Reference no: EM132232777
View the award winning movie "A Civil Action" and answer the questions below. The video is available to view for free at the library or you may purchase the video using various popular video streaming websites.
Overview of Video:
Jan Schlichtmann, a tenacious young lawyer, is confronted with the litigation of a lifetime in this unbelievable real-life story. Several families in the small town of Woburn, Massachusetts, have suffered the tragic losses of their children to the rare cancer known as leukemia. After having their claim rejected by most law firms in town, these citizens approach Schlichtmann with the possibility that the deaths of their children may have had to do with Woburn's drinking water supply being contaminated by a couple of local businesses. A problem lies in the fact that these businesses are offshoots of two of the most powerful national corporations in the country! Schlichtmann must push his skill and craftiness as a lawyer to the limit in order to oust his opponents, who are working with a limitless bankroll. Based on the great fact-based novel.
Be prepared to discuss all aspects of the story and answer the questions below relating to the ethical issues presented.
Part I.
Why is Jan explaining the dollar value of different dead people?
Who did he say was the perfect victim?
Who is the most imperfect?
Why does personal injury law have a bad reputation?
Why did he say "I can appreciate the theatrical value of several dead kids".
What event led to him deciding to take the case?
He said "Law suits are war". How do they begin?
Why did he think large law firms are bullies?
Who played the part of Jan in this movie?
What are the odds of a plaintiffs lawyer winning in court?
What percent of cases ever reach a verdict? Why?
What happened at the settlement hearing? Why didn't he settle?
Of what did Woburn have more than its share?
What did Mr. Thatcher say was the single greatest liability a lawyer could have?
Why did Jerry Thatcher say that a courtroom was no place to look for the truth? Where did he say you should look for it?
Who played the part of Thatcher in this movie?
When they were awaiting the jury verdict, why did Jan not accept Jerry's $20 million offer to settle?
Why did they finally settle and for how much?
What were the affected families reaction to the settlement and all the work Jan had done for them?
How many cases will win in an appeals court?
How did the EPA get involved and what was the result?
Did Jan change as a result of this case? How and why?
Part II
What are the ethical issues in this case?
Number and explain each issue.