Ex Parte Steadman

The plaintiffs Frances I. Steadman and Ronald B. Steadman petitioned for a writ of certiorari to the Court of Civil Appeals, which, on June 16, 2000, had affirmed the trial court's summary judgment in favor of the defendants, Central Alabama Title Company, Inc. ("CATCO"), and Jerry Parker. Steadman v. Central Alabama Title Co., (No. 2990446)795 So.2d 854 (Ala.Civ.App. 2000) (table). We granted certiorari review; we reverse and remand.

I

In 1994, the Steadmans contacted mortgage broker Phillip Walden, of Capstone Mortgage, about refinancing their home. The Steadmans explained to Walden that they…