Sec. 52-263. Appeals from Superior Court. Exceptions.
Sec. 52-264. Judges of Supreme Court to make rules for appeals and writs of error.
Sec. 52-265. Action of Supreme Court on appeals and writs of error. Costs.
Sec. 52-265a. Direct appeal on questions involving the public interest.
Sec. 52-266. Several issues; new trial to be limited to issue in error.
Sec. 52-269. Record fee in Supreme Court.
Sec. 52-263. Appeals from Superior Court. Exceptions. Upon the trial of all matters of fact in any cause or action in the Superior Court, whether to the court or jury, or before any judge thereof when the jurisdiction of any action or proceeding is vested in him, if either party is aggrieved by the decision of the court or judge upon any question or questions of law arising in the trial, including the denial of a motion to set aside a verdict, he may appeal to the court having jurisdiction from the final judgment of the court or of such judge, or from the decision of the court granting a motion to set aside a verdict, except in small claims cases, which shall not be appealable, and appeals as provided in sections 8-8 and 8-9.
(1949 Rev., S. 8003; 1959, P.A. 28, S. 118; 1961, P.A. 509, S. 2; P.A. 74-183, S. 93, 291; P.A. 76-436, S. 139, 681; P.A. 77-347, S. 8, 11; P.A. 78-280, S. 105, 127; P.A. 82-160, S. 135; June Sp. Sess. P.A. 83-29, S. 8, 82; P.A. 89-356, S. 8.)
History: 1959 act deleted provision for appeal from civil cause or action in municipal court; 1961 act deleted provision excepting summary process from coverage.; P.A. 74-183 deleted reference to causes or actions in court of common pleas, effective December 31, 1974; P.A. 76-436 added exception re Sec. 52-7, effective July 1, 1978; P.A. 77-347 deleted exception added by P.A. 76-436 and clarified provision re appeals to supreme court by adding exception re Secs. 51-164t, 51-164v and 51-197b; P.A. 78-280 made minor change in wording; P.A. 82-160 rephrased the section and replaced provisions concerning the right to appeal to the supreme court “except as provided in sections 51-164t, 51-164v and 51-197b” with exceptions for small claims cases, appeals within the jurisdiction of the appellate session, administrative appeals and except as otherwise provided by statute; June Sp. Sess. P.A. 83-29 deleted reference to supreme court and substituted reference to court “having jurisdiction” and deleted reference to appellate session and Sec. 51-197d and added exception re appeals as provided in Secs. 8-8, 8-9, 8-28 and 8-30; P.A. 89-356 deleted reference to Secs. 8-28 and 8-30.
Appeals from decision of a court; in general: “In the trial” is not to be taken in a strict sense. 58 C. 101. Party may appeal, though not in fact aggrieved. 60 C. 427; 97 C. 519; 101 C. 735. Right depends on possibility of, rather than actual, grievance. 69 C. 715; 122 C. 464; 130 C. 499. New trial should not be sought where only small amount involved. 79 C. 104; 88 C. 50. Meaning of “action”. 79 C. 47. One who cannot share in fund in any event cannot appeal from decision as to its distribution. 82 C. 320. Legislature may make decision of trial judge final, as in matter of election as to sale of liquors. 83 C. 330; 88 C. 141. Remedy where appeal not proper is motion to erase. 96 C. 718; 108 C. 307; 109 C. 51. Judgment for one defendant and against the other final as to former, though latter appeals. 97 C. 223. Cited. 114 C. 584. Decision setting aside verdict is not a final judgment; formerly appealable under a separate statute. 115 C. 680. Formerly, appeal from decision on motion to set aside verdict could not be combined with appeal from judgment. 119 C. 312; Id., 400. Appellee to avail himself of claimed error should file cross-appeal; bill of exceptions does not take place of appeal. 122 C. 465. Cited. 126 C. 591, 604; 128 C. 478; 130 C. 282; Id., 472. Trustee may appeal in representative capacity from judgment which will result in destruction of trust. Id., 494. Now possible to take single appeal both from ruling on motion to set verdict aside and from judgment. Id., 559. Appeal from judgment of nonsuit held improper and appeal dismissed; dismissal does not conclude substantive rights of plaintiff. 145 C. 99. Cited. Id., 130. Where motion to set aside a verdict is denied, judgment is rendered upon the verdict and the appeal is from that judgment. Id., 401. Failure to appeal from such judgment is defect of form and does not void appeal. Id, 586. Failure of plaintiff to file timely motion to dismiss considered waiver of defendants' defective appeal. 146 C. 282. If no motion to dismiss appeal from denial of motion is filed within 10 days of appeal, defect may be deemed waived. 147 C. 109. Failure to make timely objection, whether through mistake of law, inattention or design, to errors occurring in the course of a trial may disqualify issue as a basis of appeal. Id., 296. Appeal bond obligated defendant to one plaintiff only, held, on timely motion of other plaintiff, that appeal was defective as to such plaintiff. Id., 722. The Liquor Control Commission represents the public interest in such matters as the issuance, renewal, revocation and suspension of liquor permits; when action of commission with respect to such a matter is reversed by a court, commission is a party aggrieved by the decision of the court and, as such, may appeal to the Supreme Court. 150 C. 68. City employer in workers' compensation case seeking to intervene in employee's negligence action against physician satisfies the test for appellate jurisdiction. 253 C. 429. Appellate jurisdiction is limited to final judgments of trial court. 263 C. 39. Where state appeals criminal defendant's motion for a new trial after guilty verdict had been rendered, court concluded that section applies to criminal cases and authorizes such an appeal upon the granting of motion to set aside the verdict but not upon the granting of motion for a new trial. 265 C. 658.
Necessity of rendition of judgment by trial court: This was necessary under old practice; 7 C. 439; as it is now. 63 C. 576. If no judgment has been rendered, appeal is void. 66 C. 264; 109 C. 50.
Judgments reviewable in general: Judgment appealed from must be final. 51 C. 328; 71 C. 459; 74 C. 202; 96 C. 718; 108 C. 307; 109 C. 51. Appeal lies wherever writ of error formerly lay. 69 C. 483; 83 C. 690. Where judgment is suspended in a criminal case, no final judgment. 71 C. 457. “Final judgment” defined. 84 C. 31; 108 C. 22; Id., 307; 109 C. 50; 146 C. 55; 148 C. 218. Meaning of “action”; judgment by consent not ordinarily reviewable. 79 C. 47. Recognition that judgment necessarily follows is not consent. 72 C. 257. Joining appeal from reviewable judgment to one not reviewable does not invalidate former. 64 C. 535. A judgment may be final as to one party alone; 66 C. 37; 97 C. 223; or as to one part of controversy alone. 69 C. 714. A judgment rendered on a directed verdict is a final judgment. 104 C. 451. Judgment entered when party refuses to plead further after demurrer is overruled, is final. 124 C. 342. After judgment rendered on one cause of action, denial of plaintiff's motion for trial on another cause of action, in same complaint, is final judgment. 126 C. 690. Judgment dismissing action for want of jurisdiction is final. 133 C. 249. To constitute a final judgment, the rights of the parties must be concluded by the ruling so that further proceedings cannot affect them; order of reference to a state referee and refusal of court to grant motion to revoke, both final judgments from which an appeal may be taken. 146 C. 55. An order staying proceedings is not a final order and therefore not appealable; denial of motion to expunge a counterclaim held not an appealable judgment. 148 C. 218. In criminal case, appeal from “the verdict rendered ... and the sentence of the court”, while not taken from final judgment in strict accordance with statute, was treated as one from final judgment since imposition of sentence is judgment of court. 149 C. 489.
Judgments reviewable; particular cases: Denial of petition for new trial. 58 C. 69. Denial of writ of prohibition. 61 C. 440. Judgment dissolving corporation. 81 C. 592. Erasure of case from docket. 70 C. 382; 75 C. 541; 84 C. 24. Judgment on demurrer sustained. 74 C. 127; Id., 202. Denial of mandamus writ. 73 C. 327; 83 C. 554. Judgment of contempt, so far as to determine that acts complained of were susceptible of such a construction. 84 C. 60. Appointing appraisers in condemnation; 75 C. 237; Id., 325; 85 C. 663; action on report of committee under charter provision that it may “be accepted or rejected at the discretion of the court”. 91 C. 639. Judgment on application for admission to bar; 79 C. 59; 80 C. 140; in disbarment proceedings. 66 C. 585; 84 C. 594; 88 C. 447. Arbitration proceedings under rule of court. 73 C. 715. Judgment on hearing in damages. 69 C. 476; 73 C. 681; 75 C. 79. Denial of motion to restore case to docket. 64 C. 535. Taxation of costs; 67 C. 259; 74 C. 107; in mandamus; 68 C. 219; refusal of costs on withdrawal of action. 70 C. 380. Decisions as to issuance of liquor licenses. 64 C. 526; 75 C. 360; 79 C. 680. Judgment removing receiver. 70 C. 473. Judgments determining rights of parties in receivership proceedings. 69 C. 709. Judgment in interpleader directing payment of fund into court. 80 C. 426. Refusal of damages in highway case. 68 C. 409. Judgment for injunction to remain in force a specified time. 96 C. 265. Order in the nature of a mandamus made in a pending action. Id., 718. Refusal to grant naturalization petition. 98 C. 444. Sufficiency of evidence to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in trial to court; how reviewable. 105 C. 329; 109 C. 31; Id., 126. Reopening of judgment fixing liability of defaulting purchaser at a foreclosure sale is a final judgment; 108 C. 307; so adjudication of equitable issues although assessment of damages remains for jury. Id., 22. Where in summary process writ of error is taken from municipal court or justice of the peace to superior or common pleas court, appeal lies therefrom to Supreme Court. 125 C. 548. Order of court denying application for appraisal under Sec. 33-384 and treating cause of action instituted under Sec. 33-382 as withdrawn is final judgment within meaning of statute. 154 C. 289.
Judgments not reviewable; particular cases: Denial of motion to stay execution. 82 C. 517. Judgment appointing receiver. 74 C. 652. Compelling garnishee to disclose. 67 C. 260. Judgment in accordance with advice of Supreme Court on reservation. 71 C. 584. Judgment overruling demurrer. 48 C. 201; Id., 368; 63 C. 262; 68 C. 504; 71 C. 198; 74 C. 203; 124 C. 342. Judgment in summary process reviewable only by writ of error; 92 C. 150; appeal will be erased from docket on motion. 95 C. 69. Order for issuance of an execution. 105 C. 429. Appeal where memorandum of decision but no judgment file. 109 C. 50, see 104 C. 398. Ruling on motion for permission to inspect grand jury minutes. 124 C. 639. Trial court's ruling that compensation commissioner had power to reopen and modify award. 126 C. 524. Judgment of city court in criminal case. 128 C. 341. Order staying proceedings; denial of motion to expunge counterclaim. 148 C. 218. Summary judgment issued pursuant to Sec. 304 of the Practice Book, being interlocutory only, is not a final judgment from which appeal lies. 153 C. 120. The test of finality is whether the rights of the parties are so concluded that further proceedings cannot affect them. 146 C. 55; 153 C. 210.
Appeals from decision of a judge: Nature of proceeding. 67 C. 206. Judge must be acting in judicial capacity. 69 C. 601. Papers must be filed with judge and he must himself allow appeal. 68 C. 418. Nature of acts of judge in chambers. 69 C. 602; 70 C. 480; 76 C. 253; 88 C. 142. When appeal carries with it stay of execution. 62 C. 487. Term to which appeal is to be taken. 70 C. 331. Judge may extend time for taking appeal. 79 C. 528. Nature of remedy. 77 C. 597. As to appeal from interlocutory rulings. 75 C. 245. Action of judge in reducing or dissolving attachment appealable under section; 92 C. 682; but not his refusal to make a finding. 97 C. 281. Proper procedure in election contest outlined. 104 C. 398. Appeal properly taken under section from decision of judge on appeal under Bridgeport charter. 125 C. 345.
