Hancock v. Mid-South Management Co., Inc.

Chief Justice TOAL:

In Hancock v. Mid-South Management Co., Inc., the court of appeals affirmed the trial court’s order granting summary judgment in favor of Respondent Mid-South Management Company. 370 S.C. 131, 634 S.E.2d 12 (Ct.App.2006). We granted a writ of certiorari to review that decision and now reverse.

Factual/Procedural Background

Petitioner Betty J. Hancock filed a negligence action against Respondent after she tripped and fell in the parking lot of the office of The Newberry Observer, which is owned by Respondent. Petitioner alleged Respondent was negligent in failing to maintain a…