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Everything You Need to Know About Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED)
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED) is a legal concept that allows individuals to seek compensation for severe emotional distress caused by another person's extreme and outrageous behavior. Unlike other torts, IIED focuses specifically on the emotional harm inflicted upon a person due to intentional misconduct, rather than physical injuries or financial losses.
If you have suffered a physical injury and as a result have become the victim of IIED as well, you need personalized, sympathetic legal care. At Wettermark Keith, we know the toll both physical and mental injuries take from a person who has had a personal injury. A physical injury is painful, but we also know the mental anguish that can be caused as a result of IIED and we are here to help.
Legal Definition of Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED) is recognized under tort law as a claim where one party's conduct causes another party to suffer severe emotional distress. The legal definition typically involves proving that the defendant's behavior was both extreme and outrageous, and that it intentionally or recklessly caused emotional harm to the plaintiff.
To establish an IIED claim, the plaintiff must demonstrate several key elements:
Extreme and Outrageous Conduct: The defendant’s actions must be so outrageous and extreme that they go beyond the bounds of decency, shocking the conscience of a reasonable person.
Intentional or Reckless Conduct: The defendant must have acted with the intention of causing emotional distress or with reckless disregard for the likelihood of causing such distress.
Severe Emotional Distress: The plaintiff must show that they experienced emotional distress that was severe and of a kind that no reasonable person should have to endure.
Causation: The distress experienced by the plaintiff must be directly linked to the defendant’s outrageous conduct.
Differences Between IIED and Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress (NIED)
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED) and Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress (NIED) are both legal causes of action that address emotional harm. However, the specific requirements for proving these claims differ significantly, reflecting the varying degrees of culpability involved in each.
| Basis of Claim | Intentional or reckless | Negligent conduct |
| Nature of Conduct | Must be extreme and outrageous | Conduct must breach a duty of care but need not be extreme |
| Intent | Requires proof of intent to cause distress or recklessness | Requires proof of negligence (failure to exercise reasonable care) |
| Emotional Distress Requirement | Severe emotional distress | Emotional distress must be a foreseeable consequence of the defendant's negligence |
| Proof of Conduct | Conduct must be shocking and beyond the bounds of decency | Emotional distress must be a foreseeable consequence of the defendant's negligence |
| Proof of Harm | Evidence of severe emotional distress and direct causation | Must show that the conduct was careless or failed to meet a standard of care |
| Typical Cases | Extreme harassment, intentional threats, severe workplace abuse | Emotional distress caused by accidents, medical malpractice, or other negligence |
| Defense Strategies | Lack of outrageous conduct, lack of intent or recklessness, no severe distress | Argue that the conduct was not negligent, or that the distress was not foreseeable |
Knowing the difference is important for your case, and your personal injury attorney will be able to give you more insight into how it affects your legal case and answer any questions you may have.
How to Prove IIED in Court
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED) can have a major impact on a person’s quality of life and mental health, but can also be difficult to prove without a qualified professional’s guidance. Proving an IIED claim in court involves several steps:
Document the Conduct
Gather evidence of the defendant’s extreme and outrageous behavior. This might include witness statements, communications, or other relevant documentation. You will need to provide your attorney with as much information as possible.
Demonstrate Emotional Distress
Provide evidence of the emotional distress experienced, such as medical records, psychological evaluations, and testimony from mental health professionals.
Establish Causation
Show that the defendant’s conduct directly caused the emotional distress. This often requires a clear connection between the behavior and the emotional harm.
Testify About the Impact
Testimony from the plaintiff about the impact of the distress on their daily life and well-being is crucial. This may include disruptions to personal relationships, work, and overall quality of life.
Examples of Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED) Cases
IIED cases frequently involve egregious acts of misconduct that are designed to cause severe emotional distress. Here are some common examples:
Persistent harassment or threats that are both severe and objectively offensive can constitute IIED. This might include repeated stalking, abusive phone calls, or threats of violence.
Employers and coworkers who engage in extreme bullying, harassment, or discrimination can be held liable for IIED. This includes creating a hostile work environment, making offensive comments, or engaging in physical or verbal abuse.
Actions that are designed to publicly humiliate or degrade an individual can give rise to an IIED claim. This might involve making false accusations, spreading rumors, or exposing private information.