Annotations to former section 5692, revision of 1930, providing for separate appeal from decision denying motion to set aside verdict; in general: Joining appeal with one for errors on trial. 66 C. 267; 87 C. 692. Appeal must be taken under section; merely assigning error upon appeal from judgment not enough. 83 C. 300. Evidence must be made part of record. 82 C. 615; 109 C. 732. No finding necessary; but appellant must furnish copy of testimony for certification. 88 C. 251, see 85 C. 333; 87 C. 333; 109 C. 732. Without finding, questions as to admission of evidence and the like cannot be raised. 66 C. 265; 90 C. 126. Costs. 6 C. 190; 95 C. 453; 109 C. 737. Judge need not expressly certify that verdict is against evidence. 5 C. 74; 26 C. 596; 27 C. 198. History of power. 64 C. 64; 69 C. 191. Question of power to grant, but not advisability of granting, may be reserved. 64 C. 73. Motion does not raise question of admissibility of evidence; 66 C. 264; or, in slander suit, of privilege; 87 C. 220; or errors of trial judge in rulings. 90 C. 280. Unless all evidence is printed, court will not hold decision wrong. 81 C. 556; 82 C. 615; 83 C. 445; 98 C. 249; 103 C. 680. New trial affords only remedy for refusal to direct, or for setting aside, verdict. 81 C. 578; 108 C. 681. Appeal must be taken from action of trial court on verdict, if this is to be urged as error. 83 C. 300. Direction to make evidence part of record, and certification of it in finding; cost of printing in such case. 87 C. 333. Time to take runs from filing of decision, which may be presumed to be day counsel is notified. 93 C. 252. Not proper method to take up propriety of directing verdict. 95 C. 209. Cost of procuring and printing evidence is on appellant. Id., 451. Section as basis for setting verdict aside in trial court. 97 C. 185. Verdict directed may be set aside; procedure in such a case. 92 C. 252. Cost of printing is on appellant; procedure in criminal case where accused has no funds to pay for printing evidence. 95 C. 453. New trial on a single issue; motion must be for new trial de novo. 94 C. 504. Sufficient reason is given by use of phrase “against the evidence” where plaintiff moves to set verdict aside because damages were inadequate. 100 C. 613. On appeal from denial of motion to set verdict aside as against evidence, inclusion of arguments between counsel improper. 112 C. 120. Cited. 115 C. 722; 118 C. 699; 124 C. 560; 125 C. 266.
Rules governing action of court: New trial should not be granted unless it appears that there is manifest injustice, mistake in the application of legal principles, or corruption or prejudice; 9 C. 106; 12 C. 217; Id., 489; 19 C. 330; 21 C. 252; 26 C. 404; 29 C. 123; 30 C. 310; 52 C. 449; 64 C. 134; 68 C. 294; 69 C. 186; Id., 302; Id., 651; 72 C. 635; 75 C. 129; 79 C. 99; Id., 270; Id., 477; 90 C. 74; 91 C. 457; 93 C. 387; 99 C. 105; 102 C. 485; 104 C. 740; 106 C. 704; 150 C. 567; nor to enable a party to recover nominal damages merely. 29 C. 123. Not necessary to return jury for further consideration of case. 5 C. 73. Verdict should be set aside where jury upholds a sale which the law deems fraudulent. 21 C. 376; 38 C. 420. If evidence is conflicting, verdict must stand; 74 C. 638; 79 C. 314; 88 C. 220; 92 C. 658; 105 C. 372; 109 C. 502; and this applies to a criminal case; 98 C. 459, but see 90 C. 18; so if there is some evidence to support it. 70 C. 446; 79 C. 416; 80 C. 374; 99 C. 22; Id., 585; 100 C. 278; 104 C. 30. Jury may believe one witness against several. 79 C. 463. Discretion of trial court reviewed only in case of abuse. 73 C. 115; 77 C. 623; 85 C. 611; 86 C. 223; 90 C. 18; 91 C. 457; 93 C. 476; Id., 554; 94 C. 503; 103 C. 685. Court will not review credibility of witnesses or weight of testimony. 81 C. 623; 82 C. 610; 104 C. 233. Mistake of law or abuse of discretion must appear. 82 C. 70. All the evidence is to be considered; 84 C. 262; and read in light of instructions. 81 C. 670. If evidence is capable of different interpretations, verdict stands; 88 C. 494; or where matter is one largely of discretion. 89 C. 290. Motion on ground of excessive damages discountenanced where exemplary damages may be given. 72 C. 731; 90 C. 625. Advantage of trial judge in viewing witnesses, etc., regarded; 75 C. 127; 80 C. 206; every presumption supports his action. 64 C. 480; 75 C. 677; 76 C. 495; 77 C. 625; 79 C. 477; 80 C. 58; 84 C. 262; 86 C. 223; 90 C. 18; 104 C. 233. Weight is to be given his decision; 69 C. 512; 70 C. 444; 75 C. 127; Id., 675; 79 C. 477; 82 C. 71; 84 C. 262; 90 C. 18; Id., 74; 93 C. 476; 94 C. 559; 97 C. 187; 104 C. 30, 233; 105 C. 629; 106 C. 283, 704, 727; 107 C. 238; even in a capital case; 81 C. 22; effect of his delay in acting on motion; 73 C. 136; 75 C. 678; his memo of decision may be consulted. 86 C. 99. Motions of little merit discountenanced. 83 C. 173. Appeal upheld where verdict was set aside for want of evidence as to one unessential fact; 79 C. 85; but motion properly granted where evidence wholly fails to support verdict. 76 C. 496. Failure of party to produce evidence may be considered. 66 C. 578. Evidence to be taken in light most favorable to appellee's contentions. 94 C. 120; 103 C. 524; 107 C. 395. If verdict might fairly and reasonably have been found, it must stand. 97 C. 174; 100 C. 580; 101 C. 548, 588; 102 C. 159; Id., 537; 105 C. 646; 106 C. 76; 107 C. 395. Verdict in action for death by wrongful act not readily set aside as inadequate. 90 C. 35. Court cannot assume from nature of verdict how it was made up. 90 C. 625. Verdict evidently based on conjecture and surmise should be set aside. 94 C. 475, 481. If verdict was reasonably open upon the evidence, motion would be denied. 95 C. 534; Id., 695. Verdict for plaintiff not to be set aside at instance of defendant on ground of inadequacy of damages. 98 C. 507; 105 C. 410. When a directed verdict may be set aside. 100 C. 529. New trial where verdict manifestly inadequate. 102 C. 145. Verdict after compliance with order for remittitur held not excessive in action of libel. 102 C. 453. Function of Supreme Court in passing upon trial court's refusal to set aside verdict of guilty. 103 C. 457; 106 C. 704. But constitutional right to trial by jury puts a fundamental limitation on power to set verdict aside. 91 C. 457; 103 C. 685; 104 C. 422. Immaterial that trial court assigns wrong ground for its action in setting verdict aside. 103 C. 718; 104 C. 388; 105 C. 775. Setting aside of verdict upon conflicting testimony upheld; 104 C. 518; 106 C. 704; but only where conclusion is unreasonable. Id. Judgment entered on a directed verdict is a final judgment; distinguished from judgment of nonsuit. 104 C. 451. If verdict could not have been reasonably reached by reasonable men, then it is error not to set it aside. 105 C. 629. And where verdict is hopelessly incomplete, it must be set aside. Id., 774. Direction of verdict proper where only issue presented is one of law. 107 C. 368. Erroneous refusal to direct verdict can be remedied only by new trial. Id., 733. Verdict in conflict with indisputable physical facts should be set aside. 106 C. 449; 107 C. 19. Conflicting statements by plaintiff do not justify setting aside plaintiff's verdict. Id., 239. Error not to set aside verdict rendered on issue not within the pleadings. Id., 495. Setting aside verdict where erroneous charge given. 106 C. 311. Where verdict is set aside, no other claimed error can be reviewed by appellant; otherwise as to appellee. 108 C. 682. Power to grant new trial for verdict against evidence, and legislation review; 64 C. 61; 75 C. 678; as related to jury system. 74 C. 68; 76 C. 496; 86 C. 224. Discretion of court; 64 C. 61; 77 C. 150; Id., 623; 80 C. 314; 90 C. 637; 91 C. 459; 93 C. 476; Id., 554; 94 C. 506; where damages are claimed to be excessive. 73 C. 115. Mere fact that court would have reached a different result not sufficient; 91 C. 404; or doubts correctness of verdict. 93 C. 242. That verdict just equals plaintiff's claim does not show disregard of instruction to allow certain sum to defendant. 94 C. 613. In criminal case, verdict not set aside unless palpably and manifestly against the evidence. 96 C. 640. Verdict palpably inadequate may be set aside. 83 C. 445. In personal injury and like cases, it must palpably appear that damages are improperly assessed. 82 C. 291; 83 C. 278; 85 C. 24; Id., 111; 87 C. 168; Id., 260; Id., 691; 88 C. 265; Id., 640; 90 C. 35. If exemplary damages can be given, ordinarily verdict must stand. 90 C. 637. Damages in personal injury case must clearly be excessive; 93 C. 554; verdict upheld where plaintiff made an invalid for life. 96 C. 584. In acting on motion, judge must consider all evidence; 86 C. 319; and use knowledge of human nature. 74 C. 68. Defense which should have been specially pleaded not available. 80 C. 206. Court may receive motion after 24 hours. 75 C. 679. Motion does not lie in Supreme Court. 83 C. 568. Necessity of stating grounds in motion. 90 C. 617. Cannot be sought as to issue of damages alone, but may be granted as to certain issues. 94 C. 503. Verdict against several tortfeasors may be set aside as to some only. 83 C. 27. Court's estimate of evidence not to take place of jury's; 86 C. 98; Id., 282; 89 C. 240; and number of witnesses does not determine weight of testimony. 79 C. 463; 87 C. 253, but see 91 C. 596. Setting aside unless remittitur entered. 78 C. 300; 81 C. 101; 82 C. 171; 83 C. 278; 85 C. 611; 86 C. 319; 87 C. 686. Supreme Court ordered remittitur. 96 C. 334; Id., 342. Verdict directed may be set aside. 92 C. 252; 100 C. 529. Refusal to direct verdict does not prevent setting it aside. 90 C. 18. Where defendant requests no finding for purposes of appeal and no finding was made, Supreme Court will be confined to pleadings and judgment in determining facts on which judgment was based; if judgment was for plaintiff, this means that all material and disputed allegations in the pleadings were found for him. 150 C. 345. Verdict should not be set aside unless it appears jury was swayed by partiality, prejudice, corruption or mistake. Id., 567. In order to set aside verdict, there must be indications that jury could not reasonably have concluded as it did. 151 C. 140. Not error to deny motion for new trial on ground of newly discovered evidence unless such evidence would be admissible in new trial and different result was reasonably probable. Id., 226. Not prejudicial for court to refuse to order mistrial where plaintiff's witness is adjudged guilty of contempt after jury removed. Id., 284. If verdict liberal, rather than excessive, court cannot disturb it. Id., 701. Appellant cannot attempt to retry case by substituting facts found in trial court. Id., 705. Appeal lies only from a final judgment, but a formal judgment file is not essential for an appeal if in fact the court's ruling constitutes a final adjudication of the rights of a party. 152 C. 462. Order of reference made under Sec. 8-8 for a finding of facts was not final judgment from which appeal to Supreme Court would lie. 155 C. 617. Defendant by failing to move to dismiss appeal waived defect in form of plaintiff's appeal. Id., 653.
Annotations to former section 5693, revision of 1930, providing for separate appeal from decision granting motion to set aside verdict: Under section, defendant may appeal from granting of plaintiff's motion to set aside verdict in his favor. 84 C. 268. When last day for taking appeal falls on Sunday, it may be taken the next day. 90 C. 714. Where a verdict has been set aside, section is the sole method of appeal open; the only question which can be considered is the action of the trial court in setting verdict aside; no finding is used; the appellant can get no review of any rulings during course of trial, but the appellee, by a bill of exceptions, may. 108 C. 681. If appeal in form from judgment is limited by reasons of appeal to review of decision on motion to set aside, court may treat as appeal from that decision only. 115 C. 208; 118 C. 583. Cited. 115 C. 680; 118 C. 699; 121 C. 203. Verdict set aside where jury clearly failed to follow court's instructions. 127 C. 684.
