Mich 571. We review a chancery case de novo but cannot in this instance' substitute our judgment for that of the trial judge who heard and saw the witnesses. This is especially so in a case such as this where the issue is basically one of credibility, and as the judge found, plaintiff and his witness made statements that were at best doubtful.
. Plaintiff asks that we grant relief because of the inadequacy of the bid price in relation to the'stipulated worth of the dwelling. We have held that inadequacy of price alone will not vitiate an otherwise fair and regular statutory foreclosure sale. Carlisle v. Dunlap, 203 Mich 602; Cameron v. Adams, 31 Mich 426; Moss v. Keary, 231 Mich 295; Blackwood v. Sakwinski, 221 Mich 464 (29 ALR 1314); Postal v. Home State Bank for Savings, 284 Mich 220; Guardian Depositors Corp. v. Keller, 286 Mich 403. We have apparently relaxed this rule in cases where the foreclosure was by decree rather than by statutory advertisement. Michigan Trust Co. v. Cody, 264 Mich. 258; Cameron v. Adams, supra; see Gilbert v. Haire, 43 Mich 283. The foreclosure in this case was by advertisement.
We are sympathetic with the plight of the plaintiff and his aged mother in this needless loss of their home through the harsh and almost cruel insistence of defendant upon his bargain. However, as the court found after- seeing and hearing the witnesses, plaintiff has not sustained the burden of proof.
We are constrained to follow the law as cited and ■must'affirm the judgment of the court below dismissing plaintiff’s bill of complaint. On account of the nature of this case, we award no costs.
Carr, C. J., and Smith, Sharpe, Boyles, Reid, Dethmers, and Kelly. JJ., concurred. | [
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V. J. Brennan, J.
Plaintiff, Elmer Pleiness, appeals from a decision of the Workmen’s Compensation Appeal Board denying his claim against the Second Injury Fund for total and permanent disability benefits.
In this action it is undisputed that as of February 1, 1963, plaintiff had suffered permanent loss of vision in his left eye as the result of a massive retinal hemorrhage. Subsequently, on July 1, 1963, plaintiff’s left hand was severely injured when a die press he was attempting to repair tripped, causing the die to come down upon his hand. Plaintiff filed a petition in the Workmen’s Compensation Department seeking benefits for loss of industrial use of his left hand. On April 4, 1967, a decision, stipulated to by both employer and employee, was rendered by a hearing referee in which it was held that plaintiff suffered the loss of industrial use of his left hand and that the injury arose out of and in the course of his employment. This decision was never appealed or contested. Plaintiff received the appropriate benefits for the estab lished period and then, on May 19, 1969, filed a petition seeking total and permanent disability benefits for the loss of his left hand and the prior loss of his left eye. This claim was made solely against the Second Injury Fund.
On April 10, 1970, a hearing was held on plaintiff’s claim and testimony was taken. The hearing referee issued his decision on May 12, 1970, in which it was held that, although plaintiff no longer suffered the loss of industrial use of his left hand, the valid, unappealed order of April 4, 1967, was binding on the Second Injury Fund, whose rights in this case were derivative from plaintiff’s employer, and that the determination of loss of industrial use made therein could not now be set aside by the Fund. The hearing referee also held that since plaintiff also "suffered the loss of vision in his left eye by February 1, 1963, he must be considered to have suffered the lost [sic] of two members as provided for by” the act. He therefore awarded benefits to plaintiff.
The Second Injury Fund appealed and the Appeal Board, in its opinion and order of October 19, 1973, reversed the referee and ordered that plaintiff’s benefits be "terminated as of April 10, 1970, the date upon which the hearing was held before the referee and the referee made a supportable finding of fact that no industrial loss of use of the hand continued to be present”. By its opinion the Appeal Board held that, although the decision of April 4, 1967, was binding on the Fund, the Fund was not prevented from establishing the fact that a change in plaintiff’s condition had occurred. The Appeal Board affirmed the referee’s finding that plaintiff no longer suffered the loss of industrial use of his hand and, therefore, determined that plaintiff was not permanently and totally disabled within the meaning of the act. It is from this decision that plaintiff now appeals.
On this appeal plaintiff maintains, as he consistently did in the proceedings below, that since it was undisputed that he suffered permanent loss of vision in his left eye and since the unappealed April 4, 1967 decision of the hearing referee established that he lost the industrial use of his left hand, he clearly falls within the terms of the act and is entitled to receive total and permanent disability benefits. The Second Injury Fund, on the other hand, argues that it is entitled to a hearing to determine whether the loss of use continues or not. They argue that if a change of condition is established and plaintiff no longer suffers loss of industrial use of his hand they are not required to pay plaintiff total and permanent disability benefits.
At the time of the injury to plaintiff’s hand, MCLA 412.8a; MSA 17.158(1) was in effect and provided, in relevant part:
"If an employee has at the time of injury permanent disability in the form of the loss of a hand or arm or foot or leg or eye and at the time of such injury incurs further permanent disability in the form of the loss of a hand or arm or foot or leg or eye, he shall be deemed to be totally and permanently disabled and shall be paid, from the funds provided in this section, compensation for total and permanent disability after subtracting the amount of compensation received by the employee for both such losses. The payment of compensation under this section shall begin at the conclusion of the payments made for the second permanent disability. Such payment shall be made upon the order of the department.”
In the case at bar there is no doubt that plaintiff suffered the loss of use of his left eye. It also cannot be disputed that it was determined by a Workmen’s Compensation hearing referee that plaintiff, in a work-related accident, suffered the loss of industrial use of his left hand. If this case stopped here there would be no difficulty in holding that under the above statute plaintiff is entitled to permanent and total disability benefits. Here, however, after his injury, plaintiff sought medical help and, through several operations, had the use of his hand partially restored. The question presented for determination is whether or not the Second Injury Fund is entitled to present evidence of this partial restoration to defeat plaintiff’s claim for benefits. We believe that this question is answered by the act itself and that the answer is no. MCLA 412.9; MSA 17.159, now MCLA 418.351; MSA 17.237(351) was also in effect at the time of plaintiff’s injury and then provided, and now provides, in relevant part:
"The conclusive presumption of total and permanent disability shall not extend beyond 800 weeks from the date of injury and thereafter the question of permanent and total disability shall be determined in accordance with the fact, as the fact may be at that time.”
MCLA 412.8a; MSA 17.158(1) provides that once a person who already suffers a permanent disability suffers another, he shall be deemed to be totally and permanently disabled. A procedure is established for determining whether or not such a second loss occurs through a hearing before a referee and an appeal, if desired, to the Appeal Board. Once those procedures are concluded and it is determined that a plaintiff did suffer such a loss, he is entitled to receive permanent and total disability benefits and he shall be deemed to be so disabled for 800 weeks from the date of his injury. MCLA 412.9; MSA 17.159. It is only at the conclusion of that time period that the Fund can challenge the continuing nature of a plaintiff’s permanent and total disability by the introduction of evidence showing a change in condition.
Here, plaintiff, suffering a permanent disability in the form of a loss of use of his left eye, was determined by a hearing referee, upon stipulation of the parties, to have suffered the loss of industrial use of his left hand as the result of an accident which arose out of and in the course of his employment. This decision was never appealed and is, therefore, binding on the employer and the Second Injury Fund, whose rights are derivative from the employer. White v Weinberger Builders, Inc, 49 Mich App 430; 212 NW2d 307 (1973), lv granted, 391 Mich 781 (1974). This being the case, it is clear that this plaintiff is entitled to receive total and permanent disability benefits under MCLA 412.8a; MSA 17.158(1). It is of no consequence that the record herein does not show that plaintiff’s loss of use of his left eye was the result of an employment related accident. There is no requirement under MCLA 412.8a; MSA 17.158(1) that the first accident be employment related. Hilton v Oldsmobile Division of General Motors Corp, 390 Mich 43; 210 NW2d 316 (1973). Plaintiff’s second injury was clearly work-related therefore satisfying the requirements of Whitt v Ford Motor Co, 383 Mich 726; 178 NW2d 917 (1970).
We therefore hold that plaintiff is entitled to receive total and permanent disability benefits under MCLA 412.8a; MSA 17.158(1) and that under MCLA 412.9; MSA 17.159 he shall be deemed to be totally and permanently disabled for 800 weeks from the date of his injury. The decision of the Workmen’s Compensation Appeal Board is, therefore, reversed and the case remanded for the entry of an order consistent with this opinion and the awarding of the appropriate benefits.
Reversed and remanded.
All concurred.
In 1969 this section was replaced by MCLA 418.521(1); MSA 17.237(521)(1) which now provides:
“Sec. 521. (1) If an employee has a permanent disability in the form of the loss of a hand, arm, foot, leg or eye and subsequently has an injury arising out of and in the course of his employment which results in another permanent disability in the form of the loss of a hand, arm, foot, leg or eye, at the conclusion of payments made for the second permanent disability he shall be conclusively presumed to be totally and permanently disabled and paid compensation for total and permanent disability after subtracting the number of weeks of compensation received by the employee for both such losses. The payment of compensation under this section shall be made by the second injury fund, and shall begin at the conclusion of the payments for the second permanent disability.”
The two sections are substantially similar and the application of either would lead us to the same conclusion. The law in effect at the time of injury, however, is that which is to be used to determine the rights of the parties. Tarnow v Railway Express Agency, 331 Mich 558; 50 NW2d 318 (1951). See Buchau v Simmons Boiler & Machine Co, 392 Mich 141; 220 NW2d 408 (1974).
MCLA 418.521(1); MSA 17.237(521X1) now speaks in terms of a "conclusive presumption”.
Under MCLA 418.521(1); MSA 17.237(521X1) the "conclusive presumption” does not arise until the payments for the second permanent disability are concluded. In the case at bar plaintiffs petition was not filed until payments for the second permanent disability were concluded. Under this new section, therefore, the result would be the same.
Hakala v Burroughs Corp, 48 Mich App 639; 211 NW2d 60 (1973), lv granted, 391 Mich 756 (1974), decided before the decisional date of Hilton v Oldsmobile Division of General Motors Corp, 390 Mich 43; 210 NW2d 316 (1973), reached a different conclusion. In light of the decision in Hilton, we feel that any reliance on Hakala would be misplaced. | [
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Quinn, P. J.
By his plea of guilty, defendant was convicted of violating MCLA 335.341(4)(b); MSA 18.1070(41)(4)(b). He was sentenced and he appeals.
Of the four issues raised on appeal, only one merits discussion. Appellate counsel, who was not trial counsel, requested a copy of the presentence report on the basis of People v McFarlin, 389 Mich 557; 208 NW2d 504 (1973), and GCR 1963, 785.12. This request was denied by the trial court, and defendant contends this denial was reversible error.
Defendant pleaded guilty September 22, 1972. The McFarlin decision was on June 28, 1973. GCR 1963, 785.12 was effective September 1, 1973. Neither the court rule nor the McFarlin decision is retroactive and we have found no statute, court rule, or court decision that was in effect on September 22, 1972 that required the trial court to furnish appellate counsel a copy of the presentence report. It was not error, reversible or otherwise, to deny appellate counsel’s request for a copy of the presentence report.
This result is not in conflict with People v Chappell, 44 Mich App 204; 205 NW2d 285 (1972). Chappell first decided that the sentence involved was in violation of People v Tanner, 387 Mich 683; 199 NW2d 202 (1972), and that the sentence had to be corrected. The Chappell court did not correct the sentence because the next issue presented involved the denial by the trial court of appellate counsel’s motion to produce the presentence report.
The Chappell court termed this denial "improper”, not reversible error. Read in conjunction with the Tanner error that required resentencing, we interpret Chappell to require disclosure of the presentence report at time of sentence when requested. This is the sense of GCR 1963, 785.12 as we read it. After stating that the sentencing court shall permit the defendant’s attorney or the defendant and the prosecution to see the presentence report, the next sentence of the rule is as follows:
"Both parties shall be given an opportunity at time of sentencing to respond to the presentence report and to explain or controvert any factual representations disclosed.” (Emphasis added.)
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Holbrook, P. J.
This case arises as an appeal from determination of the Workmen’s Compensation Appeal Board* which upheld a decision of a compensation referee denying benefits to plaintiff.
In early 1970 plaintiff Betty Moore, who had recently finished a beautician’s course in Petoskey, Michigan, was contacted, at her home in Levering, Michigan, by defendant Jan Gundelfinger concerning possible employment with Gundel’s Hairdressers (a partnership of defendant Jan Gundelfinger and her husband defendant W. T. Gundelfinger) in Battle Creek, Michigan. Plaintiff went to Harbor Springs, Michigan, where she demonstrated her skills by working on Mrs. Gundelfinger’s hair. After having completed this step, a trip to defendants’ shop in Battle Creek was necessary to determine if the employment of plaintiff would be harmonious with the manager of the shop and the employees.
On February 1, 1970, the two left for Battle Creek in a car owned and driven by Jan Gundelfinger. Plaintiff had been informed that all costs of the trip would be borne by Jan Gundelfinger. On February 2, plaintiff was shown the defendants’ shop. On the 3rd and 4th, plaintiff again demonstrated her skills by working on the hair of one of defendants’ employees. Thereafter, plaintiff was told that should she so desire she could start work the following week. To this plaintiff agreed.
Returning north, the ladies were involved in an automobile accident on Michigan highway M-66 in Ionia County. Jan Gundelfinger was driving. Plaintiff suffered head injuries and a fractured patella. On the next day (February 6) plaintiff was taken by her father from the Ionia Hospital to the Little Traverse Hospital in Petoskey. Plaintiff underwent knee surgery.
Plaintiff did not return to work until August 1, 1970, when she worked in a part-time position as a cashier in a restaurant. On September 1, 1970, plaintiff began working full time at a beauty shop in Mackinaw City.
Later in September, plaintiff by her father as next friend filed suit against defendants for damages. On October 19, 1970, defendant Jan Gundelfinger filed an employer’s basic report of injury with the Workmen’s Compensation Bureau. Plaintiff filed a petition therein for hearing dated December 11, 1970. On December 2, 1971, a hearing was held on the petition of plaintiff. Prior thereto the civil suit was settled for $4,000. On November 30, 1971, a release was signed which specifically excluded release from any claim for workmen’s compensation benefits. By decision signed December 2, 1971, the referee denied plaintiff’s petition. Plaintiff appealed from this ruling and on August 3, 1973, the referee’s denial of benefits was affirmed by the WCAB. After briefly stating the facts of the case, the WCAB found:
"Within a year plaintiff initiated both a guest passenger liability suit against defendants and a workmen’s compensation claim against defendant partnership’s compensation carrier.
"Her legal pleadings throughout the circuit court action specifically denied any employer-employee relationship. Upon settlement of that claim for $4,000.00, the workmen’s compensation case was brought up for hearing — now with the claim of employment status. The Hearing Referee denied same with plaintiff bringing this appeal.
"Specifically excluding the above-referred-to prior litigation, we find the Referee’s decision supportable on the facts of this case. Plaintiff was never employed or paid wages. She had agreed to employment with that employment to commence five days after the accident. She had not even taken such preliminary steps as completion of Social Security information. Cases cited by plaintiff center around highway risks or non-work-location injuries arising out of employment already established. Here employment was contemplated, not consumated [sic]. It would be difficult for this Board to find an auto accident involving a beautician on her way home as compensable. How much more difficult when that beautician hasn’t even entered into an employment situation.” (Emphasis in original.)
I
As is often the case, one party, here the defendants, confronts this Court with one basic assertion, viz., that the determination of the appeal board was one of fact and that, in the absence of fraud, that finding is conclusive. Const 1963, art 6, § 28 states that findings of fact made by the WCAB are conclusive in the absence of fraud. MCLA 418.861; MSA 17.237(861) provides:
"The findings of fact made by the board acting within its powers, in the absence of fraud, shall be conclusive. The court of appeals and the supreme court shall have power to review questions of law involved in any final order of the board, if application is made by the aggrieved party within 30 days after such order by any method permissible under the rules of the courts of the laws of this state.”
It is apparent that the Legislature never manifested any intention that this Court should not review any and all legal determinations of the WCAB. In the past, this writer has pointed out that the task of this Court is to examine the board’s application of legal standards. Medacco v Campbell, Wyant & Cannon Foundry Co, 48 Mich App 217, 220-221; 210 NW2d 360, 363 (1973).
The courts of this state are not triers of fact in workmen’s compensation cases, but rather review findings to determine whether there is evidence to support the giving or denial of an award. Carter v Kelsey-Hayes Co, 386 Mich 610, 615; 194 NW2d 326, 328 (1972). This Court must affirm if there is any evidence in the record to support the findings. Lamb v John’s Tavern, 37 Mich App 678, 681; 195 NW2d 278, 279 (1972). However, in order to properly review these cases, the appeal board must indicate the testimony adopted, the standard followed, and the reasoning used in reaching its conclusion. McClary v Wagoner, 16 Mich App 326, 328; 167 NW2d 800, 801 (1969); Lamb v John’s Tavern, supra. In reference to this, Justice O’Hara has recently written:
"[A]n administrative tribunal clothed with the awesome power to award or deny benefits in finality on facts found absent fraud should make those findings clear and unequivocal. Whenever possible transcript references should be made to the testimony it accepts or rejects. By so doing it will insure the effectuation of the legislative intent of severely limiting judicial review.” Couch v Saginaw Malleable Iron Plant, Central Foundry Div of GMC, 51 Mich App 317, 321-322; 214 NW2d 885, 887-888 (1974).
We are unable to say under the circumstances present herein that the opinion is clear and unequivocal. The only testimony was that of plaintiff, so reference to the testimony accepted or rejected was unnecessary. While no standard is explicitly set out, it appears that the WCAB, having found as a matter of fact that no employment relationship existed, concluded that the injury was not compensable as a matter of law. As will appear herein, the legal standard of a no-employment relationship is not controlling and is inapplicable. The facts in this case raise an issue of first impression in this jurisdiction.
II
The novel question is whether a tryout period is so covered as to fall within the confines of the workmen’s compensation law if an injury should occur during that period.
Professor Larson has written:
"Since workmen’s compensation law is primarily interested in the question when the risks of the employment begin to operate, it is appropriate, quite apart from the strict contract situation, to hold that an injury during a try-out period is covered, when that injury flows directly from employment activities or conditions.
"If all the facts are present which would justify the conclusion that a trip or activity prior to formal hiring was sufficiently connected with the employment to support compensability, this conclusion should not be retroactively undone if the case happens to present evidence that the hiring for some reason would not have taken place.” (Emphasis supplied.) 1 Larson’s Workmen’s Compensation Law, § 26.20, pp 5-202, 5-203.
In Smith v Venezian Lamp Co, 5 AD2d 12; 168 NYS2d 764 (1957), an individual claiming workmen’s compensation benefits had sought a job as a polisher with the defendant manufacturer of lamps. The man in charge of the company’s polishing operations told claimant that he would "try him out”. The claimant was given part of a lamp to polish which he attempted to do with a buffing machine. The lamp slipped off the spool upon which it was placed, struck, and caused injuries to the claimant. The New York Court wrote at 5 AD2d 14; 168 NYS2d 766: "A tryout is for the benefit of the employer, as well as the applicant, and if it involves a hazardous job we see no valid reason why the applicant should not be entitled to the protection of the statute”.
Also involving the question of whether injuries occurring during a tryout period are compensable is the case of Laeng v Workmen’s Compensation Appeals Board, 6 Cal 3d 771; 494 P2d 1; 100 Cal Rptr 377 (1972). While participating in an obstacle course, as a phase of a physical agility test, the petitioner Laeng fell from a raised horizontal telephone pole and fractured his right foot. The workmen’s compensation referee found that the complainant was precluded from workmen’s compensation recovery because, at the time of the injury, he had not become an employee of the respondent City of Covina, California.. The California Supreme Court, speaking through Mr. Justice Tobriner, cited the Smith case in support of its conclusion, saying that any tryout which requires "the performance of special skills” is for the benefit of the employer as well as the applicant. 6 Cal 3d 781; 494 P2d 7; 100 Cal Rptr 383. The Court went on to say that a tryout is also in the service of the employer in another sense as the applicant subjects himself to the employer’s control,* * and the employer, in turn, assumes responsibility for directing the applicant’s activities. The Court held that the injury was compensable as a matter of law. The Court said:
"Workmen’s compensation, of course, fundamentally proposes to protect individuals from any 'special risks’ of employment; thus when an employer, as part of a 'tryout’ for an employment position, exposes an applicant under his control and direction to such risks, any resulting injury becomes properly compensable under the workmen’s compensation law.” 6 Cal 3d 774; 494 P2d 2; 100 Cal Rptr 378 (1972).
Had the injury here in question occurred during the period when the plaintiff was actually involved in demonstrating and performing her skills under the tryout, or while on defendants’ premises, or while doing specific duties for defendants, we would not hesitate to find that any such injury was compensable. However, as the injury occurred in transit returning from the tryout, inquiry must continue.
Ill
Whether an individual injured in an accident while returning home in the automobile of her prospective employer from a tryout period is eligible for compensation under the workmen’s compensation law?
It is agreed that Mrs. Gundelfinger travelled from her home in Harbor Springs to the shop in Battle Creek weekly. The only testimony available, that of the plaintiff, is unclear. She testified:
"Q. (By Mr. Patrick, plaintiff’s attorney): Did you have any discussions concerning transportation for that trip?
'A. Yes. She said that she would furnish the transportation and pay for everything all the time we were down there.
”Q. (By Mr. Wood, defendants’ attorney): There was really no requirement imposed upon you by Jan Gun delfinger which said, 'Betty, you must travel with me to Battle Creek to look over the situation,’ was there?
"A No.
”Q. You could have gone on the bus if you had wanted to, assuming you would have had funds available to pay for the bus ride?
"A. Yes, fcould have.
”Q. And if you would have had a car of your own, you could just as easily driven that down; true?
’A. Yes.
"Q. So at no time did she say, 'Betty, you must come with me in my car to work on this thing,’ did she?
'A. No.
”Q. (By Mr. Patrick): Would you have gone down to Battle Creek with Mrs. Gundelfinger had she not provided the transportation for it?
'A No.”
It is ordinarily the general rule that injuries incurred by an employee while going to or from work are not regarded as arising out of and in the course of employment so as to qualify under the provisions of workmen’s compensation. See Phillips v Fitzhugh Motor Co, 330 Mich 183; 46 NW2d 922 (1951); Fischer v Lincoln Tool & Die Co, 37 Mich App 198, 201; 194 NW2d 476, 478 (1971), and cases cited therein. Certain exceptions to this rule are to be found, as where an individual is engaged in a special mission in the interest of and at the direction of his employer. Le Vasseur v Allen Electric Co, 338 Mich 121, 123; 61 NW2d 93, 94 (1953). Cf. Levchuk v Krug Cement Products Co, 246 Mich 589; 225 NW 559 (1929); Funk v A F Scheppmann & Son Construction Co, 294 Minn 483; 199 NW2d 791 (1972); and Phoenix Indemnity Co v Willard, 130 F Supp 657 (SDNY, 1955).
We rule that when an individual is injured while engaged in a tryout for the employer, such injury is compensable as a matter of law. The finding of a no-employment relationship by the WCAB in view of our ruling herein is not controlling. We are unable to pass upon this case without more complete findings. The WCAB has not determined whether the trip benefited the defendants and whether plaintiff’s trip in defendant’s automobile to and from Battle Creek was a part of the tryout arrangement, i.e., inherently connected with the tryout so as to be part thereof, and thus compensable. The case is remanded to the WCAB for further findings in accord with this opinion, and to certify such to this Court within 60 days. Costs to abide final results.
All concurred.
Hereinafter referred to as the WCAB.
Cf. Sones v Thompson Furniture Co, 163 Pa Super 392; 62 A2d 116 (1948), where an individual had been hired under a contract of employment which left open the factor of rate of compensation for future determination. When injury caused the loss'of the use of three fingers of the claimant’s right hand, benefits were awarded.
The case of Smith v Venezian Lamp Co, 5 AD2d 12; 168 NYS2d 764 (1957), was followed by the New York Court in Bode v O & W Restaurant, 9 AD2d 969; 193 NYS2d 845 (1959). In that case a common law action had no impact upon their decision.
Control, under the so-called "economic reality” test, is a factor in determining whether an employer-employee relationship exists. The others are: payment of wages; the right to hire and fire; and, the right to discipline. Cronk v Chevrolet Local 659, 32 Mich App 394, 399; 189 NW2d 16, 18-19 (1971). See also McKissic v Bodine, 42 Mich App 203; 201 NW2d 333 (1972).
It is not disputed that Mrs. Gundelfinger furnished or paid for all expenses of plaintiffs transportation, food and lodging. | [
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Holbrook, P. J.
On February 16, 1973, the defendant was found guilty by a jury of assault with intent to rob while armed, MCLA 750.89; MSA 28.284. Defendant was sentenced on April 12, 1973 to a term of from 20 to 30 years in prison.
The records show that Robert Haggerty, the bartender at the Jet Bar, had known the defendant for quite a few years. He testified that defendant came in about 1:45 a.m. on November 15, 1972, ordered a 7-7, talked with him about roofing and asked him for a "sack”. Defendant had a gun and told him to "fill it up”. Defendant took ones, fives, tens, and twenties from the cash register and then told all the men in the bar to throw their billfolds on the floor. Defendant had him (Haggerty) check some of the wallets and then ordered everybody into the cooler.
Edward Rooker was in the bar when the incident occurred but was not sure that defendant was the man with the gun in the bar since defendant had a beard at the time of trial.
Daniel Dowr, Jr., was also in the Jet Bar at the time. Dowr had $30-$35 taken and identified defendant as the man with the gun that night.
William McClure had 15 cents taken from him but was unable to recall much of the incident. McClure, however, did not think that defendant looked like the man with the gun, possibly because the man with the gun did not have a beard.
Kay Bare said that the defendant resembled the man with the gun at the Jet Bar on November 15 even though the man in the bar did not have a beard. She had seen defendant in the bar prior to and during the incident but prior to seeing defendant in court, singled out as the accused, Ms. Bare would not have paid much attention to him.
Joseph Gelinski was having a drink in the bar when the bartender said that there was a hold-up and tried to quiet people down. He got a good look at the defendant and recognized him even though he did not have a beard and haircut on the night in question.
Gerald Werth testified that he got a good look at the man with the gun on the night in question. Werth identified defendant in court, noting that he had grown a beard since the incident.
Robert McCormick, although present, could not recall what had occurred on the night in question.
Herbert Payne, Assistant Superintendent, Records and Identification Bureau, Flint Police De partment, identified a print found on a glass from the Jet Bar as being that of the defendant.
The defense called Margaret Kerperien, defendant’s sister, who testified that defendant came into Marja’s Bar, where she worked, about 11 p.m. on the night in question. Defendant sat with his sister, Charles and Shirley Prieur, and Pat Reamer. Margaret Kerperien also testified that defendant left Marja’s at approximately 2 a.m. because he was sick but returned before he could have gone the three blocks to the Jet Bar and return. Shirley Prieur and Pat Reamer substantiated Margaret Kerperien’s testimony. Pat Reamer also testified that defendant had a beard at the time.
Leroy Smith attested to the fact that he heard defendant asking to be let out of Marja’s Bar around 2 a.m. on the night in question. And Helen Van Echouette, an employee of Marja’s Bar, who was working at the time, testified that the defendant was in Marja’s from 1 to after 2 a.m.
Defendant raises several issues on appeal which we will deal with in proper order.
I
Was there sufficient evidence to support a jury verdict of guilty of the crime of assault with intent to rob while armed, MCLA 750.89; MSA 28.284?
While the record in this case does show that certain of the state’s witnesses could not positively identify defendant as the robber, the record does show that several of the state’s witnesses could not positively identify defendant as the robber, the record does show that several of the state’s witnesses, including a fingerprint expert, established that defendant was the robber and was present at the Jet Bar and perpetrated the crime in question. There was sufficient evidence present, if believed by the jury, to sustain a verdict of guilty. People v Boynton, 46 Mich App 748; 208 NW2d 523 (1973); People v John Joseph Palmer, 392 Mich 370; 220 NW2d 393 (1974).
II
Did the unresponsive remarks to proper questions indicating a prior criminal record constitute reversible error where defendant did not take the stand and counsel for defendant failed to object or move to strike?
Responding to a question from defense counsel, Robert Haggerty stated:
”Q. (By David Moore, defense counsel): How many times did you see Patrick Histed prior to this particular evening?
'A. I’ve known him and his sister and family, well, I know his sister for quite a few years. This goes back about 20 years when I worked as a supervisor out at Juvenile Home.”
During his cross-examination of Shirley Prieur, the prosecutor received the following answers:
”Q. (By Mr. Palus, assistant prosecutor): You’ve known the defendant for about three years?
'A. Yes.
"Q. Did you drink with him often?
”A. Well, couldn’t have been too often; he just got out of Jackson.”
The reason defense counsel probably did not object to Haggerty’s response was because defense counsel had asked the questions. As for Shirley Prieur’s answers, they were not responsive to the questions and were not followed up by the prosecutor. Defense counsel probably remained silent so as not to emphasize such comments for the jury. In the case of Detroit v O’Connell, 19 Mich App 538; 172 NW2d 875 (1969), wherein the Court cited People v Todaro, 253 Mich 367; 235 NW 185 (1931), it was ruled that an irresponsive answer to a proper question is not usually error. We further rule that even if the admission of the evidence was error, it was not prejudicial, for it is plausible that the defense counsel let the error pass without objection because of trial strategy. See People v Gardner, 37 Mich App 520; 195 NW2d 62 (1972). We rule that it was not reversible error.
Ill
Was it proper cross-examination by the prosecutor to question witnesses as to their conduct which may have been inconsistent with what would have been probable had their statements on direct examination been true?
This issue was considered and properly disposed of in People v McClow, 40 Mich App 185; 198 NW2d 707 (1972). Therein, defendant argued that the trial court had erred in allowing the prosecution to cross-examine an alibi witness concerning that witness’s failure to come forward with the alibi at any time prior to trial. The Court held at 40 Mich App 193; 198 NW2d 711-712:
"|l]t was not improper cross-examination to interrogate the witness as to the conduct on his part at variance and inconsistent with what would be natural or probable if his statements on his direct examination were true. The credibility of a witness may be attacked by showing that he failed to speak or act when it would have been natural to do so if the facts were in accordance with his testimony.” (Citation omitted.)
We find no error present.
IV
Did prejudicial error occur where a res gestae witness was not produced at trial even though testimony at trial indicated that said witness identified a person other than defendant as the perpetrator of the crime charged?
In People v Bennett, 46 Mich App 598, 619-620; 208 NW2d 624, 636 (1973), lv to app granted 390 Mich 772 (1973), the Court lists several exceptions to the general rule which requires production of a res gestae witness for examination at trial:
"(1) When the prosecution makes a showing of due diligence in attempting to produce the witness, People v Gibson, 253 Mich 476; 235 NW 225 (1931) and People v Kern 6 Mich App 406; 149 NW2d 216 (1967);
"(2) When the testimony of the missing res gestae witness would be merely cumulative, 2 Gillespie, Michigan Criminal Law & Procedure (2d ed), § 605, p 782;
"(3) When the res gestae witness was a participant in the crime, People v Lyle Brown 37 Mich App 25; 194 NW2d 450 (1971);
"(4) When the identity of the res gestae witness is made known to the defendant during trial, or even before, and defendant does not move for the indorsement or production of the witness, People v Gibson, supra; People v Rasmus, 8 Mich App 239; 154 NW2d 590 (1967); People v Love, 18 Mich App 228; 171 NW2d 33 (1969); People v Printess C Jackson, 11 Mich App 727; 162 NW2d 163 (1968); People v May, 34 Mich App 130; 190 NW2d 739 (1971); People v Fuston Thomas, 36 Mich App 23; 193 NW2d 189 (1971); People v Williams, 42 Mich App 278; 201 NW2d 286 (1972).”
The facts of the present case fit the fourth excep tion. Here, the existence, if not the identity of the res gestae witness was made known to the defendant at trial, if not before, and defendant failed to pursue the matter. Defendant did not move for indorsement or production of the witness and cannot now complain.
Affirmed.
All concurred. | [
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Bashara, P. J.
This is an appeal from an order granting defendant’s motion for accelerated or summary judgment denying plaintiff, an employee, the right to sue defendant employer for wrongful discharge. Plaintiff, employed by defendant, was discharged during the time a collective bargaining agreement was in effect between his union* and his employer.
Defendant argues that plaintiff is not a party to the contract, thus he has no standing to sue.
Although it is true that plaintiff is not per se a party to the collective bargaining agreement, § 301 of the Labor Management Relations Act gives an employee the right to maintain an action against his employer. Davidson v International UUAA & AIW, Local No 1189, 332 F Supp 375 (D NJ, 1971). See also Amal Assoc of Street, Elec Ry & Motor Coach Emp v Lockridge, 403 US 274; 91 S Ct 1909; 29 L Ed 2d 473 (1971), dissenting opinion of Mr. Justice White, and for background and scholarly analysis of employees’ rights under § 301, see Richardson v Communications Workers of America, 443 F2d 974 (CA 8, 1971). See also Smith v Evening News Assoc, 371 US 195; 83 S Ct 267; 9 L Ed 2d 246 (1962).
The court in Davidson, supra, 377 stated:
"It is of course now well settled that an employee may bring a § 301 suit against his employer for wrongful discharge, * * * .” (Emphasis added.)
However, before an employee can sue under § 301, Congress has explicitly stated in § 203(d) of the Taft-Hartley Act that if a collective bargaining agreement sets forth a procedure governing the settlement of grievances, the means agreed to by the parties must be given effect. In suits brought under this section the Supreme Court has effectuated this policy requiring courts to give "full play” to the means chosen by the parties to the agreement. United Steelworkers v American Mfg Co, 363 US 564; 80 S Ct 1343; 4 L Ed 2d 1403 (1960).
Further interpretation of §301 was announced in Republic Steel Corp v Maddox, 379 US 650; 85 S Ct 614; 13 L Ed 2d 580 (1965), wherein it was held that an employee must exhaust the grievance procedure before proceeding independently to the courts. SIt was also held that if an employee has had a final and binding determination resulting from the grievance procedure, he is barred from suing.
It is parenthetically noted that failure of the discharged employee to bring an action against his union prior to initiating suit against his employer is not a bar to maintaining an action under § 301. Vaca v Sipes, supra.
In the case at bar, the collective bargaining agreement provided for a three-step grievance procedure. The parties to this suit are in agreement that plaintiffs grievance was submitted at each step of that procedure; and that each committee was not able to reach a majority vote. Thus plaintiff’s discharge was allowed to stand due to the "deadlock”.
Article 43(l)(f) provides:
"(f) Deadlocked cases may be submitted to umpire handling if a majority of the Joint Area Cartage Committee determine to submit such matter to an umpire for decision. Otherwise either party shall be permitted all legal or economic recourse.”
Plaintiff, in his brief, simply states that arbitration was not agreed to by both parties. There is disagreement between plaintiff and defendant as to why article 43(l)(f) was not invoked. Plaintiff alleges, in his answer to the motion for summary judgment before the trial court and by affidavit that defendant corporation refused to submit to outside arbitration. Defendant countered by the submission of an affidavit from plaintiff’s business agent stating that plaintiff initially agreed to give his union authority to request of the company that the grievance be submitted to an outside arbitrator, but that plaintiff subsequently withdrew his request. Further, that the union thereafter wrote to plaintiff and again offered to submit the matter to outside arbitration, but that plaintiff failed to respond.
GCR 1963, 117.2(3) indicates that there shall be no genuine issue as to any material fact before summary judgment will stand. We are unable to determine from the pleadings and supporting affidavits that there was no genuine issue of material fact as to whether plaintiff had exhausted his remedies under the contract.
