Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California
nominal defendant
I recently received a summons and
complaint from my estranged
stepmother that I was being included
as a nominal defendant in her elder
abuse wrongful death suit against a
convalescent hospital where my
father died. I want to counter sue
her. Can this be done?
Asked on 5/03/09, 1:32 pm
1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Stone
Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE
Re: nominal defendant
The fact that you were named as a nominal defendant means that you may also have the right to sue the hospital as a plaintiff. If you think Stepmom is responsible for your father's death, this would be the right lawsuit in which to file a cross-complaint or "countersuit." For all your other possible legal claims against Stepmom you would probably be better off filing a separate lawsuit against her.
Answered on 5/03/09, 9:18 pm