Trial court's order striking out the recognizance in an appeal is a final judgment from which an appeal lies. 135 C. 388. The granting of a motion to open a judgment is not ordinarily a final judgment; not necessary that there be a specific provision for an appeal. Id, 509. If rights of some or all parties are concluded so that further proceedings cannot affect them, judgment is final and an appeal lies. 137 C. 92; 138 C. 464. Denial of application for immediate possession under Natural Gas Pipe Lines Act is final judgment. Id., 370. Court should upon its own motion reject any appeal which is not within statute; order granting motion for new trial not a final judgment. Id., 573. Order directing defendant to proceed with arbitration pursuant to written agreement is a final judgment. 139 C. 512. Decision denying a motion to vacate order dropping a party defendant was, in effect, a final judgment. Id., 749. An appeal lies to the Supreme Court from the final judgment and not from the denial of a motion to set aside the verdict; an appeal from such denial is not void and must be challenged within 10 days of the filing of the appeal. 142 C. 73. Appeal from denial of motion to set aside verdict is voidable only. Id., 143. An appellee who seeks, in connection with the other party's appeal, to have commissioner's finding corrected is to file assignments of error rather than a bill of exceptions or a cross appeal. Id., 509. An appeal must purport to be either from the judgment or from granting of a motion to set aside the verdict; amendment of appeal to conform to an appeal from the judgment is in the discretion of the court. 143 C. 567. Cited. 144 C. 389. An order revoking probation and implementing the sentence of confinement with its consequent deprivation of defendant's liberty meets test of final judgment. 165 C. 73. An order of the court granting or denying a prejudgment remedy pursuant to Ch. 903a is a final judgment from which an appeal may be taken. 167 C. 623. Cited. 169 C. 344; 170 C. 520; 171 C. 35; 172 C. 572; 179 C. 342; Id., 415. An order issued upon a motion for discovery relating to a matter of personal jurisdiction is not a final judgment and is not appealable. 180 C. 223. Cited. 181 C. 42; 185 C. 199; Id., 510; 186 C. 86; Id., 125. Order denying defendant's motions to disqualify is not a final judgment and therefore not immediately appealable, overruling 180 C. 443 to the extent that it is inconsistent with this conclusion. Id., 547. Cited. Id., 718; 187 C. 509; 188 C. 601. Relief under statute must be founded on an action brought to the trial court. Id., 601. Cited. 189 C. 101; Id., 547; 191 C. 27; Id., 173; Id., 506. An order denying youthful offender status is not an appealable final judgment. 192 C. 85; Id., 671; Id., 704. Cited. 193 C. 28; 194 C. 43; Id., 245; 195 C. 303; Id., 384; 196 C. 253; 197 C. 26; Id., 82; Id., 87; 198 C. 322; Id., 328; 200 C. 91; 202 C. 86; Id., 252; Id., 405; Id., 609; Id., 660. Judgment on the merits is final for purposes of appeal even though recoverability or amount of attorney's fees for the litigation remains to be determined; latter may raise a claim separately appealable as a final judgment. 208 C. 515. Cited. 209 C. 52; 210 C. 110; Id., 503; 211 C. 631; 212 C. 741; 216 C. 253; Id., 514; 217 C. 24; 219 C. 384; 221 C. 625; 222 C. 211; 224 C. 749; 225 C. 102; Id., 146; Id., 238; 226 C. 230; Id., 497; Id., 757; 228 C. 106; Id., 630; 230 C. 441; 232 C. 122; 233 C. 44; 235 C. 82; 237 C. 339; 239 C. 375; 240 C. 673; 241 C. 24; Id., 282; 242 C. 599. Trial court order precluding parties from filing any further motions regarding custody or visitation constitutes an appealable final judgment. 243 C. 380. Trial court's granting of plaintiff's motion to set aside verdict and receive a new trial is appealable under section. 246 C. 170. Discovery order is not an appealable final order when such discovery order will permanently compromise plaintiff's right to confidentiality and when such discovery order may be appealed by plaintiff if aggrieved by trial court's final decision. 249 C. 36. Term “party” is limited to parties to the underlying action and bail bondsman, as nonparty, has no right of appeal under statute. 250 C. 147. For purposes of determining jurisdiction under section, the “underlying action” is the proceeding commenced in Connecticut from which appeal is taken, and is limited to a judicial proceeding; thus, Rhode Island administrative proceeding did not satisfy criteria but Connecticut trial court proceeding on plaintiffs' motion to quash and for protective order constituted “underlying action” over which court had jurisdiction. 276 C. 544. Trial court's denial of plaintiff's motion for summary judgment was not an appealable final judgment because defendant did not file cross motion for summary judgment and the case remained active. 288 C. 646. Order issued on a motion for disclosure of documents is not a final judgment and is therefore not appealable. 296 C. 26. Review by way of appeal under section is available only to parties to an underlying action, and in a criminal proceeding, a victim is not a party. 304 C. 330. A judgment on the merits awarding punitive damages in the form of attorney's fees is final for appeal purposes even if a decision as to the amount of such fees has not yet been issued. 313 C. 472.
Cited. 1 CA 378; 2 CA 472. No Connecticut case stands for proposition that appeal of a paternity action may proceed in an appellate court without an appeal having been taken by the aggrieved party who was the sole participant in the trial. 3 CA 212. Cited. 20 CA 23; Id., 283; 22 CA 73; 23 CA 287; 25 CA 28; 28 CA 306; 29 CA 157; Id., 716; 33 CA 99; Id., 702; 36 CA 135; Id., 138; 37 CA 100; Id., 222; Id., 269; Id., 694; 38 CA 175; Id., 317; Id., 338; Id., 466; 40 CA 58; Id., 415; Id., 446; Id., 613; 41 CA 1; Id., 747; 42 CA 119; Id., 330; judgment reversed, see 241 C. 734; 43 CA 851; 44 CA 331. Attorney trial referee's report not a final judgment from which defendants could appeal. 48 CA 750. Aggrievement discussed. 51 CA 790. Court has jurisdiction over matter brought by state because state was a party to the underlying action and appeal was taken from a final judgment. 68 CA 849. Court's temporary order to determine joint custody dispute over which school a child would attend was not a final judgment and was therefore not immediately appealable. 75 CA 279. Court lacked subject matter jurisdiction to consider appeal where movant was not a party to underlying action and was not aggrieved by trial court's ruling. 83 CA 432. Although appellant is parent corporation of a party to the underlying out-of-state action, it is not a party to the action. 86 CA 120. Trial court's granting of plaintiff's motion for partial summary judgment was not an appealable final judgment because it disposed of only part of the complaint, and Practice Book provisions allowing an appeal if judgment disposed of all causes of action against a particular party or if trial court or Appellate Court makes a written determination regarding significance of the issues resolved by the judgment were not satisfied. 97 CA 64. Denial of motion to dismiss was not an appealable final judgment because, although interlocutory appeal from denial of motion to dismiss is permitted if motion presents a colorable double jeopardy claim, in this case defendant's trial has concluded and there is no risk that he will be subjected to a second prosecution, consequently he will not suffer irreparable harm if appellate review is postponed until after his sentence is imposed. 121 CA 756. Based on facts of case, foster parents do not have a colorable claim to intervention as a matter of right in guardianship proceeding and therefore are not “parties” entitled to appeal. 127 CA 723. Interlocutory order determining priority of parties in a foreclosure action is not appealable where trial court orders the parties' priorities after rendering a judgment of foreclosure by sale, but prior to any sale occurring, because such interlocutory order does not conclude the rights of the parties such that further proceedings cannot affect them. 129 CA 349. An appeal taken prior to a determination by the trial court as to the recoverability and amount of punitive damages is not an appeal from final judgment. 142 CA 548; judgment reversed, see 313 C. 472. Imposition of sanctions against non-party attorney for failing to immediately produce phone records of defendant's employer was final action allowing attorney to appeal because sanctions concluded a distinct and separate proceeding and were unrelated to prosecution of underlying personal injury action. 195 CA 131.
Dismissal of appeal from judgment of the Superior Court can be had only on motion to the Supreme Court. 3 CS 354. Only where there is no possibility that a party has suffered or will suffer will no appeal be entertained. 14 CS 503. Cited. 15 CS 274; 22 CS 348; 23 CS 411; 24 CS 60. Indigent convicted criminal has constitutional right to counsel in pursuing appeal to Supreme Court. 25 CS 207. Cited. 37 CS 541; 38 CS 552.
Whether rule or decision of trial court is a final judgment from which an appeal will lie depends not upon the nature of the judgment but upon its effect as concluding the rights of some or all of the parties. 2 Conn. Cir. Ct. 578, 579. Cited. Id., 635. This section and Sec. 51-265 distinguished. 3 Conn. Cir. Ct. 237. Cited. 5 Conn. Cir. Ct. 201. Appeal to Supreme Court may be taken only from final judgment or action, and petition to argue validity of trial court's ruling on bill of particulars was denied. Id., 310.
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Sec. 52-264. Judges of Supreme Court to make rules for appeals and writs of error. The judges of the Supreme Court shall make such orders and rules as they deem necessary concerning the practice and procedure in the taking of appeals and writs of error, and concerning the giving of security by the appealing party, the stay of execution during the pendency of appeal, the payment of costs and the taxation of reasonable costs when the same have not been fixed by statute.
(1949 Rev., S. 8012; 1957, P.A. 651, S. 32; P.A. 82-160, S. 136; P.A. 19-64, S. 18.)
History: P.A. 82-160 made a technical correction; P.A. 19-64 deleted “to the Supreme Court”, effective September 1, 2019.
Cited. 111 C. 75; 122 C. 464; 123 C. 655; 135 C. 267; Id., 412; 159 C. 481.
Cited. 15 CS 273.
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Sec. 52-265. Action of Supreme Court on appeals and writs of error. Costs. (a) On an appeal or writ of error, if the Supreme Court finds errors in the rulings or decision of the court below or of a judge thereof when the jurisdiction of any action or proceeding is or shall be vested in him, and unless it is of the opinion that the errors have not materially injured the appellant or plaintiff in error, it may: (1) Render judgment in favor of the appellant or plaintiff in error, together with his costs, or (2) may remand the action to the court below or to a judge thereof having jurisdiction, to be proceeded with by the court or judge to final judgment. If an action is remanded, the whole costs, except the costs on the writ of error or appeal, shall be taxed in favor of the prevailing party, and the costs in the Supreme Court shall be taxed in favor of the plaintiff in error or appellant.
(b) If the judgment is affirmed, or the appellant or plaintiff in error suffers a nonsuit or withdraws the action, costs shall be taxed in favor of the defendant in error or appellee; provided the fee to the prevailing party and that for printing briefs shall be in the discretion of the court, upon the reservation of a cause for its advice, or when a new trial is granted, and all costs shall be taxed at its discretion in cases brought for equitable relief.
(1949 Rev., S. 8006; P.A. 82-160, S. 137.)
History: P.A. 82-160 rephrased the section and inserted Subsec. and Subdiv. indicators.
Procedure. Court need not consider points not argued. 77 C. 528. Precedence in hearing case applies only among cases from same county. 72 C. 444. Action where brief contains scandalous matter. 73 C. 721; 75 C. 302; 82 C. 442. Only one attorney on a side should make opening argument. 79 C. 499. A charge is tested by the finding, not by the evidence; appellant must show that error was made and that it was probably harmful. 147 C. 171, 296, 311. Controversial issues of fact are solely within the province of the trial court to decide. Id., 492. Conclusions must be tested by the subordinate facts in the findings. Id., 677. When report of a referee reassessing damages may be overturned; correct procedure for attacking findings contained in such report. Id., 685. When court may direct a verdict. Id., 699. No material corrections in finding can be made on appeal if an appendix of the necessary evidence is not filed with the brief. 148 C. 21. Court does not examine transcript of testimony in search of evidence which supports a requested finding trial court refused to make; brief must be supported by appendix. 151 C. 204. Court cannot retry facts or pass on credibility of witnesses. Id., 445. Appeal on denial to set aside verdict not proper way to attack alleged variance in criminal action; defendant should have made timely objection to evidence offered at trial. Id., 453. Where no finding, court is limited in review to facts which appear on record. Id., 709.