We, therefore, remand this matter to the trial court, under the provisions of GCR 1963, 116.3, to conduct an evidentiary hearing to determine whether the defendant employer refused to submit the grievance to outside arbitration under the terms of art 43(l)(f) of the collective bargaining agreement. If the court should find that the defendant did in fact refuse to carry the matter forward under the provisions of art 43(l)(f), then the court shall order that the cause be tried on its merits. If, on the other hand, the court shall find that the defendant employer did not refuse to comply or was not asked to comply with the provisions of art 43(l)(f) then the court shall enter summary judgment in favor of the defendant employer.
We retain no further jurisdiction.
All concurred.
Defendant had a Collective Bargaining Agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffers, Warehousemen and Helpers of America, Local No 299.
29 USC 185(a).
29 USC 173(d).
Limited exceptions to the Maddox, supra, rule have evolved, none of which apply here. See Vaca v Sipes, 386 US 171; 87 S Ct 903; 17 L Ed 2d 842 (1967); and Alexander v Gardner-Denver Co, 415 US 36; 94 S Ct 1011; 39 L Ed 2d 147 (1974).
GCR 1963, 116.3 provides that a hearing may be held to determine whether the court has jurisdiction to proceed to a trial on the merits. | [
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T. M. Burns, J.
On January 11, 1967, plaintiff Martin Vanden Bosch was working in the course of his employment for Bouwens Construction Company on the premises of defendant Ferro-Cast Corporation near Zeeland, Michigan. Plaintiff and another man were building an addition to FerroCast’s plant and at the time in question, they were putting up the steel framework of the building.
The joists (main braces) had already been put up, and plaintiff was installing approximately 18- feet-long reinforcement rods through the joists to tie them together. Plaintiff was on a wooden ladder taking the rods from his co-worker and threading them through the joists.
Plaintiff was installing the rods by the top method, which consisted of running the rod up between the joists and over the roof before bringing it back down through the joists. Plaintiff and his co-worker had been installing these rods in this manner the morning of the accident.
Some time during the day, one of the rods plaintiff was handling while standing on the ladder came into contact with a 46,000 volt power line owned by defendant Consumers Power Company (hereinafter referred to as Consumers) which crossed over the new addition being constructed. Plaintiff was knocked off the ladder and fell to the ground below, sustaining serious burns and other injuries.
On January 8, 1970, plaintiffs filed this suit against both defendants alleging negligence which resulted in plaintiff Martin Vanden Bosch’s coming into contact with the power line. Defendants denied negligence and asserted that Martin was contributorily negligent. On April 1, 1971, defendant Consumers filed a cross-complaint against defendant Ferro-Cast, asserting an indemnification contract between the two parties in which FerroCast allegedly agreed to hold Consumers harmless from loss.
Trial was held before an Ottawa County jury from October 3 to October 6, 1972. The evidence presented at trial conflicted on two important points: (1) whether or not Vanden Bosch was ever warned of the dangerous wires, and (2) whether or not Vanden Bosch had seen the dangerous wires. After a full trial on the merits, the jury rendered a unanimous verdict against both defendants in the amount of $80,000 — $75,000 for plaintiff Martin Vanden Bosch and $5,000 for his wife.
Both defendants then moved for judgment notwithstanding the verdict on the ground that Van-den Bosch was contributorily negligent as a matter of law, or in the alternative for a new trial. In an opinion dated December 27, 1972, the lower court granted defendants’ motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict and also held that if the judgment notwithstanding the verdict was reversed on appeal, the defendants were entitled to a new trial because the jury verdict was contrary to the great weight of the evidence and for the further reason that sufficient prejudice tainted the verdict. The court also found that the indemnification agreement did not apply to protect Consumers in this case. Judgment was entered accordingly against plaintiffs and in favor of defendants on January 8, 1973.
Plaintiffs appeal as of right from the judgment notwithstanding the verdict entered in favor of defendants and further appeal the court’s order granting defendants a new trial. Defendant Consumers cross-appeals as of right the trial court’s holding that it (Consumers) was not protected by the indemnification contract.
1. Did the trial court err in granting defendants’ motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict on the ground that plaintiff was contributorily negligent as a matter of law?
Summary dispositions of negligence cases are to be employed only in the clearest cases. Schulte v Detroit Edison Co, 50 Mich App 326; 213 NW2d 311 (1973); Davis v Thornton, 384 Mich 138; 180 NW2d 11 (1970). In reviewing a lower court’s judgment granting a defendant’s motion for judg ment notwithstanding the verdict, this Court must view the facts and all legitimate inferences therefrom in the light most favorable to the plaintiff. Schulte v Detroit Edison Co, supra; Gronlie v Positive Safety Manufacturing Co, 50 Mich App 109; 212 NW2d 756 (1973); Marietta v Cliffs Ridge, Inc, 385 Mich 364; 189 NW2d 208 (1971); Kroll v Katz, 374 Mich 364; 132 NW2d 27 (1965).
In Garmo v General Motors Corp, 45 Mich App 703, 708-709; 207 NW2d 146 (1973), we said:
"We agree with defendant that appellate review of a judgment notwithstanding the verdict should encompass all the proofs adduced at trial and not just plaintiffs. Marietta v Cliffs Ridge, Inc, 385 Mich 364, 371; 189 NW2d 208 (1971); Kasza v Detroit, 370 Mich 7, 11; 120 NW2d 784 (1963). However, as stated in Taft v J L Hudson Co, 37 Mich App 692, 698; 195 NW2d 296 (1972):
" 'If, when so viewed, there is any evidence which was competent and sufficient to support the jury’s determination, said determination should not be disturbed.’ ”
The test for contributory negligence in cases where a plaintiff comes in contact with an electric wire is whether or not he voluntarily and deliberately placed himself in a position known to him to be dangerous. See Kratochvil v City of Grayling, 367 Mich 682, 687; 117 NW2d 164 (1962); Clumfoot v St. Clair Tunnel Co, 221 Mich 113, 118-119; 190 NW 759 (1922).
In the instant case, the trial court granted defendants’ motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict primarily because of its belief that plaintiff had seen or should have seen the wires before the accident. Therefore, since he failed to take proper precautions, the trial court felt that plaintiff was contributorily negligent as a matter of law. However, recent decisions of this Court have held that even where a plaintiff is aware or was previously aware of a danger, his action in forgetting or ignoring the danger is not contributory negligence as a matter of law. Ray v Transamerica Insurance Co, 46 Mich App 647, 655; 208 NW2d 610 (1973); Mackey v Island of Bob-Lo Co, 39 Mich App 64, 66; 197 NW2d 151 (1972); Pigg v Bloom, 22 Mich App 325; 177 NW2d 441 (1970).
In Ray, we stated at page 655:
"Aside from defendant’s other assignments of error, it suggests that plaintiff was contributorily negligent as a matter of law in failing to tell anyone about the missing gear cover. We hold awareness of the danger is not by itself sufficient for a finding of contributory negligence as a matter of law. Pigg v Bloom, 22 Mich App 325; 177 NW2d 441 (1970). On reviewing this issue we rely on the often stated principle that unless all reasonable men would agree that the plaintiff is guilty of contributory negligence, upon a view of evidence favorable to the plaintiff, then the question should be left to the jury, Ingram v Henry, 373 Mich 453, 455; 129 NW2d 879 (1964); Bay City v Carnes, 3 Mich App 623, 625; 143 NW2d 148 (1966), as. it was properly in this case.”
After carefully reviewing the authorities presented and after viewing the evidence presented in this case in the light most favorable to plaintiff, we hold that it was error for the trial court to grant defendants’ motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict. There was evidence presented from which the jury could properly have found that the plaintiff not only did not see the wire, but that he was not aware of its presence, and thus was not contributorily negligent. Furthermore, even if the facts of this case were as the lower court and defendants would have them, that is, that plaintiff did see the wires before the accident, under Mackey, Ray and Pigg, supra, plaintiff would still not be contributorily negligent as a matter of law.
In summary, on the evidence presented, it was error for the trial court to conclude as a matter of law that plaintiff was contributorily negligent. The question of plaintiff’s contributory negligence was for the jury to decide. See also Judge Allen’s opinion in Wilhelm v Detroit Edison, et al, 56 Mich App 116; 224 NW2d 289 (1974).
2. Did the trial court err in granting defendants a new trial on the ground that the jury verdict was contrary to the great weight of the evidence?
Although we have given trial courts wide discretion in deciding whether to grant or deny new trials, nevertheless a new trial may only be granted on certain legally cognizable grounds. GCR 1963, 527.1. In Haidy v Szandzik, 46 Mich App 552, 555; 208 NW2d 559 (1973), our Court stated:
"[W]e have given the trial courts wide discretion in determining whether to grant or deny new trial. Benmark v Steffen, 9 Mich App 416; 157 NW2d 468 (1968). However, as stated in Williams Panel Brick Mfg Co v Hudsin, 32 Mich App 175, 177; 188 NW2d 235 (1971):
" 'The rule laid down in Benmark v Steffen, supra, to determine if the trial judge has exercised his discretion properly is to the effect that if the reasons assigned by the trial judge for his action are legally recognized and the reasons are supported by any reasonable interpretation of the record, he acted within his discretion.’ (Emphasis supplied.)”
Thus, when granting a new trial, the trial court must assign a legally recognized reason for its action.
In the case at bar, the trial court gave as one reason for granting defendants a new trial its opinion that the verdict was against the great weight of the evidence. While this is a legally recognized reason for granting a new trial, GCR 1963, 527.1(5), further examination of the trial court’s opinion reveals the fact that the trial court did not actually feel the great weight of the evidence showed plaintiff to be contributorily negligent, but rather that the trial court did not believe plaintiffs testimony. At page 2 of its opinion, the trial court stated:
"With the record in this condition concerning the alleged contributory negligence of the plaintiff, the court avoided making any decision on this issue when presented with a motion for directed verdict, the court being confident that no reasonable jury would find liability in this case. But the jury did find liability thus concluding that the conduct of plaintiff was that of an ordinary reasonable person under the circumstances.
"To reach this conclusion the jury must have determined that Campbell and Bos did not warn plaintiff of the danger, that plaintiff on previous occasions, including the erection of an addition next to the addition on which plaintiff worked on January 11, 1967, had never observed the wires leading into the sub-station and that plaintiff had not seen the wires on this job while he was putting up the I-beam and joists when there was nothing to obstruct his view of the wires, and that he had not seen them while he was installing the rods in the joists. In the opinion of the court, plaintiff’s denial of any warning and his denial of any knowledge of the presence of these wires is so shocking as to be beyond belief. To say the least, the verdict is contrary to the great weight of the evidence. In the opinion of the court plaintiff was guilty of contributory negligence as a matter of law.”
We have already stated in our earlier discussion that the trial court erred in concluding as a matter of law that plaintiff was contributorily negligent. We now hold that the trial court also erred in granting defendants a new trial on the ground that the verdict was contrary to the great weight of the evidence. Although the granting of a new trial ordinarily rests within the discretion of the trial court, the rule does not give a trial court unlimited power to grant a new trial merely because he does not agree with the verdict. He may not substitute his judgment for that of the finders of fact, and a grant of new trial should be based upon demonstrable errors in the trial. Humphrey v Bay Reñning Co, 16 Mich App 394; 168 NW2d 314 (1969), lv den 382 Mich 760 (1969).
In Kalamazoo County Road Commissioners v Bera, 373 Mich 310, 314; 129 NW2d 427 (1964), our Supreme Court stated:
"Where there is competent evidence to support the finding of the jury its verdict should not be set aside and a new trial granted solely because the trial judge would weigh and evaluate the evidence differently.
"The rule was stated in another way in Sloan v Kramer-Orloff Co, 371 Mich 403; 124 NW2d 455 (1963), by Justice O’Hara in his dissenting opinion as follows:
" 'After a careful review of the whole record, we conclude in response to our previously postulated query that the issue posed in the case at bar was not, and is not, a question of the "great” or "overwhelming” weight of all the evidence but rather a question of the credibility of witnesses testifying to diametrically opposed assertions of fact. So concluding we must, despite any misgivings or inclinations to disagree, leave the test of credibility where our system reposed it — in the trier of the facts.’ ”
Such is the case here. The trial court granted defendants’ motions for a new trial on the basis of its view of plaintiffs credibility. Defendants claimed plaintiff saw or should have seen the wire and was warned of its presence, while plaintiff stated he was neither warned of the wire nor did he see it. A credibility question was presented, and credibility is primarily a question for the jury rather than the court. Bridwell v Segel, 362 Mich 102; 106 NW2d 386 (1960). The evidence for the plaintiff is sufficient to support the verdict even though it is, as is so often the case, diametrically opposed to that produced by the defendants. The trial court exceeded its discretion by invading the province of the jury.
3. Did the trial court err in ñnding that defendants had been overly prejudiced in the conduct of the trial and, therefore, were entitled to a new trial?
Defendants first contend that comments made by plaintiffs’ counsel during closing argument concerning the lack of a remedy were overly prejudicial and that the trial court was correct in granting a new trial because of the prejudice inherent in the remarks.
Just prior to the completion of his closing argument, plaintiffs’ counsel made the following remark:
"It is our contention that in this case that the law and justice would be served, yes, indeed the law would be served by a judgment in favor of Martin and Mrs. Vanden Bosch against both defendants Consumers Power Company and defendant Ferro-Cast. And we ask that you consider all the evidence, consider everything you have heard in this trial, look at the situation, is there to be in this case under these circumstances no remedy, none, for what happened? Don’t have any obligation. His tough luck. ’’(Emphasis supplied.)
Defendants objected and requested that the trial court instruct the jury that plaintiff was receiving workmen’s compensation and that plaintiffs’ counsel’s remark should be disregarded. The trial court then gave the following instruction:
"Something has been said in the course of the arguments by counsel, or the implication or inference made that this is the only remedy that Mr. and Mrs. Martin Vanden Bosch may have. Now, that should not be the basis for your decision in this case.
"The verdict should rest upon the facts in this case. And the facts will not be altered one way or the other by speculating about whether there is or whether there isn’t another remedy, or whether this is the only one, or whether he has a dozen. That would be contrary to this instruction. Sympathy or prejudice must not influence your decision. What are the facts?”
After reading the opinion of the lower court, we are not sure whether the court granted the new trial under GCR 1963, 527.1(1) or (2), irregularity or misconduct of the prevailing party. In either case, it is undisputed that prejudicial appeals to sympathy are improper argument.
It is also undisputed that the trial court properly refused to inform the jury that plaintiff was receiving workmen’s compensation benefits. Hill v Harbor Steel & Supply Corp, 374 Mich 194; 132 NW2d 54 (1965); VandenBerg v Grand Rapids Gravel Co, 42 Mich App 722; 202 NW2d 694 (1972). It should also be readily apparent that in view of Hill and VandenBerg, plaintiffs’ counsel’s statement was incorrect, and that incorrect statements by counsel should not be approved. Therefore, the question we must decide is whether the statement, cured as it was by the court’s instruction to disregard, was sufficiently prejudicial to constitute grounds for a new trial.
In Koepel v St Joseph Hospital, 381 Mich 440, 443; 163 NW2d 222 (1968), our Supreme Court discussed the procedure to be followed in objecting to a prejudicial remark made during closing argument when it stated:
"If counsel defending thinks that his defense has been hurt incurably by a prejudicial closing argument, his remedy of prompt motion for mistrial is open to him. If on the other hand the situation in his view is reparable by the trial judge, a formal request for judicial correction is not only in order but tactically valuable. So, when the defendant conceives himself prejudiced by factual misstatements or inflammatory forensics delivered in the course of final argument, and yet does not want to go through another trial via motion for mistrial, it is highly important that he ask for and obtain relief through an affirmative request which * * * will effectively erase the item or items of concern.”
Thus, if the aggrieved party feels that the error committed was minor, he can request the trial court to cure that error via instructions. If he feels deeply prejudiced by the error committed during argument, he can move for a mistrial.
In the instant case, each defendant had the opportunity to move for a mistrial but both declined to do so. Instead they requested the court to instruct the jury to disregard the remarks of plaintiffs’ counsel. We are of the opinion that the remarks challenged by defendants were not sufficiently prejudicial to warrant a new trial and that the court’s instructions to the jury that its decision should in no way be based on sympathy for plaintiff effectively cured any prejudice that may have occurred by plaintiffs’ counsel’s remarks. See Conerly v Liptzen, 41 Mich App 238; 199 NW2d 833 (1972); and Owen v Birmingham Federal Savings, 27 Mich App 148; 183 NW2d 403 (1970).
Defendants also allege that there was sufficient juror misconduct to warrant the trial court’s granting a new trial.
A short time after the jury’s verdict was rendered, the trial court was informed by the baliff that one of the jurors had told him that he had visited the scene of the accident. At the hearing on the motion for a new trial, this juror was examined, over plaintiffs objection, as to the view he had taken. He testified that the view did nothing to influence his vote and that he did not inform the other members of the jury of his conduct.
An unauthorized view by the finder of fact is misconduct. See People v Eglar, 19 Mich App 563; 173 NW2d 5 (1969). In that case we held that it was error for a trial judge, sitting as the trier of fact, to view the scene of the crime without having given the defendant and counsel for both parties an opportunity to be present.
However, we feel Eglar is distinguishable from the case at bar since in Eglar the entire finder of fact viewed the scene while in this case only one of the six jurors went to the site of the accident. Had the entire jury gone to the scene, Eglar might be persuasive, but since only the conduct of one juror is involved, we do not deem Eglar to be controlling.
In Kwaiser v Peters, 381 Mich 73; 158 NW2d 877 (1968), a verdict was returned by a count of 11 to 1 and one juror was subsequently challenged for his misconduct. Justice Kelly, in his opinion for affirmance by an equally divided court, implied that even if a juror was shown to have acted improperly, the verdict would not be set aside if the same verdict would have resulted without that juror, when he stated at pages 79-80:
“No proof has been submitted to this Court as to how juror Ruffus Thomas voted. Conceding that he voted against plaintiffs claim, the record shows that there still would be 10 jurors voting 'No cause of action,’ in addition to Thomas. And 10 jurors agreeing upon a verdict is sufficient to sustain the verdict.”
Justice Kelly’s reasoning also applies here. The verdict was unanimous. Defendants have failed to make any showing that any prejudice resulted to them from the juror’s view. In fact, the juror’s testimony affirmatively shows a lack of prejudice. Even were this juror to be disqualified, the record reveals that there still would be five jurors voting in favor of plaintiffs. Under our present system, five jurors agreeing upon a verdict is sufficient to sustain that verdict. Therefore, the trial court erred in granting defendants a new trial on this ground.
4. Did the trial court err in ñnding that the indemniñcation contract did not apply to protect defendant Consumers?
Indemnity clauses are construed most strictly against the party who drafts them and the party who is the indemnitee. Klann v Hess Cartage Co, 50 Mich App 703; 214 NW2d 63 (1973); Geurink v Herlihy Mid-Continent Co, 5 Mich App 154; 146 NW2d 111 (1966); Meadows v Depco Equipment Co, 4 Mich App 370; 144 NW2d 844 (1966); Baker Contractor Inc v Chris Nelsen & Son, Inc, 1 Mich App 450; 136 NW2d 771 (1965). Indemnification contracts will not be construed to indemnify the indemnitee (here Consumers) against losses from his own negligent acts unless such an intent is expressed in unequivocal terms. Klann, supra; Geurink, supra; Meadows, supra.
The indemnity agreement in this case provided that defendant Ferro-Cast would save Consumers harmless for any loss by reason of the "location of such building under the transmission and/or distribution line wires of said second party (Consumers)”. The agreement did not provide for protection for the negligent maintenance of the wires over the buildings, nor did it provide for protection against Consumers’ failure to remedy a known dangerous situation, that is, the fact that the wires were hung too low in violation of a safety regulation. As the trial court stated in its opinion, it is only a matter of inference as to whether or not the agreement covers the negligence of the indemnitee. Geurink and its progeny require that such coverage be expressly stated in the agreement. Since the agreement did not specifically state that it covered the negligent acts of the indemnitee, we hold that the trial court was correct in its ruling that there should be no idemnification in this case.
For the reasons delineated above, the decision of the trial court granting defendants’ motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict is reversed; accordingly, the verdict of the jury should be reinstated.
Reversed without a new trial. Remanded for entry of judgment on the jury verdict. Costs to plaintiffs.
All concurred.
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Morse, J.
This is an action for damages based on the negligent killing of plaintiff’s intestate. The plaintiff had verdict and judgment for $5,000. The facts are substantially as follows:
A part of defendant’s station yards or grounds at Detroit is called the “Bay City Yard,” in which is a side track called the “Bentley Siding.” On this track stands a long, low, irregular. building, called “ Bentley’s Oil Works,” or “Sheds.” This side track is constructed and used for the Bentley oil works, and nothing else. It is 47 feet from the switch to the south end of the building. The length of a car is 34 feet. The track upon which this building is located runs somewhat in a circle, but its general course is north and south. The switch is south or south-west of the building. The oil shed or building stands on the easterly or northerly side, and the main track is on the west side of the Bentley side track. The top of a car is higher than the roof of this shed or building. The build.ing is constructed in sections. The second section cannot be seen from the south end, when standing at the switch. It sets back a foot or two from the other portion of the building. The office of the building is in that jog. Passing that, there is another building at the end of it. The south end of this building, or tank, or shed, is not perpendicular. The space between the side of the car while passing and the building is 16 inches at the south end, and, as the car goes north, it grows smaller, until the end of the first section of the house is reached, when the space' closes up to 13 inches. This is occasioned partly by the building righting up, and becoming nearer perpendicular at the north end than it is at the south end. At the south end of the building there are double doors, both swinging out. At the time of the accident these doors seem to have been open, thus acting as the lips of a funnel, and might have presented a very deceiving appearance.- The doors are over five feet wide, and, when open, leave only a space of 42 feet from the switch to the entrance of the funnel. This building had been standing there for five years, and was wholly upon the grounds of the defendant.
Plaintiff’s intestate was 26 years old at the time of his death. He was married, and left surviving him one child, a daughter three years old, and his widow, Louise Sweet. He was a-saving, prudent man, and was receiving $60 a month at the time of his death. He had been in the employ of the defendant for some time as brakeman on the eastern division of the main line, from Jackson to Detroit. While on that division he received an injury. After his injury he went into the employ of the defendant again as switchman in its yards at Detroit, and was in the employ of the defendant in that capacity a month or six weeks before the accident.
The switching team of which Sweet was a member was composed of Frasier, Maroney, and Sweet. Their duties as a switching team extended to any part of the company’s yards at-Detroit, but their chief labors seem to have been expended in that portion of the defendant’s yards called the “Bay City Yards.” There is no direct evidence that Sweet was ever on the Bentley siding before the accident. There is no evidence that his attention had ever been called to the dangerous proximity of the build ing, but there was evidence tending to show that cars were probably shipped in there from once to twice a day. There is no claim that he was ever informed by any one that the place was dangerous, or of the location of the shed, as connected with the railroad track.
The manner of the accident was as follows: The switching team came down from Bay City Junction on the main track, with two cars attached to the engine, and backed in on the Bentley siding, and coupled on to a car, and then pulled back over the switch and onto J;he main track. Sweet stood at the switch, and, as the train pulled out from the switch; threw it back onto the main line. The .engine then pushed the car that had been taken from the siding down the main line, past the switch. Maroney rode that car down the main line, and stopped it. The engine then pulled up beyond the switch again on the main line, and Sweet threw the switch back to the Bentley siding, and stood at the switch. The engineer then pushed a stock-car for the siding. Frasier cut off the car, and the engineer pushed it down the track onto the Bentley siding, following it with the engine; and, as the north end of the car passed the switch, Sweet got onto it. He was then upon the east side of it, next the building. When Sweet got onto the north end of the .car, naturally he was looking south, towards the approaching car as it came to the switch, and when he got onto it his face would be away from the building. Frasier was on the south end. Seeing Sweet get on, he (Frasier) dropped off' at the switch. The car thus cut off was a Michigan Central combination stock-car. These cars are slatted lengthwise. The posts, or studs, upon which the slats are nailed, are on the outside of the car. There are two ladders to this car, placed upon opposite sides, near the opposite ends of the- car. In order to stop the car it was necessary to reach, the top of it by these ladders. These cars are more difficult to mount than an ordinary box-car, for the reason that the slats are left apart, and, unless special attention is paid, the foot is liable to strike through the holes in the side of the car, and slip off the rounds of the ladder, and it therefore draws a person’s attention more closely when mounting than it would on a box-car,
In the division of the .work, it is the practice for the switchman who throws the switch to mount the car that is kicked on the siding as it passes him, set the brakes, and stop it at the place desired, and for the switchman who cuts off the car to drop off at the switch, and throw it back to the main line; and this seems to have been attempted in this case. At this time Frasier cut off this car, rode it down to the switch, and, looking through the slats of the car, saw Sweet mount upon the other side. Frasier then dropped off at the switch, to throw it back upon the main line. The engine was pushing the car, and the fireman did not know it was cut off. It was Sweet’s duty to get on, and Frasier’s duty to get off, at the switch, in the manner' it was done; and, according to the custom of doing the work, it was the duty of one qf them to get on the car at any event. There was testimony tending to show that- generally, in handling cars upon this side track, the men work upon the side of the cars away from the building.
The car was 34 feet long. It was only 47 feet from the switch to the building, and the doors, being open, reduced that distance five feet. From the switch to the funnel, therefore, was only 42 feet. This car was going as fast as a man could walk. Sweet, therefore, only had the time it would take a man to walk 42 feet, from the time he attempted to mount the car until he was crushed. As he attempted to mount the ear he took hold of one of the rounds of the ladder, and put either his foot or his knee upon the step of the car, — that is, the bottom step under the car, — and looked towards the car. He had only straightened up by the side of the car when the fireman, seeing his danger, hallooed to him to look out for the shed. He heard the noise, but did not comprehend what he said. He looked up, and smiled to the fireman, as though he thought he was joking, and in an instant was between the car and the shed, and was rolled the distance of the first section of the oil-shed between the car and the shed, and when he reached the end of that section he dropped down to the ground, and striking upon his feet, with his back against the shed, stood in that position, while the engine stopped, and the fireman got down and started to go to him, but before he got to him he fell back upon the ground, striking his head against the rail. They picked him up, and carried him into Bentley’s oil works, and laid him on the floor* He lived about 30 minutes, and said to Frasier, “Take me home to my wife.”
The negligence of the defendant is apparent, and does not seem to be disputed. It was the duty of the defendant to provide a safe place for the men* to work in the yards. There is shown no excuse for the laying of this track so close to the building. It was unsafe and dangerous. Indeed, the claim made by defendant’s counsel is that it was so obviously unsafe that the plaintiff’s- intestate was presumed, as a matter of law, to have taken notice of it. The building was on defendant’s premises-, and under its control, and its tracks, at least, could have been changed to prevent the accident.
The principal error assigned against the verdict is that, the plaintiff’s intestate was guilty of contributory negligence as a matter of law, because, by reasonable observation, he might have known of the danger incident to the situation,, and therefore he assumed the risk, and no recovery can be had.
The court instructed the jury upon this question as follows:
“ Now, gentlemen, in order for the plaintiff to recover in this case he must satisfy you, by a fair- preponderance ■of evidence, of several things:
“1. That the decedent, John H. Sweet, was not guilty of contributory negligence; for, if the want of ordinary care and prudence on the part of Mr. Sweet in any degree contributed to this accident, plaintiff cannot recover. In ■other words, if the decedent, Mr. Sweet, by the exercise of due care and ordinary caution, could have avoided this injury, he cannot recover.
“2. If, from the evidence in this case, you find that the decedent was not guilty of contributory negligence, as I have defined it to you, then, before the plaintiff can recover, you must also find, and you must be further ■satisfied by a fair preponderance of evidence, that the ■defendant corporation was itself guilty of negligence; •that is, that it has been guilty of a neglect of that care, '■caution, and prudence which good railroading requires.
“3. When Mr. Sweet entered the employment of the railroad company, he assumed the risks and perils usually incident to such employment, and included in such risks and perils were those which it was his duty to take notice of by observation. All the perils, chances, and risks which were apparent, obvious, and open to observation, these Mr. Sweet assumed; and, if this accident resulted from this risk, there can be no recovery. The defendant corporation had a right to rest upon the probability that Mr. Sweet would know what was generally to be seen by his own observation, — his sight.
“On the other hand, gentlemen, Mr. Sweet had.a right to assume that the railroad company had done its ■duty, and placed its tracks in such a condition as good railroading would demand, and so that he could perform his duty with reasonable safety, and he did not assume .any such unusual or extraordinary risks as, without fault on his part, he might be exposed to through the negligence of the defendant; and if, in the discharge of his duties, the decedent, Mr. Sweet, was exposed to such •dangers and perils as are unusual, exceptional, and not fairly incident to good railroading, and such .perils as one in the faithful discharge of his duties could not ordinarily be expected to foresee, then it was the duty of the railroad company to have, apprised him of such danger and perils; and if they neglected such duty, and decedent himself was unconscious of the danger, and, while exercising due care and caution, failed to observe the danger and peril, then these facts would be circumstances in this case which you may consider in determining the question whether or not the plaintiff is entitled to recover. And in determining the question whether or not the decedent, Mr. Sweet, was guilty of contributory negligence, you may consider the exigencies and all the surroundings of the situation, and therefrom conclude whether or not the decedent, Mr. Sweet, was in the exercise of that degree of care and caution which were incumbent upon a man of ordinary prudence in the same calling and under the circumstances which surrounded him-atthe time of this accident; and you must determine whether or not in the exercise of due care, under the circumstances of the case, he was bound to appreciate the danger that confronted him.
“If, from the evidence in this case, you are satisfied that Mr. Sweet knew of this danger, and that this accident was due to his own negligence and inadvertence, and arose from a want of ordinary caution and prudence on his part, plaintiff cannot recover. Or if you are satisfied, from the evidence in this case, that this danger was so obvious, so patent and discernible, that a man in the exercise of ordinary care and prudence would have . avoided it, then the plaintiff cannot recover. If, however, you are satisfied, from the evidence in this case, that the ordinary use of this side track, with the buildings thereon so located in such proximity to it, was unsafe and dangerous; that it was improper and negligent railroad management; and you further find, under all the circumstances of this case, that the decedent, Mr. Sweet, was blameless; that he was in the exercise of due care and caution at the time of this injury; and that he did not contribute to this accident, — then the plaintiff is entitled to recover.
“ I give you certain requests on the part of the plaintiff:
“ ‘ It is the duty of the defendant to provide a reasonably safe place in which to do its work, and, if the jury shall find from the evidence in this case that the defendant corporation failed in this respect, it was guilty of negligence. This duty of the master— that'is, the railroad company — to provide a reasonably safe place in which to perform the service required of its servants, in railroad business extends to the construction of its line, and renders it liable to its servants for injuries, arising in the necessary discharge of duty, caused by the location in dangerous proximity to its line or side track of any structure over which it may rightfully exercise exclusive control, — cattle-chutes, signal posts, water-tank, piles of lumber, awnings, and buildings.
“ ‘ It is also a rule of law that when a person injured so far contributed to the injury by his want of ordinary care that, but for the want of such ordinary care on his part, the injury would not have been done, the railroad company is not liable to plaintiff in damages for such injury. But the duty of ordinary care upon the part of the person injured for his own safety is not unvarying, but is dependent upon circumstances of the particular case. The mere fact, therefore, that the deceased knew the building stood near the track, may not necessarily charge him with contributory negligence, or the assumption of the risk; but the question is, did he know, or ought he to have known in the exercise of ordinary common sense and prudence, that the risk and danger existed ? ’
“I give certain requests on the part of the defendant:
“ ‘If the deceased knew that the shed of the Bentley Oil Company stood so near the side track as to render it unsafe for the employes of the railroad company to ride past it on the ladder on the side of the car, the plaintiff is not entitled to recover.
“‘For about three weeks the deceased was employed almost daily in and about the side track leading to the Bentley oil-shed, and if he might have known, by the exercise of reasonable care and observation, what the danger was from the proximity of the shed to the track, he cannot recover, even though he did not know or appreciate it.
“ ‘ It was the duty of the deceased to observe and learn all that, he reasonably could about the places in which he was called upon to work, and the risks and dangers connected therewith, and if his; failure to do so contributed to this injury he cannot recover. If the deceased, while standing at this switch, could have told that the shed was so close to the track as to render it dangerous to ride by on the ladder, this fact you may take into consideration in determining the question whether or not the deceased was guilty of contributory negligence. It was the duty of the deceased to observe the premises where his duties were performed, and to use his eye-sight.
“ ‘ The responsibility of a railroad company to its employés„ for the condition of its road is less strict than it would be to strangers, and an accident to an employé involving no liability might, if it happened to another person, cause actionable injury.
“ 1 Railroad employés are presumed to be aware of, and to take the risk of dangers from, such conditions and defects in the construction of the side track as would be open to observation, and they are also expected to use reasonable care in examining their surroundings.
“ ‘ While it is the duty of the defendant to furnish sufficient and safe material, machinery, and other means by which the work of the employed is to be performed, and keep the same in order and repair, and its contract implies that, in regard to these matters, the employer will make adequate provision against negligence on the part of the company, and that no danger shall ensue to him therefrom, it is well settled that the employed assumes all the risks and peril usually incident to the employment, and that included in such risks and perils are those which it is a part of the duty of the employed to take notice of by observation.
“ ‘ The plaintiff charges that the defendant is guilty of negligence because of the failure of the employés or officers of the company to assume the probability of some brakeman or switchman clinging to the side of the car next to the shed, and being injured, because there was not sufficient space to permit him to pass in safety. Tou are not necessarily to suppose that any one employé or officer of the defendant would be any more observant of the possibility of such danger than another. It is for you to determine whether the deceased himself, during his employment in the yard, had not as many facilities to learn the situation of the shed and track, with reference to riding through, as any other employé of the company. If the deceased had such opportunity, he was guilty of negligence which contributed to the injury, and plaintiff cannot recover.’”
We think the matter was fairly submitted to the jury.
Defendant’s counsel in this case rely mainly upon the case of Illick v. Railroad Co., 67 Mich. 636; but the following excerpt from the opinion in that case will show that it differs materially from the case before us:
“The space between the side of the bridge and the ladder upon the car where the brakeman was injured,.as shown by the record, was two feet and three inches wide. The danger in going up the ladder at that place was before him, and was as plain to his observation as to any person connected with the train, or whose duty it was to run upon the road. ' It was not his duty, on the signal for brakes, to. go up the ladder when the service, was fraught with such danger. There was no special request for any person in charge of or controlling the train for him to make the perilous ascent; and, when he did so, it was at his own peril.
“The duties of his employment did not require him to go°upon the box-car until he had passed the bridge. It did, however, require him to observe and take knowledge of the danger, if any, in crossing the bridge, if such knowledge could be obtained by his own observation. He had crossed the bridge 200 times before he was injured; and each time he crossed furnished him an opportunity of observing the very danger which overtook him and caused his death.
“The bridge was sound, and safe for the passage of trains, without defect, and in good repair. Whether it was 14 or 24 feet' wide was a matter of no concern to the brakeman, so long as he was not required to occupy a place of danger in the dischai’ge of his duties while passing over it, and this he was not required to do.
“A railroad company cannot be required to condemn and remove a bridge which is without ’ fault in its plan or defect in its structure, while it is in good repair, and safe for the passage of trains, simply because some engineer shall pronounce it not as good or convenient as some other kind. Railroad companies must be allowed to use their own discretion as to the kind of bridges they will use, and when and under what circumstances they will remove or replace them, while they, are safe. Any other rule would be both unjust and oppressive.”
