Opinion ID: 895908
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Liability For Assault

Text: [¶ 15] Without citing or discussing any comparable cases, Shelver argues he is entitled to judgment as a matter of law because the evidence, he contends, was insufficient to prove an assault or any injury from his conduct. Shelver argues there is no evidence that he acted wilfully to restrain or harm Blessum. Shelver also asserts Blessum's evidence linking his actions to her claimed injuries was insufficient, and that she failed to prove her loss of wages to a reasonable degree of certainty. [¶ 16] A post-trial motion for judgment as a matter of law seeks judgment notwithstanding the verdict. Barnes v. Mitzel Builders, Inc., 526 N.W.2d 244, 246 (N.D. 1995). In considering a motion for judgment notwithstanding, the trial court must apply a rigorous standard with a view towards preserving a jury verdict, and so must we on review. Victory Park Apartments, Inc. v. Axelson, 367 N.W.2d 155, 166 (N.D.1985). As we explained in Fronk v. Meager, 417 N.W.2d 807, 813 (N.D.1987), we will affirm the denial of a motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict unless the evidence, when viewed in the light most favorable to the litigant opposing the motion, dictates a conclusion only for the movant. [¶ 17] The trial court instructed the jury that [a] person commits an assault if he... willfully causes bodily restraint or harm to another human being or places another human being in immediate apprehension of bodily restraint or harm. The evidence here, when viewed in the light most favorable to Blessum, supports the verdict that Shelver willfully cause[d] [Blessum] bodily restraint or harm. [¶ 18] Shelver admitted he purposefully grabbed Blessum by the shoulders, and Blessum testified he shook her. In doing so, his grip was strong enough to leave marks on her shoulders and to cause her physical pain. This evidence was enough to prove Shelver intentionally grabbed Blessum without regard for possible harm to her. The element of physical restraint was clearly proven. [¶ 19] Blessum testified about the physical effects on her and her need for physical therapy, and other witnesses corroborated her testimony. Blessum also testified Shelver's acts caused her emotional pain and suffering. Finally, Blessum testified she could not work for twenty months after her traumatic experience. The evidence thus causally connected Shelver's conduct and Blessum's injuries.