Procedure; parties. Notice to state's attorney where trust for hospital was involved and it did not appear. 64 C. 321. Appeal by receiver from order claimed to be void; 69 C. 709; but he cannot appeal from order removing him. 70 C. 479. Where judgment assigned is vacated by appeal, assignor proper party. 71 C. 613. In divorce action, court regards interests of parties not appearing. 78 C. 242. Right of taxpayer to appeal in suit against city. 81 C. 235. In tort action, where some defendants appeal, others may be heard. 73 C. 428; 67 C. 256; 75 C. 605. Right of bankrupt to appeal in action begun before bankruptcy by attachment where conveyance is alleged to be fraudulent. 74 C. 616. Nonjoinder of party waived by argument on merits; 75 C. 605; and court may overlook nonjoinder of parties whose interests will not be affected. 67 C. 14; 80 C. 460. Parties where appellee dies pending appeal. 82 C. 208. U.S. district attorney heard where question was constitutionality of federal statute. 82 C. 374. In will case, though necessary parties not present, court may act, if decision is favorable to them; 67 C. 14; or if decision affecting parties present will probably determine case; 71 C. 222; or if only one decision is possible, or rights of nonappearing parties will not be prejudiced; 83 C. 655; so where necessary parties are not present, court may decide issue, and remand case for lower court to summon them in; 87 C. 677; 88 C. 86; executors personally interested should so appear, but court may overlook defect; 72 C. 256; but when all parties interested appear, court will not hear executor. 79 C. 362. Ordinarily, if necessary parties not present, court will not act. 81 C. 442; 91 C. 501. Decision should be limited to rights of those who are parties. 69 C. 10. Where judgment is for one and against another defendant, former not party to appeal by latter. 97 C. 223; 104 C. 108. In election contest involving three candidates, a candidate may appeal though he did not file any pleading nor participate in trial. 102 C. 606. Case will be dismissed whenever want of jurisdiction of subject matter appears. 105 C. 511.
Procedure; pleas and motions. Court may regard plea in abatement though filed after time; 77 C. 395; 98 C. 505; with what clerk to be filed; 70 C. 339; determination of, carries costs; 82 C. 483; proper function; 82 C. 483; for defect of parties; 73 C. 432; appeal to wrong return day; 74 C. 438; to term already past; 67 C. 19; not stating time and place of sitting; 70 C. 329; 82 C. 386; failure of request for finding to include claims of law; 66 C. 551; taking appeal after time allowed; 79 C. 526; 82 C. 376; 89 C. 667; to be filed at term to which appeal actually returned; one of two appeals joined may be abated. 82 C. 386. Failure to take appeal within time fixed should be attacked by plea, not motion; Id., 377; 89 C. 667; 104 C. 353; 107 C. 367; so taking appeal to wrong term; 83 C. 134; form in such case; 85 C. 618; but plea is not proper way to secure erasure of assignment of error. 83 C. 466. Answer to plea cannot deny facts of record. 83 C. 316. When motion to erase case from docket proper; 74 C. 729; 104 C. 353; as for misdescription of court; 79 C. 710; or where appeal is taken from judgment not final; 82 C. 517; or want of jurisdiction is apparent; 79 C. 46; or judgment conforms to advice of court previously given. 71 C. 589. Effect of denial of motion to erase; 84 C. 268; determination does not carry costs. 82 C. 483. Motion to dismiss for delay in having record printed. 83 C. 128. Motion for order directing clerk of trial court to pay over money; 71 C. 98; to recommit case where paragraphs of draft-finding not marked; 88 C. 25; to order trial court to certify evidence; 88 C. 211; to make statement of evidence in aid of appeal from nonsuit; 82 C. 132; to make finding. 78 C. 250; 79 C. 136; 89 C. 284; 97 C. 279. Motion to erase part of record not to be encouraged. 83 C. 243. Dismissal of case in ignorance of fact known to parties which would uphold appeal. 82 C. 208. Motion lies to strike from record special finding of facts where question arises on demurrer; 93 C. 160; so to strike out appeal in summary process action; 95 C. 69; or one attempted to be taken from judgment not final. 96 C. 719; 109 C. 50. No appeal lies from overruling of accused's challenge to array when he thereupon proceeds to trial without a jury. 105 C. 337. A motion to open and vacate a judgment during the term at which it was rendered is addressed to the court's discretion, and the action of the court will not be disturbed unless it is a clear abuse of its discretion; motion to revoke an order of reference to a state referee is the legal equivalent of a motion to open a judgment. 147 C. 13. On an appeal by defendant from the denial of a motion for judgment non obstante veredicto, plaintiff is required to set forth, in an appendix, the evidence which he claims warrants the rendition of a verdict in his favor. Id., 18. Jurisdiction of appeal court in reviewing denial of a motion to set aside a verdict as excessive. Id., 171. When a pleader wishes to admit or deny only a portion of a paragraph, he must recite that portion; request to add certain paragraphs to draft finding must be accompanied by a record of the relevant evidence. Id., 305. Motion to vacate a decree justified only where there was total absence of jurisdiction. Id., 482. The same principles are to be applied in reviewing court's action in failing to set aside a verdict and in denying a motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict. 148 C. 419. In setting aside a verdict, court ordered a new trial rather than directing a verdict, for it would not have been an abuse of discretion for the trial court to have denied a motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict and to have ordered a new trial. Id., 426.
Practice of court. Informality of appeal under new law disregarded; 64 C. 462; 72 C. 403; so where error is clear; 85 C. 679; and court overlooked minor error of procedure. 92 C. 7. Where facts found were written on margin of request for finding, court regarded them. 66 C. 56. Court passed on question irregularly presented where error was apparent and public interest involved; 67 C. 222; so where question was one of practice frequently arising; 67 C. 278; so where interpleader fairly presented questions, though it was perhaps not properly brought; 84 C. 364; 85 C. 573; 88 C. 157; 89 C. 332; so suit to construe deed of trust; 84 C. 497; so where finding was made in jury case and no one objected; 86 C. 281; so where case fully argued, court overlooked failure to close issue; 87 C. 614; so in assigning error, where no objection made. 81 C. 656. In murder case, court overlooked defects of record to pass on real issues. 93 C. 343. Where case is tried upon a certain theory, court will adopt that theory. 85 C. 147; 86 C. 361; Id., 551; 107 C. 571, 580. Where question was assigned and argued as question of law, court so treated it. 65 C. 118. So it confined itself to question assumed by parties to be the only one at issue. 70 C. 489. So it followed agreement of counsel that it might regard pleadings as broad enough to cover facts found. 70 C. 540. Court regarded demurrer on same theory as had parties and trial court; 91 C. 514; 96 C. 543; 107 C. 119; and adopted parties' construction of pleadings. 94 C. 213; 96 C. 401. Court regarded demurrer to answer in light of facts stated in reply; 91 C. 354; and demurrer to complaint in light of finding. 92 C. 646. Court stated first impression on defective appeal where both parties desired decision. 71 C. 462. It accepts issues as framed on pleadings. 83 C. 666. It decided matters as interpleader though no judgment to interplead appeared, where parties so treated it. 84 C. 209. Where both parties overlooked statute, court ordered reargument; 73 C. 519; 72 C. 157; and in another case found error because of its terms. 92 C. 551. Minor grounds of demurrer, curable by amendment, disregarded to pass on main issue; 65 C. 326; so minor points which might be raised. 66 C. 134. An issue prominent and likely to be again presented considered, though another point was decisive; 66 C. 315; 81 C. 655; 82 C. 5; 93 C. 377; but an issue not likely to rise again and which might cause embarrassment was disregarded in such a case. 68 C. 71. Decision should be limited to rights of those who are parties. 69 C. 10. Where demurrer to answer presents fundamental question, demurrer to complaint may be overlooked. 79 C. 470. Court refused to discuss questions of evidence not material to decision where no new trial ordered; 81 C. 622; and so an issue, where new trial ordered on another ground. 82 C. 280. Where same questions arise on finding and ruling on demurrer, only former regarded. 82 C. 298; 85 C. 50; Id., 67. Where two appeals taken and decision of one is conclusive, court may pass on other, to determine costs, etc. 85 C. 271. It will not pass on question not properly presented where to do so would prevent party raising question of constitutionality in U.S. court. 84 C. 606. Court heard case involving salary of its own members where parties waived disqualification. 78 C. 536. Where public interest is involved, court may remand case for further finding. Id., 250. On appeal from demurrer, facts later appearing may be consulted; 74 C. 689; 83 C. 554; 87 C. 341; Id., 403, see 83 C. 634; so on appeal from plea in abatement. 76 C. 414. Where cross complaint was defective in substance, court disregarded technical faults. 81 C. 164. Court will strive to uphold judgment entered on stipulation. 67 C. 70. Question decided on bill of exceptions not open for reargument on appeal. 77 C. 667. Where there is no rule established, the court adopts the one most likely to do justice. 82 C. 571. Deeds are to be upheld; rights are to be upheld, not forfeited. 83 C. 231. Effect of prior opinion as to correctness of charge where point in question not brought up. Id., 324. Court will not speculate as to motives of pleader. 80 C. 552. On appeal after hearing in damages, complaint taken as true unless found untrue. 74 C. 382. Court is cautious in drawing inference from finding outside scope of trial court's inquiry. 77 C. 291. Where answer relies on date in complaint, court treats it as true date. Id., 528. Judgment on verdict directed not readily reversed. 78 C. 99; 82 C. 396. Court will take judicial notice; 67 C. 316; 69 C. 390; 73 C. 719; 81 C. 152; Id., 229; 83 C. 134; custom of lower courts; 84 C. 458; fact appearing on its records in another case. 91 C. 101. Courts must apply statutes of foreign state correctly, though trial court did not. 81 C. 164. If neither brief mentions assignment of error, court disregards it. 83 C. 417; 92 C. 579; 94 C. 521; 95 C. 378; 97 C. 308. Where committee's report failed to include subordinate facts, court regarded them under stipulation. 95 C. 538. Where both parties took appeal and one stated his desire to withdraw his, if it would require new trial–which it would–court regarded questions it presented as academic. 93 C. 413. Where judgment rendered against two parties, when successful appeal by one does not affect judgment against other. 104 C. 111. Finding of issues generally for plaintiff but judgment given on one count only; that count will alone be considered on defendant's appeal; otherwise if defendant prejudiced by such finding. Id., 259. Judgment for defendant in bastardy action held a bar to action by complainant's father for seduction. Id., 592. Court may waive defect in pleading where trial court and both parties treated pleadings as proper. 105 C. 478. Proper procedure in appeal by state in a criminal case reviewed. 106 C. 115. In suit for declaratory judgment, court is not limited by issues joined or claims of counsel; court will itself give appropriate judgment. 107 C. 661. In absence of a finding by the court, legal conclusions upon which the judgment is based must be ascertained from the memorandum. 146 C. 1. Court cannot act on assumed rulings of the court that are not discoverable on the record. Id., 10. Court may resort to the memorandum of decision for aid in interpreting uncertainties in the finding. Id., 42. Award of damages will not be set aside if it does not offend the sense of justice and compel conclusion that jury was influenced by partiality, prejudice or mistake. Id., 344. Assignments of error not pursued in brief are treated as abandoned. Id., 360. If sole question on appeal is the sufficiency of evidence to sustain the conviction, no finding of facts is necessary since conviction can only be tested by the evidence. Id., 693, 705; 147 C. 90. If appellant fails to present all evidence necessary for proper consideration of an appeal, it becomes the duty of appellee to do so. Id., 7. Courts should not interfere with the reasonable regulations and orders of police departments when made for the purpose of maintaining discipline. Id., 113. Request to add certain paragraphs to draft finding must be accompanied by a record of the relevant evidence. Id., 305. Distinction drawn between evidence inadmissible as hearsay and evidence admissible as spontaneous utterances. Id., 337. A stipulation obviates the necessity of presenting evidence to establish the facts stipulated but it does not preclude the court from drawing proper inferences from those facts. Id., 426. Assessment of damages will not be disturbed unless the sum awarded is shown to be plainly excessive, particularly where the amount was determined by the court in a trial without a jury. Id., 540; 148 C. 557. If inapplicable statute is submitted to the jury, the materiality of the error must be determined on the whole record before the court. 147 C. 638. In reviewing a charge to the jury, the court should look at it as a whole and at its probable effect upon the jury in guiding them to a correct verdict. Id., 644; 148 C. 130. Conclusions must be tested by the subordinate facts in the findings. 147 C. 677. Directed verdicts are not favored. Id., 699, 704. Statement in finding that exhibits are made a part of the findings for use in the Supreme Court, without printing the exhibits in the record, held not to constitute a finding as a fact of the material contained in such exhibits. Id., 720. No material corrections in finding can be made on appeal if an appendix of the necessary evidence is not filed with the brief. 148 C. 21. Court refused to review alleged error in rulings on evidence because party had not followed procedure set out in Sec. 648 of Practice Book. Id., 27. In order to avail himself of the rule that grounds upon which evidence is claimed to be inadmissible must be stated, a party must state the grounds for his claim of admissibility; a finding in a jury trial is merely a narrative of the facts claimed to have been proved by each side, made for the purpose of fairly presenting any claimed errors in the charge or rulings of the court. Id., 208. Corrections in a finding can be made if the trial court has refused to find a material fact which was an admitted or undisputed fact; information afforded by deeds and map introduced in evidence held to constitute such material fact; the fact that the trial court assigned an incorrect reason for its decision would not require a reversal of the judgment if it was correct for another reason. Id., 299. When appellant assigns as error, and makes the claim in his brief, that a material fact was found without evidence, and does not print the relevant evidence, the burden of printing evidence to show that no error was committed is placed on appellee; if appellee fails to print such evidence, then the questioned finding must be stricken; where admissibility of evidence depends upon a preliminary question of fact, to be determined by the court, its decision is not to be reversed unless there is clear and manifest error. Id., 398. Where court sustained a demurrer on grounds other than those claimed by defendant, the ruling may be upheld if a proper conclusion was reached. Id., 430. Court dismissed appeal as the question presented was then academic. Id., 456. An obviously erroneous award of damages can be corrected to conform to the finding of the trial court. Id., 504. Cited. 149 C. 576. Court does not examine transcript of testimony in search of evidence which supports a requested finding trial court refused to make; brief must be supported by appendix. 151 C. 204. Power to remand case for new trial where error is found is unqualified. 179 C. 372. Cited. 185 C. 527.
