The Michigan Court of Appeals decision, in denying governmental immunity to the teacher, found there was substantial evidence from which a jury could find in favor of the student, including testimony from the student that she was pressured to use the saw by her teacher, that she had requested assistance from the teacher but had been rejected, and that the teacher had advised her that the saw guards were optional and only necessary for insurance inspections.

“Typically, the defense of government immunity excludes most claims from trial or litigation and bars a large number of claims, so this is a huge win for the young victim in this case,” Colella said. “This decision by the Michigan Supreme Court will allow the student to pursue her claims at trial, where a jury will rightly decide the issue of liability.”

The jury trial in Bellinger v Kram is expected to take place in spring 2018.

About Moss & Colella

Established in 1997, Moss & Colella represents the victims of personal injury, civil rights violations, discrimination and wrongful death.   The firm is recognized as a leader in complex tort litigation, including excess and deadly force, jail death, sexual abuse and harassment, auto and truck accidents, and other serious injury and wrongful death claims.   To learn more about the firm and its diverse areas of practice, visit the Moss & Colella website.