In rare cases, medical professionals who engage in extreme or negligent behavior that causes severe emotional distress can be liable for IIED. For instance, a doctor who misdiagnosed a serious illness or performed a botched procedure might be subject to such a claim.
Gathering Evidence
When pursuing an IIED claim, it is crucial to gather as much evidence as possible to support your allegations. This may include:
- Written Documentation: Keep a detailed journal of the harassing or abusive behavior, including dates, times, and specific details.
- Witness Statements: Obtain statements from witnesses who can corroborate your claims.
- Medical Records: If the emotional distress has led to physical symptoms, gather medical records to document the impact.
- Electronic Evidence: Save any emails, text messages, or social media posts that document the harassment or abuse.
What Are The Elements of Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress Cases?
To win an IIED case, plaintiffs must meet the following elements:
- Extreme and Outrageous Conduct: The behavior must be so egregious that it exceeds the bounds of acceptable conduct.
- Intent or Recklessness: The defendant must have acted with intent to cause distress or with reckless disregard for the likelihood of causing distress.
- Severe Emotional Distress: The emotional distress must be significant and debilitating.
- Direct Causation: The distress must be a direct result of the defendant’s conduct.
Compensation Available in IIED Claims
Compensation in IIED claims can cover a range of damages:
- Emotional Distress Damages: Compensation for the mental anguish and suffering caused by the defendant’s actions.
- Punitive Damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly egregious conduct and deter similar behavior in the future.
- Legal Fees: If successful, plaintiffs may recover the cost of legal representation.
Your IIED lawsuit lawyer will be able to give you an estimate of how much compensation you may be able to receive as part of your case, but there is no guarantee.
Statute of Limitations for IIED Claims
The statute of limitations for filing an IIED claim varies by jurisdiction but generally ranges from one to three years from the date the distress occurred or was discovered. It is best to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident to ensure you do not miss the appropriate deadline to file your claim per your state’s statute of limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Extreme and outrageous behavior is conduct that is so shocking and beyond the bounds of decency that it would be considered intolerable by a reasonable person.
While physical evidence can support an IIED claim, it is not always necessary. Testimony from mental health professionals and documentation of emotional suffering can also be crucial.
The statute of limitations for filing an IIED claim varies by state but generally ranges from one to three years. It is important to consult an attorney to ensure you meet all deadlines.
Yes, IIED claims can be filed alongside other personal injury claims if the circumstances support multiple types of legal action.
Compensation in IIED cases can include damages for emotional distress, punitive damages in certain cases, and legal fees. The amount varies based on the specifics of the case and the severity of the distress.
How an Attorney Can Help with Your IIED Case
An experienced attorney can provide invaluable assistance in an IIED case:
Case Evaluation: An attorney can assess the viability of your claim and advise on the best course of action.
Evidence Collection: They can help gather and organize evidence necessary to prove your case.
Legal Representation: Skilled attorneys can represent you in court, negotiate settlements, and advocate on your behalf.
Common Defenses Used Against IIED Claims
Defendants may use several strategies to counter IIED claims and many of them can seem callous and apathetic:
Lack of Outrageous Conduct: Arguing that the behavior was not extreme or outrageous.
No Intent or Recklessness: Claiming that the conduct was not intentional or reckless.
No Severe Distress: Disputing the severity or existence of emotional distress.
Trust Wettermark Keith With Your Case
When it comes to receiving compensation for your most prized possession you need someone who understands the intricacies of classic car accidents and is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support. Our experienced team of Wettermark Keith classic car accident lawyers can help you navigate insurance claims, secure fair compensation for injuries and ensure your classic vehicle’s value is properly represented. Trust us to handle your case with the expertise and attention it deserves.
At Wettermark Keith, we have an excellent reputation as one of the most accomplished personal injury firms in the country. We offer a diverse range of practice areas, including personal injury cases, auto wrecks, trucking wrecks, nursing home abuse, medical malpractice, on-the-job injuries, social security, and VA disability, to name just a few. We believe in taking cases personally. Our purpose is to practice with care and compassion - to tell our clients' stories and make their voices heard. We achieve this by building strong relationships based on constant communication and an unwavering dedication to truth and trust.
Ready to work together? Contact us today for a free consultation.
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