Grounds of error; in general. Refusal to direct verdict not ground of appeal. 89 C. 117. Defendant may have exception to order substituting new plaintiff. 73 C. 384. It is error to treat case on wrong basis; 77 C. 291; to overlook a statute, though not referred to; 72 C. 157; 92 C. 551; 73 C. 519; to fail to regard material facts; 73 C. 573; to consider as evidence matter not in the case, or to misconstrue purport of testimony; 77 C. 688; not to consider evidence for all proper purposes; 82 C. 460; to insert in charge issue not raised by pleading; 84 C. 150; to leave question of law to the jury; 86 C. 641; to direct verdict on erroneous assumption as to facts; 88 C. 16; to refuse to permit counsel to press proper claim in argument; 93 C. 106; to fail to regard material and relevant evidence; 95 C. 445; but frankness of the court in suggesting that a ruling is questionable is not. 95 C. 503. A judgment not supported by facts found is erroneous. 83 C. 118; 87 C. 617. The possibility of affecting the result is the test as regards rulings on evidence. 78 C. 396; 83 C. 547. Admission of evidence attacking credit. 74 C. 425; 76 C. 92. It is error to treat evidence as uncontradicted where facts contradict it; 74 C. 468; or to find material fact without evidence. 73 C. 692; 82 C. 5; 84 C. 93; Id., 122. In ruling on demurrer, question is correctness of result, not reasons assigned. 84 C. 275. Departure from technical rules in examining witness unfamiliar with English language overlooked. 93 C. 107. Question which trial court does not find it necessary to rule upon disregarded. Id., 118. Refusal to direct verdict is not error. Id., 454. An erroneous conclusion from subordinate facts is an error of law. 96 C. 275. Where demurrer of one defendant to complaint is sustained, but case goes on and verdict is finally directed for it, appeal from verdict does not bring up ruling on demurrer. Id., 497. In passing on demurrer, court not restricted to grounds considered by trial court. Id., 542. So, where trial court inadvertently sustains demurrer to original complaint when amended complaint has been filed. 102 C. 128. When pleading to which a demurrer has been sustained is voluntarily replaced by another pleading on which issue is joined and a trial had, there is no right of appeal from decision on demurrer. 99 C. 67. Error held harmful where material evidence excluded on an erroneous ground and, on appeal, it could not be determined that the evidence was inadmissible for the purpose for which it was offered. 146 C. 42. There must be evidence to support a finding of fact; conclusions are tested by the finding and not by the evidence. Id., 90. Cross-examination to show motive, interest, bias or prejudice held to have been unduly restricted by court. 147 C. 40. For a new trial because of an erroneous ruling on evidence, the ruling must be both erroneous and harmful. Id., 76. Test for reasonableness of court's action in directing a verdict. Id., 398. If inapplicable statute is submitted to the jury, the materiality of the error must be determined on the whole record before the court. Id., 638. Court's finding omitted a ruling on evidence which was relied on as a ground of error, held that, because of the nature of the ruling, a new trial was necessary. Id., 641. Extemporaneous remark by judge that damages were “nominal” held not to invalidate his award of $340. Id., 728. Error cannot be predicated on ambiguous exceptions which do not fairly apprise the trial court of the error claimed. 148 C. 459.
Harmless errors; in general. As regards receiver, judgment removing him is harmless. 70 C. 473. Plaintiff not harmed by grant of nonsuit as to one of two defendants. 79 C. 379. Ruling on demurrer of one party held not to avail another; 65 C. 84; so party cannot complain of any ruling as to which he has no interest. 84 C. 208. A new trial will not be granted, where record shows error to be harmless; 65 C. 76; 69 C. 201; 90 C. 382; 91 C. 354; 101 C. 59; 109 C. 401, 402; and the whole record is to be consulted. 75 C. 548. Errors must be fundamental and substantial; 83 C. 547; 85 C. 55; and prejudicial to appellant. 87 C. 341; 91 C. 316. In rulings on evidence, the possibility of affecting the result is the test; 78 C. 396; and, in a criminal prosecution, defendant is entitled to every doubt upon the question. 75 C. 334. If the jury is not misled, an error is harmless. 79 C. 108. An error favorable to appellant will not be regarded. 73 C. 377. If main issues are correctly decided, irregularities or errors in reaching decision may be disregarded. 68 C. 201; 86 C. 579; 89 C. 553. Giving the wrong reason for a right decision is harmless; 72 C. 216; 74 C. 125; 77 C. 457; 79 C. 104; Id., 241; Id., 605; 81 C. 153; 84 C. 275; 90 C. 612; 94 C. 80; 95 C. 248; Id., 281; Id., 431; 107 C. 119; as where new trial was proper but for another reason than that assigned; 95 C. 248; if judgment is sustainable upon any theory it stands, though it does not appear that court adopted it; 96 C. 644; correctly directing verdict but upon wrong theory. 92 C. 330. Irregularities in reaching a right decision responsive to the issues disregarded. 86 C. 201. Technical defect of parties. 52 C. 329. Where on conceded facts appellant must lose. 96 C. 588. Where one ground of demurrer is efficacious, error cannot be predicated on the fact that the demurrer was sustained on another, even if erroneous, ground. 147 C. 566. Prompt direction by court to jury to disregard its comment rendered comment harmless. 154 C. 314. Cited. 188 C. 259.
Questions open to review; discretion of court. Rulings made in discretion of court not ordinarily reviewable; 80 C. 149; Id., 314; but whether matter is one involving discretion is; 68 C. 39; 79 C. 46; and so is conclusion reached on theory that matter was not in discretion, when it was. 68 C. 39. Granting nonsuit for failure to prosecute. 75 C. 314. Refusing nonsuit. 79 C. 266; Id., 379; 80 C. 299; 98 C. 248; Id., 373. Petition for new trial on ground of newly discovered evidence; 75 C. 576; 77 C. 15; 91 C. 25; 96 C. 254; or misconduct of juror; 84 C. 518; 87 C. 363; 109 C. 726; or his qualification. 97 C. 322. Drawing of jurors. 103 C. 471; Id., 542. Rulings allowing or disallowing amendments not ordinarily reviewable. 69 C. 555; 74 C. 62; Id., 126; 75 C. 45; Id., 308; 82 C. 479; 83 C. 417; 85 C. 271. Allowing amendment on trial; 91 C. 449; 101 C. 552; 108 C. 625; but are reviewable where an amendment is refused as a matter of law; 73 C. 1; 76 C. 273; Id., 680; or because of erroneous construction of previous ruling; 71 C. 623; or because it would be of no avail. 79 C. 458. Denial of motion to consolidate actions. 82 C. 2. Granting motion for more specific statement. 87 C. 241. Rulings on motions for continuance. 69 C. 186; 75 C. 308; Id., 314; 78 C. 654; 79 C. 380; 81 C. 474; 108 C. 176. Dismissing jury because of improper argument of counsel; 72 C. 252; 74 C. 638; 108 C. 192; returning jury for further consideration; 74 C. 584; 108 C. 553; instructing them as to duty to strive to agree; 80 C. 245; directing them to return general verdict where same crime is charged in different counts. 74 C. 531. Ordering recount of ballots. 75 C. 48. Disbarring attorney. 66 C. 585; 80 C. 149; 84 C. 594; 88 C. 447. Action as to temporary injunction. 80 C. 426. Taxing costs to garnishee in action against him; 67 C. 257; in mandamus. 68 C. 220. Order modifying decree as to custody of children in divorce action; 83 C. 479; fixing amount of alimony. 85 C. 478. Allowance to wife to defend, appeal or prosecute. 104 C. 155. Order approving compromise of claim by receiver. 88 C. 371. Refusal of bail after judgment in habeas corpus. 78 C. 155. Discretion of court in conduct of trial ordinarily not reviewable. 85 C. 112. Rulings as to evidence where court has discretion; 92 C. 576; as to the order of admitting testimony; 66 C. 80; Id., 168; 77 C. 394; Id., 398; 83 C. 429; 88 C. 177; 107 C. 97; as to relevancy or remoteness; 77 C. 267; 78 C. 29; Id., 66; 79 C. 664; 80 C. 19; calling attention of witness to contradictory statements out of court; 82 C. 448; preliminary proof as to admission of evidence; 69 C. 124; 70 C. 516; 71 C. 313; 73 C. 364; Id., 588; 80 C. 525; 101 C. 551; 105 C. 393; 106 C. 308; identity; 84 C. 248; scope of redirect examination; 77 C. 201; examining one's own witness as to contradictory statements in case of surprise; 74 C. 431; permitting witness to explain answers showing interest or tending to discredit; 66 C. 175; limiting cross-examination; 74 C. 198; Id., 374; 80 C. 531; 82 C. 454; 84 C. 152; 97 C. 39; permitting cross-examination of one's own witness as hostile; 65 C. 93; scope of redirect examination; 73 C. 471; 77 C. 201; 82 C. 280; Id., 454; excluding questions asked of an expert upon ground of lack of qualification; 91 C. 431; rulings as to witness refreshing recollection; 96 C. 279; but where court excluded evidence as improper, that part of it might have been excluded in its discretion will not obviate error. 93 C. 81. Finding as to qualification of juror. 97 C. 322. Action of court in disbarment proceedings. 90 C. 440. Extending time in which to present claim to receiver. 91 C. 359. Motion for stay of proceedings. Id., 553. Order of court for joint trial of two accused. 92 C. 58. Charge commenting on evidence. Id., 579; 96 C. 239. Decision in bastardy action as to amount of support to be furnished for child. 93 C. 318. Ruling as to printing evidence in criminal case at expense of state, though accused is appellant. 95 C. 451. Summary of discretionary and mandatory disqualifications of jurors. 103 C. 542. Compelling plaintiff to submit to physical examination by defendant's doctors before trial held valid. Id., 272. Allowance to defend, appeal or prosecute in divorce action discretionary. 104 C. 155. So allowance of attorney's fee to employer in joint action against third party under workmen's compensation act. Id., 507. So, compelling production of accident report held by defendant's counsel. Id., 513. So, competency of child of fifteen; but discretion held abused where such child had no belief in Supreme Being or understanding of obligations of an oath. Id., 588. Admission of statement as spontaneous utterance. 100 C. 482; 105 C. 433; Id., 482. But discretion may be abused. Id., 433. Whether expert be allowed to give opinion on testimony heard in court or confined to hypothetical question is discretionary. 105 C. 444; 106 C. 89. When submission of interrogatories to jury is discretionary. 105 C. 582; 107 C. 243. Refusal to permit clerk orally to read verdict is improper but not reversible error. 105 C. 530. Admission of photographs. 106 C. 308. Continuance of trial and holding jury during illness of juror. Id., 722. Exclusion of unnecessarily repetitious questions is discretionary. 107 C. 99. Opening or vacating judgment during session at which it was rendered is discretionary; limitations on discretion. Id., 167. Where verdict is set aside, propriety of such action alone may be considered; no method whereby appellant can at same time secure review of rulings on trial. 108 C. 681. Submission of interrogatories. Id., 627. Refusal to answer jury's question held no error. 109 C. 403. Court may change decision denying motion to set aside verdict at any time during same term. Id., 483. Only errors raised at trial are reviewable. 146 C. 90. Matter of discretion for trial court to set aside verdict as inadequate and no reversal unless there is clear abuse of discretion. Id., 114. Motion for new trial on grounds of newly discovered evidence in discretion of court. Id., 149. Admission in evidence of photograph of murder victim held not an abuse of the court's discretion. 147 C. 194. Rule for review of alleged error relating to conclusions of law. Id., 254. The qualification of an expert witness is largely within the court's discretion and, if any reasonable qualification can be established, an objection goes to the weight of the evidence rather than to its admissibility. Id., 321. Considerations involved in a review of a motion to set aside a verdict on the ground that it was excessive. Id., 432. Court refused to review ruling on evidence since no ground for objection was stated. Id., 566. When evidence is excluded upon a mere general objection and the offering party at no time assigns any ground in support of the claim of admissibility, Supreme Court lacks a basis for reviewing court's ruling re admissibility. Id., 625. In reviewing a charge to the jury, the court should look at it as a whole and at its probable effect upon the jury in guiding them to a correct verdict. Id., 644; 148 C. 130. Wholesale attack on charge without any attempt to specify alleged error held to disentitle appellant to a review of the correctness of the charge. 147 C. 663, see also 148 C. 130. Court unable to review a claim that the trial court found a material fact without evidence since no evidence printed in the record. 147 C. 677. Court will not review alleged error in the charge to the jury if the party did not file any request to charge or, at the conclusion of the charge, took no exception to any part of the charge; court refused to review alleged error in rulings on evidence because party had not followed procedure set out in Sec. 648 of Practice Book. 148 C. 27. Standards used by court in reviewing a charge to the jury. Id., 125. Court refused to review a disputed ruling on evidence since party did not state the grounds on which he claimed the evidence to be admissible; substantial evidence defined. Id., 135. Where a demurrer is overruled and the case goes to final judgment, the ruling on the demurrer may be claimed as error, since an erroneous ruling on a demurrer is a proper subject of review. Id., 153. Standard for reviewing action of a court in denying a motion to set aside a verdict. Id., 167. Party not entitled to a review of the correctness of a charge if he did not submit a proper request to charge. Id., 266. The same principles are to be applied in reviewing court's action in failing to set aside a verdict and in denying a motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict. Id., 419. In setting aside a verdict, court ordered new trial rather than directing a verdict, for it would not have been an abuse of discretion for the trial court to have denied a motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict and to have ordered a new trial. Id., 426.
