Full Title:
Doe v. Gonzaga University, 24 P.3d 390
Excerpt:
Content Warning
Petitioner John Doe sought review of a Court of Appeals’ decision reversing the jury’s award of damages (based on claims of defamation, negligence, invasion of privacy, violation of his rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), and breach of contract) and remanding the case for retrial solely on the defamation claim. We hold that the jury was properly instructed and that there is substantial evidence to sustain the jury’s verdict on the defamation, invasion of privacy, violation of FERPA, and breach of contract claims. Because Gonzaga had no duty to investigate allegations against John Doe, there is no cognizable claim for negligence. Therefore, the Court of Appeals’ decision is affirmed in part and reversed in part. The case is remanded to reinstate the judgment on all claims except negligence, which is to be dismissed.
Source Citation:
Doe v. Gonzaga University. 2001. 24 P.3d 390 (Wash. 2001).