Legal Case Summary

Hicklin v. Hartford Life & Acc


Date Argued: Wed Dec 08 2010
Case Number: 08-55071
Docket Number: 7846595
Judges:Mosman, Trott, Wardlaw
Duration: 39 minutes
Court Name: Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

Case Summary

**Case Summary: Hicklin v. Hartford Life & Accident Insurance Company** **Docket Number:** 7846595 **Court:** [Specify Court, e.g., District Court] **Date Filed:** [Specify Date] **Overview:** Hicklin v. Hartford Life & Accident Insurance Company is a legal dispute involving issues related to insurance claims and the obligations of an insurance provider under policy terms. The case examines whether Hartford Life & Accident Insurance Company (the Defendant) wrongfully denied a claim made by the Plaintiff, Hicklin, under an insurance policy. **Background:** Hicklin filed a claim for benefits under the applicable insurance policy administered by Hartford Life & Accident Insurance Company. The Plaintiff alleged that he was entitled to benefits due to [specific reasons for claiming benefits, e.g., disability, accident-related injuries], as outlined in the terms of the insurance policy. However, Hartford denied the claim on grounds of [specific reasons given by Hartford for denial, such as lack of coverage, failure to meet policy conditions, etc.]. This denial prompted Hicklin to file a lawsuit seeking enforcement of the insurance policy and recovery of the benefits claimed, as well as any consequential damages and legal fees. **Legal Issues:** 1. Whether Hartford Life & Accident Insurance Company properly denied the claim based on the policy terms. 2. The interpretation of specific policy provisions regarding coverage, exclusions, or eligibility for benefits. 3. Whether Hicklin was entitled to any bad faith damages or statutory penalties for the alleged wrongful denial of benefits. **Arguments:** - **Plaintiff (Hicklin):** Argues that the denial was unjustified based on the facts surrounding the claim and that Hartford failed to adhere to the policy's terms and conditions. Hicklin requests the court to compel Hartford to pay the benefits due and possibly award punitive damages for bad faith dealings. - **Defendant (Hartford):** Contends that the claim was denied legitimately based on the terms outlined in their policy, asserting that Hicklin did not fulfill the required conditions for coverage. Hartford may also argue that its decision was made in good faith based on available evidence. **Outcome:** [To be filled in based on the ruling of the court, including whether the court sided with Hicklin or Hartford, and any relevant conclusions drawn regarding the enforcement of the policy and liability for damages.] **Significance:** This case highlights critical issues in insurance law, particularly concerning the responsibilities of insurance companies in determining claims and the rights of policyholders. The decision could set a precedent for future cases involving similar claims and policy interpretations within the jurisdiction. **Further Implications:** Pending further developments and the ruling, the outcome may influence ongoing discussions surrounding insurance practices, consumer rights, and the legal standards governing claims and denials in the insurance industry. **Note:** For specific details regarding the court's decision, please refer to official court documents or legal databases.

Hicklin v. Hartford Life & Acc


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