Opinion ID: 1058362
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: Worley's Motion for Summary Judgment

Text: Finally, we address Worley's argument that the Court of Appeals erred in affirming the trial court's denial of his motion for summary judgment. Worley argues that he owed no legally-recognized duty to Jennifer Biscan because he did not serve, provide, encourage, or assist in the underage consumption of alcohol. He argues that it would be an injustice to hold him liable for Jennifer's injuries resulting from Brown's consumption of alcohol at the party because, had he actually furnished the alcohol to Brown, Tennessee Code Annotated section 57-10-101 would shield him from fault. He also argues that even if he did assume a duty of care, he abandoned that duty. The plaintiffs advance three theories for imposition of a duty. First, they argue that Worley owed a common-law duty of care to Jennifer Biscan. Second, they argue that even if Worley did not owe this duty under the common law, he voluntarily assumed it. Finally, the plaintiffs argue that Worley was negligent per se. We will consider each argument in turn.