Opinion ID: 1860874
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: Pro Se Motions

Text: Elam next argues that the circuit court abused its discretion by denying posttrial pro se motions submitted by Elam's guardian to set aside the judgment based on New York law. First Unum responds that this issue was waived for failure to comply with Arkansas Rule of Civil Procedure 44.1, regarding notice of intent to raise the law of a foreign jurisdiction. Moreover, First Unum claims that this issue was not raised until after the jury verdict. The circuit court did not abuse its discretion in denying Elam's posttrial motions concerning Ark.Code Ann. § 4-8-110 (Repl.2001), and New York insurance contract statutes. These matters were not raised or considered at trial, and the circuit court was not required to consider the law of a foreign jurisdiction which was not brought to its attention. See, e.g., Overton Constr., Inc. v. First State Bank, 281 Ark. 69, 662 S.W.2d 470 (1983) (trial court did not abuse its discretion by accepting appellee's notice under Ark. R. Civ. P. 44.1 that it was relying on foreign law, which was submitted before judgment). Regarding First Unum's cross appeal, which concerns Elam's alleged LSD usage, we find it unnecessary to address this issue as we are affirming the judgment in favor of First Unum. Affirmed. GLAZE, J., not participating. THORNTON, J., dissents.