It will be seen that it’ was not the duty of Illicit to go up the ladder when he did; nor was the company negligent in maintaining the bridge. He had crossed the bridge 200 times before this, and each time had opportunity to examine it, and notice the danger. Here there is no testimony that Sweet ever passed the place before, and, if he did, that he was not on top of the car, or on the opposite side, where the danger might not be discernible. It was in the performance of his duties that he was killed.
It may be assumed that he must have seen that the cars passed very close to the building, and it is claimed that he must have noticed that a man upon the ladder could not pass through there without getting hurt, as one witness testified that any one could see it who looked through there. But the trouble is that there is no evidence that Sweet was ever called upon to stand at the switch, or back of it, and look through there when a car was passing the building. It is not shown that he ever helped to switch a car on that track or past this building. Under such circumstances, is he to be conclusively presumed negligent in not having informed himself of the danger? I think not. Until he had some reason to apprehend the existence of this danger, not ordinarily incident to his employment, his conduct might well be influenced by the assumption that his employer had regard for its duty, and would not negligently expose him to extraordinary peril. Robel v. Railway Co., 35 Minn. 84 (27 N. W. Rep. 305).
At the time of the accident he was standing with his-back to the building, waiting for the appearance of the car, and, standing thus, jumped upon the car to ascend the ladder, turning his face, as he naturally would, towards the car,' and having regard at that moment for his safe ascent to the top. In another moment he was caught and crushed to death.
It was a question for the jury, under all the testimony, to determine whether Sweet knew or ought to have known of this danger, and we think the charge of the court was eminently fair to the defendant.
The only other error complained of is to the remarks of Mr. Sawyer, of counsel for the plaintiff, in his closing argument. 'What is complained of is stated in the record as follows: .
In the course of Mr. Sawyer’s argument to the jury, the following language was used:
“Mr. Sawyer: One word upon the subject of contributory negligence, etc. If juries go against railroads, — if they cannot be trusted in railroad cases if they are given to them, — it is because in every case the railroads are inimical to the plaintiff.
“Mr. Whitman: The statement is made that the Michigan Central Kailroad Company is unjust and cruel and inhuman. It is not true, and I take exceptions to it.
“Mr. Sawyer: I said I asked of this jury the same consideration of the rules of right and law that I would ask between two men engaged in the same trouble. I say, further, that when my Brother Whitman came to close the case for the defendant he called the attention of this jury to the fact that this was a railroad case, and it' was talked upon the street everywhere that, if a party could get by the court and get to a jury in a railroad case, the jury would ‘whoop it up'’ to a railroad company. I say, in answer to that, what I have said, and repeat it: If there is one single, solitary jot or tittle in what my brother says about it, it is simply because, in cases of this character, where a husband and father has been slaughtered by the negligence, as I think, of the railroad company, or as I think the evidence in this case shows the railroad has done, if it were between man and man, the man would go to the woman and child, and say some kind word to her, and do some kind act for her; at least, would pay the funeral expenses of the man he had killed, and would not suffer her to go abroad across the land, weeping for want of a word of consolation in her heart, and would do something to settle with her, or offer to settle with her, instead of saying to her, ‘ Go to hell/ I say that, and I do not charge anything against these gentlemen; I know them all, and I know them well. .
“Mr. Campbell: I desire to take exception to these last remarks, and I think I am entitled to it when he says we crushed the life out of this man, and then told the widow and child to ‘go to hell/
“ Mr. Sawyer: If the stenographer will take the language all in its connection, I have not the slightest objection. I say the language was figurative.
“The Court: The stenographer will note what you say.
“Mr. Saioyer: We do not ask at the hands of this jury one thing that is different from what we would ask from' a man. We do not ask any vindictive damages; we ask nothing because it is against a railroad company.”
Some of the expressions used by Mr. Sawyer were decidedly improper, and if they had been used without provocation, and not in reply to a similar breach of professional decorum on the part of one of the defendant's counsel, would have been sufficient to reverse the judgment. But the counsel for the defendant was the first, as appears from the record, to introduce into the case any question as to there being any difference between it and the ordinary litigation between man and man. The remark attributed to Mr. Whitman by Mr. Sawyer must be taken, as the record stands, it not being denied, to have been uttered. Its object could only have been to influence the jury in favor of his client by giving them to understand^ that people outside expected they would not do their duty, but find against the railroad company, as a matter of course, if the'court should give them a chance to do so. Mr. Sawyer attempted to meet it by saying, in substance, .that the railroad company deserved it.
It was not proper for either of these gentlemen thus to attempt to play either upon the pride or prejudices of the jury; and that i't is often done by attorneys is no excuse for so doing. But where the attorney for the losing party is the aggressor in matters of this kind, thereby challenging a reply from his opponent, I do not think the Court should punish the latter's client for an indiscretion thus called out in the heated trial of an important cause, unless it appears quite plainly that the verdict was influenced thereby. Certainly in this case there can be no claim that the damages allowed are excessive, and we are not prepared to say, nor do we think, that if Mr. Sawyer had not made these remarks the jury would have found for the defendant.
The judgment is affirmed, with costs.
Ohamplin, C. J., McGrath and Long,. JJ., concurred with .Morse, J. | [
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Long, J.
This is an action in assumpsit, brought by plaintiff to recover a bequest of $500 to Hattie McCarty, contained in the will of Alvira Palmer, deceased.
The declaration is upon the common counts. Defendant-pleaded the general issue.
It appears that an application for administration of the estate of Hattie McCarty, deceased,, was made to the probate court of Jackson county, by the plaintiff, who is-the mother of Hattie McCarty, in 1889, in which the-above bequest was stated to be the only property of the-deceased in such county. The petition was denied by the-probate court upon the ground that there was no property to administer; and upon an appeal to the circuit court, the order of the probate court was affirmed, holding that, there was no estate in the county of Jackson belonging to the said Hattie McCarty at the time of her death. Upon the appeal to this Court in that cause the orders of the- circuit and probate courts were set aside, and it was held that property rights could not be adjusted upon application for administration. In re McCarty, 81 Mich. 460. Since the above decision, plaintiff has been appointed administratrix, and as such seeks in this action to recover the said bequest of $500, which is now held by the defendant.
Alvira Palmer, aunt of Hattie McCarty, made her last will February 26, 1879, and two days thereafter executed a codicil to the same, whereby .defendant became sole residuary legatee. At or about the date of the execution of the will Hattie McCarty took up her residence with Alvira Palmer, the testatrix, and her husband, Reuben Palmer, and continued to care for and assist the two until the death of Alvira Palmer, which occurred on the 5th day of February, 1880. She then remained with and cared for Reuben Palmer until the 28th day of July, 1880, at which time, on account of illness, she went to her mother’s home in Wayne county, N. Y., where she remained until her death, August 8, 1881. A short time after going to the state of New York she received from Reuben Palmer the following letter:
“Jackson, Mich., 12, 1880.
“My Dear Niece Harriet: ~We received your letter, and was sorry to hear that you was not any better. I am up and down as usual. Now, Harriet, you know that Bennett has served an injunction on Frank, and I can .get no money, and Bennett says he will spend a thousand dollars but what he will have that collected; so you see I can’t get any money until that is settled. So you see now, Harriet, I have made up my mind not to keep house any more. You shall have that $500 just the same ■as if you took care of me the rest of my life-time.
“Reuben Palmer.”
It appears that Reuben Palmer, ‘the husband of the testatrix, died on March 16, 1886. The estate of Alvira Palmer at her decease consisted of a real estate mortgage •executed by one Frank Eggleston, of the value of $3,000, and only the interest of this sum was used by Eeuben Palmer for his support. The estate of Elvira Palmer has been settled, and all the bequests paid, according to the terms of her will and codicil, by the executor, except the one to Hattie McCarty, which was delivered to defendant as residuary legatee.
The only questions raised upon this record for our consideration are:
1. By the terms of the will, did Eeuben Palmer take the whole estate absolutely at' the death of his wife?
2. If he took but a life-estate, did the bequest of Hattie McCarty become vested, so that at the death of Eeuben Palmer she would be entitled to receive it?
The previsions of the will to be considered are as follows:
“ First. I do give, devise, and bequeath all the estate and property, whether real, personal, or mixed, and wheresoever the same may be situate, that I may own or be possessed of at the time of .my decease, to my beloved husband, Eeuben Palmer, for and during his natural lifetime, to be used by my said husband, Eeuben Palmer, during his life-time in defraying his necessary expenses; and, should the income of said property not be sufficient for that purpose, then he is to use so much of the principal as may be necessary. Should there be any property left after the paying of the expenses of my said husband, Eeuben Palmer, then, in that case, after his death, I do will and dispose of the property remaining in the manner following, to wit:
“Second. I do will and bequeath to the beloved niece of my said husband, Hattie McCarty, the sum of $500, in consideration of her care, and assistance towards myself and my said husband, to be performed by her to us during our natural lives.”
By the third clause of the will the testatrix gave her son Martin the sum of §1,000, and, by the fourth clause, to her son Warren the sum of $500. The defendant in this case, a daughter of the testatrix, was made the residuary legatee. Upon the hearing in the court below, the court directed verdict in favor of the defendant.
It is contended by counsel for defendant that Reuben Palmer, under the will, had the right to the possession and control of the mortgage, and might collect the same and use the whole of it for his own purposes during his life-time; and that, therefore, he was vested with the absolute interest in the mortgage, instead of a life-interest merely, so that there was nothing to pass to Hattie McCarty by' the -second clause of the will. We do not think this position well taken. He was to have the property for and during his natural life, to be used in defraying his necessary expenses. The will must be construed as a whole, and it was evidently the idea of the testatrix that the income from the property would be sufficient to meet the necessary expenses of her husband during the term of his natural life, as she provided for two pf her sons after the death of her husband, as well as Hattie McCarty, and she also made disposition of the residue of her estate. The son Martin was appointed executor under the will, and was entitled to the control and possession of the as'sets of the estate, with the right, however, to Reuben Palmer, should his necessary expenses require it, to use any part of the principal sum.
In Schehr v. Look, 84 Mich. 263, the testator gave to his executors power to sell any or all personal or real estate of which he should die seised and possessed, as they should deem proper, and invest the proceeds; and he gave to his wife during the term of her natural life the use, income, and profit of all his property, real, per. sonal, and mixed, of every nature whatsoever. By a subsequent clause of his will he gave all the remainder and residue of his estate to his six children. It was held by this Court that the testator intended to give his wife only the use of the estate, and did not intend that she should haYe possession and control of the body of the estate; distinguishing that case from Sutphen v. Ellis, 35 Mich. 446; Jones v. Jones, 25 Id. 401; and Proctor v. Robinson, 35 Id. 291.
In the present case, Eeuben Palmer was not appointed executor of the will. The execution of the will was intrusted to the son Martin, who was also made a legatee. It is therefore quite apparent that the interest which Eeuben Palmer was to have was limited to the use of the estate during his life-time, except, in the event of his necessities requiring it, that he should have the right to use the principal sum. There is no ambiguity or uncertainty in this first clause. It is of all the property, for and during his natural life-time, to be used during his life-time in defraying his necessary expenses, with the right to use so much of the principal as might be necessary, in case the income should be insufficient. It was ■clearly the intent of the testatrix that the interest which her husband should take was only the use and enjoyment of it during the term of his natural life, and the remainder over to her children and to Hattie McCarty.
In Larned v. Bridge, 17 Pick. 339, the clause of the will construed was as follows:
“I give and bequeath to my beloved wife the use and benefit of all my estate, real and personal, and, should the ipcome prove insufficient for her comfortable support, ■she to dispose of so much thereof as shall be necessary for that purpose; and at her decease I order the remainder to be equally divided among my children."
It was held that this was not in the nature of a legacy, and vested in the widow an estate for life, with the naked power to sell only in case" the income should 'be insufficient.
Upon the second point it is contended by counsel for defendant that the legacy to Hattie McCarty had not become vested in her at the time of her death, and consequently the plaintiff can take nothing in this suit. It is conceded by him in his brief that, if the legacy was vested in Hattie McCarty at the time of her death, then the plaintiff would be entitled to recover, if Eeuben Palmer only took an estate for life. The contention is that the legacy did not vest, for the reasons:
1. That it was given upon the condition that she should care for and assist the testatrix and her husband during their natural lives, which is a condition precedent to the vesting of the legacy.
2. That it was to be taken only upon the considera- • tion being performed, which was never performed, that the legatee should care for the testatrix and her husband during their natural lives.
The general rule is that all estates under wills, in the absence of any provision to the contrary, are to take-effect or become vested at the decease of the testator; and, where the instrument contains words, in regard to any estate created by it, limiting the period of enjoyment to some future time after the decease of the testator, it may then become a question whether the vesting of the estate is intended to be delayed, or only the time for the present enjoyment. It may safely be affirmed that the English as well as the American cases establish the following propositions:
1. It is competent for the testator in terms to direct whether the estate over shall vest or not; and, when this is done, all construction is excluded.
2. Where there is reasonable ground for saying that upon the whole it is just to suppose that the testator expect a devisee or legatee over to take a vested interest, the court will so construe the bequest.
3. No estate will be held contingent unless very decisive terms of contingency are used in the will, or it is necessary to hold the same contingent in order to carry out the other provisions and implications of the will.
The mere fact that one estate under a will is provided to take effect after the termination of the intervening one will not have the effect to prevent both estates becoming vested at the moment of the decease of the testator, the one in possession, the other in prospect or remainder.
It will be found that the question of vesting or remaining contingent depends upon whether the condition of the intervening estate determining and the estate over taking effect is one that must happen some time, and so. as to give effect at some period^ to the second estate, or may never happen. If the former, then the second estate in remainder will always be regarded as vested, but in every case where the existence of a secondary estate is dependent upon a contingency which may never happen, or never happen so as to allow the vesting of the secondary estate, then the devise or bequest must be regarded as contingent as well in its character as in regard to the time when it will come into operation. The courts have generally manifested a disposition so to construe the language of devises and legacies as to favor the vesting of all the estates attempted to be created. The fact that, the testator makes no provision in regard to the disposition of the estate, providing the event named for a devisee or a legatee coming into full possession never occurs, is regarded as satisfactorily showing that it was not in the mind of the testator to create a contingent, estate.
In Eldridge v. Eldridge, 9 Cush. 516, Shaw, C. J., defines the rule of construction upon this subject thus::
“ When, therefore, words are equivocal, leaving it in some doubt whether words of contingency or condition apply to the gift itself or to the time of payment, courts are inclined to construe them rather as applying to the time of payment, and to hold the gift rather as vested than contingent.”
In Dingley v. Dingley, 5 Mass. 537, Parsons, C. J., states the rule as follows:
“For ,it is a rule of law that a remainder is not to be considered as contingent when it may be construed consistently with the testator’s intention to be vested.”
In Smith’s Appeal, 23 Penn. St. 9, it was said:
“The law favors an absolute, rather than a defeasible, 'estate; a vested, rather than a contingent, one; a pri-marv, rather than a secondary, intent.”
In Letchworth’s Appeal, 30 Penn. St. 175, it was held 'that the law always inclines to hold the whole interest ’in property as vested, rather than contingent; and therefore, in case of doubt, it declares the interest vested.
In Childs v. Russell, 11 Metc. 16, the will contained the following clause:
“ After the payment of my just debts, funeral expenses, and money legacies, I will and order my executor, hereinafter named, to vest in stocks, or keep at interest, all the rest, residue, and remainder of my personal estate, to raise a fund out of which the annuity to my said beloved wife is to be paid during her natural life; and, after her decease, should she survive me, I will and order that all the rest, residue, and remainder of my estate, jreal, personal, or mixed, and of whatsoever name or mature, shall be divided among my heirs according to daw, excepting the share which will by law descend to •my daughter Elizabeth.”
Upon this clause, the testator’s wife having survived him and received her annuity while she lived, it was held that the time of distribution only, and not the right to the distributive share, was postponed until after the •decease of the wife. It was contended in that case, as in this, that the whole fund might be exhausted, and that, therefore, it was such a contingency as would prevent the vesting of the legacy; and the chief justice remarked:
“It was a suspension of the distribution and payment for an ascertained time; but in the mean time we think the right to the distributive shares vested in the heirs, to take effect in enjoyment upon the decease of the widow, an event certain in itself, and contingent only in respect to the time it should happen.”
When there is doubt whether the words of contingency or condition apply to the gift itself or to the time of payment, courts are inclined to- construe them to apply to the time of payment, and to hold the gift rather as vested than contingent. Toms v. Williams, 41 Mich. 552.
Under the second point counsel for defendant contends that the bequest to Hattie McCarty was not only contingent upon there being any property left at the death of Reuben Palmer, but was upon condition that she should care for and assist the testatrix and her husband during their natural lives, and that it falls within the rule that, where a devise is made upon a condition to be performed or paid by the legatee, the legacy will not vest until the condition is performed. It will be observed, however, that the testatrix made no provision in the will for the share of the estate bequeathed to Hattie McCarty should she fail to perform this claimed condition, — that is, to care for and assist the testatrix and her husband during their natural lives, — except by the residuary clause.
It appears to me that it was the intent of the testatrix in the present case that- her husband, Reuben •Palmer, should be supported out of her estate during the term of his natural life, and, if the income from her estate was insufficient for that purpose, that the whole or any part of the principal sum might be used for his support and maintenance; that, if anything should be left of the- estate, Hattie McCarty was to have $500, the son Martin $1,000, and the son Warren $500; and if, after the payment of these legacies, anything remained, it should go and belong to the daughter, Clarissa A. Fish, the defendant in this ease. The fact that her husband might use the whole of it in his support and maintenance during his life-time would not prevent the vesting of the legacy in Hattie McCarty, subject, howuver, to be divested if the contingency happened that her husband’s necessities required the use of the whole of the principal sum. This would apply as well to the two- sons, who were given legacies by the third and fourth clauses of the will.
The contention that Hattie McCarty was to have $500 only on condition, and for the consideration of her care and assistance towards the testatrix and her husband, to be performed by her during their natural lives, we think has no force. The language used is not in terms a condition, but rather, as asserted by counsel for plaintiff, an expression of the reason or motive or inducement for making it, as there are no words of forfeiture in the gift, and nothing to indicate a different disposition of the money in case Hattie McCarty should fail to care for and assist the testatrix and her husband during their natural lives.
We are of opinion, in reading the whole will, that this legacy vested in Hattie McCarty at the time of the decease of the testatrix, and that the court was in error in directing verdict and judgment for the defendant.
The judgment of the court below must be reversed, and 'judgment entered in this Court -for the amount of the legacy, with interest from the time demand was made upon the residuary legatee for its payment. The plaintiff will recover the costs of both courts..
The other Justices concurred. | [
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McGrath, J.
Complainants file their bill to restrain the collection of an assessment for paving Genesee avenue from Hoyt to Hartsuff streets.
On the 6th of September, 1886, the council declared the paving of said avenue “with sapless cedar blocks, to rest upon sound pine boards, laid upon a bed of sand or gravel not less than three inches in depth, prepared on the subgrade of the street to receive the same, the pavement itself to be curbed the whole length of each side thereof with stone curb securely set in a bed of bank sand or gravel, and, when complete, to be covered with a dressing of gravel, all in conformity to details, plans, and specifications therefor, to be hereafter prepared by the board of public works, and adopted by this council,”' to be a necessary public improvement, and ordered the street to be so paved, directing the board of jmblic works to prepare plans and specifications for said work, and also to determine the particular kind of material, and furnish an estimate in detail of the probable cost and expense of the improvement. The board of public works reported the plans and estimates to the council, January 17, 1887, and the same were referred to the proper committee, which committee reported on January 24, 1887, recommending the approval of the same, and also recommending the placing of a tile subdrain under the curbstone, on each side of the pavement, representing that the cost thereof would be about six cents per lineal foot. The council adopted the recommendation of the committee, and approved the plans, specifications, and estimates. On February 7, 1887, complainants, with others, presented to the council a written remonstrance, protesting against the assessment of the' cost of the tile drain, recommended by the committee as aforesaid, against the particular improvement district, and claiming that the expense should be borne by the city at large. The remonstrance was referred to the committees on paving and sewers, who reported that the district should bear the expense, and not the city at large, which report was concurred in by the council.
On February 14, 1887, the board of public works sent a communication to the council, suggesting the advisability of postponing the paving "until provision be had for the proper drainage of the street,” and that it wmuld be well for the council to consider the question before the contract is let, "proposals for which will be received next week.” This communication was referred to the committee on sewers and the committee on paving, which committees reported on February 21, 1887, that "they are of the opinion that the letting of said contract had better be deferred until such time as provision is made for the disposal of the surplus water, either by sewers or otherwise.” The recommendation of the committees was adopted. Nothing further was done in the matter until April 5. In the mean time the board of public works had received bids for the work, which were afterwards returned unopened to the bidders. Upon the last-named date, the council adopted the following resolution:
" Resolved, that the board of public works be and they are directed to advertise for proposals for the paving of Genesee avenue, from Hoyt to Hartsuff streets, in accordance with the plans and specifications heretofore adopted.”
On May 2, 1887, the board of public works reported the bid of Seanlan & Crowley for the paving of Genesee avenue, and recommended that the same be accepted, “ provided the council are satisfied that the prices given are reasonable.” The following action of the council was had thereon:
“ Aid. Comstock moved that the bid of Seanlan & Crowley for paving Genesee avenue, from Hoyt to Har'tsuff streets, be referred back to the board of public works, with instructions to readvertise for proposals for such improvement.
“ Aid. Becker moved, as an amendment, that the board of public works be instructed to contract with Seanlan & Crowley in accordance with their said proposal.
■ “ Aid. Maier moved, as a substitute, that the matter be referred to the committee on paving. Substitute lost.
“The question was then had on the amendment of Aid. Becker. The same was carried by a vote of 10 ayes to 6 nays.”
It is claimed that this action was a nullity, for the reason that, after the adoption of Aid. Becker's amendment, the original motion as amended was not put. But Aid. Becker's amendment was in fact a substitute, and it was unnecessary to put the original motion, although that is a question of parliamentary law, the judgment of the council upon which the courts will not disturb.
The said Seanlan & Crowley proceeded, under said contract and direction of the board of public works, and paved said street. At a regular meeting of the council held September 2G, 1887, the city clerk reported to the council- that the city engineer had filed in his office detailed estimates of the cost and expense of paving Genesee avenue from Hoyt to Hartsnff streets, giving the said estimates in detail. The estimate shows the total cost, the amount to he paid by the street railway, the amount to be paid by the city for intersections, and the amount to be assessed upon the property benefited-At a meeting of the common council held October 3, 1887, the following resolution was adopted:
“Resolved, that the committee on taxes and assessments and city attorney be, and they are hereby, directed to examine and report to this council a list of the lots, blocks, and parcels of real estate which, in their opinion, are benefited by, and which should be assessed for the cost of, the improvement by paving, etc., of Genesee avenue from Hoyt to Hartsufl streets.”
At a meeting held October 10, 1887, the committee on taxes and assessments, and the assessor on tax district, reported such certain lots and blocks as in their opinion would be benefited by such improvement, and recommended that the lots and blocks described be designated as the assessment district. The council received said -report, and designated the described property as the property benefited, and to be assessed for said improvement, by a unanimous vote. At the same meeting a formal preamble and resolution was adopted by unanimous vote, upon call of the roll, fixing the assessment district, directing the assessor to assess the sum of “$8,544.97 on the property described, in proportion to the benefits and advantages which each description of said property is by him deemed to acquire from the making of said improvement, in the manner required by the charter of said city,” and directing the city treasurer to collect from the railroad company the sum of $989.51. At a meeting held February 20, 1888, the clerk notified the council of the filing by the city assessor of the assessment roll, and the clerk was instructed to give notice of the hearing of appeals from said assessment for February 27, 1888, and notice was published by the said clerk as required by the charter. At a meeting of the council held February 27, 1888, complainants, with others, submitted to the council a protest against the confirmation of said assessment roll, alleging the following reasons:
“1. We deem the same illegal, unjust, inequitable, and against the rights of the undersigned, as the same was constructed against the wishes of said property-owners, and was not a necessary public improvement at the time the same was ordered to be paved, by reason of improper drainage, which has not been benefited by said improvement.
“2. Because the money expended in and upon said alleged improvement was excessive, and much in advance of the amount necessary to perform the work, and make such an improvement as the locality actually required.”
The protest was referred to a committee, which reported March 5, upon which date the council affirmed the roll, by a vote of 15 ayes and 1 nay.
The proceedings of the common council show a strict compliance with all of the provisions of the charter. But the complainants insist that the tax assessed is illegal, for the following reasons:
“ 1. Because the said common council never declared the said improvement as made with tile drain to be a necessary public improvement.
“2. Because, after declaring the improvement of said avenue to be a necessary public improvement, the plans therefor and the improvement itself were changed in this, to wit, by putting tile drains under the curbs at great expense, and for which your orators .are taxed in said roll without their consent and against their protest.”
■ The common council had declared the improvement to be a necessary one, and had ordered it to be done, and this before plans and specifications therefor had been prepared, or an estimate was had of the cost of the work. Before the contract was let, indeed before bids had been advertised for, it was suggested to the council that sub- drains were necessary to drain the road-bed under the pavement, and prevent the freezing and heaving thereof in winter, and that such drainage would tend to prolong the life of the pavement materially; and the council, by unanimous vote, adopted the suggestion and ordered the tile drains. The declaration' of the necessity for a public improvement does not necessarily involve the enumeration of the details of such improvement, but such declaration, although general in character, covers the doing 'of whatever is deemed or found to be necessary in the •course of an improvement of the character designated.
“3. Because the board of public works let the contract for making said improvement without being thereunto •duly authorized by the common council.
“ 4. Because said hoard of public works made said improvement without having authority so to do.
“5. Because the common council, after declaring the improvement of said avenue necessary, and ordering it improved, did by its action on the said 21st day of February, 1887, l’eseind and annul the same, and postpone the making of said improvement until such time as provision should be made for disposal of the surplus water, which provision has not yet been made.”
The charter provides that whenever the common council shall have ordered a public improvement, and approved the plans and specifications therefor, the board of public works shall advertise for proposals for doing the said work. The common council had declared this work to be a necessary public improvement, had ordered it to be done, and had approved the plans and specifications therefor, and the board of public works had, in accordance with the provisions of the charter, advertised for proposals. Complainants contend that, by the action of the common council, had February 21, 1887, the improvement was practically abandoned. But the record affords no ground for this assumption. The council had simply determined that the letting of the contract “had better be deferred until such time as provision was made for the disposal of the surplus water.” In the mean time? and on the 4th of April, at an election then held, a loan of $75,000 for the construction of the sewer had been authorized, and at the next meeting the council directed the board of public works to advertise for proposals. It is objected that the vote by which this direction was given was not recorded. The charter provides that—
“ No public improvement shall be ordered, nor any tax or assessment shall be levied or confirmed, nor any work, services, or labor authorized to be done, or material purchased, nor any contract awarded or let, nor any money appropriated to be paid for, or out of, or by means of, any special assessment or tax, or from the city treasury, except by a concurring vote of nine members of the common council, including the vote of the recorder when presiding in the absence of the mayor. * * * *
“ On all questions ordering any public improvement, levying or confirming any tax, approving any contract or bond, appropriating or expending any moneys, and on the final passage of any ordinance, the names of the members voting for or against the same, by yeas and nays, shall be entered upon the record of proceeding.”
This resolution did not come within the terms of these charter provisions. This improvement had been ordered. A resolution directing the board of public works to advertise was not necessary, and its only office here was to inform the board of public works th$t the council had determined to proceed with the work; or, in other words, that the time for which the letting of the contract had been deferred had expired. The council had power to suspend, defer, or postpone the work at that stage, and the power to resume it as well. The exercise of either power was entirely within its discretion. It could postpone, for a reason sufficient to itself, and it could resume whenever, in its discretion, it saw fit so to do, and without reference to the reason which led to a postponement.
“ 6. Because the common council, before declaring said improvement to be a public and necessary one, did not go upon the ground, nor visit the locality, nor take the other necessary and proper evidence to determine the fact so declared.”
The record does not support these allegations.
“ 7. Because the common council did not inspect the street, nor the property in the vicinity thereof, nor take other proper evidence in relation thereto, before fixing the assessment district.
“ 8. Because said common council did not view said improvement, nor the property to be assessed, or take other proper evidence in relation thereto, before confirming and approving the special assessment roll.
“ 9. Because said common council delegated its authority in the premises to fix the assessment district to others.
“10. Because said common council did not make the assessment.”
In matters involving the discretion or judgment of the common council, where no bad faith or fraud is alleged, parties cannot go behind the recorded vote to show either want of knowledge or of good judgment. Nor does the validity of the special assessment depend upon the fact as to whether or not the members of the council have viewed the property assessed, or the assessment district, with reference to that particular action. Aldermen are presumed to have a general knowledge of the geography, as well as the topography, of their own city, and to know the location and condition of its streets. ‘They are supposed to act upon this general knowledge, and upon information furnished by committees, and by agencies whose duty it is to collect data and arrange details. Maps are prepared upon which each street and lot is described, and its boundaries shown. Profiles of street improvements are usually prepared, showing pre-existing grades, curb-lines, excavations, and summits. These are the evidences upon which the committees and council act. Nor does it affect the validity of an assessment that the assessor or city engineer furnished the information or data upon which the council acted, or that these officers actually outlined the district, provided the council adopted, approved, and confirmed their action. Cuming v. Grand Rapids, 46 Mich. 150, 158; Baisch v. Grand Rapids, 84 Id. 666. The charter makes it the duty of the assessor to spread the tax, and it is made the duty of the council to confirm it. The assessor performed his duty, and the council confirmed his action.
“ 11. Because said common council did not determine or declare that the whole or any part of the expenses of said improvement should be defrayed by an assessment on the owners or occupants of land to be benefited thereby, by an entry in their minutes or otherwise.”
Section 6 of title 6 of the charter provides that—
“ Whenever the common council shall determine that the whole or any part of the expenses of any public improvement shall be defrayed by an assessment on the owners or occupants of lands to be benefited thereby, they shall so declare by an entry in their minutes, and cause the said improvement to be made by and under the direction of the board of public works. * * * The common council shall, either before or after the completion of said public improvement, also declare, by resolution, whether the whole or what portion of the costs of such improvement shall be assessed to such owners or occupants, and set forth all lots, blocks, and parcels of real estate, or parts thereof, which, in their opinion, will be benefited thereby, and which shall be assessed therefor.”
Section 7 'provides that—
“The common council shall, upon the completion of any such public improvement, pass a resolution reciting the same, and the cost thereof, including the expense of making estimates, plans, surveys, assessments, and other expenses incident thereto, and may order the whole, or so much, as they may deem proper, of such expense to be assessed upon the said lots, blocks, and parcels of real estate which, in their opinion, will be so benefited thereby.”
By the resolution adopted October 10, as aforesaid, the council declared that, of the expense of said improvement, the sum of $8,544.97 should be assessed upon the ■owners or occupants of land to be benefited thereby, and that resolution was entered upon the minutes of the council. But it is claimed that this declaration should have been made before the work was commenced. If the first paragraph of section 6 of title 6 of the charter stood alone, there would be some foundation for this claim; but the next paragraph expressly provides' that this declaration shall be made either before or after the completion of the work, and 'section 7 contemplates that it may be done after the completion of the improvement.
“12. Because there is nothing in the assessment - roll, nor in any of the proceedings of the common council, nor the record and files of the common council, that ■shows that the tax assessed was limited to the special benefits conferred.
“13. Because there is nothing in the assessment roll, nor the proceedings of the common council, nor the records and files of said common council, that shows upon what basis or theory said assessment is made, whether by frontage, area, or value.
“ 14. Because the common council has never determined how much each or any of said parcels of land has been benefited (if at all) by said improvement.
“15. Because it does not appear from any of the proceedings to make said assessment, nor in the assessment itself, that the amounts assessed are no more than the value of the improvement.”
The resolution of the council fixing the assessment district, and declaring that the sum of $8,544.97 should be assessed upon the property of that district, was a legal determination, under the charter, that the benefits conferred upon that district were equal to such amount, and the spreading of the aggregate amount upon the assessment roll, and the confirmation of that roll by the council, determined that the proportion of the aggregate benefit received by each parcel was equal to the burden imposed, and, in the absence of fraud, oppression, or manifest mistake, such determinations are conclusive. It does not appear by the assessment roll that the amounts assessed are no more than the value of the improvement, but that fact does appear in the estimate furnished by the city engineer, and in the preamble and resolutions fixing the assessment district, and directing the spreading of the aggregate amount upon that district, and repetition was unnecessary.
“16. Because the contract was let and improvement made as though- no street-car line was laid and operated in said street, and no assessment against said street-car company was made on the basis of the benefits derived therefrom, leaving the amount assessed against your orators unequal, arbitrary, and inequitable.”
The proceeeings recite that the amount assessed to the-street-car company represented the cost of paving between that company’s tracks, “ pursuant to the provisions of section 3 of an ordinance ” authorizing the location and maintenance of said company. The ordinance is not set. out in the record, and it will be presumed that, by the terms thereof, the company was to be assessed with the cost of paving between its tracks, rather than upon the basis of benefits derived from the improvement.
It is unnecessary to consider the other objections made, as they are answered by a reference to plain provisions of the charter.
The decree of the court below is reversed, and complainants’ bill dismissed, with costs of both courts.
The other Justices concurred. | [
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Long, J.
This is "a certiorari to the township board of the township of Burr Oak, St. Joseph county, to review its action in overruling the proceedings of the highway commissioner of that township, who refused to lay out a highway, and the order made by the township board laying out and establishing the same. The errors assigned upon which the writ of certiorari was allowed are:
“ 1. Said board erred in' allowing the said members objected to, to sit, under the evidence produced, without a showing to the contrary, to hear and determine the questions before them, on account of personal interest.
“2. The board erred in refusing to quash the proceedings for the< want of the proper service of notice on the owners and occupants of said lands prior to the laying out of the same by the commissioner.'
“3. The board erred in deciding that proper notice was given of the said appeal.
“4. The said board erred in laying out said highway under the record and evidence, or that they were duly authorized to lay out said highway after such objections were made.
“5. Deponent claims that the whole proceedings to lay out said highway are void, for the reason that a part of the owners and occupants of the said lands to be condemned for said highway purposes were not notified by the highway commissioner of said township of the said proceedings to lay 6ut the same, and that the said board had no jurisdiction to act in the premises under the statute on appeal, where the commissioner has refused to lay out a highway.
"6. The said board erred in not assessing to Lucy Wilson her share of the damages to her, instead of assessing the whole to William Wilson
“7. The said board erred in fixing the payment of the damages to the several parties February 1, 1892, after appropriating the lands.
“8. Also for the reason that it nowhere appears who were the actual owners of said lands to be taken away, nor why substituted service was made, instead of personal, on the owners and occupants.”
It appears from the return that the petition was presented to the highway commissioner, signed by about 30 residents of the township, to lay'out a highway therein, in pursuance of which, on August 18, 1890, the commissioner gave the notice required by statute, that he wouid meet at the house of William Wilson, in said township, on the 1st day of September thereafter, at 10 o’clock A. m., to proceed to view the premises described in the application and notice, and ascertain and determine the necessity of laying out the highway described in the application and notice, and to appraise the damages thereon. The proof of service of these notices is by the affidavit of the commissioner, subscribed and sworn to on the 25th day of August, 1890, in which he states that on the 19th day of August he served notice (of which a copy was attached) upon William Wilson and George Morris, and on the 20th day of August, 1890, upon E. Brown, occupants of these lands through which the proposed highway was petitioned to be opened, by delivering said notices personally to the said William Wilson and George Morris, and leaving said notice at the residence of said E. Brown with one of the family, and acquainting her with its contents. The affidavit further shows that the commissioner also posted notices of like form in three public places in the township, showing the time and places of posting the same.
