Langdon v. Champion

OPINION

BURKE, Justice.

In this case we are asked to resolve whether defense counsel in a personal injury action may engage in informal ex parte interviews with a plaintiff’s treating physician. We conclude that such contacts are permissible. We emphasize, however, that while treating physicians are free to confer ex parte with defense counsel if they so desire, they cannot be compelled to do so.

I

In July, 1986, Petitioner Joanne G. Lang-don and her husband filed a negligence action against Respondent Champion seeking recovery for the injuries Joanne Lang-don sustained when she fell through a…