Opinion ID: 2218953
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 11

Heading: jurisdiction

Text: However, since we lack jurisdiction to entertain appeals from other than final orders, In re Interest of L. W., 241 Neb. 84, 486 N.W.2d 486 (1992), we are required to determine on our own inquiry whether the orders granting appellees' motions for summary judgment against Mercury are final. Ordinarily, an order in a civil action, that is to say, in a cause brought under the provisions of chapter 25 of our statutes, is final when no further act of the trial court is required to dispose of the cause. Brozovsky v. Norquest, 231 Neb. 731, 437 N.W.2d 798 (1989); In re Interest of R.G., 238 Neb. 405, 470 N.W.2d 780 (1991); Neb.Rev.Stat. § 25-1902 (Reissue 1989). Generally, an interlocutory summary adjudication of liability alone, which does not decide the question of damages, is not appealable. Hart v. Ronspies, 181 Neb. 38, 146 N.W.2d 795 (1966). However, an order which affects a substantial right in an action and which in effect determines the action and prevents a judgment is final. In re Interest of R.G., supra . Here, the policy obligates Mercury to defend any suit alleging bodily injury and seeking damages payable under its terms. Thus, the summary judgments in these cases affect one of Mercury's substantial rights and prevent a judgment in its favor on that issue. Accordingly, the judgments are final and appealable. West American Insurance Co. v. Vago, 197 Ill. App.3d 131, 143 Ill.Dec. 195, 553 N.E.2d 1181 (1990), appeal denied 133 Ill.2d 574, 149 Ill.Dec. 340, 561 N.E.2d 710 (order declaring insurers had duty to defend but dismissing without prejudice the issue as to duty to indemnify held to be final and appealable).