Stottlemyre v. Reed

Keith L. and Anne M. Stottlemyre, husband and wife, appeal an order enforcing an oral settlement agreement. The sole issue is whether an oral agreement to settle a tort action is not final and binding until reduced to writing and signed.

On June 1, 1979, Mr. Reed drove his automobile into the back of Mrs. Stottlemyre's car; she sustained injuries to her back and neck as a result thereof. The Stottlemyres filed a personal injury action. After preliminary discovery and negotiations, the attorneys for the parties reached a proposed oral settlement of $8,800, subject to the approval of Mrs.…