Harmless errors; before trial. Abating action where complaint is defective in substance. 76 C. 628. Compelling plaintiff to cite in defendant where no actual harm results. 65 C. 84. Misjoining plaintiff where no judgment rendered for him. 72 C. 519. Failure to join defendant where decision reached not prejudicial to him. 80 C. 460. Striking out name of one plaintiff. 72 C. 472. Failure to sign bill of exceptions where issue otherwise raised. 73 C. 384; 80 C. 493. Striking out allegation where case turns on another issue. 74 C. 498. Denying motion to strike out, where default later suffered. 64 C. 487. Striking out allegations where party not thereby prevented from putting in whole case; 69 C. 201; 72 C. 531; 76 C. 148; 81 C. 707; 84 C. 501; 89 C. 671; refusing to allow amendment in such case. 82 C. 479. Denying motion to file defenses to count which court treats as out of case. 72 C. 651. Overruling demurrer where only harm was to make proof more burdensome; 69 C. 205; or which goes to different basis of action than that claimed; 77 C. 482; or where defect is cured by amendment. 60 C. 378; 73 C. 187; 90 C. 261. Overruling demurrer to one of several defenses where all issues found for defendant. 92 C. 295. Treating demurrer to separate paragraphs as one to defense set out in them. 93 C. 392. Sustaining demurrer to one of two counts where plaintiff cannot recover on either; 69 C. 484; sustaining demurrer to complaint held harmless on assumption that, if overruled, defendant would have pleaded over and prevailed. 68 C. 504. Failure to specify grounds for sustaining demurrer; 69 C. 489; stating wrong ground for right result. 78 C. 575; 79 C. 241; Id., 603; 84 C. 275. Sustaining demurrer to pleading afterwards replaced by another; 72 C. 196; Id., 257; 74 C. 125; 80 C. 348; Id., 549; 81 C. 474; 99 C. 67; though latter is filed under order of court. 81 C. 415. If demurrer is correctly sustained as to one ground, rulings on others are harmless. 93 C. 604, 614. Ruling on demurrer where same question is presented and correctly decided on trial; 76 C. 335; 77 C. 304; 85 C. 51; 86 C. 616; 91 C. 474; on technical grounds, where substantial rights upheld; 79 C. 100; where later proceedings disclose that no harm was done. 83 C. 554; 87 C. 342; 91 C. 356. Refusing permission to replace plea with demurrer where latter would not prevail. 74 C. 38. Refusing application to distribute estate where there is nothing to distribute. 72 C. 322. Verbal inaccuracy in answer whereby certain issues not closed. 87 C. 221. Ruling that statements are not libelous per se where cause of action otherwise defective. 89 C. 553. Where pleading insufficient on any ground, overruling it is harmless. 81 C. 646. Appointing temporary receiver of national bank. 76 C. 260. Striking case from jury list cannot be supported unless record shows error was harmless. 90 C. 133. Court regarded demurrer in light of facts found. 92 C. 646. Refusal to permit opponent to be present at taking of deposition. 91 C. 405. Denial of motion for disclosure where facts sought are not legally available. Id., 553. Erroneous ruling on pleading held harmless. 98 C. 251. If pleading successfully demurred to is voluntarily replaced, no appeal lies from decision on demurrer; otherwise if demurrer is overruled. 99 C. 67. So no appeal from action on original complaint where substituted complaint is filed. Id., 389.
Harmless error; matters on trial in general. Ruling on accounting which results in appellant's favor. 71 C. 503. As to election between counts. 79 C. 672. Momentary possession of paper improperly by jury. 68 C. 248. Improper arguments of counsel. 68 C. 551; 72 C. 252; 74 C. 638; Id., 700; 75 C. 55; Id., 215; 77 C. 603; 81 C. 22; 83 C. 161; Id., 183; Id., 449; Id., 466; Id., 642; 85 C. 111; 86 C. 100; Id., 415. Failure to permit examination of jurors in civil case. 89 C. 46. Immaterial variance. 87 C. 691. Setting aside verdict without motion where it is later filed. 83 C. 445. Rulings as to count on which appellant prevailed. 77 C. 398. Correctly directing verdict, but upon wrong theory. 92 C. 330. Setting aside verdict where, on bill of exceptions, charge appears erroneous. Id., 252; Id., 365. Defect in interrogatories submitted for special verdict. 93 C. 446. Rulings in questions of law where plaintiff's claims have no foundation in fact. 97 C. 275. Improper argument of state's attorney may well be harmful. 96 C. 264. When disqualification of juror healed by verdict. 103 C. 546. Improper argument of counsel to jury. 106 C. 122; 108 C. 192.
Harmless error; trial to court. Improper argument to court. 72 C. 202. Failure to indicate which of two rules of damages adopted where results would be substantially the same. 70 C. 125. Rulings as to damages where defendant prevails. 73 C. 300; 77 C. 150. Denying right to recover against one of two defendants, where plaintiff recovers no damages. 74 C. 443. In ruling as to failure of plaintiff's case where defense is fully proved. 77 C. 22. Error as to irrelevant findings. 70 C. 473. Conflict between language of finding and annexed exhibits. 71 C. 254. Finding claims of party proved where other party fails to sustain burden upon him. 78 C. 614. Finding immaterial fact clearly by inadvertence. 79 C. 276. Finding fact where issue otherwise determined. 80 C. 310. Error as to subordinate facts where conclusion is sound. 75 C. 164. Ruling that words not libelous per se where plaintiff has no cause of action. 89 C. 553. Failing to mark paragraphs of draft-finding “proven” where issues otherwise presented; 81 C. 491; or it would not avail appellant. 88 C. 22. Finding harmless fact not supported by the evidence; 92 C. 208; or not alleged. 93 C. 545. Ruling as to burden of proof where issue is one of law on undisputed facts; 94 C. 452; but not where issue is one of fact. 96 C. 277. Not harmless to disregard statute requiring plaintiff who sues for negligence to adopt certain precaution. 95 C. 603. Rulings as to waiver of right where it was not proved. Id., 16.
Harmless error; evidence. Technical error where no injustice appears is harmless; 87 C. 349; and record must disclose harm; 65 C. 93; 78 C. 629; 79 C. 664; 80 C. 452; or a possibility of harm. 70 C. 646; 78 C. 396. Harmless if result would not have been changed; 62 C. 542; 70 C. 54; 72 C. 617; 75 C. 33; Id., 127; Id., 197; 83 C. 407; 84 C. 207; 92 C. 428; 95 C. 251, 263; 99 C. 160; 102 C. 336; 104 C. 321; 105 C. 394, 626; 106 C. 87, 135; 107 C. 544; or is clearly correct; 70 C. 745; or evidence does not touch vital issue in case; 81 C. 622; 82 C. 539; or would not benefit appellant; 91 C. 449; or it goes to issue not in case; 82 C. 653; or to one which decision makes immaterial. 70 C. 67; 80 C. 338; 82 C. 595; 83 C. 386; 90 C. 148; 91 C. 431. Rulings on matters of little importance or in court's discretion. 83 C. 183. Rulings as to relevancy or remoteness of evidence. 76 C. 209; Id., 302; 77 C. 397; Id., 617; 79 C. 217; Id., 664; 81 C. 75; Id., 573; 90 C. 126. Overruling objections as to form of questions, or where evidence was trivial, or favorable to appellant. 66 C. 93; 76 C. 209; 77 C. 399; 79 C. 379; 87 C. 341. Excluding evidence where inference from it would be remote and unsubstantial; 85 C. 66; or it would be material only in connection with other facts not proved. 65 C. 69; 88 C. 219. Excluding evidence later given. 66 C. 250; 72 C. 305; 74 C. 257; 78 C. 430; 83 C. 216; 90 C. 677. Overruling objection where evidence later given without objection. 70 C. 646; 71 C. 437. Rulings on evidence where facts are otherwise proved or admitted; 73 C. 300; 77 C. 165; Id., 387; 79 C. 540; 80 C. 338; 82 C. 33; Id., 552; 83 C. 64; 84 C. 169; Id., 248; Id., 508; Id., 654; 85 C. 613; 88 C. 109; Id., 219; Id., 547; Id., 720; 89 C. 321; 90 C. 570; 91 C. 432; 92 C. 658; 97 C. 155; 102 C. 169; 105 C. 433; or court takes judicial notice. 91 C. 431. Excluding question merely preliminary. 81 C. 338. Admitting evidence as to matter which jury is instructed later to disregard. 73 C. 187; 82 C. 280; Id., 647; 97 C. 260. Limiting scope of cross-examination. 77 C. 462; 81 C. 423; 83 C. 537; 85 C. 259; 86 C. 82; 91 C. 499; 96 C. 240. Excluding opinion of nonexpert who has testified to facts. 84 C. 202. Admitting evidence in rebuttal of irrelevant evidence. 67 C. 533; 69 C. 272. Admitting document in evidence during argument. 69 C. 440. Admitting evidence as to construction of document where court adopts objector's claims. 68 C. 579. Admitting hearsay statement of witness out of court where he confirms it in his testimony. 69 C. 652. Admitting question where no answer given; 71 C. 638; or witness states he does not remember; 74 C. 564; or answer makes question harmless. 81 C. 22. Ruling that evidence not given is admissible. 73 C. 589. Admitting evidence where court finds against it; 75 C. 139; or wholly disregards it. 85 C. 635. Immaterial self-serving declaration. 86 C. 346. Use of word “sold” where all facts as to transaction claimed to be a sale later shown. Id., 474. Ruling as to preliminary proof of document offered on direct examination made harmless by facts brought out on cross-examination. 85 C. 18. Admitting irrelevant evidence tending to prejudice jury not harmless; 89 C. 405; nor is exclusion of direct evidence of party though opponent later puts in deposition given by him; Id., 205; nor is question on cross-examination of accused tending to reflect on his character, not in issue, though his answer is “no”; 88 C. 150; nor is exclusion of written declarations of decedent, though oral ones are offered; 86 C. 474; nor exclusion of evidence as improper even though part might have been excluded in court's discretion; 93 C. 81; and court will assume that admission of testimony as to special damages not pleaded was harmful. 91 C. 339. Admission of evidence as to intent of testator in using certain word where it accords with legal meaning is harmless. 93 C. 308. Admitting hearsay where another witness gives proper testimony as to fact and opponent partially admits it. 95 C. 62. Excluding nonexpert opinion as to danger of certain condition upon premises which jury have visited. Id., 231. Excluding question on cross-examination of plaintiff as to matter which he later fully explains. Id., 566. Excluding cross-examination of photographer as to other pictures taken by him where they were available to party examining. 96 C. 590. Relaxing rules in examination of witness with scanty knowledge of English. 93 C. 107. Permitting demonstration not under oath where it is immediately repeated under oath. 96 C. 34. Irrelevant and irresponsive answer regarding a trivial matter; Id., 582; improper question not answered and withdrawn or where witness says he does not know; Id., 638; where witness answers, he does not know, or remember. 97 C. 298. Error can rarely be based upon exclusion of leading question, as it could easily be replaced. Id.; 106 C. 729. If objections would not project or aid interests of party, he has no ground to complain. 97 C. 298. Admitting preliminary questions of expert whose opinion is finally excluded. 96 C. 240. Submitting questions of law to jury held harmless where result was correct. 98 C. 314. No appeal from ruling on evidence unless exception taken. 101 C. 445. Admitting evidence on counsel's promise to connect it up. 106 C. 101, 308. Admission of improper but harmless evidence not reversible error. 148 C. 192.
