Irwin County v. Owens

Phipps, Judge.

Patricia Owens sued Irwin County, alleging that without her permission, the County had constructed a wide road across her property, dug deep ditches alongside the road, and destroyed numerous trees and bushes. The County claimed ownership of the strip of land under theories of implied dedication and prescription. A jury found in favor of Owens and awarded her damages, litigation expenses, and attorney fees. The County appeals, 1 contending that it should have been allowed to open and close arguments to the jury, that the evidence demanded a verdict in its favor, that damages,…