The commissioner made a return of his proceedings, showing the application made to him by more than seven residents of said township to lay.out the highway; the giving of the notice as required by law; and that on the 1st day of September, 1890, .at 10 o’clock a. m., he was present at the place named in such notice, to view the premises, and determine the necessity of laying out such highway; and he returned, further, that he did not consider such highway necessary to the public good, and that he denied such application.
An appeal was taken by one Heni’y Lamp, a resident and freeholder of said township, to the township board; the applicant stating that he conceived himself aggrieved by the determination of the commissioner of highways in refusing to lay out the same, and that the appeal was made to reverse the entire decision of said highway com missioner. Notice of this appeal was given by the township clerk to the highway commissioner, fixing the 30th day of September, 1890, at 10 o’clock A. M., to view the premises and hear the appeal of said Henry Lamp from the determination of the commissioner. Like notice was served upon Henry Lamp, and proof of service of this notice was filed with the township board.
At the time of the meeting of the board affidavits were filed with the board showing that William Whitmer, a member of the township board before whom the appeal was to be heard, prior to the meeting of -the commissioner to lay out a highway,' approached certain resident freeholders of that township, and solicited them to sign the petition to lay out the highway, and represented that it was a necessity, and ought to be laid out. Two such affidavits were filed with the board.. An affidavit was also filed with the board in which it was shown that James C. Bishop, one of the members of said township board, was highway commissioner of that township in 1863, and a petition was presented to him to lay out and open such road during that year, upon which he expressed his opinion in favor of said road; and also that William Whitmer, a member of the board, was the owner of real estate a short distance north of the western terminus of said proposed highway, and interested personally and financially in laying out the same. A remonstrance was also presented to the board on that day signed by over 100 residents of that township, against the laying out or establishing of the highway on said proposed line. These affidavits and this remonstrance were laid before the township board, and objection made to William Whitmer and J. C. Bishop, two members of said board, as incompetent and not qualified to sit and try said cause of said, appeal, or to decide the necessity of laying out said road, or hear and determine said cause on the evidence, for the reasons:
“1. That said parties are interested in laying out said highway.
“2. That said Bishop and Whitmer have already expressed their opinions in favor of the same before hearing any of the evidence or objections to the laying out of the same.”
A request was thereupon made to the board to remove said members from said board, at its then sitting, and to appoint others to fill their places, qualified to sit and hear and determine the case according to the statute.
It was also objected before said board that the affidavit of service of notice to lay out this highway, and of the meeting for that purpose, on the occupants and owners of land through which it was to be laid out, did not show that notices were properly served, and therefore the board had no jurisdiction of the cause on appeal.
The township board met according to the notice, and there were present J. C. Bishop, supervisor, Daniel Gillett and William Whitmer, justices of the peace, and A. C. Himebaugh, deputy-clerk. After the board had heard the arguments of counsel opposed to the laying out of the highway, it overruled the motions made, and, after viewing the premises, voted to lay out the highway according to the petition, and awarded damages, as follows:
“To William Wilson................................ $100
To Marcia M. Morris......................_......... 100
To the west half of the N. W. quarter of seo. 27____ 75
To the east half of the N. E. quarter of seo. 28..... 75
To non-resident lands, N. W. quarter of N. E. quarter of sec. 28................................no damages
To land occupied by E. Brown...................... 75
To north half of N. W. quarter of sec. 28........... 75
Total.......................................... $500
“The damages to become payable Feb. 1, 1892.”
The township board, in its return of its proceedings, dated October 1, 1890, and filed in the township clerk’s office, says, among other things:
“That whereas, at least 10 days’ notice of the hearing of said appeal has been given to said commissioner and to said appellant; and the township board having, at the time and place specified in said notice, proceeded to hear the proofs and allegations of the said parties, and duly considered the same, and being satisfied from such proofs and allegations that the determination of the said commissioner in denying the petition was erroneous and unjust, and that the same should be and is hereby vacated and set aside, and the prayer of the petitioners to lay out the road is granted, said road to be laid as follows: •Commencing at the corner of sections 20, 21, 28, and 29; thence due east, on the section line, to intersect the highway running east and west between sections 22 and 27, township of Burr Oak, county of St. Joseph, State of Michigan.”
This finding and return is signed by the members of the board.
The affidavit for the writ of cerliorari was made by the attorney for William Wilson, Marcia Morris, Ezra Brown, and Clara Wilson.
The claim of counsel is that no appeal is provided for from the determination of the highway commissioner in refusing to lay out a highway, and the township board erred in assuming jurisdiction in the case of said appeal and to lay out said highway, and that, therefore, its proceedings are void; that the statute only provides for an appeal from the highway commissioner’s determination in such matters where he lays out the highway, alters a highway, or destroys a highway, but not where he refuses to do so.
How. Stat. § 1302, provides that—
“Any person, being a freeholder or a holder of lands by homestead right within the township, who may conceive himself aggrieved by the determination of a com missioner in laying oat, altering, or discontinuing any highway, or in his award of damages, may, within ten days after such detérmination, appeal therefrom to the township board.”
This section provides that the appeal shall be made in writing, signed by the appellant, addressed to the township board, and filed with the township clerk, who shall give notice of the meeting of the board to hear the appeal, and fix the time and place of said meeting.
Sections 1803 and 1304 provide as follows:
“Sec. 1303. The township board shall proceed, at the time and place specified in the notice, to hear the proofs and allegations of the parties, and may examine persons on oath, in respect to the matter of such appeal, and their decisions shall be conclusive and final. Such decision shall be reduced to writing, and signed by the board making the same, and filed in the office of the 'township clerk, and, together with all other papers relating to such appeal, shall be recorded as part of the record of the road No commissioner from whose determination an appeal has been taken, and who may be a member of the township board, shall act on such appeal.
“ Sec. 1304. In case the determination of the commissioner upon which an appeal is taken be confirmed, or if his award of damages shall not be increased, the appellant shall pay the whole amount of costs óf such appeal, such costs to be ascertained and determined by the township board, and deducted from the amount of' damages awarded.”
We find nothing in these provisions of the statute giving an aggrieved party the right to appeal from the determination of the commissioner in refusing to lay out a highway. The statute only contemplates an appeal from the determination of the commissioner in laying out a highway, or altering or discontinuing it, or an appeal from his award of damages in laying out, altering, or discontinuing the same, and therefore it must be held that the board had. no jurisdiction to entertain the appeal, or to proceed to overrule the decision of the commissioner in that regard, and then, upon its own motion, to view the premises, and determine, as a township board, the necessity of laying out the highway, and to lay out and establish it, and to award damages therefor.
We think the proceedings of the township board were illegal and void for several other reasons:
1. The petition addressed to the commissioner for the laying out of the highway does not purport to be signed by freeholders, as required by How. Stat. § 1296. The petition states that the petitioners were legal residents of said township, but does not state that any of them were freeholders of such township, and therefore the commissioner had no jurisdiction to proceed under the .petition, and, the commissioner not having jurisdiction to proceed, the township board, upon the appeal, could not itself proceed upon this defective petition.
2. The finding of the township board shows that William Wilson, Marcia M. Morris, and E. Brown were all occupants of lands through or adjoining which it was proposed to lay out the said highway, and yet the return of the highway commissioner shows that he only served notices upon William Wilson, George Morris, and E. Brown. It does not appear, therefore, that Marcia M. Morris was served with. any notice by the commissioner before his proceedings were taken to determine the necessity of laying out the highway. This was a fatal defect, and, the commissioner having no jurisdiction to lay out a highway, the township board could not under such proceedings obtain jurisdiction to lay out the same.
3. The affidavit for the writ of certiorari alleges that Clara Wilson was also the owner and occupant of lands through or adjoining which it was proposed to lay out the- said highway. No notice was served upon her, as appears from the return of the highway commissioner, and for that reason he acquired no jurisdiction to lay out the same, and the township board, upon appeal, had no jurisdiction.
4. We think, also, that the township board erred in proceeding to lay out the highway, if Whitmer and Bishop, two of the members of said board, or either of them, were financially interested in its being laid out. The board makes no return to this allegation in the affidavit upon which the writ of certiorari was issued, and_ there being no contradiction of the affidavit, we must take the affidavit as true.
It follows that the proceedings of the township board in laying out this highway must be quashed and vacated; the plaintiffs in the writ of certiorari to recover costs.
The other Justices concurred. | [
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Morse, J.
The plaintiff became a member of the defendant company, and insured his buildings and’ personal property therein, March 17, 1882. October 8, 1887, he deeded the land, 40 acres, and his homestead, upon which the insured buildings were situated, to his wife, Effie Glaze. The deed was recorded October 12, 1887. October 31, 1887, the buildings, and personal property within them, were burned by an incendiary fire. The defendant settled with him for the loss of the personal property insured, but refused to pay the insurance on the buildings because of this transfer to his wife. This suit is brought to recover such loss. The jury below found for the defendant.
The policy of insurance provides that it is made and accepted subject to all the provisions of the charter and by-laws of the company, a copy of which charter and by-laws appears annexed to the policy. Section 11 of the charter reads as follows:
“ Any members, upon the sale of their property, may assign their policy to the purchaser, or secure a mortgage, on payment of one dollar; such assignment' to be approved by the secretary, and indorsed on the policy. But the insurance upon such property shall cease upon such sale, unless so assigned; but they shall be holden for all assessments until such canceling or assignment is made.” •
Section 16 also provides that no loss shall be paid unless the assured or his assignee—
“Shall, at the time of the fire, have or hold a Iona fide insurable interest in the property burned, either by ownership or as mortgagee
After the fire the plaintiff assigned the policy to his wife, but not.with the consent of the secretary of the company. Before the commencement of this suit his wife reassigned it to him.
The question upon the trial in the court below properly turned upon whether or not this deed had been delivered before the fire. The plaintiff endeavored to show that he •executed the deed without the knowledge of his wife, intending that it should not take effect until after his death, and that his wife did not know that he had made it. He went to the county-seat to get it recorded, and paid the fees therefore. It was returned to him by letter, and he testifies that it has ever since been in his possession. His wife was not sworn, and upon his cross-examination some facts and admissions were shown tending somewhat, at least, to contradict his assertions that his wife was ignorant of the execution of the deed.
We do not care to analyze the testimony. We think the question of the delivery of the deed was properly a question for the jury, under all the testimony, and that the court did not err in what he said in his charge in submitting such question to them. The court instructed the jury that it was not necessary that this deed should have been actually placed in the hands of the wife; that a manual delivery was not always necessary; that if the plaintiff executed the deed, and put it upon record for the purpose, and with the deliberate intention, of passing the title then presently to her, such act would constitute a valid delivery of the deed. The counsel for the plaintiff contend that this is not enough; that a deed cannot rest in intention merely, but, in addition, there must be a delivery of the deed itself to the grantee or some third person for such grantee’s use and benefit; and that something must be done to indicate an acceptance of the grant upon the part of the grantee, as no person, against his will, can be made a land-owner.
We think 'there were circumstances drawn from the plaintiff upon cross-examination from which the jury-might well presume that the wife knew' all about the deed, and not only consented to it, but asked for it in payment of an indebtedness from her husband to her. It is 'true, the debt was an ancient one, but under our decisions it would have been a good consideration between them, even as against creditors; and there are intimations in the plaintiff’s testimony that the object of it was for the purpose of protection to the wife, the premises conveyed being of more value than the homestead exemption. 'The recording of the deed was a presumptive delivery, which could be explained or rebutted, however, by the intention of the grantor, the plaintiff, as the act of recording was his own. Patrick v. Howard, 47 Mich. 40, 45; Stevens v. Castel, 63 Id. 111, 116. In this case the recording of the deed was admitted, and, if the jury found the intention of the plaintiff going with such act to be to pass the title to his wife, there was a sufficient delivery of the instrument. The wife has not disowned the deed, but since the fire has acted in some respects in ratification of it.
The plaintiff’s counsel also insist in this Court that, the buildings being situated upon the homestead, the plaintiff, notwithstanding there was a sufficient delivery of the deed, had still an insurable interest in them, and that the sale or transfer forbidden by the charter means such a transfer as would leave no insurable interest in the policy-holder. But this view of the charter provision is not tenable. It is expressly stated in section 16 of that instrument, as heretofore shown, that the insurable interest which the assured must have at the time of the fire is that of owner oi mortgagee.
The judgment is affirmed, with costs.
The other Justices concurred. | [
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Champlin, 0. J.
'The relator filed his petition in this Court praying for a mandamus to compel the Commissioner of the State Land-office to issue to him a patent for the S. £ of the N W. i of section 24, town 38 N.} range 3 W., situated in Cheboygan county, Mich.; said land being a portion of the land granted to the State of Michigan under the act of Congress approved September 28, 1850, popularly known as the “Swamp-Land Grant.” This particular parcel of land was patented to the State by virtue of said act on October 4, 1875.
He alleges that the .said parcel has not been purchased from the State, and was on the 18th day of November, 1890, and thence hitherto, the property of the State of Michigan; that by Act No. 130, Laws of 1883, the State of Michigan appropriated to the county of Livingston 10,000 acres of swamp lands in the Lower Peninsula, not otherwise appropriated, for the purpose of aiding in straightening the channel of Cedar river, and opening, widening, and deepening the same; that, acting under said act, the county contracted with one Edward W. Sparrow to perform said work, and, upon his fulfilling his part of the contract, said county, in consideration thereof, sold, assigned, transferred, and set over all its claims and rights to said 10,000 acres of land to said Sparrow, and he accepted the same; that upon November 17, 1890, Sparrow sold, assigned, and set over to the relator the right to select and receive 80 acres of said land by a written instrument, in words and figures as follows:
“Eor a valuable consideration, to me in hand paid, I hereby sell, assign, and set over to Alexander P. Wait, of Osceola .county, Michigan, the right to select, under provisions of Act No. 130, Laws of 1883, eighty acres of •State swamp land, not otherwise appropriated.
“Edward W. Sparrow.
“ Dated Lansing, Michigan, November 17, 1890.”
That upon the 18th day of November, 1890, the relator, in pursuance of said assignment, and complying in •all respects with the provisions of law governing such applications, did select said above-described parcel, and request Eoscoe D. Dix, State Land Commissioner, to issue to him a patent therefor under Act No. 130, Laws of 1883; but said State Land Commissioner did, without legal excuse, upon the 22d day of November, 1890, absolutely refuse to issue to the relator any patent therefor; •and he prays that a peremptory writ of mandamus may issue out of and under the seal of this Court, commanding the said Eoscoe D. Dix, State Land Commissioner as aforesaid, to issue forthwith to relator a patent for said above-described lands.
The Commissioner of the State Land-office filed his .answer to said petition, admitting the several allegations in the petition, down to and including the request for the issue of a patent, and his refusal to do so; but denies .that his refusal was without any legal excuse, and says, in that behalf,—
“ That said tract of land was offered for sale at public vendue at the office of the Commissioner of the State Land-office on the 1st day of November, 1876, under the provisions of Act No. 97 of the Laws of 1869, the same being Howell’s Statutes, sections 5444 to 5446, inclusive, as set forth in the petition of said petitioner, and hereinbefore admitted; and respondent, further answering, says that on the 24th day of October, 1878, said lot was licensed to Alexander G-ero as a homestead under Act No. 229 of the Laws of 1859 and amendments thereto, the same being Howell’s Statutes, sections 5436 to 5441, inclusive; and respondent, further answering in that behalf, says that the title to the said lands revested in the State oí Michigan on the 24th day of October, 1890, for the reason that G-ero had wholly abandoned said lands as a homestead for the space of two years; and respondent, further answering, says, that since the withdrawal of said lands for the benefit of said Gero, and since the reversion of said lands to the State of Michigan, as above set forth, the land has not been restored to the market, as provided by Act No. 21 of the Laws of 1873, the same being* HowelBs Statutes, sections 5249 to 5253, inclusive; and that because said lands have not been restored to market, as provided by said act, they were not subject to private entry or purchase by the said petitioner, or any other person; and that, therefore, the mandamus prayed in said petition ought not to issue.”
Upon the hearing before us, other objections than these set up in the answer were urged as reasons why the relator is not entitled to the patent, based upon the language of Act No. 130, and upon existing laws with reference to the disposition of swamp lands. • We do not consider these objections tenable, and shall confine our views to those set out in the answer.
Before proceeding to the discussion, it is proper that we should define what is meant and understood by the term “scrip.” This term, has been used in the statute respecting the disposition of swamp lands, but no legal definition or signification has been expressed in the statute. It has been the practice in the land-office of this State, where lands have been appropriated or granted for the purpose of aiding in the drainage of swamp lands, whenever the contiaotor doing the work has so performed any portion of it as to obtain its acceptance by the proper officer, and that officer has reported to the land-office, to credit the contractor upon the hooks of the office with the number of acres of swamp land to which such performance entitles him under the contract, and this credit is what is termed “scrip,” although no certificate or other written evidence of the right of the party is issued. The lands, not having yet been selected, cannot be described or identified, and, until such selection is made, this credit, called “scrip,” has been considered as assignable, in whole or in part, to other parties, and they have made selections, and; when so made and entered, the lands so selected are charged to the contractor upon the books of the office.
The sections of the statute referred to in the answer ■of the Commissioner read as follows:
“ Sec. 52á9. The People of the State of Michigan enact, That all lands of this State, which have been withdrawn from market for any purpose, or withheld from sale or pre-emption, in consequence of errors in books, or in consequence of marking sales or reservations upon maps, and - all lands which have reverted, or may hereafter revert, to the State, by reason of a failure in any manner to make payment for the same, or by a failure to ■comply with the terms of any State road, railroad, or other grant or contract of this State, to or with any person or corporation, or by reason of a failure to comply with the conditions of any license or homestead act,* shall not be subject to private entry or purchase, either with cash or scrip, until public notice of the restoration of such lands to market shall have been given iii the manner hereinafter prescribed.
“Sec. 5250. The Commissioner of the State Land-office shall be required to advertise for four successive weeks, in .a newspaper published in the county where such lands are situate, if there is one published therein, and, if not, then in some newspaper published in a county nearest to that in which said lands are located, and shall also forward a written or printed notice by letter, mailed and properly directed to each settler and purchaser of lands held by him under any of the laws of the State, and included in the list so advertised, that at a time certain, at his office in the city of Lansing,' naming the day of the month and the hour, not less than thirty days from the date of the first insertion of such advertisement, the particular lands, giving the descriptions thereon, will be restored to market.
“ Sec. 5251. It shall be the duty of the Commissioner to cause the notice of the restoration of such lands to market to be publicly proclaimed from the front door of the land-office in Lansing, one hour before the time of such restoration; and, in all cases where there are two or more applicants for the same.tract of land present at the time of its restoration to market, the Commissioner shall immediately offer and sell the said tract in the smallest subdivisions of which the same is susceptible, not less than forty acres (unless the tract should be a fractional section or fractional part of a section containing a less number of acres), to the highest bidder: Provided, no bid for any such tract shall be received by the Commissioner unless-the price offered shall be equal to the minimum price of such land as fixed by law.
“ Sec. 5252. All entries or sales of any lands such-as are hereinbefore referred to, or of lands now held in trust by the State which may hereafter become the-property of the State by virtue of any of the provisions of such trust, if such entries or sales be permitted or made in violation of any of the provisions of this act, shall be absolutely void, and the certificate issued thereon shall vest no title in the person or corporation entering or purchasing the same.
“ Sec. 5253. All acts or parts of acts contravening any of the provisions of this act are hereby repealed.”
The lands licensed to Gero did not revert until the forfeiture had been declared, and this was not done until October 24, 1890, and on November 18, 1890, being 25 days after the forfeiture was declared, the relator attempted to select this land with scrip, under Act No. 130 of the Laws of 1883. He presented his selection and applied for a patent. He based his claim on the ground that the land was swamp land which belonged to the State, and was unappropriated, and consequently subject to selection, under Act No. 130.
The only question is whether Act No. 21, Laws of 1873, being sections 5249 to 5253 of Howell's Statutes, applies to the land in question, and to the scrip under which the selection is sought to be made. Alexander Gero was licensed by the Commissioner of the State Land-office to enter upon and occupy the land in -ques tion as a settler or occupant under the provisions of Act No. 229, Laws of 1859, and the amendments thereto, being compiler’s sections of Howell’s Annotated Statutes, 5436 to 5440. The question of the forfeiture of such lands by the Commissioner, and the object of the statute in granting licenses to settlers upon swamp lands, is commented upon in Hedley v. Leonard, 35 Mich. 71, and it was there held that the lands did not revert to the State until the forfeiture had been declared. It was also held that such licensee had rights of which he could not be deprived except by proceeding in strict accordance with the statute; and it was said that—
“It is the express policy of the State to' encourage the improvement of swamp lands by such licensees, and it is a perversion of that policy to encourage interlopers to enjoy the fruit of other men’s labors. It never was designed that any one should be ousted unless he has manifestly failed to perform his obligations, and determined to abandon his holding.” .
It was in furtherance of this policy of the State that the act of 1873 was passed, in which 'it is expressly declared that—
“All lands which have reverted, or may hereafter revert, to the State, by reason of a failure in any manner to make payment for the same, or by a failure to comply with the terms of any State road, railroad, or other grant or contract of this State, to or with any person or corporation, or by reason of a failure to comply with the conditions of any license or homestead act, shall not be subject to private entry or purchase, either with cash or scrip, until public notice of the restoration of such lands to market shall have been given in the man' ner hereinafter prescribed.”
The next section prescribes the notice which shall be; given, and requires the commissioner to forward a, written or printed notice by letter, mailed and properly-directed to each settler or purchaser of lands held by him under any of the laws of the State, giving notice of the day, month, and hour o when, such lands shall he restored to market. We conceive that the object of this, statute is to enable a person who has had the misfortune to fail to complete his purchase under a license, for any cause, to appear at the time and place of sale, and bid thereon. The statute expressly denies the right of private entry or purchase, either with cash or scrip. The relator was therefore prohibited from entering this particular parcel of land with scrip.
It is urged that Act No. 130 made no exceptions; that all that was required by that act was that it should be swamp lands in the Lower Peninsula not appropriated; and that it operated as an implied repeal of the act of 1873, above quoted. But I do not think so. I think these acts should be construed so as to be in harmony with each other, if possible, and I do not think it was the intention of the Legislature to permit persons having credit upon the hooks of the land-office to enter lands or select for entry lands which had been occupied by actual settlers, and which had been forfeited and abandoned. The whole spirit of the enactments for the protection of settlers and homesteaders would be violated by such construction. In this case Gero entered this land in 1878 as a homestead, and the record says that he had abandoned it for two years prior to 1890. For all that is known or disclosed, he majr have made valuable improvements on this property. He is not a party ■before us, and the forfeiture itself, as to him, may not be effective. At any rate, as to such lands licensed to 'homesteaders, we think the statute of 1873 applies, prohibiting a private entry, either for cash or scrip.
We think the mandamus should be denied.
The other Justices concurred. | [
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Morse, J.
The plaintiff’s intestate was the driver of •■a street-railway car in the city of Grand Rapids, and on i;he 23d' day of April, 1889, while driving his car on "West Fulton street, in said city, was killed by a collision With a train of the defendant company at the street crossing. This is an action for damages on account of his death. Plaintiff recovered judgment in the Kent circuit court in the sum of $5,313. At the close of plaintiff’s proofs, the defendant demurred to the evidence, and .asked that a verdict be directed in its favor, on the ground that the plaintiff’s intestate was not in the exercise of due care and caution when the accident occurred, and was therefore guilty of contributory negligence. This motion was denied, and the defendant thereupon put in proofs. This action of the trial court and other errors are alleged as reasons for the reversal of this judgment.
We will first examine the question whether the court erred in permitting the plaintiff to go to the jury as to his intestate’s negligence. This must be decided, as is admitted by defendant’s counsel, upon the case as made by the testimony on the' part of the plaintiff, which case is substantially as follows:
Between the hours of 4 and 5 in the afternoon of April 23, 1889, Sherwood, with his car drawn by one horse, came down West Fulton street, approaching defendant’s track. West Fulton street runs nearly east and west, and the railroad track crosses it nearly at right angles. Sherwood was going .east. About 185 feet west of the defendant’s track is another railroad crossing, that of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railway. Sherwood was observed crossing ■ this latter track on a walk. Beyond that to the east it is down grade, and he then started his horse on a trot, and continued until within 25 or 30 feet of defendant’s crossing, when he “ slowed down” to a walk. At this crossing, on the north side of West Fulton street and the west side of the railroad track, is a shanty used for a flagman, who was stationed there to give warning of the approach of trains to the passers-by. . To the north the view of the track was comparatively unobstructed, but'upon the south side of the street, and to the west of the railroad track, were situated a lumber-yard, lumber office, coal-shed, iumber-sheds, and piles of lumber- and posts, more or less obstructing the view of cars coming from the south. On the day in question there was at least one car loaded vwith lumber upon a side track .in -the lumber-yard, which Added to the obstructions.
The witnesses who testified to seeing Sherwood approach the track did not all see him in the same place; some-did not notice him until he was within 25 or 30 feet of the track, and others not until he was right upon it. Others saw him as he crossed the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern track, and until he was injured, except such times as they were looking at the cars. They do not agree as to what he was doing, except that he was on a walk within 25 or 30 feet of the track, and had hold of the lines, and some say one hand on the brake, and was standing in his usual place upon the front platform of his car. Some did not notice where he was looking. One witness says he looked straight ahead all the while, as if he was looking at the horse; others, that he looked to the north all the time, and towards the watchman’s shanty. One witness, and the only one who so testifies, says that he saw Sherwood’s head go both ways. He first observed him 40 or 50 feet back of the track.
Just as Sherwood got to the track a train of nine cars, detached from the engine, came down the track from the south. “Sherwood then stopped, put his hand on ■the brake, tried to ‘brake up,’'but could not. The horse was on the track, his forward feet across it. The horse gave a jerk, and pulled Sherwood over the dash-board, and under the car.” Sherwood died of the injuries there received. These cars were running, as testified by plaintiff’s witnesses, at the rate of from 8 to 12 miles an hour, the majority estimating the speed at from 8 to 10 miles an hour. There was no warning of the approach of these cars, except the noise they made in running. There was no lookout on the forward car. There was a man standing on the third car from the front of the train, but he was looking north-east, and giving no attention to the crossing. The flagman was not at his usual post of duty, and'no signal or warning was given by him until the horse was on the track. He then ran out of the shanty or flag-house in his shirt sleeves, and bare-headed, but too late to warn Sherwood of his danger.
The plaintiff’s claim was that the defendant was negligent in the following particulars:
1. That the cars were run at too high rate of speed, in violation of the city ordinance, — a speed which also, in view of the nature, locality, and surroundings, was, as a matter of fact, dangerous and negligent.
2. That no proper signals were given to warn those approaching the crossing, and particularly the deceased, of the approach of the train.
3. That the flagman was absent from his post of duty, which was outside of the flag-house, with his flag to give warning (but was present in the flag-house, in view of the deceased), and failed to give any warning of the approach of the train.
The negligence of the defendant is apparent 'from the evidence on the part of the plaintiff, and need not be discussed further.
It is contended by the defendant’s counsel that the plaintiff’s intestate was guilty of negligence as a matter of law; that there were places on the line of Sherwood’s course before he reached the track where he could have seen these cars approaching, had he looked to the south; that, at a point 40 feet west of the railway crossing, the cars could have been seen before the lumber office obstructed the view; that a hundred feet of the track was visible by looking through between the office and the lumber-piles; also that, at a point 25 feet from the crossing, a car could be seen 74 feet south of the crossing, and from a point 16 feet west of the crossing a car could be seen approaching from the south 167 feet south of the crossing, — the street-car track being- in the center of the highway. We do not think from the' testimony produced by the plaintiff that Sherwood could have seen the cars approaching from the south, after he left the crossing of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Eailway, until he came within about 20 feet of the crossing. If he had looked then, he would have undoubtedly seen these cars 'in time to have stopped and avoided a collision. And it is pretty apparent — almost absolutely certain, from the plaintiff’s own showing — that he did not look south within said 20 feet, until his horse was upon the track.
Whether he was negligent depends in a great measure upon whether or not he had a right to rely, under the circumstances, upon the absence of the flagman, and the lack of any signal of danger from him.
It is claimed by defendant’s counsel that the obstruction of the view to the south, and the absence of the watchman from his post, called upon Sherwood to have stopped, and looked and listened, before he attempted to pass this crossing. This claim would be correct if, at this street crossing, no flagman had been stationed to give warning. But the testimony shows that a flagman had been kept at this point for three or four years, whose duty it was to signal by a flag in the street the approach of trains. It is not the law of. this State that, under all circumstances, it is absolutely necessary for a person approaching a railroad crossing to look both ways and to listen for approaching trains. It is generally required, but it is not a rule of universal application. Every ease must depend upon its own circumstances, and it would be unreasonable to apply such rule, under all circumstauces, without regard to the condition of things at the time. Cooper v. Railway Co., 66 Mich. 266. Nor is a traveler compelled, under all circumstances, to stop before crossing, if his view is obstructed from one way. He is only required to take such precaution as an ordinarily prudent man would under like circumstances, and whether or not he did use such care is generally a question for the jury. See Guggenheim v. Railway Co., 66 Mich. 157, 158, and cases cited.
Plaintiff’s counsel contend that, it appearing that the defendant had stationed a flagman at this crossing, whose duty it was to warn parties about to cross of approaching trains, it was for the jury to say whether the deceased, in keeping his eyes directed to the flagman for the very purpose of observing a signal at the earliest moment that it could be given, was not exercising due care. They cite the following cases in support of this contention: French v. Railroad, 116 Mass. 537; Sweeny v. Railroad Co., 10 Allen, 377; Railroad Co. v. Hutchinson, 120 Ill. 592 (11 N. E. Rep. 856); Pennsylvania Co. v. Stegemeier, 118 Ind. 305 (20 N. E. Rep. 843); Glushing v. Sharp, 96 N. Y. 676; Railway Co. v. Schneider, 45 Ohio St. 678 (17 N. E. Rep. 321); State v. Railroad Co., 80 Me. 444 (15 Atl. Rep. 39); Central Trust Co. v. Railway Co., 27 Fed. Rep. 159: Tyler v. Railroad Co., 137 Mass. 238; Railway Co. v. Yundt, 78 Ind. 373.
In French v. Railroad, 116 Mass. 537, the submitting of the question of contributory negligence to the jury was not affirmed upon the ground of the absence of the watchman alone, but in connection with the further fact that a train had just passed, and plaintiff did not suppose, or have reason t<? suppose, that another would follow so closely as it did, the cars doing the injury having been cut off from another train, and “shunted” down the track.
, In Sweeny v. Railroad Co., 10 Allen, 377, the flagman signaled the traveler to come on, and he went upon the track, relying upon such invitation. It was said by the court:
“No express invitation need have been shown. It would only have been necessary for the plaintiff to prove that the agent did some act to indicate that there was no risk of accident in attempting to pass over the crossing.”
In Railway Co. v. Yundt, 78 Ind. 376, the court say:
“If the defendant had, for a considerable time before the accident, kept a flagman at the crossing to give signals on the approach of trains, and if the plaintiffs had been in the habit of .crossing the railroad at that place, and observing the signals, and if, on the occasion of the accident, no signal was given, the plaintiffs not knowing that the services of the flagman had been dispensed with, these facts might, in our opinion, be considered by the jury, in connection with all the other circumstances, in determining whether or not the plaintiffs were free from contributory negligence.”
It is also said in Railroad Co. v. Hutchinson, 120 Ill. 592:
“We are aware of expressions by this court, when passing upon the law and fact, and of like expressions by other courts of the highest respectability,- that the failure of one approaching a railroad crossing to pause and look for the approach of trains was such negligence as would, in the case then under consideration, preclude a recovery. But we are not prepared to say, as a matter of law, that a person approaching a railroad crossing, where there is nothing apparent to warn him of danger, and at‘ which he knows a flagman is stationed, whose known duty it is to warn all persons of danger from running trains, is required to look elsewhere than to the flagman. The flagman’s duty is to know of the approach of trains, and to give timely warning to all persons attempting to cross the railroad track, and the public have a right to rely upon a reasonable performance of that duty. * * * It may be that in the particular case a reasonably prudent and careful man would do more than observe the absence of the ordinary signal by the flagman; but, if so, the facts and circumstances should be submitted to the jury, to be considered by them in determining whether the party had, under all the circumstances, exercised ordinary care and caution to prevent injury.”
In Glushing v. Sharp, 96 N. Y. 676, and in Railway Co. v. Schneider, 45 Ohio St. 678, there were gates at the crossings, attended by a gateman, which gates were closed when there was danger of an approaching train, and open when there was no such danger. In both these cases, the gates being open, the persons injured drove in upon the track upon the assumption that there was no danger. Held, that such persons had the right to, presume, in the absence of knowledge to the contrary, that the gatemen were properly discharging their duties; and that it was not negligent on their part to act on the presumption that they were not exposed to a danger which could only arise from a disregard of their duties by the gatemen.
The following cases tend to support the plaintiff’s contention that the question of Sherwood’s negligence was for the jury: Tyler v. Railroad Co., 137 Mass. 238; Railway Co. v. Clough (Ill.), 25 N. E. Rep. 664; Pennsylvania Co. v. Stegemeier, 118 Inch 305; Central Trust Co. v. Railway Co., 27 Fed. Rep. 159; State v. Railroad Co., 80 Me. 430, 444; Burns v. Rolling Mill Co., 65 Wis. 312, 315 (27 N. W. Rep. 43). See, also, Shear. & E. Neg. § 466.
On the contrary, we are cited to a case in Pennsylvania (Greenwood v. Railroad Co., 124 Penn. St. 572, 17 Atl. Rep. 188) where gates and a watchman had been kept at a crossing. The gates were lowered at the approach of trains. The gates were out of repair. Being open, the plaintiff drove a hose-cart across the track without stopping or looking or listening. The watchman displayed no signal and gave no warning. The court held this to be contributory negligence on his part, and said, speaking through the chief justice:
“I do not understand the law to be that, when a railroad company adopts safety-gates or any other appliance for the protection of the public, the public are thereby absolved from the duty of taking any care of themselves. * * * The plaintiff was bound to do his part. He has no right to omit the ordinary precautions when approaching a railroad crossing merely because he finds the gates up.' Each party should be held to the exercise of- due care. * *’ * If the rule to stop, look, and listen were always observed, an accident at crossings, now so frequent, could rarely occur, whether in town or country. It is as important in towns as in the country. It is sustained by such abundant authority, and founded on such excellent common-sense reasons, that we will neither depart from it, nor allow it to be undermined by exceptions. It is a clear and certain rule of duty, and a departure from it is more than evidence of negligence; it is negligence per se.”
The evidence on the part of the plaintiff tended to show that the watchman was inside the shanty or flag-house. The door of this house opens on the east, facing the railroad track. There are two small windows in- it, one in the north and one in' the south end, so that the-flagman can see up and down the track both ways. It is claimed by the plaintiff that Sherwood was looking towards this south window, and could see the flagman therein before he reached the track, while the defendant claims that he could not have seen him until his horse was on the track. Of course, if Sherwood saw the watchman inside of his house, where such flagman could plainly see an approaching train, and the flagman gave no signal, it would be a more favorable circumstance to plaintiff, as bearing upon Sherwood's negligence, than if the flagman1 was apparently absent from his post, ahd Sherwood could not see him at all. The only evidence as to whether Sherwood could have seen the flagman through this window comes from two witnesses. Gilman, for the plaintiff, says:
“The windows on the north and south sides of the shanty are well towards the east, and near the two corners. They are small windows. A person coming from the west, driving a street-car, could not see through those windows, to see who was in the shanty, until he got opposite. When they got opposite they would be right up by the track.''
Eooney, for the defendant, says:
“The driver could have seen him [the watchman], if he was watching carefully for him, through the window that fronts Fulton street.”