Harmless error; charge. Charge is to be construed as a whole; 73 C. 95; 81 C. 22; Id., 601; 82 C. 343; 84 C. 467; 86 C. 335; 88 C. 558; 103 C. 148; to be reasonably read in its entirety; 94 C. 186; and if, so construed, it is correct and sufficient, error in part will be disregarded; 73 C. 667; 74 C. 525; 75 C. 254; 80 C. 298; 82 C. 600; 84 C. 152; 85 C. 359; 86 C. 415; 88 C. 700; 90 C. 59; 91 C. 6; Id., 316; or if the jury could not have been misled; 67 C. 578; 74 C. 304; Id., 525; 82 C. 518; 85 C. 19; 86 C. 424; Id., 608; 91 C. 668; 92 C. 578; as where verdict is only one legally possible; 93 C. 669; or there is a slight inaccuracy in a single sentence; 81 C. 218; 83 C. 466; 86 C. 265; 87 C. 253; Id., 341; 88 C. 177; or palpable error is disclosed by context; 79 C. 104; and the court will assume the jury was not misled. 81 C. 288. Error in part disregarded; 90 C. 261; 91 C. 393; Id., 395; inadvertent use of single expression; 93 C. 439; 102 C. 166; as use of phrase “unusual care” in negligence action; 93 C. 251; “visible” instead of “clearly visible” as in statute; 97 C. 149; or “defendant” for “plaintiff” where context makes meaning clear. 94 C. 614. Omission of word or two. 95 C. 187. Use of words “maintain and operate” where negligence alleged was in “operating” alone. 93 C. 439. Adding phrase of doubtful meaning to adequate charge as to burden of proof. 97 C. 381. Failing to charge as to equipoise of evidence, where charge correct as to burden of proof. 87 C. 363. Charge to be read in view of claims of parties. 69 C. 89; 83 C. 208; 89 C. 343. Error as to issue disregarded by jury harmless; 88 C. 558; or as to one not material to verdict; 74 C. 443; 82 C. 595; 83 C. 183; 85 C. 180; 87 C. 406; 88 C. 117; 88 C. 620; 90 C. 261; 91 C. 186; Id., 581; 107 C. 438; Id., 572; but to submit to jury issue not raised by parties or evidence is error. 92 C. 626; 95 C. 440; 94 C. 131; Id., 197. Failure to charge as requested where jury clearly adopted law of request; 71 C. 551; or it would not have availed appellant. 72 C. 402. Failure to charge as to claim of law not made. 91 C. 250. Charge proceeding on wrong theory harmless where verdict is correct. 80 C. 14. So error as to point not in issue; 70 C. 398; 77 C. 150; 78 C. 18; 108 C. 125; or one not supported by evidence; 77 C. 572; failing to charge as to admitted fact; 71 C. 569; 83 C. 183; so error as to weight of evidence as to such fact; 78 C. 18; or as to burden of proof of fact clearly established. Id., 430; 82 C. 595. Granting inapplicable request where jury could not be misled. 87 C. 691. Charge favoring appellant. 82 C. 199; 83 C. 160; 90 C. 59; 91 C. 316; Id., 188; 92 C. 315; 93 C. 126. Submitting construction of written instrument to jury where they arrive at correct decision. 81 C. 310. Charging that several counts state but one offense. 75 C. 269. Errors as to count on which appellant prevailed. 77 C. 398. Where complaint offers two bases of recovery and verdict is general, error as to one harmless. 94 C. 690; 95 C. 724; 104 C. 28; 106 C. 154. Ordinarily, an erroneous charge on any material issue is ground for new trial. 87 C. 652. Assumption of fact mistakenly harmless even in murder case if jury told that facts were for them to determine; 93 C. 328; or court correctly states duty of parties in the premises; 96 C. 49; so mistake as to evidence. 95 C. 574. Incomplete and therefore incorrect statement in one place harmless where matter fully explained elsewhere; Id., 187; 97 C. 282; so irrelevant, obscure and confusing instructions where later correct rule given and verdict shows jury was not misled; 95 C. 388; 108 C. 125; greater effect to be given to final instruction; 95 C. 398; immediate correction of erroneous statement as remedying error. Id., 484. A later incorrect statement will be considered misleading, though correct rule first stated; 74 C. 177; 75 C. 326; and a later correction will not always remedy an earlier statement. 69 C. 219; 71 C. 61. Even a misstatement of evidence is not harmless where jury could not fail to follow it. 84 C. 248. Where verdict equals amount erroneously included in charge, with interest, harm appears. 81 C. 479. Calling particular attention to element of damages not properly recoverable held harmful; 91 C. 407; so permitting recovery for breach of inapplicable statute; 96 C. 22; so requiring proof of incompetency of driver of automobile as well as his negligence. Id., 669. So charge authorizing jury to treat alleged intentional wrongdoing as an accident where evidence affords no warrant for that view. 92 C. 388. But it is harmless to place duty upon a wrong theory; Id., 314; or to submit question of law where verdict shows that it was decided correctly; Id., 658; or where court erred as to one sum stated to jury but jury adopted another correctly stated; 93 C. 234; or where error is as to contract alleged in answer but verdict is based on one alleged in the complaint; Id., 412; or as to a counterclaim which jury never considers; 95 C. 530; or court places too broad a construction upon a criminal statute but accused admits facts showing guilt under proper construction. 96 C. 107. Errors in charge immaterial if verdict is properly directed. 95 C. 252. Where jury finds accused guilty, and there was no reasonable basis for a finding that enterprise was abandoned, error in charging as to that matter harmless. 97 C. 330. Held harmful for court to state it was uncertain upon whom burden of proof upon one issue rested. Id., 175. Chance remark concerning contributory negligence, though incorrect, held cured by balance of charge. 98 C. 610. Charge containing absolute contradiction on a vital point held error. 99 C. 423. Unless whole charge printed, omissions cannot be presumed. 102 C. 639. Conflicting statements regarding law governing case are usually ground for reversal. 103 C. 557. A charge is tested by the finding, not by the evidence. 147 C. 171, 296, 311. If party took no exception to charge of jury, he cannot claim error in such charge on appeal. Id., 191. Wholesale attack on charge without any attempt to specify alleged error held to disentitle appellant to a review of the correctness of the charge. Id., 663, see also 148 C. 130. Defendant could prevail on a denial of negligence or a defense of contributory negligence; hence possible error in charge on issue of negligence cured by general verdict for defendant. 147 C. 727. Court will not review alleged error in the charge to the jury if the party did not file any request to charge or, at the conclusion of the charge, took no exception to any part of the charge. 148 C. 27. Party not entitled to a review of the correctness of a charge if he did not submit a proper request to charge. Id., 266.
Immaterial errors. Error which did not influence judgment held immaterial. 52 C. 310. So one involving very small sum. 76 C. 153. Trifling or microscopical errors disregarded. 81 C. 218. Item of insignificant amount ignored in finding and reasons of appeal disregarded. 85 C. 629. De minimis non curat lex. 79 C. 104; 88 C. 50. Charge increasing damage by small amount. 83 C. 208. Trivial error in damages. 79 C. 343; 86 C. 265; 90 C. 317. Frivolous motion in error should not be reserved. 13 C. 216. Erroneous allowance of $4 in judgment of $152. 94 C. 256. Failure to allow interest amounting to $3 or less. 96 C. 645. Failure of court in ordering remittitur to allow for nominal damages amounting to $1. 96 C. 685. On appeal from award of nominal damages, error held too inconsequential to merit a new trial on issue of damages. 146 C. 470. Extemporaneous remark by judge that damages were “nominal” held not to invalidate his award of $340. 147 C. 728.
Errors cured. Error in ruling on demurrer may be cured by subsequent proceedings; 74 C. 689; 83 C. 554; Id., 634; 87 C. 341; Id., 403; so ruling on plea in abatement; 76 C. 414; so error in admitting document may be cured by facts subsequently proved. 85 C. 18, see 83 C. 575. Failure to recite notice of injury cured by admitting due notice. 85 C. 221. When error in admitting evidence cured by charge. 80 C. 582; 83 C. 575; 85 C. 337; Id., 359; 86 C. 301; 87 C. 173; 88 C. 177. Error in failing to charge as requested cured by verdict negativing facts on which it is based. 86 C. 263. Refusal to allow proper amendment disregarded where facts are stated in answer. 87 C. 634. Aider by verdict. 68 C. 517; 70 C. 72; 72 C. 112; 75 C. 201; 81 C. 696; 84 C. 272; 93 C. 643; 97 C. 149; 108 C. 127. Leaving paper in file given to jury improperly cured by charge; 82 C. 59; so improper argument. 81 C. 22; 86 C. 415. Amendment curing defect will cause demurrer on that ground to be overruled. 71 C. 632. Statement in charge may cure improper argument; 95 C. 111, see 96 C. 160; Id., 289; and ordering improper evidence stricken out and directing jury to disregard it may cure error in its admission; 95 C. 500; but this may not be so in criminal case; 97 C. 259; and charge that evidence as to one being a careful driver is immaterial if they found him negligent does not cure error in admitting the testimony as to reputation. 95 C. 639. Demonstration of personal injury not under oath repeated under oath. 96 C. 34. Defects in drawing jury panel waived by accused if he elects trial by the court. 105 C. 337. Error in charge on one count cured by general verdict where complaint contained two counts and no interrogatories were filed. Id., 486. Defendant who files new answer to amended complaint waives review of judgment on motion to expunge parts of original answer to original complaint. Id., 675. Defendant could prevail on a denial of negligence or a defense of contributory negligence, hence possible error in charge on issue of negligence cured by general verdict for defendant. 147 C. 727. Prompt direction by court to jury to disregard its comment rendered comment harmless. 154 C. 314.
Errors induced by appellant. Error induced by appellant no ground for new trial. 66 C. 577; 73 C. 379; 104 C. 299. Exclusion of evidence on appellant's objection. 67 C. 50. Findings sought by appellant. 70 C. 480. Where court adopts theory and requests of appellant, he cannot complain; 69 C. 228; 76 C. 283; 80 C. 582; 83 C. 278; 96 C. 41; 106 C. 157; nor can he, as to taxing costs on count inserted by him out of court's jurisdiction. 79 C. 305. Party securing process can rarely object to it as invalid. 77 C. 183. Party can rarely complain of failure of opponent to introduce evidence, induced by his silence; 77 C. 674; or of charge which imposes greater restrictions on opponent than his own requests; 82 C. 647; or of the admission of evidence in pursuance of his own theory; 84 C. 508; or of failure to charge due to his own admissions on failure to make claim. 79 C. 706. If party consents to admission of evidence, he cannot complain; 65 C. 69; or to use of document otherwise inadmissible; 90 C. 669; nor can he raise other questions where he agrees to a finding; 71 C. 505; nor can he complain of decision on demurrer to which he consents; 72 C. 435; or of ruling consented to. 79 C. 79. But to recognize that judgment is necessary result of certain ruling does not make it judgment by consent; and consent to filing amendment does not waive defects in it. 72 C. 257.
