Opinion ID: 2118043
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Smith's Status As To Deering

Text: At trial, Deering moved for judgment on the evidence on the premise that Smith was a licensee as to Deering and not an invitee. The trial court denied this motion and Deering cross-appealed. The Court of Appeals determined that because Deering was aware that the staircase was used by tenants of both buildings, and because he exercised a degree of control as well as a share of responsibility for the maintenance of the staircase, Smith could be considered an implied invitee. 570 N.E.2d 126. Consequently, Deering owed Smith a duty to exercise reasonable care for her safety and the trial court properly denied Deering's motion for judgment on the evidence. We agree with this portion of the Court of Appeals' opinion and adopt and incorporate it by reference pursuant to App. Rule 11(B)(3).