Under all the circumstances, I am satisfied that the court correctly submitted the question of Sherwood's negligence to the jury. He instructed them that—
“A railroad crossing is a place of danger, and is itself a warning to any one about to go upon it to be careful, and vigilant to the extent of his opportunities. It was the duty of Sherwood in approaching the railroad track to use his senses of sight and hearing to ascertain whether a train was - approaching, and, if the jury find that he did not, then the plaintiff is not entitled to recover.”
The jury were further instructed that it was the duty, of Sherwood to exercise due care whether or not the flagman was in sight, and, if the flagman was found not to have been present to give warning, such fact could be considered as bearing upon thé negligence of both Sherwood and the defendant.
The jury were further instructed as follows:
“If the deceased, Sherwood, by the exercise of ordinary care and prudence, by looking up the track in the direction of the approaching train, could have seen it in time to avoid the injury, his omission to do so would amount to such negligence as would defeat plaintiff’s right of action, unless you find that his attention at the time was directed to the flagman and the flag-office, and that he had a right to rely on the position of the flag-' man, and absence of warning, as an assurance of safety. If tíre jury find the view of the track approaching from the south was obscured somewhat by lumber, etc., in Pierce’s lumber-yard, so that a train could only be observed by extreme care and caution, and that Sherwood knew this, then it rvas the duty of Sherwood to use such extreme care and caution as was appropriate to the circumstances. This- would be true in a case where there was no flagman; but the question of the extent to which the deceased had a right to rely upon the position of the flagmau, and his failure to give warning, is a question for the jury. It is the duty of every car-driver, when approaching a railroad crossing with passengers in his car, where his view of an approaching train is somewhat obscured, to stop, and look and listen, to insure himself that a train is not approaching before he attempts to cross, unless the negligence of the duty of the company, through the absence of its flagman or his failure to give warning, was such a notice to Sherwood that it was safe to cross as would excuse an ordinarily prudent man from stopping, and looking and listening. * * * *
“It was the duty of Sherwood, in approaching such crossing, to have his horse and car under control, so that he could respond quickly to the slightest intimation of danger; and if he approached the track after he received such intimation, or was negligent in looking or listening for such intimation, and thus contributed to the injury, then the plaintiff cannot recover.”
“If the jury find that a person of ordinary care, driving the street-car, as Sherwood was, might, by exercising proper care and diligence, have ascertained that the cars were approaching from the south at the time of this accident, then the plaintiff cannot recover in this case, however negligent the railroad company -may have been, and although the flagman was not at his post of duty to give warning. ******
“If the railroad company was negligent, and the flagman was negligent, and Sherwood was also so negligent as to in any- manner contribute to the injury, then the plaintiff could not recover.”
“To entitle the plaintiff to recover, he must establish that the death of Sherwood was caused by the negligence of the defendant. This, of course, requires a showing that Sherwood was not himself guilty of negligence which contributed to the injury. To constitute negligence contributing to the injury on the part of Sherwood, there must have been a failure on his part to observe and exercise ordinary care; and, if the plaintiff has shown that the deceased, Sherwood, used such care as men of ordinary' prudence would have exercised under like circumstances, and placed as he was, then he was not guilty of contributory negligence.
“In determining whether the deceased, Sherwood, used due care, you have the right to take into account the obstructions to the south, their nature and extent, the manner in which Sherwood was driving, the fact of the defendant having maintained a flagman at the crossing, and the fact, if it be a fact, that this was known to Sherwood; and you have a right to take into account whether the deceased was watching for the flagman, the extent to which he had liis car under control, the extent to which he looked out for trains; and you are then to say whether he used such care as men of ordinary prudence would have exercised under like circumstances, and, if he did use such care, he was not guilty of contributory negligence."
The defendant asked the court to instruct the jury, in substance, that the absence of the flagman from his post did not in the least excuse Sherwood, fronr exercising his senses of sight and hearing to ascertain whether the train was approaching; and that, if the deceased, Sherwood, by looking up the track in the direction of the approaching train, could have seen it in time to avoid the injury, his omission to do so was such negligence as would prevent plaintiffs recovery. This was refused, and it will be seen that the court left it to the juyy to determine whether, under the circumstances, Sherwood had a right to rely, and how far, upon the absence of the flagman from his post of duty,.and the want of any signal of danger from such watchman, as an assurance of safety;' and they were instructed that, if - an ordinarily prudent man would have done the same as Sherwood did under the same circumstances, the plaintiff could recover.
I find no errors in the charge on1 the subject of negligence.
There were no material errors in receiving or rejecting testimony.
It is alleged that the court erred, in his instructions as to damages. The evidence showed that the next of kin of the deceased consisted of his mother, Fannie Sherwood, two brothers, Seth W. and Frank Sherwood, and two sisters, Ella and Marcella Sherwood. The deceased lived with his mother, as did his sister Ella, who was an invalid. Frank lived with his mother. The older son, Seth, had not been heard from in five years, at which time he was in Wisconsin. Mrs. Sherwood testified that deceased helped her from eight tó ten dollars per week. He also assisted her in her work about the house when he was off duty as car-driver. He was 30 years of age at the time of his death. She testified that his board, allowing him for his help about the house, was worth about $2 per. week. Frank worked at a restaurant for $1 a day, and- contributed some to the support of the family. Since the death of Cady, the deceased, Frank has contributed nearly his entire wages to the support of the family; before that about $2 per week. The oldest daughter, Marcella, boarded and lodged at home, but contributed nothing to the support of the family. The mother testified that the deceased contributed $2 per week towards the support of his invalid sister, Ella. Ella was 21 and Mrs. Sherwood 54 years of age when Cady died. The court instructed the- jury as follows:
“If you find the plaintiff entitled to recover, he is entitled to recover damages to the extent of the pecuniary loss which the mother and next of kin of the deceased, Mr. Sherwood, have sustained by his death. This amount will be such an amount as the jury are able to say it is reasonably probable would have been contributed by the deceased to their support had he lived. The jury cannot go beyond the term of the expectancy of life of the deceased, which is shown by the tables to have been 35.33 years, and, in weighing the testimony as to the contributions which would have been likely to have been made to the mother of the deceased, the jury cannot extend these beyond the period of her expectancy of life, which is shown by the tables to have been 18.79 years. As to the testimony of contributions to the sister, these cannot be considered, except for the period after the probable decease of the mother, and, under the testimony, such contributions are said to have been included in the sum which was contributed to the family. It is not for the court to intimate what amount of contributions the deceased would have contributed- to the family, nor is the evidence of what he had in his life-time contributed conclusive upon this subject, but it is evidence whioh the jury have a right to consider for what it is reasonably worth, and it is for the jury to say what it is reasonably probable that the deceased would have con tributed, both as to the extent and duration thereof, not exceeding the time stated as his expectancy of life, and not exceeding the amount shown to have been contributed in his life-time; and, if you are able to fix the sum which he would have annually contributed, then I charge you that the plaintiff should recover only the present worth of that sum, as you may find it to be, not exceeding in amount ten thousand dollars, the amount stated in the ■declaration.”
The statutes giving damages in cases like the present ■are as follows:
How. Stat. § 3391. “ Whenever the death of a person shall be caused by wrongful act, neglect, or default of ■any railroad company or its agents, and the act, neglect, ■or default is such as would (if death had. not ensued) -entitle the party injured to maintain an action, and recover damages in respect thereof, then, and in every such case, the railroad corporation which would have been liable if death had not ensued shall be liable to an action on the case for damages, notwithstanding the death of the person so injured, and although the death .shall have been caused under such circumstances as .amount in law to felony.
“Sbc. 3392. Every such action shall be brought by .and in the names of the personal representatives of such deceased person, and the amount recovered in any such .action shall be distributed to the persons and in the proportion provided by law in relation to the distribution of personal property left by persons dying intestate; and in ■every such, action the jury may give such amount of ■damages as they shall deem fair and just to the persons who may be entitled to such damages when recovered: Provided, nothing herein contained shall affect any suit' nr proceedings heretofore commenced, and now pending in any of the courts of this State.”
We held in Van Brunt v. Railroad Co., 78 Mich. 530, that, under these statutes, none of the next of kin could’ recover unless they showed a pecuniary injury on account nf the person killed, and if, as in that case, the proofs .showed no person percuniarily injured by the death of plaintiff’s intestate, there could be no recovery; that it evidently was not the intention of the Legislature to make one rule of damages in the case of a person killed through the negligence of a railroad company, and another rulé in the case of a person killed by some person or corporation other than a railroad company. Under this holding, damages in t*his case could only be recovered on account of the mother, and the sister Ella, as no-pecuniary injury was shown to the others by Sherwood’s death. The court, in effect, so limited it, and was also correct in allowing no damages to be computed on account of the sister until after the mother’s death, as, under the testimony, these contributions to the sister were included in the contributions to the family.
It is urged that the court erred in allowing the recovery of any damages on account of the sister Ella, because under the law of distribution of the personal property of intestates passed in 1889, and which was in force at the-time the verdict, was rendered, the whole of the personal estate of the son descended to the mother, and she would' therefore be entitled to the whole of the damages. Act No. 168, Laws of 1889 (3 How. Stat. § 5772 a). But the distribution of the personal property of Sherwood’s estate would, we think, be governed by the law in reference thereto existing at the time of his death, which provided that the property in such a case as this should descend, one-half to his mother, and the remainder in equal shares to his brothers and sisters. Act No. 169, Laws of 1883. See, also, How. Stat. § 5847, subd. 6.
The counsel for defendant argue, further, that, if the personal estate descends under the law of 1883, section 3392 of Howell is invalid and inapplicable, because, by the latter statute, the jury are authorized to give such amount of damages as they deem fair and just to the persons who may be entitled to such damages when recovered; aud this has been construed to mean that the jury may give such damages as have been sustained by the several persons who have suffered pecuniary loss. But, as the same statute also provides that the money so recovered shall be distributed to the' persons and in the proportion provided by law in relation to the distribution of personal property left by persons dying intestate, it is argued that the brothers and sisters are all put upon the same footing, whether any damages, have been recovered on their account or not; and that in this case, if the other sister and the brothers should a.pply to the probate court for their share, such court could not refuse to order it turned over to them. They would thereby receive money, in effect, for damages which the statute would not permit to be recovered on their account, because they had suffered no pecuniary loss by their brother's death.
There is a seeming contradiction or inconsistency in this statute under the construction given it in Van Brunt v. Railroad Co., 78 Mich. 530, but, as so construed, it is identical in its provisions with section 8314, How. St-at., under which statute damages have been recovered, and affirmed by this Court, in a numbér of cases. And in Hunn v. Railroad Co., 78 Mich. 513, the assessment was affirmed as proper of nominal damages only to the brother and sisters of Hunn, who were entitled to a share with the widow of the personal estate of the deceased under our laws of distribution of personal property.
The same objection, with more elaboration, was made to a statute of New York, similar to ours, by Hoar, J., in Richardson v. Railroad Co., 98 Mass. 85, 90, 91, but the case was not, however, decided upon that ground.
What disposition is made of the m.oney recovered, it the defendant is liable for it, for pecuniary damage suN. fered by any of the next of kin through its negligence, does not concern the defendant. When a conflict arises under this statute as to the distribution of the money recovered as damages, it will then be competent and necessary for the courts to decide who are entitled to the fund. The damages are manifestly to be given in reference to the pecuniary injury resulting from the death to those persons who may be entitled to such damages when recovered. See section 83M, How. Stat.; Van Brunt v. Railroad Co., 78 Mich. 530. It would seem that in this case the damages should have been given, as they were under the charge of the court, in reference to the pecuniary injury suffered by the mother and the sister Ella, and there also would seem to be no serious difficulty in-the way of their obtaining the amount from the administrator.
It is claimed that the verdict was excessive. With that we have nothing to do. But if the jury found that Sherwood contributed $7 a week to his mother, and $2 per week to his sister, as they were warranted in doing from the proofs, considering the expectancy of life of the mother and son, the verdict cannot be said to have been excessive.
The judgment is affirmed, with costs.
McGrath and Lons, JJ., concurred with Morse, J.
For a construction of this section, see Hurst v. Detroit City Ry., 84 Mich. 539. | [
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McGrath, J.
The question as to whether or not com- ' plainant is entitled to possession under the contract before the payment of the balance of the purchase price- is not free from doubt, but on rehearing complainant proffers payment of such balance, and. I think that the decree heretofore ordered by this Court may be so far modified as to entitle complainant to possession upon payment, within 60 days from the date hereof, of the balance of said purchase price, less the amount of the mortgage upon said premises, with interest from the date hereof.
Morse, Lono, and Grant, JJ., concurred. | [
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P. R. Joslyn, J.
Plaintiffs, Patricia Tringali and her husband, Carmelo Tringali, filed a medical malpractice complaint against defendant, Sarla Lai, M.D., in the Macomb Circuit Court alleging that defendant failed to properly diagnose Patricia’s condition and to timely refer Patricia to agastroenterologist for treatment. On June 24, 1985, the jury returned a verdict finding defendant negligent but finding no proximate cause. Judgment was entered on June 27, 1985. Plaintiffs moved for a new trial, which was denied by order dated August 26, 1985. Plaintiffs appeal as of right.
Trial on this matter commenced on June 12, 1985. Defendant, a general practitioner, was called under the adverse witness statute, MCL 600.2161; MSA 27A.2161. Defendant testified that she first saw Patricia Tringali on June 30, 1975. At that time, plaintiff was experiencing severe migraine headaches, probably caused by tension. Between June 30, 1975, and July 29, 1975, defendant saw plaintiff four times. On July 29, 1975, defendant hospitalized plaintiff at Harrison Hospital until August 6, 1975.
On February 7, 1976, defendant prescribed Valium and Tylenol 3 for plaintiff’s headaches. By October, 1976, plaintiff’s blood pressure was up. Defendant gave her a physical examination, which was normal.
On February 28, 1977, plaintiff visited defendant complaining of numbness of the right hand and gastrointestinal spasms. X-rays were ordered for plaintiff’s hand and Bentyl was prescribed for her spasms. Plaintiff returned on March 17, 1977, complaining of diarrhea. At that time, defendant prescribed hemorrhoid suppositories and Lomotil. Defendant also told plaintiff about having a sigmoidoscopy, thinking plaintiff had colitis, and defendant wanted to rule it out.” However, plaintiff did not want the sigmoidoscopy performed.
Defendant hospitalized plaintiff on March 21, 1977, until March 25, 1977, for irregular heavy uterine bleeding that plaintiff had been experiencing intermittently for the preceding two and one-half years, numbness of the right hand and mucous stools. After defendant made a physical examination of plaintiff, her impressions were that plaintiff had dysfunctional uterine bleeding, right carpal tunnel syndrome, mucous colitis and arthritis. Defendant called in specialists for everything except plaintiff’s arthritis.
During hospitalization, plaintiff was examined by internist Dr. Douglas Wood. Dr. Wood was to treat plaintiff for difficulty on open urination. Dr. Wood was also to examine plaintiff relative to her mucous stools. Dr. Wood noted that plaintiff was hesitant to have a sigmoidoscopy at the time. Plaintiff also refused to have a urological work-up done, as Dr. Wood recommended. Defendant stated that every time she spoke with plaintiff while she was hospitalized, she told plaintiff that she should have a sigmoidoscopy performed. Defendant also explained the reasons for the test to plaintiff and told her how the procedure was performed. However, plaintiff told defendant that she did not want to have the test performed.
Upon plaintiff’s discharge from the hospital, defendant’s diagnosis was that she had mucous colitis, but defendant could not rule out ulcerative colitis. In her discharge summary, defendant wrote that, if plaintiff had any gastrointestinal tract problems, plaintiff should have the sigmoidoscopy performed and should be examined by a gastroenterologist.
On June 3, 1977, plaintiff visited defendant’s office. The chart notation indicates that defendant suggested a sigmoidoscopy, but again plaintiff refused. Defendant also gave plaintiff two or three names of gastroenterologists that she could contact.
The deposition of Richard V. Utarnachitt, M.D., was read into evidence. Plaintiff was examined on November 9, 1977, by Utarnachitt, who was a gastroenterologist. He scheduled a colonoscopy for plaintiff, which is similar to a sigmoidoscopy except for the fact that the instrument used is longer and the entire colon is inspected. The colonoscopy revealed that plaintiff had ulcerative colitis. Therefore, Utarnachitt prescribed Azulfidine and put plaintiff on a diet. On November 17, 1977, plaintiff was hospitalized because she was not responding to treatment, the diarrhea had not stopped, and she still had rectal bleeding. On November 24, 1977, plaintiff was discharged from the hospital.
On November 26, 1977, plaintiff was rehospitalized due to bleeding and abdominal pain. On De cember 3, 1977, plaintiff developed toxic megacolon, a dilation of the large intestine as a result of her ulcerative colitis condition. Plaintiff’s toxic megacolon did not respond to medication, so on December 5, 1977, Dr. Parnagian performed a subtotal colectomy with ileostomy. Dr. Parnagian removed plaintiff’s right colon, transverse colon, and left colon. He brought the ileum out by ileostomy in the right lower abdomen. Consequently, plaintiff has to move her bowel into a bag attached to her skin, because the rectum has no function at all.
Dr. Parnagian then took over plaintiff’s principal treatment. Parnagian performed sigmoidoscopy exams on plaintiff several times in April and August, 1978. In December, 1979, Parnagian performed a sigmoidoscopy on plaintiff and that was the last time he saw her.
Plaintiff then testified in her own behalf. She stated that, prior to 1975, she was in good health. Plaintiff began going to defendant in the summer of 1975 for headaches and she was given medication, injections and was hospitalized for ten days. The headaches eventually subsided after the summer of 1975.
Plaintiff testified that she visited defendant through 1976 and 1977, and at no time did she ever refuse a sigmoidoscopy nor was she afraid or embarrassed to have the test done. In fact, plaintiff stated that defendant told her that a sigmoidoscopy was not necessary.
In November of 1977, plaintiff’s condition had gotten worse and as a result she went to see Dr. Utarnachitt, who immediately hospitalized her. Dr. Parnagian performed surgery on plaintiff. After the surgery, plaintiff saw the huge incision and plastic bag filled with stool, and she felt crazy, dirty, became totally irrational, began throwing things and yelling. Plaintiff refused to listen to lessons given on care of the colostomy bags, nor did she want to deal with it. Plaintiff saw a psychiatrist for a year and a half. She also received medication and could not care for the bag until a month after she went home. Plaintiff testified that she constantly worries about leaks and odors; she no longer is outgoing; she is afraid to be around dogs; she is afraid to stay overnight elsewhere; she has had leaks at business and social events; and her sexual relations have changed because of the bag.
Following deliberations, the jury found defendant negligent but found no proximate cause.
On appeal, plaintiffs claim that the trial judge erred in refusing to instruct the jury on an applicable jury instruction as requested by plaintiffs. Jury instructions must be read as a whole, not dissected piecemeal and assigned error in isolated portions. Willoughby v Lehrbass, 150 Mich App 319, 336; 388 NW2d 688 (1986). Under MCR 2.516(D)(2), the trial court is required to give pertinent portions of the Michigan Standard Jury Instructions if they are applicable and accurately state the law. The trial court has the discretion to determine the applicability of a requested sji, Johnson v Corbet, 423 Mich 304, 326-327; 377 NW2d 713 (1985). If the court determines that the instruction is applicable, it is required to be given to the jury. However, failure to give the instruction will not result in reversal unless failure to set aside the verdict would be "inconsistent with substantial justice.” 423 Mich 326. See also Cornforth v Borman’s, Inc, 148 Mich App 469; 385 NW2d 645 (1986).
Plaintiffs contend that the trial court erred in failing to give SJI2d 15.03. Plaintiffs argue that the court’s failure to give the instruction is error such that failure to set aside the verdict would be inconsistent with substantial justice. SJI2d 15.03 reads as follows:
There may be more than one proximate cause. To be a proximate cause, the claimed negligence of the defendant need not be the only cause nor the last cause. A cause may be proximate although it and another cause act at the same time or in combination to produce the occurrence.
The note of use following the instruction supports the proposition that SJI2d 15.03 is only to be used in conjunction with SJI2d 15.04, 15.05, or 15.06. Herein, plaintiff requested that the trial judge only instruct the jury on SJI2d 15.03. However, there was never any request made by plaintiff for the latter instructions.
Plaintiffs argue on appeal that they were prejudiced when the trial court refused to give the requested instruction, because the jurors were deprived of the benefit of being informed that they could find in plaintiff’s favor so long as defendant’s negligence was a proximate cause of plaintiff’s injury. A review of the trial court’s instructions to the jury cannot support plaintiffs’ claim. The instructions, when read as a whole, correctly defined proximate cause and accurately stated the law and were consistent with the instruction in Kirby v Larson, 400 Mich 585; 256 NW2d 400 (1977). Therefore, the trial judge did not err in refusing to give plaintiffs’ requested jury instruction.
Plaintiffs also claim that the trial court erred by refusing to give SJI2d 6.01 as requested by plaintiffs. First of all, it must be noted that plaintiffs framed their argument of this issue such that they only ask this Court for prospective relief on retrial. They do not specifically argue that the trial court erred in denying their requested jury instruction, but rather, that the trial court should give the instruction when the case is retried.
Plaintiffs argue that they should be given the benefit of SJI2d 6.01. However, they offer no support for that proposition. Arguments without supporting citations are considered to be abandoned on appeal. A party may not leave it to this Court to search for authority to sustain or reject its position. A statement of position without supporting citation is insufficient to bring an issue before this Court. Butler v DAIIE, 121 Mich App 727, 737; 329 NW2d 781 (1982). Plaintiffs’ request for prospective relief, even if this Court could provide it, is meritless. It is based on the assumption that all the evidence at a second trial would be identical to that of the first trial.
Assuming arguendo that plaintiffs were to receive relief, this Court finds that plaintiffs failed to preserve this issue for appeal. Plaintiffs’ trial counsel did not give specific reasons for his objections to preserve this issue for appeal. Gainey v Sieloff, 154 Mich App 694, 705; 398 NW2d 498 (1986); GCR 1963, 516.2, now MCR 2.516(c).
Plaintiffs’ final claim is that the trial court erred when it refused to give SJI2d 30.02 as plaintiffs requested. Again, it must be noted that plaintiffs, as they did in the previous issue, have not only framed their issue prospectively, but also plaintiffs have argued that this Court should give them prospective relief. For the reasons already stated, this issue is not properly before this Court.
Even if this Court considers plaintiffs’ argument as if they are in fact alleging that the trial court erred by not giving SJI2d 30.02 per their request, plaintiffs do not now request reversal, therefore, this Court will not do so.
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Per Curiam.
Plaintiff appeals as of right from an order granting defendant-appellee, Willard M. Christensen, doing business as Thunderbird Lounge, summary disposition on the basis that plaintiff failed to "name and retain” the alleged intoxicated party as required by MCL 436.22(5); MSA 18.993(5). We affirm.
The instant complaint was filed on January 25, 1985. In the complaint, plaintiff alleged that on April 7, 1984, defendant Ernest L. Califf, the alleged intoxicated person (aip), was heading south on Whitehall Road in Montague, Michigan. Plaintiff was proceeding north when CalifFs vehicle crossed the center line and collided with Bodell’s auto.
Prior to the accident, Califf had been at the Thunderbird Lounge where he consumed alcoholic beverages. CalifFs blood-alcohol level was at 0.19 percent and plaintiff tested at 0.16 percent.
In December, 1985, defendant Christensen’s li quor liability insurer, Transit Casualty Company, was placed in receivership. In accordance with MCL 500.7945; MSA 24.17945, the trial court issued an ex parte order on December 23, 1985, staying the proceedings until June 6, 1986.
Meanwhile, plaintiff proceeded to mediation with Califf. The mediation panel awarded plaintiff $10,000 on February 21, 1986. Plaintiff unconditionally accepted the award and judgment was entered on March 24, 1986. Thereafter, on April 17, 1986, plaintiff executed a satisfaction of judgment as to defendant Califf. The order for stay of proceedings was still in effect.
On September 5, 1986, defendant Christensen filed a motion for summary disposition of dismissal contending that plaintiff had not complied with the name and retain provision in the dramshop act, MCL 436.22(5); MSA 18.993(5), by settling with the aip. Following an October 6, 1986, hearing, the trial court granted Christensen’s motion and dismissed the case. From this dismissal, plaintiff appeals.
Plaintiff argues that since the name and retain provision of the dramshop act conflicts with the court rules governing mediation, the statutory provision must fall.
The trial court granted defendant Christensen summary disposition pursuant to MCL 436.22(5); MSA 18.993(5) which provides in part:
An action against a retailer, wholesaler, or anyone covered by this act or a surety, shall not be commenced unless the minor or the alleged intoxicated person is a named defendant in the action and is retained in the action until the litigation is concluded by trial or settlement.
Recently, in Riley v Richards, 428 Mich 198; 404 NW2d 618 (1987), our Supreme Court discussed the above provision. In Riley, the Supreme Court reviewed its prior decisions which interpreted this provision. In Putney v Haskins, 414 Mich 181; 324 NW2d 729 (1982), reh den 414 Mich 1111 (1982), the Court held that an aip had not been retained in an action "if a settlement of any kind is reached between the plaintiff and the allegedly intoxicated defendant before 'the litigation is concluded by trial or settlement.’ ” Id., p 184. The policy for such a requirement is to prevent fraud and collusion between a plaintiff and an aip. Riley, supra, p 207.
The Riley Court indicated that this strict interpretation appears antithetical to the general policy of encouraging parties to settle their disputes before or during litigation. However, the Riley Court concluded that the Legislature intended no exception to this provision due to the dangers of fraud and collusion. Id., p 214.
In our case, plaintiff settled with the aip while the litigation was pending as to the dramshop defendant. Therefore, plaintiff failed to name and retain the aip as required by the statute.
We do not agree with plaintiff’s argument that the name and retain provision conflicts with the court rule governing mediation. Mediation is not mandatory on any party. MCR 2.403. Here, plaintiff had a choice to either forego mediation or elect to submit to mediation. By agreeing to mediate, plaintiff forfeited his opportunity to proceed against the dramshop defendant since the aip was no longer a party to the action as required by MCL 436.22(5); MSA 18.993(5).
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Per Curiam.
FACTS
Plaintiffs appeal as of right from an order granting defendants’ motion for summary disposition pursuant to MCR 2.116(C)(4) on the ground that the circuit court lacked subject-matter jurisdiction in this case.
Plaintiffs comprise a group of fifteen teachers employed by the Lansing School District. When the defendant union was organizing in 1972, it included a grandfather clause in its collective bargaining agreement that exempted plaintiffs from paying dues or an equivalent service fee to the union. In 1984, the defendant union and employer did not include that clause in its renegotiated contract. The defendant union informed plaintiffs that they could either join the union and pay union dues or opt out of the union and pay an equivalent amount in agency shop fees. The collective bargaining agreement provided that, if members of the bargaining unit refused to pay union dues or the shop fees, those members could be terminated from employment.
Plaintiffs took two courses of action. On March 14, 1984, plaintiffs filed an unfair labor practice charge with the Michigan Employment Relations Commission, alleging that the union had violated its duty of fair representation when it bargained away the grandfather clause. The history of proceedings related to that charge can be found in Smith v Lansing School Dist, 149 Mich App 131; 385 NW2d 624 (1985), lv gtd 425 Mich 871 (1986).
On September 21, 1984, plaintiffs filed this case in Ingham Circuit Court, seeking essentially the same relief as was being sought before the merc. Plaintiffs sought injunctive relief from the circuit court to prevent defendants from terminating plaintiffs’ employment pursuant to the provisions of the 1984 bargaining agreement which defendants had agreed on without plaintiffs’ participation.
On December 12, 1984, defendants moved for accelerated judgment pursuant to GCR 1963, 116.1(2), (3), (4) and (5), now MCR 2.116(C)(4), (5), (6) and (7), and for summary judgment pursuant to GCR 1963, 117.2(3), now MCR 2.116(0(10). On June 12, 1985, the trial court granted defendants’ motion pursuant to MCR 2.116(C)(4), on the ground that the court lacked subject-matter jurisdiction because plaintiffs’ claim was within the exclusive jurisdiction of the merc.
ISSUE
Did the trial court err in dismissing plaintiffs’ complaint on the ground that it lacked subject-matter jurisdiction?
ANALYSIS
Initially, we note that technically the trial court should have decided defendants’ motion under the provisions of the former court rules because defendants’ motion was filed before March 1, 1985, the effective date of the new court rules. MCR 1.102.
The circuit court has concurrent jurisdiction with the merc in fair representation actions brought under the public employment relations act. Demings v City of Ecorse, 423 Mich 49, 53; 377 NW2d 275 (1985). Therefore, the trial court in the instant case did have subject-matter jurisdiction of plaintiffs’ claim against defendants.
Nonetheless, plaintiffs’ complaint should have been dismissed pursuant to GCR 1963, 116.1(4), now MCR 2.116(C)(6), because plaintiffs had previously filed a charge with the merc which was still pending. Because the charge before the merc involved the same claim and the same parties, plaintiffs’ complaint in the circuit court was properly dismissed. See J D Candler Rooñng Co, Inc v Dickson, 149 Mich App 593, 598-600; 386 NW2d 605 (1986).
Although the trial court granted accelerated judgment pursuant to the wrong subsection of the court rule, that error is not ground for reversal because the right result was reached. Smith v Motorland Ins Co, 135 Mich App 33, 39; 352 NW2d 335 (1984), lv den 422 Mich 854 (1985).
CONCLUSION
The order of the trial court is affirmed. | [
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Per Curiam.
These two cases have been consolidated for this appeal. Both cases involve the applicability of Michigan’s intangibles tax act, MCL 205.131 et seq.; MSA 7.556(1) et seq., on distributions from subchapter s corporations to their shareholders.
Petitioners William E. Rosenbalm and Carole G. Rosenbalm appeal as of right from the Michigan Tax Tribunal’s August 1, 1986, opinion and judgment granting respondent Michigan Department of Treasury’s motion for summary disposition and denying petitioners’ motion for summary disposition.
From 1978 through 1982, William E. Rosenbalm operated Rosenbalm Aviation, Inc. (rai), which contracts with overnight carriers, such as Emery Worldwide, to deliver packages throughout the United States. Rosenbalm was involved in the operation of rai on a full-time basis. His efforts were the principal reason that rai was successful.
During the years in question, Rosenbalm was either the sole shareholder or a thirty-three percent shareholder of rai. During these years, the corporation and its shareholders elected to have rai taxed as a subchapter s corporation under the relevant provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended, 26 USC 1371-1379 (Code).
Because rai operated in virtually every state, much of the business income of rai and Rosenbalm was attributable to states other than Michigan. Rai distributed its business income to its shareholders, including Rosenbalm, pursuant to the relevant provisions of the Code. Rosenbalm received a total of $7,573,105 in distributions during the relevant years. Rosenbalm paid federal income tax and Michigan income tax on these distributions, but did not pay intangibles tax on these distributions.
On October 30, 1985, the Department of Treasury issued Notice of Final Assessment No. C474512, in which it asserted that, as of October 1, 1985, the Rosenbalms owed the state $263,308 in intangibles taxes, plus interest and penalties. The Rosenbalms filed a timely petition with the Tax Tribunal challenging the assessment. Petitioners and the department filed motions for summary disposition.
Plaintiffs David and Miriam Mondry and the David Mondry Trust dated September 23, 1983, Eugene and Sheila Mondry and the Eugene Mon-dry Trust dated September 23, 1983, Ira and Gail Mondry, Mitchell Mondry, Joshua Mondry, and Andrew Mondry appeal as of right from Michigan Court of Claims Judge Michael G. Harrison’s September 3, 1986, opinion and order granting defendant Department of Treasury’s motion for summary disposition. From 1981 through 1984, plaintiffs were shareholders of nine corporations, seven of which owned and operated twenty-six Highland Appliance stores. Those stores, large volume retailers of consumer electronics and appliances, were primarily located in Michigan. Highland Appliance Dearborn, Highland Appliance Big Town, Highland Appliance Company, and Highland Appliance Lincoln Park owned and operated ten of these stores in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Texas. For a substantial number of years, the corpora tions and the Mondrys elected to have the corporations taxed as subchapter s corporations.
Plaintiffs characterized the corporations as a "single, family-run business.” Several of the Mon-drys were officers or directors of the corporations or were otherwise actively involved in the operations of the corporations.
During the relevant years plaintiffs received, in the aggregate, $14,053,536 in distributions. Plaintiffs paid federal income tax, Michigan income tax and, in the aggregate, $492,868 in Michigan intangibles tax.
On November 30, 1985, plaintiffs requested a refund of the intangibles taxes paid on these distributions. On December 26, 1985, defendant denied the claim for refund. On March 24, 1986, the Mondrys filed a complaint in the Court of Claims requesting a refund. Defendant and the Mondrys filed cross-motions for summary disposition.
There are three issues to be determined on appeal: (1) whether subchapter s corporation stock is intangible personal property under the intangibles tax act; (2) whether distributions from sub-chapter s corporations are "income” under the Michigan intangibles tax act; and (3) whether the intangibles tax in substance constitutes an income tax.
INTANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY
The Michigan intangibles tax act, MCL 205.131 et seq.; MSA 7.556(1) et seq., provides for the imposition and collection of a specific tax on the privilege of ownership of intangible personal property. MCL 205.131(l)(b); MSA 7.556(l)(l)(b) defines "intangible personal property” as
moneys on hand or on deposit or in transit, shares of stock, and other units of interest, in corporations, joint stock companies, and other associations conducted for profit, not, however, including the interest of a partner under a partnership agreement.
Petitioners and plaintiffs (hereafter referred to as appellants) argue that their subchapter s corporation shares should not be included in this definition because in 1939, when the intangibles tax act was passed, subchapter s corporations did not exist and so were not contemplated by the Legislature. The Legislature did, however, specifically exempt interests in partnerships from the definition of intangible personal property. Appellants assert that subchapter s corporations are functionally equivalent to partnerships because the income generated by both types of business entities results from the efforts of a relatively small number of owners and because partnerships and subchapter s corporations are treated the same for income tax purposes.
A statute that is plain and unambiguous must, be applied as written. In re Contempt of Stone, 154 Mich App 121; 397 NW2d 244 (1986). Subsection (b) plainly includes shares in "corporations” in its definition of intangible personal property. The subchapter s corporation is a creation of the federal government, Internal Revenue Code, 26 USC 1371-1379. A Michigan corporation that elects sub-chapter s status for federal tax purposes is treated no differently in Michigan than a corporation that does not so elect. If shares in subchapter s corporations are to be excluded from the definition of intangible personal property, the Legislature is the proper body to do so.
INCOME
Under MCL 205.132; MSA 7.556(2), the amount of tax owed under the intangibles tax act is measured by the amount of income generated by the personal property owned. Appellants argue that the income generated by their subchapter s corporation shares does not come within the act’s definition of "income.” Appellants cite Chocola v Dep’t of Treasury, 422 Mich 229; 369 NW2d 843 (1985), in support.
MCL 205.131(l)(d); MSA 7.556(l)(l)(d) defines income as follows:
(d) "Income” includes: (1) interest received upon intangible personal property; (2) dividends and other distributions, whether in the form of cash or property, to the extent that they represent the yield of intangible personal property not including, however, a distribution of stock by reason of an order of divestment under the antitrust laws which is considered a return of capital in section 1111 of the United States internal revenue code as enacted in Public Law 87-403 of the eighty-seventh congress of the United States; and (3) all other earnings or yield of intangible personal property regardless of the name by which designated. For the purpose of computing the tax imposed under this act, the gross income, including taxes, charges and other deductions which may be made therefrom, shall be the basis upon which the tax shall be measured.
