Commercial Union Insurance v. Moorefield

This appeal arises from an action on an insurance contract to recover for a fire loss occurring on residential property. The sole question is whether a verdict properly was set aside because of alleged juror misconduct which took place before the trial commenced.

In February 1980, the Buchanan County residence of Fred J. and Esther L. Moorefield was damaged by fire. At the time, he was the named insured in a policy providing fire coverage issued by appellant Commercial Union Insurance Company. He died in February 1981. Seven months later, she, individually and as administratrix of her…