Opinion ID: 1772507
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: The Fowlers' requests for injunctions concerning evidentiary matters properly raise equity jurisdiction.

Text: ¶ 30. In count two of their amended complaint, the Fowlers requested several injunctions concerning evidentiary matters. Specifically, the Fowlers requested preliminary injunctions for the preservation of evidence gathered in their case, as there is a criminal matter underway regarding much of the same evidence. The Fowlers also sought an inventory of evidence taken in connection with the collision and an opportunity for Fowlers' experts to examine, photograph and/or record the evidence. ¶ 31. This Court has stated that mandatory injunctions should be granted in a cautious manner and only when such is the only effective remedy. Hall v. Wood, 443 So.2d 834, 841 (Miss.1983) (citing Homes, Inc. v. Anderson, 235 So.2d 680, 683 (Miss. 1970); Warrior, Inc. v. Easterly, 360 So.2d 700, 704 (Miss.1978)). Further, it is the insufficiency of a remedy at law which serves as the foundation for injunctive relief. Moore v. Sanders, 558 So.2d 1383, 1385 (Miss.1990) (citing V. Griffith, Mississippi Chancery Practice § 434 (2d ed.1950)). ¶ 32. The instant case raises a unique and justifiable concern as to the preservation of and access to the evidence. Indeed, there is a criminal proceeding involved wherein much of the same evidence will be and already has been repeatedly employed. Thus, the Fowlers' request for injunctive relief on this basis is the only remedy available to ensure the preservation of the evidence. Therefore, equity jurisdiction in the chancery court is proper on this basis.