Although "dubious” statutory language may not be construed against the taxpayer, International Business Machines Corp v Dep’t of Treasury, 75 Mich App 604; 255 NW2d 702 (1977), where the language under consideration is not ambiguous it should be applied as written, not construed in favor of the taxpayer. Consolidation Coal Co v Dep’t of Treasury, 141 Mich App 43; 366 NW2d 587 (1985). We find no ambiguity in subsection (d). Dividends and other distributions, no matter how they are labeled, are income if they represent the yield of intangible personal property. And shares in "corporations” are included in the definition of intangible personal property.
Appellants rely on Chocola to support their assertion that distributions from subchapter s corporations, as "business income,” should not be included in the intangibles tax act’s definition of income. In Chocola, our Supreme Court concluded that the distributable income of out-of-state sub-chapter s corporations should be treated as apportionable business income for purposes of the Michigan income tax. The Court held that subchapter s corporation income may be apportioned and thereby excluded from a Michigan resident’s tax base pursuant to validly promulgated Department of Treasury rules. 422 Mich 232. The Court rejected the department’s argument that merely because a distribution is labeled a "dividend” and dividends must be allocated to Michigan under MCL 206.110; MSA 7.557(1110) and MCL 206.113; MSA 7.557(1113), dividend income must be allocated to Michigan regardless of its character as business income. 422 Mich 238-239.
We do not believe Chocola controls the instant cases. Chocola addressed only the apportionability of income from shares in out-of-state subchapter s corporations and relied on the Income Tax Act of 1967, MCL 206.1 et seq.) MSA 7.557(101) et seq., in deciding the question presented. There was no discussion of the intangibles tax which, as stated, contains its own definition of income.
INTANGIBLES TAX AND INCOME TAX
Appellants argue that the intangibles tax act, coupled with the Income Tax Act of 1967, MCL 206.1 et seq.; MSA 7.557(101) et seq., violates Const 1963, art 9, §7, which prohibits a graduated income tax. This issue has previously been addressed by Michigan appellate courts. In Davis v Dep’t of Treasury, 124 Mich App 222, 225; 333 NW2d 521 (1983), this Court stated:
The intangibles tax is a specific tax on the privilege of ownership of intangible personal property. The fact that income is used as a partial basis for measuring the intangibles tax does not make it an income tax. Shivel v Kent County Treasurer, 295 Mich 10, 19; 294 NW 78 (1940). See also Shapero v Dep’t of Revenue, 322 Mich 124; 33 NW2d 729 (1948). Since the intangibles tax does not constitute an income tax, there is no violation of Const 1963, art 9, § 7.
Appellants argue that two recent United States Supreme Court cases, American Bank & Trust Co v Dallas County, 463 US 855; 103 S Ct 3369; 77 L Ed 2d 1072 (1983), and Aloha Airlines, Inc v Director of Taxation of Hawaii, 464 US 7; 104 S Ct 291; 78 L Ed 2d 10 (1983), effectively overrule this Court’s holding in Davis. In Aloha Airlines, the State of Hawaii imposed a tax on the gross income of airlines operating within the state, but styled itself a "personal property tax.” The Court concluded that such a tax was preempted by 49 USC 1513, which prohibits the states from levying or collecting a tax on the gross receipts derived from the carriage of persons traveling in air commerce.
In American Bank & Trust Co, Texas imposed a property tax on bank shares, and, in determining the value of the bank shares subject to the tax, the state included the value of United States obligations held by the banks. The Court held that Rev Stat §3701, 31 USC 742, which states that the exemption from taxes of all government obliga tions "extends to every form of taxation that would require that either the obligations or the interest thereon, or both, be considered, directly or indirectly, in the computation of the tax,” prohibited the state’s method of computing the tax.
We do not believe Aloha Airlines and American Bank & Trust support appellants’ argument that the intangibles tax, coupled with the income tax, violates Michigan’s constitutional prohibition against a graduated income tax. The decision in Aloha Airlines was based on a federal statute preempting the sort of tax imposed by the State of Hawaii. Although labeled a "property tax,” the Hawaii statute clearly was a tax on gross income. The Michigan intangibles tax, however, is a tax on the privilege of owning intangible personal property such as corporate shares, and not a tax on the income from those shares.
American Bank & Trust Co was decided under a statute that unequivocally prohibits taxation of government obligations. Before amendment of § 3701, the Court had held that that section did not prohibit nondiscriminatory taxes on discrete property interests such as corporate shares or business franchises, even though the value of those discrete interests was measured by underlying assets, including United States obligations. 463 US 862-863.
CONCLUSION
The Michigan intangibles tax act clearly defines intangible personal property as including shares of stock and income as including dividends. In addition, this Court has previously ruled that the intangibles tax does not in substance constitute an income tax. Davis, supra. The arguments advanced by appellants involve policy best addressed by the Legislature, not the courts.
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D. E. Holbrook, Jr., P.J.
This case involves an appeal as of right from a decision of the Michigan Tax Tribunal, Small Claims Division, affirming a Michigan Department of Treasury individual income tax assessment of $908.27, plus accrued interest, for tax year 1983. The sole issue is whether a Michigan resident is required to include the income of his or her nonresident spouse in computing total "household income” for property tax credit purposes. The amount of the property tax credit in controversy is $678.38.
The facts are not in dispute. During tax year 1983, petitioner Jane Stolper was a resident of the State of Michigan and was employed by Michigan State University. Her husband, petitioner Warren Stolper, was a resident of the State of Wisconsin where he practiced law and taught.
For tax year 1983, Jane and Warren Stolper filed a joint federal income tax return, reporting "joint” adjusted gross income of $113,183.78. They also filed a "joint” Michigan individual income tax return and general homestead property tax credit claim. On the Michigan income tax return, the Stolpers reported their joint adjusted gross income as reported on their federal income tax return, but allocated only the income of Jane Stolper to Michigan in computing their "taxable income.” On the general homestead property tax claim, Schedule of Household Income, the Stolpers only reported the income of Jane Stolper, resulting in a property tax credit of $678.38, which was claimed by the Stolpers on their joint income tax return. The department disallowed the property tax credit claimed because the Stolpers’ combined income exceeded the income limitation for property tax credits established by § 520(8) of the Michigan Income Tax Act (mita), MCL 206.1 et seq.; MSA 7.557(101) et seq. Applying the formula of § 520(8), the department computed the Stolpers’ property tax credit as "0.”
On May 6, 1985, the department issued a final "corrected” assessment for $908.27, consisting of the $678.38 disallowed property tax credit and a $229.89 computational error discovered on the Stolpers’ income tax return, plus accrued interest. Liability for the $229.89 is not disputed. On July 21, 1985, the Stolpers filed a petition for review of the assessment in the Michigan Tax Tribunal, Small Claims Division. A hearing on the petition was held on March 10, 1986, without any transcript being taken.
In a letter and amended income tax return dated March 18, 1986, Warren Stolper "revoked” the original joint Michigan income tax return filed by the Stolpers and proclaimed his status as a "non-filer” for tax year 1983. The amended return was filed by Jane Stolper under the status of "married, filing separately.” A $678.38 property tax credit was claimed, leaving a tax liability of $229.89. In a letter to the Tax Tribunal dated April 8, 1986, the department denied the claims on the amended return, absent proof that the Stolpers also amended their federal income tax return to change their filing status to "married, filing separately.”
On April 30, 1986, the Michigan Tax Tribunal entered an opinion affirming the final assessment issued by the department. The Tax Tribunal construed the mita as requiring a husband and wife filing a joint federal income tax return to also file a joint Michigan income tax return. Since the "claimant” for property tax credit purposes was specifically defined as including a husband and wife required to file a joint Michigan income tax return, it was reasoned that the Stolpers were the "claimant.” As such, the Tax Tribunal determined that the mita demanded that both of their incomes be considered in computing the property tax credit.
On appeal, petitioner Jane Stopler contends that since Warren Stolper was not a "Michigan taxpayer,” as that term is defined in the mita, he cannot be compelled to file a joint Michigan income tax return with his wife, Jane Stolper, who is a Michigan taxpayer. Additionally, Jane Stopler contends that since Warren Stolper is not a member of Jane Stolper’s household the department erred as a matter of law in considering Warren’s income in the property tax credit computation. We disagree.
This Court’s review of Tax Tribunal decisions is limited to determining whether they are authorized by law and whether the factual findings are supported by competent, material, and substantial evidence on the whole record. MCI Telecommunications Corp v Dep’t of Treasury, 136 Mich App 28, 30; 355 NW2d 627 (1984), lv den 422 Mich 883 (1985); Const 1963, art 6, § 28.
Here, only an issue of law is involved. Resolution of the issue requires construction of chapter 9 of the mita, MCL 206.501 et seq.; MSA 7.557(1501) et seq., which governs property tax credits. The primary object of judicial construction is to ascertain and give effect to the legislative intent. The language of the statute is the best source for asserting intent. In re Condemnation of Lands, 133 Mich App 207, 210-211; 349 NW2d 261 (1984), lv den 421 Mich 856 (1985). If an act is clear and unambiguous, then judicial construction or interpretation is unwarranted. Lake Carriers’ Ass’n v Director of the Dep’t of Natural Resources, 407 Mich 424, 429; 286 NW2d 416 (1979).
The property tax credit provisions of the mita create a property tax rebate program that is primarily designed to relate local property taxes to income or the ability to pay those taxes, rather than the actual value of the property taxed. Butcher v Dep’t of Treasury, 425 Mich 262, 274-275; 389 NW2d 412 (1986); app dis — US —; 107 S Ct 864; 93 L Ed 2d 821 (1987). The actual credit which is allowed is the result of two independent variables, household income and property tax liability. Rosenbaum v Dep’t of Treasury, 77 Mich App 332; 258 NW2d 216 (1977), lv den 402 Mich 826 (1977). The credit relates to the property tax assessed on the "homestead,” which is defined, in pertinent part, as a "dwelling or unit in a multiple-unit dwelling which is subject to ad valorem taxes.” MCL 206.508(2); MSA 7.557(1508)(2). The formula for computing the property tax credit is set forth in MCL 206.522; MSA 7.557(1522), subject to two significant limitations. One limitation, MCL 206.520(8); MSA 7.557(1520)(8), was added in 1982 when the Legislature enacted 1982 PA 269. It provides for a formulary reduction in the allowable credit, after the claimant’s household income reaches the level prescribed by the statute. The other significant limitation is contained in MCL 206.530(2); MSA 7.557(1530)(2), which states:
(2) If a homestead is occupied for less than a 12-month period, the credit computation shall be proportional to the period of occupancy. A claimant shall not occupy more than 1 homestead at 1 time. If more than 1 homestead is occupied during the tax year, the credit computation shall be proportional to the period of occupancy of each homestead, but not for a total period of more than 1 year.
In this case, the Stolpers were maintaining two independent residences, one of which was located outside the State of Michigan. There is no specific provision of the mita which addressed the situation where spouses elect to maintain and occupy separate residences, whether inside or outside the state. In view of the above two limitations imposed by the mita and the purpose of the property tax credit provision, it appears unlikely that the Legislature would have intended that a spouse be able to claim a property tax credit under this situation, without imposing some type of limitation. To ascertain the legislative intent, other provisions of the mita must be considered. It is well settled that an act must be read in its entirety and the meaning given to one section arrived at after due consideration of the other sections so as to produce, if possible, a harmonious and consistent enactment as a whole. King v Director of the Midland Co Dep’t of Social Services, 73 Mich App 253, 258; 251 NW2d 270 (1977).
Chapter 9, § 504 of the mita defines the "claimant” for property tax credit purposes as follows:
(2) "Claimant” means an individual natural person who filed a claim under this chapter and who was domiciled in this state during at least 6 months of the calendar year preceding the year in which the claim is filed under this chapter and includes a husband and wife if they are required to file a joint state income tax return. [MCL 206.504(2); MSA 7.557(1504X2).]
Section 311 of the mita, which governs joint income tax returns, states, in pertinent part:
(3) Taxpayers who are husband and wife and who file a joint federal income tax return pursuant to the internal revenue code shall file a joint return. [MCL 206.311; MSA 7.557(1311).]
According to § 2 of the mita, which sets forth general rules for construing the mita, the use of the term "shall” is always mandatory. MCL 206.2(1); MSA 7.557(102X1).
The Stolpers are husband and wife and filed a joint federal income tax return. Therefore, the clear language of § 311(3) seems to mandate that they file a joint state income tax return. Petitioner Jane Stolper contends, however, that such a construction is erroneous because "taxpayer” is defined in § 26 of the mita as "any person subject to the taxes imposed by this act . . . .” Since Warren Stolper is not subject to income taxation in Michigan, it is contended that he is not a "taxpayer,” as that term is defined, and thus cannot be compelled to file a Michigan income tax return. This contention is sophistical in that it defines the term "taxpayer” out of context and fails to consider that Jane Stolper indisputably is required to file a Michigan individual income tax return and must do so in the form and content prescribed by the commissioner. See MCL 206.311(1); MSA 7.557(1311)(1). Additionally, "taxpayer” is defined in § 26 in terms of any "person,” which is further defined as "any individual, firm, association, corporation, receiver, estate, trust or any other group or combination acting as a unit, and the plural as well as the singular number.” MCL 206.16; MSA 7.557(116). As a general rule of construction and when not inconsistent with the context, words used in the mita in the singular number include the plural number, and words used in the plural include the singular number. MCL 206.2(1); MSA 7.557(102)(1). It is the intent of the mita that the income subject to tax be the same as defined and applicable to the subject taxpayer in the Internal Revenue Code, except as otherwise provided. MCL 206.2(3); MSA 7.557(102)(3).
Applying these principles to this case, it can be seen that the statutory scheme evidences an intent that once the husband and wife elect to file a joint federal income tax return the mita will treat them as the "taxpayer,” whether or not that term is used singularly or in the plural. Under § 311(3), a joint state income tax return is required. The "taxable income” which is reportable on the joint income tax return is the same as adjusted gross income, as defined in the Internal Revenue Code, subject to certain listed adjustments. MCL 206.30; MSA 7.557(130). One adjustment, MCL 206.30(l)(k); MSA 7.557(130)(l)(k), permits the taxpayer to allocate and apportion income as provided in chapter 3 of the mita, MCL 206.102 et seq.; MSA 7.557(1102) et seq. The application of those adjustments to Warren Stolper’s nonresident individual income resulted in his income not being subject to income taxation in Michigan.
However, the income tax scheme is separate and distinct from the property tax credit program. The property tax taxpayer will receive the credit whether or not there is income tax liability. Butcher, supra, p 275. The income tax return is used only as a vehicle for reconciling the property tax credit. Id., p 276. As previously discussed, the "claimant” for property tax credit purposes is defined as including a husband and wife if they are required to file a joint Michigan income tax return. Having concluded that Jane Stolper was required to file a joint Michigan income tax return, including the income of her husband, the mita mandates that the Stolpers be treated as the "claimant” for property tax credit purposes. Other provisions of chapter 9 of the mita show that the Legislature intended that the spouse’s income be considered in computing the property tax credit even if the spouse is not a "claimant.” In § 508(3), "household” is defined as a "claimant and spouse.” "Household income” is defined as "all income received by all persons of a household in a tax year while members of a household.” MCL 206.508(4); MSA 7.557(1508)(4). Section 510(1) defines "income” as meaning the sum of federal adjusted gross income as defined in the Internal Revenue Code, subject to certain specified adjustments. Since the Legislature unambiguously requires that a spouse be included in the definition of a "household,” whether or not that spouse is a claimant, it seems clear that the spouse’s income must be included in computing the amount of property tax credit. The legislative intent being clear, the mita must be applied according to its terms. This con struction is consistent with the intent of the property tax credit program to relate the property tax to income or the ability to pay, and with § 530(2), which limits a claimant to claiming a credit for one homestead.
In conclusion, the Tax Tribunal’s construction of the property tax provision of the mita was correct. The petitioners were not entitled to a property tax credit. No error of law occurred.
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Per Curiam.
This case, originally published at 155 Mich App 266; 399 NW2d 58 (1986), comes to us on remand from the Supreme Court, the Court ordering us to reconsider our prior opinion in light of Bialochowski v Cross Concrete Pumping Co, 428 Mich 219; 407 NW2d 355 (1987).
The facts are set forth in our prior opinion. We held that the crane on which plaintiff was working when he was injured was not a motor vehicle within the meaning of §3101(2)(c) of Michigan’s no-fault act, MCL 500.3101(2)(c); MSA 24.13101(2)(c), because at the time of plaintiffs injuries, it was not in its highway mode. McFadden v Allstate Ins Co, 155 Mich App 266, 270, 273; 399 NW2d 58 (1986). In addition, we held that, even if the crane was a motor vehicle, no-fault personal protection insurance benefits were not payable because the injury did not arise out of the use of the crane as a motor vehicle within the meaning of § 3105(1) of the act, MCL 500.3105(1); MSA 24.13105(1). Id., p 273. Section 3105(1) states that benefits áre payable for injury arising out of the "ownership, operation, maintenance or use of a motor vehicle as a motor vehicle.”
Our decision was based in large part on Johnston v Hartford Ins Co, 131 Mich App 349; 346 NW2d 549 (1984), lv den 419 Mich 893 (1984). In Johnston, we held that, although a crane virtually indistinguishable from the crane in the case at bar was a motor vehicle, personal protection insurance benefits were not payable since the injury did not arise out of the use of the crane as a motor vehicle. Johnston, supra, pp 361-362. The Johnston plaintiff was injured when climbing onto the cab right after the crane had lifted a steel beam onto the top of a building under construction. Id., p 352. The crane was fully rigged and, in that condition, could not have been driven. Id.
In Bialochowski, the Court held that an injury which occurred when the boom of a cement truck collapsed upon the plaintiff did arise out of the use of a motor vehicle as a motor vehicle. Bialochowski, supra, p 229. The truck was parked and stabilized at the time, and was pumping concrete through the boom. Id., p 223. More importantly, the Court stated that the Johnston panel interpreted the phrase "use of a motor vehicle as a motor vehicle” too narrowly. Id., p 228. The Court stated:
Second, and more importantly, we believe that the Court of Appeals in Johnston interpreted the statutory phrase "use of a motor vehicle as a motor vehicle” contained in § 3105 too narrowly. The no-fault act is remedial in nature, as evidenced by the fact that the act "was offered as an innovative social and legal response to the long payment delays, inequitable payment structure, and high legal costs inherent in the tort (or 'fault’) liability system.” The no-fault act was designed "to provide victims of motor vehicle accidents assured, adequate, and prompt reparation for certain economic losses.” In exchange for a more certain recovery under the no-fault act, an injured person’s right to recover damages from a negligent owner or operator of a motor vehicle in a tort action is limited. This remedial nature of the no-fault act would be advanced by broadly construing its provisions to effectuate coverage.
Applying a broad remedial interpretation to the phrase "use of a motor vehicle as a motor vehicle,” it becomes clear that it is not limited to normal vehicular movement on a highway. Motor vehicles are designed and used for many different purposes. The truck involved in this case is a cement truck capable of pouring cement at elevated levels. Certainly one of the intended uses of this motor vehicle (a motor vehicle under the no-fault act) is to pump cement. The accident occurred while this vehicle was being used for its intended purpose. We, hold that the phrase "use of a motor vehicle as a motor vehicle” includes this use. [Id., pp 228-229.]
Thus, the Court stated that a vehicle does not have to be traveling at the time of the accident for personal protection no-fault benefits to be payable pursuant to § 3105(1). As long as the vehicle is being used for one of its intended purposes, the statutory requirement is met.
Applying Bialochowski to the instant case, we now believe that plaintiffs injury did arise out of the use of the crane as a motor vehicle. Just before plaintiffs injury, the crane had finished its "pick.” The outriggers were withdrawn, the boom locked in place, and the crane was driven one hundred yards across a road to ready the crane for highway travel. The only other step necessary before the crane was ready for highway travel was removal of the counterweights. It was during removal of the counterweights that plaintiff was injured. We believe that, because the crane had been driven one hundred yards and was about to be driven on the highway, the injury arose out of the use of the crane as a motor vehicle. The crane was not in an immobile state performing a "pick,” as in Johnston. Rather, the crane had been traveling and was stopped only to remove the counterweights. Thus, the injury arose out of the "use of a motor vehicle as a motor vehicle.”
Since we now affirm the decision of the trial court, we must address defendant’s second issue. Defendant claims that, pursuant to MCL 500.3109(1); MSA 24.13109(1), it is entitled to set off all payments for medical expenses which Transamerica Insurance Company, plaintiff’s employer’s workers’ compensation carrier, would have made absent the redemption agreement.
MCL 500.3109(1); MSA 24.13109(1) states:
Benefits provided or required to be provided under the laws of any state or the federal government shall be subtracted from the personal protection insurance benefits otherwise payable for the injury.
After his accident, plaintiff was paid $22,000 in workers’ compensation benefits by Transamerica. In his claim against defendant for no-fault benefits, plaintiff sought $12,452.27 in work loss and $2,923 for chiropractic treatment received. On July 8, 1983, plaintiff redeemed further workers’ compensation payments for $8,000. In exchange, Transamerica agreed to waive its lien on any recovery made by plaintiff in plaintiff’s action against Ford Motor Company, Manitowoc Company and Gale Electric Company.
There has previously been a conflict in this Court as to whether, when a plaintiff redeems his workers’ compensation claim, a no-fault insurer may set off only the actual redemption amount or may set off the total amount which would have been paid by the workers’ compensation insurer absent the redemption. Cf. Thacker v DAIIE, 114 Mich App 374; 319 NW2d 349 (1982), lv den 419 Mich 875 (1984), James v Allstate Ins Co, 137 Mich App 222; 358 NW2d 1 (1984), lv den 419 Mich App 946 (1984), and Deppmeier v Associated Truck Lines, Inc, 143 Mich App 244; 372 NW2d 521 (1984) (no-fault insurer not limited to amount of redemption, but entitled to set off the entire amount the workers’ compensation insurer would have paid), with Gregory v Transamerica Ins Co, 139 Mich 327; 362 NW2d 268 (1984), rev’d 425 Mich 625 (1986), and Divito v Transamerica Corp of America, 141 Mich App 29; 366 NW2d 231 (1985) , vacated 426 Mich 868 (1986) (setoff limited to amount of redemption agreement). The Michigan Supreme Court has recently resolved this conflict in Gregory v Transamerica Ins Co, 425 Mich 625; 391 NW2d 312 (1986), by holding that setoff is allowed for the amount the workers’ compensation carrier would have paid absent the redemption. The Court relied partially on Moore v Travelers Ins Co, 475 F Supp 891 (ED Mich, 1979), which had also taken that position. Moore also made it clear that workers’ compensation payments should only be offset to the extent that they are duplicative of the no-fault benefits sought. Thus, in Moore, the court held that no offset against the plaintiff’s claimed wage, loss could be made for any medical payment made by the employer’s insurance company, and that, in regard to wage loss, the benefits, to be duplicative, must be for the same time period. Moore, supra, p 894.
In the instant case, defendant requests only that the trial court’s award of duplicative medical benefits be reversed. Apparently, defendant is requesting us only to reverse the trial court’s award of $2,923 for chiropractic treatment. Defendant does not contest the trial court’s award of $12,452.27 in work loss. We agree that, under Gregory, defendant is entitled to set off the $2,923 if this is a payment that would have been made by Transamerica absent the redemption agreement. Since we are unable to determine from the record whether Transamerica would have had to make the payment, we remand this case to the trial court for an evidentiary hearing on this point. If the court finds that Transamerica would have had to make this payment, and that, thus, the award is duplicative, defendant shall not be liable for it. If the court finds that Transamerica would not have had to make the payment, defendant shall be liable for it.
The earlier decision of the Court of Appeals is reversed and the matter is remanded for further proceedings. We do not retain jurisdiction. | [
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Per Curiam.
Plaintiff, Diane Palmer, brought this action in Oakland Circuit Court, alleging, among other counts, that defendant, Bloomfield Hills Board of Education, denied her daughter, Leigh .Palmer, equal protection under the law by prohibiting her enrollment in Andover High School and requiring her to attend the school district’s other high school, Lahser High School. Part of the reason for Leigh Palmer’s desire to attend Andover was because she wanted to join the school’s swim team and practice under a particular coach. The school board’s distinct attendance districts and no-transfer policy prevented this from happening.
The trial court found for defendant on all counts, holding that the school board had a rational basis for implementing its no-transfer policy. The court also held that, while the school board may have violated the Michigan Open Meetings Act when it adopted certain exceptions to the no-transfer policy, plaintiff did not fall within the exceptions and the rights of the public were not impaired.
Plaintiff appeals, claiming that education is a fundamental right under the Michigan Constitution of 1963. Plaintiff argues that, because education is a fundamental right, the trial court erred when it applied a rational basis test, rather than strict scrutiny, to decide the equal protection claim. In the alternative, plaintiff claims the trial court erred in finding the no-transfer policy to have a rational basis. Plaintiff’s final claim charges error in the trial court’s failure to invalidate the no-transfer policy under the Open Meetings Act.
We affirm. Education is not a fundamental right under the Michigan Constitution of 1963, and the school board’s actions pass the rational basis test. Furthermore, we refuse to invalidate the entire no-transfer policy merely because the school board adopted a few specific exceptions, none of which apply to plaintiff, that may have been in violation of the Open Meetings Act.
The Michigan Constitution of 1963 affords the same equal protection rights as the United States Constitution. In San Antonio Independent School Dist v Rodriguez, the United States Supreme Court specifically held that education is not a fundamental right:
Education, of course, is not among the rights afforded explicit protection under our Federal Constitution. Nor do we find any basis for saying it is implicitly so protected. As we have said, the undisputed importance of education will not alone cause this Court to depart from the usual standard for reviewing a State’s social and economic legislation.
Two panels of this Court have followed San Antonio Independent School Dist and held that education is not a fundamental right under the Michigan Constitution of 1963. The mere fact that the Michigan Constitution of 1963 mentions education, while the federal constitution does not, provides no justification for abandoning past decisions and holding education to be a fundamental right under Michigan’s constitution. The federal constitution ignores education because regulation of education and school is a traditional state function.
Fundamental rights include the right to vote and travel, due process in criminal matters, and the specific guarantees of the Bill of Rights. They do not include the right to education. Absent a fundamental right or a suspect classification, the test of whether a government classification violates constitutional guarantees of equal protection is whether the classification has a rational relationship to a legitimate state purpose.
In the within case, the no-transfer policy served to balance the enrollment between Andover and Lahser, the two high schools. Imbalanced enrollment threatened to interfere with the school district’s ability to offer equal educational opportunities at the two high schools. A difference of twenty-six students between the two schools would result in one less teacher and five fewer course sections at the smaller school. With fewer class sections, teachers are forced to teach in their "minor” area, diminishing the quality of instruction. If enrollment at either school dropped below a certain level, it would lose its status as a Class a school for athletic competition.
The facts indicate that Lahser’s enrollment dropped from 1,147 in 1979 to 977 in 1982. During the same period, Andover’s student body shrank from 1,204 to 1,118. The corresponding disparity in enrollment grew from five percent to thirteen percent. School board estimates showed Lahser’s enrollment shrinking to 929 in 1986, while the size disparity between the schools grew to twenty-six percent. In 1982, Lahser offered twenty-two fewer course sections than Andover. At the same time, Andover offered three classes in the home economics department, while Lahser offered none.
The school board’s purpose of achieving balanced enrollment, as well as its concern over the increasing imbalance, was legitimate. The remaining question, then, is whether the school board chose a rational means to accomplish the goal of enrollment balanced to within ten percent. The path chosen by the school board at its October 19, 1982, meeting involved: (1) transferring two subdivisions from the Andover attendance area to the Lahser attendance area; and (2) closing Andover to transfers from Lahser.
Plaintiff’s equal protection claim stems from the second measure. The no-transfer policy creates two classes of students, those in the Andover attendance area who can choose to attend either high school, and those in the Lahser area who must attend Lahser. Plaintiff’s daughter falls within the latter category.
Despite its creation of different classes of students, the no-transfer policy survives plaintiff’s equal protection challenge because it is rationally related to the legitimate purpose of achieving enrollment balance. Redistricting of the two attendance areas without a closing of transfers to And-over would be ineffective, as the affected students would elect to transfer to Andover. Allowing students to transfer from a slightly larger school, Andover, to a smaller one, Lahser, certainly is a reasonable means to achieve enrollment balance.
Plaintiff also argues that the five-year duration of the no-transfer policy is irrational. Given the exceptions to the policy which allow siblings of former Andover students and students who already were attending Andover when the boundary was changed to transfer to Andover, the five-year duration appears reasonable. Even without the exceptions, it would take four years for the student population of the two schools to turn over. Although there may have been an alternate method of dealing with the enrollment imbalance problem, we will not substitute our judgment for that of the school board where the board chooses a rational method to solve the problem.
Finally, plaintiff asks us to invalidate the no-transfer policy because the school board violated the Open Meetings Act when it adopted several exceptions to the policy. The school board complied with the act when it adopted the policy itself. It would be counterproductive to strike a validly adopted policy because later the school board carved out minor exceptions whose validity was in question because of failure to comply fully with the Open Meetings Act. The school board gave plaintiff adequate notice and opportunity to oppose the no-transfer policy before its original adoption.
Affirmed._
MCL 15.261 et seq.; MSA 4.1800(11) et seq.
Before adressing the equal protection issue, we note defendant’s claim that plaintiff lacks standing to bring the suit. Defendant raised the standing issue in its closing argument below. Nevertheless, the standing issue is not properly before this Court because defendant did not raise it in a cross-appeal. In Peisner v Detroit Free Press, Inc, 421 Mich 125, 129, n 5; 364 NW2d 600 (1984), reh den 421 Mich 1202 (1985), the Supreme Court stated:
Our appellate procedure is designed to focus the issues on appeal and provide the parties with an opportunity to fully brief and argue those issues. This purpose is frustrated by the injection of new issues in the answering brief. Appellees wishing to challenge rulings adverse to them should do so directly by way of a cross-appeal.
Fox v Employment Security Comm, 379 Mich 579, 588; 153 NW2d 644 (1967); Grieb v Alpine Valley Ski Area, Inc, 155 Mich App 484, 487; 400 NW2d 653 (1986).
411 US 1, 35; 93 S Ct 1278; 36 L Ed 2d 16 (1973).
Sutton v Cadillac Area Public Schools, 117 Mich App 38, 43; 323 NW2d 582 (1982); East Jackson Public Schools v Michigan, 133 Mich App 132, 137-138; 348 NW2d 303 (1984).
Const 1963, art 8.
In re Contempt of Stone, 154 Mich App 121, 128; 397 NW2d 244 (1986).
San Antonio School Dist, supra.
Plaintiff argues that the school district failed to count the hearing-impaired students housed at Lahser, creating only the appearance of an enrollment imbalance. This contention lacks merit. Although hearing-impaired students had access to regular classes and activities, the program itself was administered separately with its own teachers and curricula.
Hiers v Detroit Superintendent of Schools, 376 Mich 225, 235; 136 NW2d 10 (1965). | [
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Per Curiam.
Respondents appeal as of right from a judgment, following a jury trial, ordering the return of certain assets to the estate of June Susser, a protected person. We affirm.
I. BASIC FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY
This Court previously affirmed the appointment of petitioner Betty Saari as conservator of the estate of June Susser in a prior appeal by respondent Ronald Susser, who is June’s son. In re Susser Estate, unpublished opinion per curiam of the Court of Appeals, issued July 10, 2001 (Docket No. 222270). While that appeal was pending, petitioner brought an action claiming that Ronald breached his fiduciary duty to his mother by using a durable power of attorney to gift himself a substantial portion of June’s financial portfolio. Petitioner also claimed that Ronald wrongly recorded a quitclaim deed to June’s house, though he knew that June did not intend for him to take the deed until her death. The jury found that Ronald had wrongfully converted these assets, and the trial court entered judgment for petitioner. Respondents now appeal, claiming a variety of errors in the trial court proceedings.
II. LEGAL ANALYSIS
A. FIDUCIARY DUTY ATTENDANT A POWER OF ATTORNEY
Respondents first contend that the trial court erred in denying their motion to dismiss and in instructing the jury that an agent acting under a power of attorney has a fiduciary duty to act in the principal’s best interests. In each case, respondents contend that because the power of attorney did not expressly impose a fiduciary duty on Ronald, the trial court erred in allowing the jury to “second guess” his transactions. We disagree.
In VanderWall v Midkiff, 166 Mich App 668, 677-678; 421 NW2d 263 (1988), this Court held that an attorney in fact could be held hable to her principal’s estate if she converted his funds to herself without his authorization:
It is well established ... that powers of attorney are to be construed in accordance with the principles governing the law of agency. One of those principles is that a person who undertakes to act as agent for another may not pervert his powers to his own personal ends and purposes without the consent of the principal after a full disclosure of the details of the transaction. Hence, if [the attorney in fact] acted in her own interests and not under the direction of [her principal], she may be liable to [the principal’s] estate for the monies wrongfully obtained or transferred. [Emphasis added.]
Similarly, in In re Conant Estate, 130 Mich App 493, 498; 343 NW2d 593 (1983), this Court noted that a fiduciary relationship existed between a principal and her attorney in fact “by virtue of the grant of a general power of attorney.”
Although neither VanderWall nor Conant bind us, see MCR 7.215(I)(1), we find their conclusion that an attorney in fact acting under the authority of a general power of attorney is in a fiduciary relationship with the principal to be generally accepted without question. One inference arising out of an agency relationship is that the agent is to act only for the principal’s benefit. See 1 Restatement Agency, 2d, § 39, p 130.
The agreement to act on behalf of the principal causes the agent to be a fiduciary, that is, a person having a duty, created by his undertaking, to act primarily for the benefit of another in matters connected with his undertaking. Among the agent’s fiduciary duties to the principal is . . . the duty not to compete with the principal on his own account or for another in matters relating to the subject matter of the agency, and the duty to deal fairly with the principal in all transactions between them. [Restatement, § 13, comment a, p 58.]
These principles of agency are generally considered applicable to an attorney in fact acting pursuant to powers of attorney. See, generally, 3 Am Jur 2d, Agency, §§ 21-32, pp 445-453.
Accordingly, we conclude that Ronald’s fiduciary duty to June arose as a matter of law from the grant of June’s power of attorney. As with the grant of any other agency rights and responsibilities, a fiduciary obligation was established without need for the document itself to include language expressly imposing a fiduciary duty. The trial court did not err in denying the motion for dismissal or in instructing the jury regarding the fiduciary obligation owed by Ronald to June.
B. JUDICIAL BIAS
Respondents next argue that the trial court denied them due process and a fair trial when it refused to allow them to question witness Dennis Cossi, the attorney who drafted the power of attorney at issue here, regarding an improper hand gesture he allegedly made while sitting as a spectator in the courtroom. In making this argument, respondents imply that the trial court’s decision was improperly influenced by its prior relationship with Cossi, who managed the trial judge’s campaign for election to the bench, and that, therefore, they were deprived of their constitutional right to a hearing before an unbiased and impartial decisionmaker. See Cain v Dep’t of Corrections, 451 Mich 470, 497; 548 NW2d 210 (1996). Upon review de novo, we find no merit in respondents’ assertion in this regard. See In re Carey, 241 Mich App 222, 225-226; 615 NW2d 742 (2000) (the determination whether a party has been afforded due process is a question of law subject to review de novo).
A trial judge is presumed to be fair and impartial, and any litigant who would challenge this presumption bears a heavy burden to prove otherwise. SC Gray, Inc v Ford Motor Co, 92 Mich App 789, 810-811; 286 NW2d 34 (1979); see also Cain, supra. Here, the sole allegation of bias asserted by respondents is that petitioner’s main witness was once affiliated with the trial judge’s bid for election to the bench. However, other than the fact that the trial judge ruled against them on a contested issue, respondents point to no conduct by the trial judge demonstrating prejudice or bias. Because rulings against a litigant, even if erroneous, do not themselves constitute bias or prejudice sufficient to establish a denial of due process, see Armstrong v Ypsilanti Charter Twp, 248 Mich App 573, 597-598; 640 NW2d 321 (2001), we cannot, in the absence of a more specific demonstration of bias or prejudice, conclude that respondents have overcome the presumption of judicial impartiality. Gray, supra; Cain, supra.
