In New York, Sometimes The Best Case Is One That Isn't A Case

Late last week, I received a call from a colleague of mine who wanted to refer a potential defective products case to my office. He indicated that a woman had suffered severe injuries to her hand, which required corrective surgery, because the lawnmower she was using had malfunctioned, and that the defective design of the lawnmower was likely to blame. Naturally, given the significance of the injuries involved, I was intrigued.

Fast forward a few days later, and I finally speak with this potential client. After a few pleasantries were exchanged, she stated, "I really don't think there's a case here, and I don't want to waste your time. Although I could certainly use the money, there was nothing wrong with the lawnmower. I just made a stupid mistake." She then proceeded to set forth in detail how the accident happened, and why she accepted full responsibility for her accident.

So how is this a positive outcome you ask? Simple. This woman had enough self-respect, and enough respect for my time and money that she didn't want me to invest them in her case when she knew that she was squarely at fault for her own personal injuries. And I found this out within a few minutes rather than thousands of dollars and a year or two later. Even better, I think I've made a new friend, who may refer other, more righteous cases my way down the line.