McNamara v. Energy Dynamics, Inc.: Case File (NITA)

A small local dairy farmer is pitted against a large energy company in this civil case for negligence. Energy Dynamics has developed a new chemical; this breakthrough unlocks precious resources, and untold millions of dollars, buried beneath a local community’s feet. But as local farmers like McNamara experience mysterious livestock deaths, will the breakthrough prove to be a dangerous breakout of a toxic chemical? The second edition of McNamara introduces additional media evidence to challenge students. Witnesses include a veterinarian, chemists, community members, and executives. Exhibits include electronic evidence of emails, mini depositions, pictures, press releases, transcripts of Town Hall meeting, Facebook posts on online “microsites,” as well as impeachment material for teams to strategically choose what to emphasize or downplay. The case is limited to four witnesses, for an efficient deposition or trial experience, but there is a rich variety of material to mine in this entertaining case file. Another entry in Theresa D. Moore’s Trial by Fire® legal case series of well balanced cases, with modern facts and evidence meant to ignite in students the passion to vigorously fight for their client. McNamara’s unique issues of the environment and public policy encourage participants to consider storytelling aspects of presenting technical information drawing decision-makers into a human understanding of events and scientific issues.