C. DISQUALIFICATION OF PETITIONER’S ATTORNEY
Respondents next claim that the trial court deprived them of a fair trial when it denied their motion to disqualify petitioner’s attorney, Robert Daavettila. Again, we disagree.
Respondents maintain that Daavettila, as the attorney who drafted June’s latest will, violated MRPC 3.7(a) by acting as an advocate in a trial where he should have been a witness. However, in Smith v Arc-Mation, Inc, 402 Mich 115, 118-119; 261 NW2d 713 (1978), our Supreme Court reversed a disqualification order issued pursuant to the predecessor to MRPC 3.7(a), DR 5-101(B), because the party seeking disqualification had not shown that the attorney’s testimony was necessary. In doing so, the Court noted that the testimony allegedly sought from the attorney was available from other competent sources, and that the party seeking disqualification had not previously stated an intent to call the attorney as a witness. Smith, supra at 119.
Here, respondents similarly failed to indicate any intent to call Daavettila as a witness in this matter, or, more importantly, to show that Daavettila’s testimony was “necessary.” Respondents could have, and to a large extent did, elicit testimony regarding the circumstances surrounding the new will from other competent sources. Respondents cross-examined Saari extensively regarding that matter, and had the opportunity to cross-examine June as well.
Furthermore, although respondents emphasize their need to question Daavettila to explore the validity of June’s new will, that issue is irrelevant. As the trial court pointed out, this case was not a will contest. If respondents are liable for the wrongful conversion of assets from June’s estate, they are hable to return those assets regardless of who might ultimately receive them in the will. Accordingly, because respondents failed to show that Daavettila was a necessary witness on any relevant issue, the trial court did not deprive respondents a fair trial by denying their motion to disqualify attorney Daavettila under MRPC 3.7(a).
D. PETITIONER’S USE OF LEADING QUESTIONS
Respondents next contend that the trial court erred in allowing petitioner to ask leading questions of June during direct examination. We review a trial court’s decision to allow leading questions for an abuse , of discretion. Dehring v Northern Michigan Exploration Co, Inc, 104 Mich App 300, 318-319; 304 NW2d 560 (1981).
Initially, we note that a trial court may allow a fair amount of leeway in asking questions of elderly and infirm witnesses, see, e.g., People v Watson, 245 Mich App 572, 587; 629 NW2d 411 (2001), and, in this case, petitioner’s questioning of June was no more leading than necessary given the age and physical condition of the witness. Accordingly, we find no abuse of discretion in the trial court’s decision to permit the use of leading questions.
Moreover, even assuming that the trial court abused its discretion in this regard, this Court has held that reversal may be predicated on the use of leading questions only where “prejudice or a pattern of eliciting inadmissible testimony” exists. Id. We have examined the transcript of June’s testimony and do not find that the leading questions were prejudicial to respondents, or that these questions were part of a pattern of eliciting inadmissible testimony. The leading questions were limited to developing the witness’ testimony, which is permissible questioning under MRE 611(c)(1). Furthermore, contrary to respondents’. arguments, the questions did not mirror the questions on the jury verdict form.
E. EXCLUSION OF EXPERT TESTIMONY
We similarly find no abuse of discretion in the trial court’s decision to exclude portions of the deposition testimony of John McCarthy, concerning the factors considered by an attorney in determining whether one who is executing a will is acting under undue influence. Expert testimony cannot express a legal definition or standard. Downie v Kent Products, Inc, 420 Mich 197, 205; 362 NW2d 605 (1984). McCarthy’s testimony set forth standards for determining if a grantor is being subjected to undue influence by a grantee, and the trial court, therefore, correctly excluded it. We also find no merit to respondents’ claim that McCarthy’s testimony should have been admitted after petitioner was permitted to introduce deposition testimony explaining fiduciary duty. Contrary to the standards related by McCarthy in his testimony, the testimony introduced by petitioner was too general and basic to be regarded as setting forth a legal standard.
We affirm.
Respondents do not otherwise argue that the instructions given were incorrect.
The cases respondents cite in support of their position, Bergman v Dykhouse, 316 Mich 315; 25 NW2d 210 (1946), and Greer v Parks, 300 Mich 492; 2 NW2d 476 (1942), do not involve issues of fiduciary duly and are not relevant to this question.
According to respondents, Cossi gave the “thumbs down” signal during respondents’ argument for a mistrial on the ground that counsel for petitioner utilized leading questions during direct examination of June Susser.
Our conclusion in this regard is supported by the fact that, in refusing to allow respondents to question Cossi concerning the alleged gesture, the trial court indicated that a similar gesture by Cossi’s companion, which was actually witnessed by the court, did not influence its decision on the mistrial motion respondents were arguing at the time.
MRPC 3.7(a) provides, in relevant part, that “[a] lawyer shall not act as advocate at a trial in which the lawyer is likely to be a necessary witness . . . ."
Although respondents also assert that Daavettila’s representation of both Saari and June Susser violated MRPC 1.7(b), they have failed to address the merits of that claim in their brief on appeal. Accordingly, the issue is waived. See American Transmission v Channel 7 of Detroit, Inc, 239 Mich App 695, 705; 609 NW2d 607 (2000).
Although Watson involved the questioning of a child witness on direct examination by a prosecutor, we find the leeway granted a party in examining young children to be applicable by analogy to the questioning of elderly and infirm witnesses such as June Susser. | [
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Per Curiam.
This is an action for first-party no-fault insurance benefits. Plaintiff appeals as of right from an order granting summary disposition for defendant Auto Club Insurance Association under MCR 2.116(C)(10). We affirm.
Plaintiff was injured at work while repairing a truck. He did not own a car and did not have automobile insurance at the time of the accident. He sought personal protection insurance benefits under a no-fault policy issued by defendant to his mother as a relative domiciled in her household. MCL 500.3114(1). The trial court concluded that, as a matter of law, he was not domiciled in his parents’ household. We agree.
This Court’s review of a decision regarding a motion for summary disposition is de novo. Spiek v Dep’t of Transportation, 456 Mich 331, 337; 572 NW2d 201 (1998). A motion under MCR 2.116(C)(10) tests the factual sufficiency of a complaint. In deciding a motion brought under this subrule, the trial court considers the documentary evidence submitted by the parties in the light most favorable to the party opposing the motion. Maiden v Rozwood, 461 Mich 109, 120; 597 NW2d 817 (1999). If the evidence fails to establish a genuine issue regarding any material fact, the moving party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. Id.
Generally, the determination of domicile is a question of fact. However, where, as here, the underlying facts are not in dispute, domicile is a question of law for the court. Goldstein v Progressive Cas Ins Co, 218 Mich App 105, 111-112; 553 NW2d 353 (1996); Williams v State Farm Mut Automobile Ins Co, 202 Mich App 491, 494-495; 509 NW2d 821 (1993). Several factors should be considered in determining domicile, and these factors should be weighed or balanced with each other because no one factor is determinative. Univ of Michigan Regents v State Farm Mut Ins Co, 250 Mich App 719, 730; 650 NW2d 129 (2002).
The relevant factors in deciding whether a person is domiciled in the same household as the insured include: (1) the subjective or declared intent of the claimant to remain indefinitely in the insured’s household, (2) the formality of the relationship between the claimant and the members of the household, (3) whether the place where the claimant lives is in the same house, within the same curtilage, or upon the same premises as the insured, and (4) the existence of another place of lodging for the person alleging domicile. Workman v DAIIE, 404 Mich 477, 496-497; 274 NW2d 373 (1979).
When considering whether a child is domiciled with the child’s parents, other relevant indicia include: (1) whether the child continues to use the parents’ home as the child’s mailing address, (2) whether the child maintains some possessions with the parents, (3) whether the child uses the parents’ address on the child’s driver’s license or other documents, (4) whether a room is maintained for the child at the par ents’ home, and (5) whether the child is dependent upon the parents for support. Goldstein, supra at 112, citing Dairyland Ins Co v Auto-Owners Ins Co, 123 Mich App 675, 682; 333 NW2d 322 (1983).
In this case, at the time of the accident plaintiff was divorced, was approximately thirty years old, and lived with his girlfriend in a carriage house apartment located next to his parents’ house. Plaintiff had lived in the carriage house apartment for more than three years before he was injured, and did not have any plans to move. The carriage house and the main house had a shared address; however, the carriage house had its own entrance, its own set of locks, and its own walkway. The apartment consisted of a kitchen, a bathroom, a living room, and four bedrooms. Plaintiff testified that the carriage house had its own water, electric, gas, and telephone service, and that he or his girlfriend paid the utility bills. Plaintiff paid his parents, who had keys to the carriage house, rent of $500 a month, although the rental agreement was not reduced to a writing. Until he was injured, plaintiff and his girlfriend both worked and they shared housekeeping, laundry, and grocery shopping responsibilities. Plaintiff performed lawn maintenance and snow removal for his parents, and had an informal relationship in which he was allowed full access to their home. Plaintiff and his parents often ate together.
We find that the trial court properly concluded that the carriage house residence was a self-sufficient, freestanding, and independent residence, and that after weighing the pertinent factors it was clear that plaintiff was not domiciled with his parents. Unlike the arrangement in Workman, the evidence in this case established that plaintiffs living arrangement was independent from his parents’ household. Plaintiff did not have a room in his parents’ house, he did not rely on his parents for utilities or appliances, and plaintiff paid rent until he was injured. The fact that plaintiffs’ parents had keys to the carriage house and that plaintiff stored items of personal property in his parents’ house was insufficient in the face of the other evidence to make him a member of their household. Dairyland, supra at 684. On these facts, the trial court correctly determined as a matter of law that plaintiff was not domiciled in his parents’ household and therefore was not entitled to benefits under his mother’s no-fault policy.
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Holbrook, Jr., J.
Plaintiff Centennial Healthcare Management Corporation appeals as of right from an order of the circuit court granting defendants summary disposition under MCR 2.116(C)(8). Centennial, a Georgia corporation, manages Westgate Healthcare Center, an eighty-one-bed, state-licensed nursing home located in St. Louis, Michigan. We affirm.
From May 25, 1999, through May 28, 1999, defendants Sahreleen Bower, Lawrence Miller, Lorraine Woodward, Raymond Hopkins, Jennifer Ezinga, and Timothy Smith, as agents of defendant Michigan Department of Consumer and Industry Services (mdcis), conducted an annual survey of Westgate. During the survey, the agents requested that Centennial produce all incident reports and accident records (hereinafter I & A reports) for the prior six-month period. Centennial initially refused, asserting that because the documents had been generated and maintained by the Leadership Council, Westgate’s quality assurance and assessment committee, they were protected peer review material. Eventually, Centennial agreed to produce only certain I & A reports pertaining to three Westgate residents.
Centennial alleges that in retaliation for its refusal to release all the I & A reports sought by the mdcis agents, Westgate was cited for forty-nine deficiencies in the mdcis Statement of Deficiencies, twenty-one of which were violations of federal standards. One of the federal deficiencies was based on Centennial’s failure to provide the I & A reports. After Centennial’s representatives met with the MDCIS, the agency agreed to delete this deficiency. The agency also agreed to reduce the listed severity of a deficiency concerning room size from a level “E” to a level “B.” Westgate was informed that these changes would not affect the proposed remedies stemming from the annual survey.
In a letter dated June 15, 1999, the mdcis informed Centennial that “[b]ased on the current survey findings and [Westgate’s] . . . history of extended periods of noncompliance for previous surveys,” the mdcis would be immediately imposing the following enforcement remedies: (1) a Directed Plan of Correction, effective July 4, 1999; and (2) Directed In-Service Training, also effective July 4, 1999. The letter also indicated that the mdcis would recommend additional federal action if Westgate did not achieve substantial compliance by July 17, 1999. “We are also recommending to the hcfa[ ] Region V Office and the State Medicaid Agency,” the letter continued, “that your provider agreement(s) be terminated on November 28, 1999 if substantial compliance is not achieved by that time.” (Emphasis in original.)
According to Centennial, during a revisit survey that took place from August 10, 1999, through August 16, 1999, mdcis agents again repeatedly asked for the production of various I & A reports. Specifically, Centennial asserts that at various times the agents alternatively sought I & A reports for (1) the entire facility, (2) the entire Dementia Unit of the facility, and finally (3) six particular residents of the Dementia Unit. Centennial again initially denied the requests on the basis that the material was protected peer review material. However, Centennial asserts that under the threat of prosecution made by defendant Woodward, it reluctantly agreed to produce the I & A reports for the six residents of the Dementia Unit. Woodward testified that she never threatened West-gate personnel with civil or criminal penalties if they failed to produce the I & A reports.
Centennial contends that as a result of reviewing the I & A reports for these six residents, defendants found three specific violations. Regarding one of these violations, designated F-224 in the August 13, 1999, Statement of Deficiencies, Centennial argued below that the mdcis report on the violation contained a “verbatim recitation[]of the ... [I & A report], including the follow-up recommendations and the corrective actions (listed as preventive actions) taken by the facility.”
Centennial alleges that on August 23, 1999, West-gate received by way of facsimile a letter from the mdcis stating that it would recommend the imposition of a denial of payment for new Medicare and Medicaid residents, a civil penalty of $3,050 a day beginning June 2, 1999, and continuing until terminated by the mdcis, and termination from the Medicare and Medicaid program effective September 11, 1999. The August 23, 1999, mdcis letter also indicated that an additional Directed Plan of Correction was being imposed. The HCFA concurred with the recommended remedies.
In count I of its two-count complaint, Centennial sought, in part, declarations that (1) the I & A reports are statutorily protected peer review material, (2) that 1979 AC, R 325.21101 contravenes statutory and case law, (3) that defendants shall return all I & A reports and be prohibited from obtaining further I & A reports, (4) that the May 1999 and August 1999 survey results were null and void because they were made in retaliation for Centennial’s refusal to supply the I & A reports, and (5) that all remedies were null and void. In support, Centennial cited MCL 333.20175 and 333.21515, 42 USC 1395i-3(b)(1)(B) and 42 USC 1396r(b)(1)(B), and 42 CFR 483.75(b). In count n, Centennial sought to have defendants enjoined from (1) any further requests for I & A reports, (2) imposing any remedies stemming from the May and August 1999 surveys, (3) making any recommendations for enforcement actions based on these surveys, and (4) engaging in future retaliatory conduct.
Centennial also filed a motion for declaratory judgment and preliminary and permanent injunction along with its complaint. The essence of Centennial’s argument in support of its motion was that the I & A reports are, by statute, absolutely privileged materials, and that the mdcis’ findings of deficiencies were made in retaliation for Centennial’s handling of requests for this privileged material. Centennial asserted that this is not a matter for the federal courts because they were not asking for a court order declaring any remedies imposed by the federal government invalid.
In their brief in opposition to the motion, defendants focused on the claim that the May and August 1999 surveys were part of a federal investigatory protocol, and that they were just following federal and state rules and regulations when requesting the I & A reports. Defendants argued that Centennial could not “immunize” itself from disclosure by characterizing I & A reports as peer review material. At the hearing on the motion, defendants argued that
[t]he facility is free to keep confidential any other records that are prepared or collected by its peer review committee, but it is not permitted to make confidential otherwise nonconfidentia! accident records and incident reports by the simple expedient of giving them to their peer review committee or even having them prepared by that committee during the peer review process.
Defendants also argued that the circuit court lacked jurisdiction because Centennial’s claims arise under the Medicare Act, given that they were “part of plaintiff’s broader claim for continued Medicare payments.” Centennial’s exclusive remedy, defendants argued, lies in the federal courts. Further, defendants argued that Centennial’s claim should be dismissed because Centennial failed to exhaust its state and federal administrative remedies, and that Centennial had failed to establish the requirements for an injunction. The court denied Centennial’s motion for declaratory and injunctive relief.
Thereafter, defendants filed a motion for summary disposition under MCR 2.116(C)(8). Defendants again argued that the I & A reports are not protected peer review documents, that the circuit court lacked jurisdiction to hear this claim based on the Medicare Act, and that Centennial has failed to exhaust its administrative remedies. In response, Centennial made the same arguments it had made in support of its motion for declaratory judgment and preliminary and permanent injunction, i.e., that the I & A reports are privileged by statute, that any promulgated rule that contravenes this legislative mandate is unenforceable, and that defendants took retaliation against plaintiff for its assertion of the peer review privilege. Centennial also argued that the need for an evidentiary record precluded summary disposition under MCR 2.116(C)(8). The court granted defendants’ motion for summary disposition, reasoning as follows:
With regard to the issue of.. . subject matter jurisdiction, I am satisfied that any adverse actions or claim of retaliatory violation reports are subject to administrative review at the federal level, and that this Court does not have sub ject matter jurisdiction to determine the propriety of the reports, recommendations, or violations claimed.
With respect to the remaining issue, which is as to the status of these accident and incident reports, we have state section 20175 that says that information generated for a nursing home quality assurance and peer review committee is confidential. . . . The legislature, I think, wants to encourage full and free discussion by peer review and quality assurance committees of shortcomings in nursing home operation. It wants to make certain that those discussions can be based upon complete and reliable information furnished the committee without fear of civil repercussions in litigation for money damages by those who may have been involved or suffered the injures giving rise to the review.
At the same time, the legislature has delegated to the state agency here the power to promulgate rules and regulations regarding reports in connection with musing home activities. And we have rule 1101 which says that the nursing home has an obligation to maintain accident and incident reports . . . and then 1104 goes on to define what the required contents of those reports are.
It seems pretty clear to the Court that the problem stems from the fact that those reports and that information can be used in a broad variety of contexts without the protection of the confidentiality cloak thrown over similar information that may be submitted to a peer review committee. But the fact that the same information may have two destinations, and may end up being treated in two different ways, and may be accessible at two different levels to third parties or others, doesn’t change, I think, the fundamental question, and that is, whether or not the agency can promulgate 1101 and 1104 and by doing so require . . . disclosure to a public agency through it, perhaps, to the public, of information that would otherwise be confidential. It seems to me that the answer to that question is a matter of law, and as a matter of law, I think the answer is yes.
Centennial first argues on appeal that the trial court erred in granting summary disposition to defendants. Centennial asserts that the plain and unambig uous language of MCL 333.20175(8) indicates that information collected during the peer review process is absolutely protected from disclosure. Centennial further argues that defendants’ reliance on 1979 AC, R 325.21101 and 1979 AC, R 325.21104 is misplaced because these administrative rules directly contravene both the letter and the intent of the statute. Acknowledging the importance of the peer review process, defendants counter that there is nothing in the history of the privilege to suggest that the Legislature intended that a health care facility could use the process as a repository for any and all information it saw fit to deposit therein. Defendants further assert that in order to meet responsibilities mandated by state and federal statutes, the MDCIS promulgated R 325.21101, which requires that a facility, not its quality review committee, keep the records sought during the annual and revisit surveys. There is no requirement, defendants contend, that this material also be submitted for peer review, and a facility’s decision to submit the documents to peer review does not immunize them from the requirements of 1979 AC, R 325.21101 and 1979 AC, R 325.21104.
This case involves a review of the trial court’s decision to grant defendants’ motion for summary disposition and the construction of the applicable statutory provision establishing the peer review privilege, both of which we review de novo. Hanson v Mecosta Co Rd Comm’rs, 465 Mich 492, 497; 638 NW2d 396 (2002). The existence of a privilege is a mixed question of fact and law. A trial court’s factual findings are reviewed for clear error, while its application of the law to the facts is reviewed de novo. Schroeder v Detroit, 221 Mich App 364, 366; 561 NW2d 497 (1997).
“MCR 2.116(C)(8) permits summary disposition when the opposing party has failed to state a claim upon which relief can be granted. A motion under this subsection determines whether the opposing party’s pleadings allege a prima facie case. The court must accept as true all well-pleaded facts.” Stehlik v Johnson (On Rehearing), 206 Mich App 83, 85; 520 NW2d 633 (1994). “The overriding goal guiding judicial interpretation of statutes is to discover and give effect to legislative intent. The starting place for the search for intent is the language used in the statute.” Bio-Magnetic Resonance, Inc v Dep’t of Pub Health, 234 Mich App 225, 229; 593 NW2d 641 (1999) (citations omitted). “If the language of the statute is clear and unambiguous, then no further interpretation is required. However, judicial construction is appropriate when reasonable minds can differ with regard to the meaning of the statutory language.” Benedict v Dep’t of Treasury, 236 Mich App 559, 563; 601 NW2d 151 (1999) (citations omitted).
Centennial argues that MCL 333.20175(8) conflicts with both 1979 AC, R 325.21101 and 1979 AC, R 325.21104. We disagree. MCL 333.20175(8) provides:
The records, data, and knowledge collected for or by individuals or committees assigned a professional review function in a health facility or agency, or an institution of higher education in this state that has colleges of osteopathic and human medicine, are confidential, shall be used only for the purposes provided in this article, are not public records, and are not subject to court subpoena.
1979 AC, R 325.21101 states in pertinent part: “All of the following records shall be kept in the home and shall be available to the director or his or her authorized representative for review and copying if neces sary: * * * (d) Accident records and incident reports.”
1979 AC, R 325.21104 states in pertinent part:
An accident record or incident report shall be prepared for each accident or incident involving a patient, personnel, or visitor and shall include all of the following information:
(a) Name of person involved in accident or incident.
(b) Date, hour, place, and cause of accident or incident.
(c) A description of the accident or incident by any observer who shall be identified and a statement of the effect of the accident or incident on the patient and any other individual involved.
(d) Name of physician notified and time of notification when appropriate.
(e) Physician’s statement regarding extent of injuries, treatment ordered, and disposition of person involved.
(f) Corrective measures taken to avoid repetition of accident or incident.
(g) Record of notification of the person or agency responsible for placing and maintaining the patient in the home, the legal guardian, and, in a case where there is no legal guardian, the designated representative or next of Mn.
Subsection 20175(8) is made up of five parts: (1) a list describing the types of items that are potentially covered by the peer review privilege; (2) the requirement that these items be “collected for or by individuals or committees assigned a peer review function”; (3) a list of the entities to which the privilege applies; (4) the pronouncement that items satisfying these three criteria are “confidential”; and (5) a limit on the uses to which these items can be put, which includes the command that those uses are to be found in article 17 of the Public Health Code, as well as the specific directives that these items “are not public records” and “are not subject to court subpoena.” The essence of the parties’ disagreement lies in the application of the first two of these five parts.
Subsection 20175(8) defines the types of items that can fall under the peer review by class and subclass. The class is defined by the list “records, data, and knowledge.” The inclusion of the final term, “knowledge,” makes this a very broad definition. The range established by the subclass specifies that these items must have been “collected for or by individuals or committees assigned a peer review function in a health facility or agency, or an institution of higher education in this state that has colleges of osteopathic and human medicine.”
The “collection” requirement is somewhat ambiguous. To “collect” means to “bring together in a group or mass, gather,” or to “accumulate as a hobby or for study.” The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (3d ed, 1996), p 372. In Monty v Warren Hosp Corp, 422 Mich 138, 146-147; 366 NW2d 198 (1985), our Supreme Court gave some guidance on the meaning of the word in the peer review context when it stated that “mere submission of information to a peer review committee does not satisfy the collection requirement so as to bring the information within the protection of” MCL 333.21515. In support of this assertion, Monty cited Marchand v Henry Ford Hosp, 398 Mich 163; 247 NW2d 280 (1976). In Marchand, a doctor had, of his own volition, kept records on a medical procedure he had used. Id. at 167. The Marchand Court concluded that the fact that these records had later been presented to a peer review committee did not satisfy the “collection” requirement of the statute. Id. at 167-168.
In Dye v St John Hosp & Medical Ctr, 230 Mich App 661, 670-671; 584 NW2d 747 (1998), this Court concluded that documents submitted to a credentials committee by or on behalf of a physician seeking staff privileges at a hospital are privileged under subsection 20175(8) and § 21515. In so doing, the Court distinguished Marchand, and offered the following reasoning:
As in any situation regarding application for professional employment, [the physician seeking staff privileges] was aware of the requirements of the committee with respect to the credentials, endorsements, and other materials it wanted to review before granting staff privileges. In that sense, materials in the file relating to [the physician’s] application for privileges were “collected for or by” the committee and the confidentiality provisions of the statutes apply. [Id.]
It is a long-established legal maxim that privileges “ought to be strictly confined within the narrowest possible limits consistent with the logic of its principle.” 8 Wigmore, Evidence (McNaughton rev), § 2291, p 554. In the case at bar, we believe that the collection requirement must be limited by the function of the committee and the interest the privilege is designed to protect. The privilege is designed to assure that honest assessment and review of performance is undertaken in peer review committees. It is assumed that candid and conscientious evaluation would be undermined if the work of the peer review committee was not, in some way, privileged. As the Supreme Court observed in Attorney Gen v Bruce, 422 Mich 157, 169; 369 NW2d 826 (1985):
The rationale for protecting the confidentiality of the records, data, and knowledge of such committees was set forth in an oft-quoted opinion of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia:
“Confidentiality is essential to effective functioning of these staff meetings; and these meetings are essential to the continued improvement in the care and treatment of patients. Candid and conscientious evaluation of clinical practices is a sine qua non of adequate hospital care. To subject the discussions and deliberations to the discovery process, without a showing of exceptional necessity, would result in terminating such deliberations.” [Quoting Bredice v Doctors Hosp, Inc, 50 FRD 249, 250 (D DC, 1970).]
Under the first definition of the word “collect” cited above, a peer review committee could be said to have collected anything that it directs its facility to compile. We conclude that this is simply too broad a reading of the statutory privilege. See Howe v Detroit Free Press, Inc, 440 Mich 203, 226; 487 NW2d 374 (1992). It is not in keeping with the logic of the privilege’s principle. However, the second cited definition for “collect” cited above is in keeping with the interests the privilege is protecting; in order to effectuate its purpose, such a committee will necessarily accumulate material for study.
Certainly, in the abstract, a peer review committee cannot properly review performance in a facility without hard facts at its disposal. However, it is not the facts themselves that are at the heart of the peer review process. Rather, it is what is done with those facts that is essential to the internal review process, i.e., a candid assessment of what those facts indicate, and the best way to improve the situation represented by those facts. Simply put, the logic of the principle of confidentiality in the peer review context does not require construing the limits of the privilege to cover any and all factual material that is assembled at the direction of a peer review committee. See id.
In the context of the circumstances in the case at bar, it is true that Westgate’s peer review committee could not effectively do its work without collecting basic information about the various incidents and accidents that occur at a nursing home. However, it is not the existence of the facts of an incident or accident that must be kept confidential in order for the committee to effectuate its purpose; it is how the committee discusses, deliberates, evaluates, and judges those facts that the privilege is designed to protect. We conclude that in order to effectuate other purposes outlined in the Public Health Code — especially those involving licensing — the statutory peer review privilege outlined in subsection 21075(8) is not undermined by administrative rules requiring a nursing home to keep and make available for review and copying incident reports and accident records that contain basic factual material but do not require the reporting of the internal deliberative process of a peer review committee.
The question then becomes whether the information required by Rule 1104 implicates the deliberative review process. For six of the seven subsections — a-e and g — the answer is apparent. These six subsections only seek factual information surrounding the occurrence of an incident or accident, as well as limited information about the health care response to it. Subsection f is the only requirement that comes close to impinging on the deliberative process. However, the mere fact that corrective measures have been taken for an individual occurrence does not necessarily encroach upon the decisions regarding broad issues of concern in resident care. Subsection f does not seek information about the manner in which the committee made the decision to implement the corrective action or the conclusions that it reached. Rather, it simply asks for a report of the concrete actions taken, if any, to address the singular event.
If the mdcis identifies a particular problem at a facility through its own independent observations and discussions with staff and patients, then the I & A reports will be able to show if the problem is longstanding and what actions were taken to remedy the situation. The state’s ability to accurately identify the number of incidents and accidents and relevant facts, like the time of occurrence, is essential to determining if residents are being provided the appropriate care and services. In a facility like a nursing home, where the number of such incidents could be quite high, the state should not be forced to rely on the memories of staff and residents to correctly identify these occurrences and any trends that they indicate.
The record before us does not contain the I & A reports at issue, but plaintiff argued below that the report concerning deficiency P-224 contained in the August 13, 1999, Statement of Deficiencies is a “verbatim recitation[]of the ... [I & A report], including the follow-up recommendations and the corrective actions (listed as preventive actions) taken by the facility.” Accordingly, we turn to the F-224 deficiency report contained in that Statement of Deficiencies.
The F-224 report focuses on residents of Westgate’s Dementia Unit. It begins with the following conclusory statement: “Based on observations, interviews and record review, it was determined that the facility failed to implement policies and procedures that prohibited neglect of 9 of 10 residents . . . reviewed for neglect out of a sample of 12 residents.” A review of the report clearly shows that it is not simply a recitation of Westgate’s I & A reports. Rather, these reports are integrated into the discussion, which includes the observations of the surveyors, as well as accounts of interviews with staff members.
Indeed, the report begins with an account of a surveyor’s observations made on August 11, 1999, at 9:05 A.M. The report describes the interactions of four residents of the unit, and further notes the absence of any staff to intercede. Next, the report recounts events occurring on August 12, 1999, at 9:15 A.M, between a fifth resident and one of the residents observed the previous day. “At that time,” the report continues, “the surveyor expressed concern to the staff in charge of the unit concerning safety of residents and monitoring residents . . . .” A subsequent interview with two staff members who also expressed concerns over staffing follows. The report continues:
On 8/12/99 at 9:45 A.M. subsequent to the meeting with staff in charge of the unit, concern was expressed to the administrator and director of nursing concerning safety of residents and monitoring residents especially the 5 afore mentioned residents all of whom are documented to be combative and / or physically abusive. After discussion concerning incident / accident reports, the incident / accident reports for the aforementioned residents were obtained for a time period following the last annual survey of 5/28/99. These are discussed concerning each resident after a review (below) of their records to indicate the seriousness of the situation.
Regardless of concern expressed concerning supervision of the unit and mention of the observed incidents recorded above ... , it was observed on the Alzheimer’s Unit there was only 1 aide on the unit to do care and monitor the residents’ behavior.
It is in this context that the I & A reports are incorporated into the F-224 report. They do not serve as the sole basis for the deficiency cited, but instead are offered as further support for the conclusion that the unit is seriously understaffed. One I & A report reads as follows:
1) On 6/2/99, this resident was found at 12:15 A.M. out in the courtyard (patio) sitting on the sidewalk. He had received scrapes to :
A. The right outer elbow (3.7 cm by 2.4 cm),
B. Right outer ankle (1 cm by 1.5 cm),
C. Right hand 2nd knuckle (P.2 cm by 0.1 cm); and
D. Right Pinky finger (P.3 cm by 0.2 cm).
Follow-up Recommendations (FR): Need Door alarm fixed. Doesn’t work was checked / check more often.
Preventative Actions (PA): There was need for a light in the courtyard (patio) in back.
We do not believe that disclosure of this information invades upon the deliberative process of Westgate’s Leadership Council. All it indicates is the basic facts around an event occurring a little over two months before the revisit survey. The details of the event, including the precise measurement of injuries and the time of the event, are not the type of information that would likely be readily available upon interview of the staff months later. The follow-up recommendations and preventive actions mentioned are occurrence specific and do not include any discussion of identifiable trends and problems, nor do they reveal any conclusions about, or a plan of action implemented to deal with, such trends and problems.
These reports are also essential to evaluating the response of the facility to the specific incident. The follow-up recommendation for the above incident was to fix the door alarm, apparently to alert staff when a resident wanders out into the courtyard in the middle of the night; the preventive action identified the need for a light in the courtyard. However, during followup interviews done with staff, the surveyor notes that “it was reported there was no light in the courtyard/patio (previously and currently) and that residents were allowed to wander out there with no supervision during the night.” Thus, this I & A report gives the factual predicate to evaluate whether the facility was following through on its own responses to the event described.
Other I & A reports quoted in the discussion of the F-224 deficiency concluded with these follow-up recommendations and preventive actions: “PA: Monitor for unsteady gait,” “PA: Assist as needed with ambulation,” “PA: . . . Check more often,” “FR: Observe for unsteady gait,” “FR: Monitor resident location every 30 minutes,” “FR: Monitor more often,” “PA: Make sure bilateral shoes on when up. Check on more,” “FR: Monitor resident closely,” “PA: Check resident more frequently,” “PA: Lock Bed — observe more often,” and “FR: Check for unsteady gait,” There are many more of these types of recommended actions, all of which implicate the issue of staffing. Yet, when the revisit survey was done, the Dementia Unit was still understaffed. Indeed, many of the listed incidents and accidents occurred at a time when the unit was staffed with only one individual.
Again, we do not believe that disclosure of these individual I & A reports themselves would negatively affect the peer review process. Each one simply contains basic information about an occurrence at the facility and how it was handled. It is not the information in any of these individual I & A reports that is damaging to the facility, but the pattern they establish, the staffing problem they indicate, and the lack of adequate response implied. Identifying this pattern is essential to the licensing and certification process, as well as, most importantly, to the well-being of Westgate’s residents.
Centennial next argues that the trial court erred in not considering evidence regarding the effect the disclosure of the I & A reports would have on Westgate’s peer review process, or on the issue of the necessity of accessing this material. We disagree.
In essence, Centennial is asking this Court to reconsider a public policy decision already addressed by the Legislature. Subsection 20175 shows a public policy of encouraging health care professionals to engage in candid self-analysis and open discussions in order to safeguard and improve the quality of patient care in a health care facility- See Bruce, supra at 169-170. In order to safeguard against the potential chilling effect that public disclosure of peer review material would have on this self-monitoring, the Legislature has established a statutory guarantee of confidentiality. However, in order to assure that the peer review privilege does not overwhelm other important public policy concerns — such as assuring an effective licensing and certification process — the Legislature has defined the scope of the privilege in terms of the function of a peer review committee. In other words, the Legislature has directed a reviewing body to consider whether a document satisfies this definition, not an analysis case by case of whether disclosure of the document will have a chilling effect on a particular facility’s peer review process. The effect is presumed if the document satisfies the criteria. There exists no statutory “back door” into the privilege if a facility is able to successfully argue that, in its particular case, disclosure of a given document that does not satisfy the definition of peer review material would undermine its particular peer review process.
We also do not believe that summary disposition was inappropriate because a factual record on the issue of “necessity” needed to be developed. In support of this assertion, plaintiff relies on the introductory portion of Rule 1101, which reads: “All of the following records shall be kept in the home and shall be available to the director or his or her authorized representative for review and copying if necessary.” We do not read this passage as establishing a burden of proof that must be satisfied when a request is made for the material sought in the case at bar. Unlike patient records, review of this basic factual material does not implicate other potential privileges, nor is it an unusual step in the survey process that needs to be carefully monitored in order to prevent abuse. In this case, where the statutory peer review privilege does not apply because the I & A reports do not satisfy the statutory definition of peer review material, there is nothing preventing the mdcis from reviewing or copying this material in furtherance of promoting an effective survey of Westgate.
Finally, Centennial argues that the circuit court erred in concluding that it lacked subject-matter jurisdiction because the substantive basis of Centennial’s complaint arises under federal law. This misstates the holding of the circuit court. The court’s holding regarding subject-matter jurisdiction was limited to the issue of retaliation. It did not encompass the state law issues, which the circuit court correctly recognized were within its jurisdiction. We conclude that the court was correct in finding that the issue whether the survey results and subsequent remedies were retaliatory was beyond its jurisdiction. Unlike the interpretation of state statutory law, a challenge to the validity of the findings and remedies imposed arises under the Medicare Act, and thus is uniquely within the expertise of the hhs. Heckler v Ringer, 466 US 602; 104 S Ct 2013; 80 L Ed 2d 622 (1984).
