Leftwich v. Goodwill Industries of the Valley Works

By Judge David B. Carson

The parties are before the Court on a Special Plea in Bar filed by Defendant, Goodwill Industries of the Valley Works (“Goodwill Works”). Goodwill Works argues that the doctrine of charitable immunity shields it from any liability in this case. For the reasons discussed below, the Court denies Goodwill Works’ Special Plea in Bar.

The Pertinent Facts

The Plaintiff, Michelle Leftwich, alleges she was injured while shopping at a Goodwill store in Roanoke owned and operated by Goodwill Works. Specifically, Leftwich alleges that a bed frame or bed rail that was propped up…