Affirmed.
According to Peter Brogger, Westgate’s administrator, Westgate staff write out an accident report “any time an accident occurs at the facility, whether it involves a resident, an employee, a visitor, or otherwise. Incident reports are created . . . any time there is an occurrence that is out of the ordinary.” According to Brogger, standard procedure calls for the I & A reports to be reviewed by the Environment of Care Committee (ecc), a subcommittee of the Leadership Council. Thereafter, the ecc forwards its recommendations and the I & A reports to the Leadership Council for final action.
Brogger testified that Westgate had previously been cited for inadequate room size because the facility’s multiresident rooms measure seventy-nine square feet/resident, as opposed to the eighty square feet required by regulation. Historically, Brogger continued, this violation was cited at level B, which indicates substantial compliance with the regulation.
Hcfa Is an acronym for Health Care Financing Administration, which is an agency within the United States Department of Health and Human Services (hhs).
Two of the federal deficiencies listed in the August 13, 1999, Statement of Deficiencies, were rated at level K, which indicates the existence of an immediate jeopardy. 42 USC 1395i-3(h)(1)(A) and (B) delineate a distinction between deficiencies that “immediately jeopardize the health or safety of its residents,” and deficiencies that “do not immediately jeopardize the health or safety of its residents.” Differing remedial actions are authorized depending on whether the residents are found to be in immediate jeopardy.
In the August 23, 1999, mdcis letter, the mdcis indicated that denial of payment for new Medicare and Medicaid residents was mandatory.
These remedies are authorized under 42 USC 1395i-3(h)(2).
Subsection 1395i-3(b)(1)(B) reads:
A skilled nursing facility must maintain a quality assessment and assurance committee, consisting of the director of nursing services, a physician designated by the facility, and at least 3 other members of the facility’s staff, which (i) meets at least quarterly to identify issues with respect to which quality assessment and assurance activities are necessary and (ii) develops and implements appropriate plans of action to correct identified quality deficiencies. A State or the Secretary may not require disclosure of the records of such committee except so far as such disclosure is related to the compliance of such committee with the requirements of this sub-paragraph.
Subsection 1396r(b)(l)(B) reads:
A nursing facility must maintain a quality assessment and assurance committee, consisting of the director of nursing services, a physician designated by the facility, and at least 3 other members of the facility’s staff, which (i) meets at least quarterly to identify issues with respect to which quality assessment and assurance activities are necessary and (ii) develops and implements appropriate plans of action to correct identified quality deficiencies. A State or the Secretary may not require disclosure of the records of such committee except so far as such disclosure is related to the compliance of such committee with the requirements of this sub-paragraph.
42 CFR 483.75(b) reads in pertinent part: “The facility must operate and provide services in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and codes, and with accepted professional standards and principles that apply to professionals providing services in such a facility.”
Knowledge includes “[t]he sum or range of what has been perceived, discovered, or learned,” as well as “[sjpecific information about something.” The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (3d ed, 1996), p 998.
Section 21515 states the peer review privilege applicable to hospitals. It reads: “The records, data, and knowledge collected for or by individuals or committees assigned a review function described in this article are confidential and shall be used only for the purposes provided in this article, shall not be public records, and shall not be available for court subpoena.”
We note that authority exists that rejects the premise that the function of a peer review committee would be impaired if such a privilege did not exist. See, e.g., Syposs v United States, 63 F Supp 2d 301, 306 (WD NY, 1999). Indeed, the Michigan Supreme Court appears to be heading away from the validity of this presumption. In Bradley v Saranac Community Schools Bd of Ed, 455 Mich 285, 299-300; 565 NW2d 650 (1997), the Court observed:
The plaintiffs assert that the integrity of the evaluation process will be compromised by the disclosure of their personnel records. They suggest that the evaluators will be less inclined to candidly evaluate their employees if the evaluations are to be made public. We draw the opposite conclusion. Making such documents publicly available seems more likely to foster candid, accurate, and conscientious evaluations than suppressing them because the person performing the evaluations will be aware that the documents being prepared may be disclosed to the public, thus subjecting the evaluator, as well as the employee being evaluated, to public scrutiny.
In support of this assertion, the Court cited Univ of Pennsylvania v EEOC, 493 US 182; 110 S Ct 577; 107 L Ed 2d 571 (1990), a case involving peer review materials in an academic setting. In declining to recognize a common-law privilege protecting from disclosure peer review material, the United States Supreme Court made the following observations:
Finally, we are not so ready as petitioner seems to be to assume the worst about those in the academic community. Although it is possible that some evaluators may become less candid as the possibility of disclosure increases, others may simply ground their evaluations in specific examples and illustrations in order to deflect potential claims of bias or unfairness. Not all academics will hesitate to stand up and be counted when they evaluate their peers. [Id. at 200-201.]
Regardless of the validity of the presumption, it still remains that Michigan has identified this purpose as the primary “rationale for protecting the confidentiality of the records, data, and knowledge of such committees.” Attorney Gen v Bruce, 422 Mich 157, 169; 369 NW2d 826 (1985).
Dye involved MCL 333.21513(d), which specifically commands the creation of a peer review body concerned with evaluating hospital practices. A similar command is not found for nursing homes. Further, MCL 333.21513(c) provides that a hospital “[sjhall assure that physicians and dentists admitted to practice in the hospital are granted hospital privileges consistent with their individual training, experience, and other qualifications.” Thus, article 17 specifically commands that hospitals review the records at issue in Dye when evaluating not only if a physician will be given staff privileges, but the level of privileges that should be extended. There is no similar directive in the statutes applicable to nursing homes regarding I & A reports.
To the extent that a nursing home’s I & A documents might also include material that could be characterized as part of the deliberative process of the facility’s peer review committee, the I & A documents should be reviewed by a court in camera, with any privileged material being redacted. No such review was requested by Centennial.
There is nothing in the plain language of subsection 20175(8) limiting application of the privilege to civil litigation. Subsection 20175(8) unambiguously states that the identified information is “confidential” and “are not public records.” It does not situationally limit this blanket declaration of confidentiality by indicating that the identified items/information is confidential only for purposes of civil litigation, nor does it qualify the declaration that this information is not a public record.
The substantive basis of Centennial’s claim was not the Medicare Act, nor was its claim “inextricably intertwined” with a claim for Medicare benefits. See Heckler v Ringer, 466 US 602, 614; 104 S Ct 2013; 80 L Ed 2d 622 (1984). | [
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Per Curiam.
In this legal malpractice case, plaintiff
appeals as of right from an order of the circuit court granting defendants’ motion for summary disposition and dismissing with prejudice plaintiff’s cause of action. We affirm in part, reverse in part, and remand for further proceedings.
The underlying facts of this case are not in dispute. On January 16, 1994, plaintiff went snowmobiling near Hesperia, Michigan, with his cousin, Jenna Yob Verhil, and her husband, Tom Verhil. After snowmobiling, the three went to the Comstock Bar. At some point during the evening, a fight erupted at the bar and involved plaintiff and the Verhils. Subsequently, for his involvement in the bar fight, plaintiff was charged with two counts of assault with intent to commit great bodily harm less than murder and one count of assault and battery. Plaintiff was represented in this criminal matter by defendant Richard E. Zambón. Eventually, a plea agreement was worked out between plaintiff and the prosecutor. Plaintiff agreed to plead no contest to a misdemeanor charge of disorderly conduct and to provide restitution to the victims, in exchange for dismissal of the assault charges and the victims’ agreement to forego a civil suit. In the record the only expression of the terms of the agreement was made by the prosecutor at the plea hearing held in district court:
With regard to all of the current counts, we would add an additional count to each of those charges, that being disorderly conduct by reason of intoxication. Upon pleas to that, we would move to dismiss the other charges, with the understanding that after verification by the probation department, restitution would be joint and several in an amount not to exceed 7,000 dollars, that to be verified by medical bills and estimates to be presented to the probation department. There will be a release from further criminal and civil liability for both the Comstock Bar, and the Lambs, and other victims. Mr. and Mrs. Verhil, and Mr. Balcom would be required to have no contact with the bar, or any of the victims. We would recommend community service in lieu of any jail, as well as fines and costs, and a delay of sentence up to 90 days, both to verify damages, and to make sure that those damages are paid. E the damages have not been paid at that point, we would recommend probation solely for the purpose of securing the payment of damages. E the damages have been paid, we would not recommend any additional penalty.
After the prosecutor’s remarks, the district court expressed some concern about its ability to release plaintiff from any subsequent civil liability: “I can make an order that of course this is going to satisfy the criminal matters, but as far as civil is concerned, I can’t relieve the bar[ ] of any civil liability on the case,” the court explained. The district court then questioned C. Mitchell Lamb and his wife Robin Lamb, two of the victims of the bar fight who were present at the hearing. The Lambs indicated that the plea agreement was acceptable to them. Thereafter, plaintiff entered, and the court accepted, a plea of no contest to the disorderly conduct charge. No written plea agreement was ever prepared or entered.
Plaintiff’s sentencing hearing was held a little over four months later. The Lambs were present with their attorney. Plaintiff was represented by Tonya Krause, who was standing in for Zambón. Before sentencing, the district court addressed the Lambs:
I’m going along with the agreement made between the Prosecutor’s office and what — and what you all said in reducing this case and so on. ... I know you had medical damages, and I know you’re waiting for the money for the dental, and we’re going to try to get some of that to you today, all right, but is there anything else?
Mr. Lamb responded “No” to this inquiry. The court determined that plaintiff, Tom Verhil, and Jenna Yob Verhil each individually owed $2,703.20 in restitution. Plaintiff indicated that he was going to pay his share of the restitution that same day.
In August 1995, the Lambs filed in circuit court a civil suit against plaintiff, the Verhils, and the Com-stock Bar. Plaintiff moved for summary disposition under MCR 2.116(C)(4) and (C)(7), arguing, in part, that the Lambs’ suit was barred by the plea agreement and the subsequent payment of restitution. At the hearing on the motion, the circuit court indicated that while it did not believe that a plea agreement had to be in writing in order to be valid, it nonetheless had concern over the propriety of having a prosecutor involved in negotiating a release from civil liability. After hearing further argument, the circuit court issued its opinion from the bench denying the motion for summary disposition on public policy grounds:
I personally have been a prosecutor .... And as I previously stated the prosecutor does not.. . represent the victims. The prosecutor functions almost as a quasi judicial figure and the charge of the prosecutor is to do what is appropriate and what is just under the circumstances both to the victim and to the defendant.... And it is my opinion that a prosecuting attorney is not the proper party to broker a release of a civil lawsuit. . . . [I]n my opinion the proper method to resolve the problem would be to deal with the victim or the victims’ attorney and to work out between the two of them a settlement and a subsequent release, either in written form or put on the record, so, in short, what I’m saying is that the prosecutor should be kept out of the loop in terms of resolving a private civil lawsuit, and here, based on this record, the only statement of the settlement concerning the civil liability is that made by the prosecutor, so it is my opinion that this release — that there is no valid release under public policy grounds.
After the case was mediated and an award to the Lambs of $600 was refused, it was removed for jury trial in the district court. The jury found for Robin Lamb in the amount of $69,000, and in favor of C. Mitchell Lamb for $8,000. Plaintiffs appeal to the circuit court was denied because the court’s decision to deny plaintiffs motion for summary disposition “was never memorialized by the entry of an order denying the motion .... The absence of such an order constitutes abandonment of the issue.” Plaintiff’s subsequent applications for leave to appeal in both this Court and our Supreme Court were denied.
Subsequently, plaintiff filed his malpractice complaint and jury demand in circuit court. Plaintiff alleged that defendants committed malpractice by (1) failing to obtain a valid written release of civil liability in the underlying criminal matter, and (2) failing to have the circuit court enter an order denying his motion for summary disposition in the civil case filed by the Lambs. Defendants filed a motion for summary disposition under MCR 2.116(C)(7) and (C)(10), arguing that plaintiffs lawsuit should be dismissed because (1) it was barred by the applicable statute of limitations, (2) defendants did not have a duty to secure a written release in the criminal case, and (3) defendants did not have a duty to secure a written order denying plaintiffs motion for summary disposition in the Lambs’ civil case.
At the hearing on defendants’ motion, the circuit court rejected defendants’ statute of limitations argument. The court indicated, however, that it had serious concerns regarding plaintiff’s claim based on the criminal case. Citing MCL 750.149, Michigan’s compounding statute, the court asked plaintiff, “are you not claiming that Mr. Zambón was negligent for not doing a better job of committing a crime?” Plaintiff’s counsel acknowledged that he had not researched MCL 750.149, given that it had not been raised by defendants. He then asked “for a week or two to do the necessary research to see if there is any caselaw which would impact on the argument.” No extension was granted by the court. The court also rejected plaintiff’s argument that defendants were negligent for not getting a written release. “I must admit,” the court stated, “I’ve read the plea. The Judge is asking all the victims, ‘Is this okay with you?’ I can’t imagine anything more explicit than that establishing that, indeed, there was a release.”
Plaintiff first argues on appeal that the circuit court erred in dismissing his claim based upon Zambon’s failure to memorialize in writing the circuit court’s denial of his motion for summary disposition in the case filed by the Lambs. Specifically, plaintiff asserts that the court’s conclusion that civil releases such as the one involved in the case at bar are invalid under MCL 750.149 was erroneous. We agree. Resolution of this issue rests on interpreting the compounding statute, which we do de novo. People v Stone, 463 Mich 558, 561; 621 NW2d 702 (2001). “The overriding goal guiding judicial interpretation of statutes is to discover and give effect to legislative intent. The starting place for the search for intent is the language used in the statute.” Bio-Magnetic Resonance, Inc v Dep’t of Pub Health, 234 Mich App 225, 229; 593 NW2d 641 (1999) (citations omitted). “If the language of the statute is clear and unambiguous, then no further interpretation is required. However, judicial construction is appropriate when reasonable minds can differ with regard to the meaning of the statutory language.” Benedict v Dep’t of Treasury, 236 Mich App 559, 563; 601 NW2d 151 (1999) (citation omitted).
Section 149 reads:
Any person having knowledge of the commission of any offense punishable with death, or by imprisonment in the state prison, who shall take any money, or any gratuity or reward, or any engagement therefor, upon an agreement or understanding, express or implied, to compound or conceal such offense, or not to prosecute therefor, or not to give evidence thereof, shall, when such offense of which he has personal knowledge was punishable with death, or imprisonment in the state prison for life, be guilty of a felony; and where the offense, of which he so had knowledge, was punishable in any other manner, he shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment in the county jail not more than 1 year, or by fine of not more than 500 dollars.
With only minor stylistic changes, this statute has remained the same since 1871. See 1871 CL 7672. Despite this long history, only a handful of cases have ever cited the statute in any of its incarnations. The only published case we have been able to find in Michigan citing MCL 750.149 is People v Vincent, 94 Mich App 626; 288 NW2d 670 (1980). In dicta, Vincent stated that it is “apparent” that under the statute, “the acceptance of money or some other thing of value [is] ... an important aspect of a defendant’s culpability in concealing the felony. Indeed, this statute would appear to indicate that actually concealing the felony is of less importance than agreeing or promising to do so for value.” Id. at 633, n 5. These statements identify two elements of the offense: the receipt of consideration and an agreement to conceal the offense.
1871 CL 7672 was cited in Snyder v Willey, 33 Mich 483 (1876). At issue in Synder was the enforceability of a promissory note given by the defendant to suppress a criminal prosecution of his son-in-law. Id. at 485-486. When the defendant refused to honor the note, the plaintiff sued. 1871 CL 7672 was cited by Snyder as support for the following proposition: “The finding settled beyond all question, that the writing sued on was based in part in an illegal consideration, and hence was not enforceable by the promisee, who was party to such illegality.” Snyder, supra at 494-495. This also addresses the consideration element of the offense.
A few other Michigan cases have spoken of the offense either as it was defined at common law or without making any distinction of whether the Court’s observations stemmed from the statute or the common law. For example, Van Ness v Hadsell, 54 Mich 560; 20 NW 585 (1884), held that it is not compounding a felony for a county treasurer to account for moneys as received from his predecessor that had not in fact been received, while assuming their payment upon the predecessor’s assurance that he will make the amount good if his accounts are incorrect. Id. at 563. In Koons v Vauconsant, 129 Mich 260; 88 NW 630 (1902), the plaintiffs sought to invalidate a mortgage they claimed was executed under the threat that their son would be arrested if they did not execute the document. Id. at 261. The Koons Court concluded that the defendants had “availed themselves of the persuasive influence of the fear of prosecution of the son . . . .” Id. at 262. “The arrangement,” the Court continued, “was to all intents and purposes an agreement to compound an alleged felony.” Id. Groening v Nowlen, 369 Mich 28; 118 NW2d 998 (1963), involved a “suit in equity [that] was brought by [the] plaintiff in the circuit court of Berrien county to set aside the deed given by him to defendants on the alleged grounds that the consideration therefor involved the compounding of a felony.” Id. at 30. The Groening Court made the following observation: “ ‘[T]he law punishes those who compound a felony. As a consideration for an undertaking, a promise not to prosecute a felony is illegal and void.’ ” Id. at 35, quoting Koons, supra at 263.
In People v Kyllonen, 402 Mich 135, 140; 262 NW2d 2 (1978), our Supreme Court was presented with the issue whether the then-current version of MCL 750.535 “provide[d] an alternate statute under which thieves could be convicted . . . .” Kyllonen defined the common-law crime of compounding a felony in this manner: “Agreeing not to report the commission of a known felony in exchange for some valuable consideration.” Kyllonen, supra at 143, n 9. This statement of the law recognizes a third element that has been implied in all the other cases cited above, i.e., knowledge of the commission of a crime.
All these three elements are present in the compounding statute, which we conclude is a codification of the offense at common law. Given the case law and the clear language of the statute, we conclude that in order to sustain a charge of compounding a felony under the statute, the following must be established: (1) the existence of an agreement to not prosecute or to conceal a crime, or to decline to provide evidence in a criminal prosecution; (2) knowledge of the commission of a crime; and (3) the receipt of some valuable consideration. See also 4 Torcia, Wharton’s Criminal Law (15th ed), § 573, p 287 (“At common law, a person is guilty of compounding a felony when he agrees, in consideration of money, property, or some other thing of value, to refrain from reporting or prosecuting the felony, or, if there is a prosecution, to refrain from participating therein as an informant or witness.”). The language of § 149 also makes clear that it is not the person who offers the consideration but the person who accepts it who has committed the offense.
The circuit court in the case at bar concluded that a claim of malpractice could not be sustained against Zambón for the attorney’s failure to secure a written order denying plaintiff’s motion for summary disposition in the civil case filed by the Lambs because the plea agreement itself was void for illegality. “To the extent [plaintiff] ... is complaining that defendant attorney was negligent for not better negotiating and/or memorializing a release from civil liability,” the circuit court observed, “plaintiff is complaining that said defendant did not do a better job of violating MCL 750.149 . . . .” We conclude that the circuit court was mistaken.
The only parties who received anything that would qualify as valuable consideration in the case at bar were the victims, who each received nearly $3,000 in restitution. There is no evidence, however, that this benefit was conferred upon the victims in exchange for their promise to conceal any evidence or to decline participation in any prosecution of plaintiff. Indeed, the victims had been actively participating in the criminal process up to the point of the plea. What the victims did agree to forego was a civil case based on the acts of plaintiff. The statute does not criminalize such behavior. Additionally, plaintiff was not allowed to avoid criminal prosecution altogether; rather, he was allowed to plead no contest to a misdemeanor charge of disorderly conduct.
If the agreement is considered to be a third-party beneficiary contract, with the consideration having flowed to the victims, then the issue becomes whether the consideration was given in exchange for Zambon’s promise not to prosecute or to somehow frustrate the prosecution through an improper concealment of evidence. Clearly, Zambón had no authority to prosecute his own client, and there is no evidence that Zambón attempted to improperly frustrate the state’s prosecution of his client.
The circuit court also questioned the propriety of the prosecutor’s involvement in securing the civil liability release. We conclude that Zambón could not be considered to have violated or attempted to violate the compounding statute on the basis of his actions assisting in this process, because we find the actions of the prosecutor are not improper. Defendants maintain on appeal that the impropriety of the prosecutor’s actions is recognized in case law. In support of this proposition, defendants cite case law that does not specifically address the situation at bar. Rather, defendants cite cases holding that it is improper for a prosecutor to negotiate with a defendant for an agreement releasing a government or its employees from civil liability in exchange for dropping a criminal prosecution against the defendant. See, e.g., Stamps v Taylor, 218 Mich App 626, 630; 554 NW2d 603 (1996); Gray v Galesburg, 71 Mich App 161, 162-163; 247 NW2d 338 (1976). The confluence of private and public interests implicated by the Stamps-style release-dismissal agreement is not present when the civil release does not apply to a government or its employees.
If the principles of Stamps and Gray are stretched to encompass the situation at bar, we still see no impropriety. Stamps held that release-dismissal agreements are not invalid per se. Stamps, supra at 635. Rather, their validity is tied to the circumstances in which they arose. Id. at 632. Examining the circumstances in the case at bar, we find no evidence that the agreement was involuntary, no evidence of prosecutorial misconduct, and no evidence that enforcement of the agreement will adversely affect relevant public interests. Id. A prosecutor must not be prevented from adjusting or even dropping a prosecution when restitution has been arranged, if the prosecutor believes that such an arrangement best serves the interests of justice.
In sum, we see no violation of the compounding statute by either the victims or the prosecutor. Also, Zambón did not violate the statute either directly or as a result of his aiding in the plea negotiations.
The circuit court also concluded that because Zambón preserved the issue by arguing the merits of the agreement, a claim of malpractice could not be maintained. The circuit court’s reasoning misses the point. It is true that by raising the issue of the validity of the release, Zambón preserved the matter for appeal. However, once the case was removed to district court, the door to appellate review of the circuit court’s ruling was effectively closed by the lack of a written order or judgment. The question whether Zambón should have either anticipated the removal or taken steps to document the circuit court’s holding after removal occurred is a close enough question to render summary disposition inappropriate.
We reject plaintiff’s contention that the circuit court erred in dismissing his claim of malpractice based on Zambon’s failure to secure a written plea agreement in the underlying criminal matter. As the circuit court concluded, the plea agreement did not have to be memorialized in a writing to be binding. MCR 2.507(H). Further, we conclude that this claim of malpractice is barred by the statute of limitations. A plaintiff has two years from the date of accrual of a claim to file a claim of malpractice. MCL 600.5805(5); Ohio Farmers Ins Co v Shamie (On Remand), 243 Mich App 232, 236; 622 NW2d 85 (2000). Accrual in this case is governed by MCL 600.5838(1), which provides in pertinent part:
[A] claim based on the malpractice of a person who is, or holds himself or herself out to be, a member of a state licensed profession accrues at the time that person discontinues serving the plaintiff in a professional or pseudo-professional capacity as to the matter out of which the claim for malpractice arose, regardless of the time the plaintiff discovers or otherwise has knowledge of the claim.
“A lawyer discontinues serving a client when relieved of the obligation by the client or the court, or upon completion of a specific legal service that the lawyer was retained to perform.” Maddox v Burlingame, 205 Mich App 446, 450; 517 NW2d 816 (1994) (citations omitted).
Here, “the matter out of which [this] . . . claim of malpractice arose” was the criminal case. Whether Zambón ceased serving plaintiff after the sentencing or on the day of the dated notice that plaintiffs file was being closed in the criminal matter, this claim of malpractice was untimely. Additionally, plaintiffs claim is not saved by the six-month discovery rule. MCL 600.5838(2). Plaintiff knew or should have known that his claim for malpractice existed at the time the circuit court ruled from the bench that the plea agreement was invalid because it was not set forth in writing.
In conclusion, we hold that the circuit court did not err in summarily dismissing plaintiffs claim of malpractice based on his attorney’s failure to secure a written plea agreement in the criminal case. However, the circuit court did err in summarily dismissing plaintiff’s claim based on his attorney’s failure to secure a written order denying plaintiffs motion for summary disposition in the civil case filed by the Lambs.
Affirmed in part, reversed in part, and remanded for further proceedings consistent with this opinion. We do not retain jurisdiction.
MCL 750.84.
MCL 750.81.
MCL 750.167(1)(e).
We conclude that the court’s reference to “the bar” is a reference to the Comstock Bar, i.e., the court expressed concern that it “can’t relieve the [Comstock] bar of any civil liability.” We believe this interpretation is in keeping with the fact that the Comstock Bar was not charged in the criminal matter before the district court.
No written order or opinion was issued by the circuit court. The absence of such a document is the basis of one of plaintiff’s two claims of malpractice. See discussion infra.
We note that the statute still contains a nugatory reference to the death penalty.
To conclude that the prosecutor engaged in misconduct because he engaged in the negotiations simply begs the question.
We also note that the release was ratified by the victims present at plaintiffs sentencing.
MCR 2.507(H) reads:
An agreement or consent between the parties or their attorneys respecting the proceedings in an action, subsequently denied by either party, is not binding unless it was made in open court, or unless evidence of the agreement is in writing, subscribed by the party against whom the agreement is offered or by that party’s attorney.
Plaintiff’s claim based upon the failure to secure a written order denying plaintiff’s motion for summary disposition in the civil case filed by the Lambs was not untimely. | [
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Sawyer, J.
Plaintiff appeals from an order of the circuit court granting summary disposition to defendant on plaintiffs complaint to set aside a foreclosure sale. We reverse and remand.
Plaintiff and his mother, Donna Townsend, purchased certain real property in Calhoun County “as joint tenants with full rights of survivorship” on August 7, 1995. For reasons not readily apparent, Mrs. Townsend alone executed a mortgage on that same date in favor of Amerifirst Home Mortgage. Plaintiff was not a party to the mortgage. Thereafter, Amerifirst transferred its interest to defendant.
Following Mrs. Townsend’s death in 2000, plaintiff made no payments on the mortgage, instead notifying defendant that the mortgage did not survive his mother’s death. Eventually, defendant foreclosed on the mortgage and conducted a foreclosure sale. Plaintiff then filed the instant action, seeking to have the foreclosure set aside.
The parties filed cross-motions for summary disposition, plaintiff under MCR 2.116(C)(10) and defendant under MCR 2.116(C)(8). The trial court sum marily denied plaintiffs motion, indicating that it was premature because nearly two hundred days of discovery remained. The trial court did, however, grant defendant’s motion, opining as follows:
It’s just inconceivable to me that a plaintiff could prevail here, and this note and mortgage would be for naught because Mrs. Townsend, that was her name, passed away along the way.
It just — the mortgage, as indicated, Paragraph 12 clearly states that the assigns and successors in interest are bound. The mortgage is the security. They didn’t loan this money to Mrs. Townsend just as an unsecured creditor, and willing to take a risk on a 30-year mortgage that if she passes away, their interest in the property will be extinguished. That mortgage, it seems to me, secures an interest in the property, not in Mrs. Townsend, and what have you.
And that security interest, it seems to me, I’m convinced, reading the statute that’s been cited and the case law, that that security interest continues on upon her death. It would be a windfall. It would be an absolute windfall, for starts, if that were the criteria here for James Townsend to get this property debt free, simply because of the unfortunate death of his relative, mother, or whoever it is.
But it doesn’t even reach that point of being an issues [sic] of equities and what have you. I am convinced that from a legal perspective, this obligation, this mortgage and note in her name continued on, did not terminate as a matter of law upon the death of Mrs. Townsend, and continues to be an obligation.
First, the trial court’s analysis contains a fundamental flaw: that plaintiff argues that the promissory note (i.e., the debt itself terminated at his mother’s death. Plaintiff does not argue that the debt itself was extinguished or that defendant could not have collected the debt against Mrs. Townsend’s estate were it sufficiently solvent to pay the debt. Rather, plaintiff merely argues that, because he was joint tenant with full rights of survivorship, he became sole owner in fee simple by operation of law upon Mrs. Townsend’s death and, because he was not a party to the mortgage, the mortgage was effectively terminated at her death because her estate had no interest in the property. This case does not involve the question whether a security interest survives death where the secured property becomes an asset of the debtor’s estate.
It is settled law in Michigan that, while survivorship rights in an ordinary joint tenancy may be destroyed by an act that severs the joint tenancy, survivorship rights cannot be destroyed where the grant is to “joint tenants with right of survivorship” (or some reasonable variation in wording). Albro v Allen, 434 Mich 271, 287; 454 NW2d 85 (1990). Thus, where the conveyance includes express words of survivorship, what is created is a joint life estate with dual contingent remainders (i.e., a contingent remainder in fee to the survivor). Id. at 277. Thus, no act of a co-tenant can defeat the other co-tenant’s right of survivorship.
In the case at bar, plaintiff did not encumber his interest in the property. Plaintiff’s name was on both the purchase agreement and the deed, therefore defendant’s predecessor in interest, Amerifirst Home Mortgage, was presumably aware of plaintiff’s interest in the property but, for whatever reason, did not require that plaintiff pledge his interest in the property. Further, there is no indication that Mrs. Townsend had the authority to pledge her son’s interest in the property.
The trial court relies on the provision in the mortgage that binds the mortgagor’s successors and assigns. What the trial court overlooks is that plaintiff is neither a successor nor an assign. That is, plaintiffs interest in the property was not created by an assignment from his mother nor was he otherwise a successor in interest to his mother — he is not his mother’s estate nor, for that matter, did he inherit the property. Rather, his interest was created at the same time as was his mother’s interest. Indeed, unity of time is one of the four unities that characterize a joint tenancy. Albro, supra at 274. Both plaintiff and his mother had the same interest in the property, created at the same time: a life estate with a contingent remainder in fee.
Defendant cites a number of cases that generally hold that a contractual obligation survives death and binds the estate. Again, however, the obligation of Donna Townsend’s estate is not at issue. We do not hold, nor does plaintiff argue, that Mrs. Townsend’s estate is not liable on the note executed by Mrs. Townsend. All we hold is that plaintiff is not liable on the mortgage because he was not a party to the mortgage, therefore the mortgage was effectively terminated by Mrs. Townsend’s death because her interest in the property was extinguished with her death. Simply put, while the debt became an obligation of the estate, the property did not become an asset of the estate.
Defendant also relies on our decision in Graves v American Acceptance Mortgage Corp, 246 Mich App 1; 630 NW2d 383 (2001), wherein we held that a purchase money mortgage took priority over a previously recorded hen. However, this case was recently reversed by the Supreme Court. Graves v American Acceptance Mortgage Corp, 467 Mich 308; 652 NW2d 221 (2002).
Defendant further argues that it should have an equitable lien or mortgage on the property. We disagree. Most equitable mortgage cases appear to involve treating what on its face is an absolute conveyance as a mortgage. See, e.g., Judd v Carnegie, 324 Mich 583, 585; 37 NW2d 558 (1949). However, defendant does direct our attention to Schram v Burt, 111 F2d 557 (CA 6, 1940), wherein the court used the equitable mortgage doctrine to obligate a party on a mortgage that the party had not executed. However, the facts in Schram differ materially from the case at bar. Mr. and Mrs. Burt acquired a vacant lot upon which they built a house. Mr. Burt procured a mortgage to pay for the project. After Mr. Burt’s death, it was discovered that Mrs. Burt had never signed or executed the mortgage, Mr. Burt having apparently signed his wife’s name to the documents. Mrs. Burt took the position that, because the properly had been held by the entireties, she became sole owner of the property upon her husband’s death free of the mortgage. Ultimately, the court applied the equitable mortgage doctrine on the basis that Mrs. Burt had authorized Mr. Burt to act as her agent in managing the house-building project, and specifically with respect to the loan. Id. at 562. Additionally, the court noted that there was no reason for the bank not to believe that it was either Mrs. Burt’s signature on the mortgage or, at least, that she had authorized her husband to sign on her behalf. Id. at 564.
By contrast, in the case at bar, defendant makes no showing that Mrs. Townsend was acting as plaintiffs agent or that the mortgage company had any reason to believe that plaintiff was a party to the mortgage. That is, while in Schram the court concluded that the mortgage company had no reason to believe at the time of advancing the funds that Mrs. Burt had not executed the mortgage, in the case at bar the mortgage company had no reason to believe that plaintiff had executed the mortgage.
However, the case does not fit into the mold of treating a conveyance as a mortgage, as in Judd, nor in reforming a failed mortgage, as in Schram. The only equity that defendant seeks to have done here is to save defendant from the mistake of the original mortgagee in not insisting that plaintiff pledge his interest in the property to secure the loan, a mistake that defendant could easily have discovered by comparing the names on the deed with the names on the mortgage before it purchased the mortgage. We think it insufficient to invoke equity to save the mortgagee from its own mistake, particularly where the mortgagee is a sophisticated commercial lender.
Finally, defendant brings forth a “parade of horrors” that would allegedly occur if we accept plaintiff’s position, such as lenders becoming unwilling to grant mortgages to individuals over forty years old, or requiring a physical examination to determine life expectancy before granting a mortgage. Defendant’s argument, and the trial court’s analysis for that matter, overlooks a very simple fact: defendant’s predecessor in interest could have avoided this problem simply by having plaintiff pledge his interest in the property to secure the mortgage. In which case, the property would have remained encumbered by the mortgage even after Mrs. Townsend’s death.
In sum, Mrs. Townsend’s interest in the property was that of a life estate coupled with a contingent remainder interest in fee. Defendant had a mortgage against that interest. Once that property interest was extinguished, the mortgage was terminated and defendant was left holding an unsecured note.
As for the trial court’s denial of plaintiff’s motion for summary disposition, a motion under MCR 2.116(C)(10) is generally premature if discovery has not closed, unless there is no fair likelihood that further discovery would yield support for the nonmoving party’s position. American Community Mut Ins Co v Comm’r of Ins, 195 Mich App 351, 363; 491 NW2d 597 (1992). In the case at bar, the trial court dismissed plaintiff’s motion out of hand as premature, noting that the case was only forty-five days into a 217-day discovery period. While it is not clear to us what facts defendant anticipates being able to develop to support its position, we cannot say that the trial court erred in concluding that plaintiff’s motion was premature.
The trial court’s grant of summary disposition to defendant is reversed and the matter is remanded for further proceedings consistent with this opinion. We do not retain jurisdiction. No costs, neither party having prevailed in full.
For example, Smith owes money to Jones and gives a deed for Black-acre to Jones, the parties intending that Jones will reconvey the property to Smith after Smith pays the debt he owes to Jones. The courts will treat this as an equitable mortgage rather than as an absolute conveyance.
Another failed mortgage case relied on by defendant, Hill v Hill, 185 Kan 389; 345 P2d 1015 (1959), does come closer to matching the facts of this case. In Hill, a husband and wife purchased property and part of the purchase price was supplied by the husband’s son in the form of a loan. The husband executed a promissory note that listed the terms of the loan, as well as acknowledging that the proceeds of the loan were to be used to make the “first payment” on the property and that the son was to have an interest in the property to the extent of the loan. The note was signed by the husband alone. After the husband’s death, the son sought to enforce the loan against his stepmother (the property had been titled as joint tenants with the right of survivorship). We do not find the Hill case to be persuasive, however. First, the promissory note indicated only that the property was bought by the husband, while in the case at bar if was clear to the mortgage company the property was purchased by both plaintiff and his mother. Morever, in Hill the lender was a private party, not a commercial lender.
Hill also coupled the purchase money mortgage principle with the equitable mortgage principle, essentially closing the promissory note as an equitable purchase money mortgage. However, for the reasons stated in the discussion of the purchase money mortgage issue, we do not agree that the pinchase money mortgage principle should apply to contingent remainder interests of owners who were not parties to the mortgage. | [
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