Errors waived. By trial and consent to reservation, party is estopped to claim that issues tried were not those settled before trial; 69 C. 228; so to claim error as to pleadings after stipulation filed and judgment entered accordingly. 67 C. 73. A party claiming judgment against all defendants cannot complain of failure to give it against one only. 68 C. 496. An executor who enters to defend cannot complain of a judgment against “the defendant.” 77 C. 382. Inspection and approval of judgment file as waiving defects. 88 C. 676. Appeal from ruling sustaining demurrer to special defense not waived by trial on general issue. 83 C. 634. Objection to evidence waived by later admitting fact. 89 C. 322. Amending pleading waives right to claim error in rulings on original. 79 C. 79; 80 C. 549; 81 C. 415; Id., 474; 99 C. 67, 389. Defects in process waived by general appearance. 67 C. 366; 70 C. 329; 77 C. 382. Irregularity in signing writ of scire facias waived by pleading to it. 74 C. 87. Nonjoinder of husband in action by wife waived by going to trial without objection. 75 C. 279. Pleading over after demurrer overruled does not waive error as to it. 71 C. 190; 74 C. 689; 99 C. 67. Answering over after plea to jurisdiction overruled not a waiver. 90 C. 293. Failing to object to irregularity of probate appeal on reservation waives it. 71 C. 129. Failure to object to giving interrogatories to jury; 81 C. 611; to acceptance of unsigned verdict; Id., 656; to variance; 83 C. 634; to determination of substantial rights on motion addressed to pleading; 77 C. 284; to demurrer being too general; 73 C. 538; to evidence that act was done by agent, not pleaded; 66 C. 155; to treating original file of justice court as record; 77 C. 140; to improper argument. 81 C. 22; 83 C. 161; Id., 183; 86 C. 415; 96 C. 584. Error rarely comes from excluding question as leading as it can be replaced. 95 C. 521. Failure to ask court to limit effect of admission; 69 C. 5; to object to statement of issues by judge in place of reading pleadings to jury. 91 C. 430. Formal defects in complaint waived by plea in bar and trial; 71 C. 613; 72 C. 450; 73 C. 368; 74 C. 304; 75 C. 423; 77 C. 155; Id., 358; 79 C. 255; Id., 338; Id., 449; 82 C. 567; 84 C. 24; 91 C. 1; or by judgment in default; 73 C. 428; 75 C. 79; 77 C. 358; Id., 501; 78 C. 48; or by such judgment and hearing in damages. 72 C. 617; 73 C. 182; 77 C. 501; 78 C. 48. Plea in bar or admissions in answer waives such defects as are reached by motion. 66 C. 165; 70 C. 73; Id., 320; 73 C. 83; Id., 368; 74 C. 304; 75 C. 254; 77 C. 382; Id., 602; 78 C. 119. Failure to make formal denial waived by trial. 70 C. 420. Amendable defects in criminal information not properly attacked disregarded. 80 C. 614. But defect as to jurisdiction over the subject matter not waived by trial; 74 C. 265; 85 C. 528; 89 C. 196; 105 C. 511; nor is disqualification of judge. 75 C. 104. Argument on merits in Supreme Court as waiving defect of parties; 75 C. 605; irregularity of appeal. 66 C. 37. Errors apparent on record but not presented disregarded; 83 C. 510; so reasons of appeal not urged. 83 C. 417; 92 C. 579; 94 C. 521; 95 C. 378; 97 C. 308. Errors as to a motion for a disclosure later replaced by another. 90 C. 261. Variance not objected to; 91 C. 253; 98 C. 577; 108 C. 42; as where no objection made to generality of complaint or evidence. 93 C. 302; 107 C. 488. No waiver where objection is made to argument and court says it will cover matter in its charge. 96 C. 289. Waiver of absence of innuendo in complaint for slander by going to trial. 99 C. 719. Evidence admitted without objection, within issues but outside scope of more specific statement; error held waived. 107 C. 489.
Action of Supreme Court on appeal. Form adopted to bring case up will not hamper court in giving proper redress. 63 C. 456. Remanding case on reversal. 3 C. 587; 4 C. 311; 5 C. 474; 12 C. 101. If nonsuit for variance is properly granted, case should not be remanded. 82 C. 236. If finding shows judgment in part based on error, new trial should be ordered. 85 C. 212. If all facts of record, judgment may be given without new trial; 72 C. 444; 99 C. 511; if facts proved lead to definite conclusion, it should be adopted; 96 C. 412; but not if finding is uncertain; 75 C. 519; or is so altered on appeal as to materially change basis of judgment; 82 C. 619; 86 C. 481; 105 C. 432; or is based in part on inadmissible evidence. 84 C. 694. When former finding of facts is not affected by reversal. 46 C. 38. New trial will not be ordered where it would be unavailing; 64 C. 397; 72 C. 617; or where no error appears though court cannot see how decision was reached; 65 C. 442; or where there are irregularities in reaching a judgment responsive to issues and supported by facts; 68 C. 201; or where substantial justice has been done; Id., 579; 78 C. 422; as where action was brought at law instead of in equity; 71 C. 250; but the court set aside a judgment for error in admitting evidence, though new trial could not result differently. 70 C. 647. If little more than nominal sum involved, court hesitates to grant new trial. 72 C. 561; 79 C. 108; 85 C. 629; 106 C. 39; 107 C. 535. Unless substantial rights are involved; 67 C. 255; 84 C. 556; thus where judgment for defendant was erroneous, but plaintiff was only entitled to nominal damages, new trial not granted; 86 C. 552; 106 C. 174; 108 C. 99; but otherwise where continuing nuisance is involved; 106 C. 174; but if plaintiff gets substantial damages and is only entitled to nominal, case should be remanded for latter judgment. 75 C. 42. A portion of a judgment may be stricken out; Id., 251; or a certain amount of damages may be added; Id., 301; and if erroneous part of judgment can be separated and justice done, court may modify judgment; 83 C. 34; and where issues properly determined, but judgment on them is erroneous, court may modify it. Id., 118. But the court remanded a case with directions to exclude an item erroneously included. 84 C. 24. And for erroneous direction of verdict or setting it aside, new trial must be ordered; 81 C. 579; so where trial court directs remittitur and it is not filed. 89 C. 712. Remanding case with directions to enter judgment for less amount than originally given. 85 C. 640. Judgment for new trial unless remittitur is filed; 69 C. 652; 71 C. 2; 78 C. 300; 81 C. 101; 85 C. 24; 87 C. 686; for new trial on issue of damages. 147 C. 365. Unless claim for damages amended to equal those found, new trial. 89 C. 254. Judgment where U.S. Supreme Court reverses our court. 82 C. 702. Extension of time for redemption of mortgage where law day expires pending appeal. 85 C. 383; 90 C. 652. Fixing time of execution in murder case. 81 C. 22. Where there are several parties, final judgment must determine rights of all, although some only appeal. 76 C. 394. If accused is found guilty on two counts by general verdict and either is good, judgment stands. 66 C. 255. Bill of exceptions cannot enlarge judgment as to party not appealing. 72 C. 562. If any one of several defenses is good, judgment for defendant stands. 80 C. 124. Where in fraud action trial court set aside mortgage and also gave damages, Supreme Court, finding error as to former, directed that damages be increased by amount of mortgage. 91 C. 128. Where trial court granted an injunction and error was found, all facts appearing of record, Supreme Court directed judgment for damages. 92 C. 24. Where injunction included some land improperly, case remanded to determine proper lines. 93 C. 233. Where damages assessed as of wrong date, case was remanded with directions for a new trial unless excess of damages was remitted. Id., 123. Where there was error as to damages and court could not see how they were determined, retrial necessary. Id., 413. Where demurrer of one defendant was sustained wrongfully, even though it appeared that judgment would finally go against plaintiff, case was reversed. Id., 570. Where it appeared that trial court disposed of case on side issue, case was remanded to determine real issue. 95 C. 300. Where plaintiff could not win anyway, errors as to him are harmless. 100 C. 250. Evidence printed, but not certified, will not be considered. 102 C. 357. Court will dismiss action wherever want of jurisdiction of subject matter appears. 105 C. 511. Reversal of judgment for defendant on issue of liability; new trial may be limited to assessment of damages. Id., 663; and this, whether trial to jury or court. 107 C. 72; Id., 586; 108 C. 561. Supreme Court's right to remand, if error is found, is unqualified. 128 C. 437. If there is reasonable difference of opinion on the issue of proximate cause, the determination is for the trier. 146 C. 352; Id., 470. Judgment set aside since no conclusions of either fact or law are included in the finding. 147 C. 305. Where claimed newly discovered evidence would merely affect the credibility of a witness, it is not a ground for a new trial unless it is reasonably probable that on a new trial there would be a different result. Id., 566. When evidence is excluded upon a mere general objection and the offering party at no time assigns any ground in support of the claim of admissibility, the Supreme Court lacks a basis for reviewing court's ruling re admissibility. Id., 625. Court's finding omitted a ruling on evidence which was relied on as a ground of error; held that because of the nature of the ruling, a new trial was necessary. Id., 641. Where finding contained inconsistencies and was partially based on erroneous view of the law, case remanded for new trial. 148 C. 223. The fact that a trial court assigned an incorrect reason for its decision would not require a reversal of the judgment if it was correct for another reason. Id., 299. Where the admissibility of evidence depends upon a preliminary question of fact, to be determined by the court, its decision is not to be reversed unless there is clear and manifest error. Id., 398. Court dismissed the appeal as the question presented was then academic. Id., 456. An obviously erroneous award of damages can be corrected to conform to the finding of the trial court. Id., 504.
Effect of Supreme Court's action. On reversal of one judgment, others dependent on it fall. 73 C. 414; 75 C. 393; 85 C. 271. Status of cause when remanded; 1 D. 152; case is the same; 73 C. 413; and so is status of parties. 81 C. 719; 85 C. 271. On remand, judgment sustaining demurrer must enter unless pleadings are changed. 79 C. 605. Judgment special order. 17 C. 73; 35 C. 102. On reversal of judgment on demurrer overruled, final file of clerk is authoritative expression of judgment; if rescript is ambiguous, opinion should be consulted. 72 C. 444. Effect of decision as to construction of will. 83 C. 369. Where judgment is entered in trial court in accordance with opinion of Supreme Court, judgment, not opinion, determines issues. 65 C. 116. Opinion of court in granting new trial becomes law of case. 91 C. 430. Statements in opinions to be read in light of exact questions at issue. 93 C. 401. Reversal of itself not grant of new trial. 90 C. 412. On remanding, case goes to court or jury list from which it came. 91 C. 703. Where plaintiff prevailed as to each of two counts and as to counterclaim, and there was error as to one count, case remanded with directions to enter judgment between amount of count as to which no error and of counterclaim, and for retrial of issues on other count. 95 C. 600. When error found and cause remanded, new trial of all issues is necessary; adoption of parts of finding in first case by Supreme Court in its opinion does not require same finding on retrial. 105 C. 250. Where plaintiff prevails on all litigated issues, remand to correct inadvertent error in judgment does not make defendant party entitled to costs. 133 C. 18. Section authorizes a remand of a case for retrial on writs of error. 135 C. 367. A judgment responsive to the issues and supported by the facts should stand, even if court's method of reaching its conclusion might be questionable. 138 C. 718. Cited. 139 C. 435; 143 C. 22; 144 C. 21.
Cited. 4 Conn. Cir. Ct. 228.
Subsec. (a):
Cited. 202 C. 190; overruled in part re standard of review, see 308 C. 64; 229 C. 817; 230 C. 608; 235 C. 671.
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Sec. 52-265a. Direct appeal on questions involving the public interest. (a) Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 52-264 and 52-265, any party to an action who is aggrieved by an order or decision of the Superior Court in an action which involves a matter of substantial public interest and in which delay may work a substantial injustice, may appeal under this section from the order or decision to the Supreme Court within two weeks from the date of the issuance of the order or decision. The appeal shall state the question of law on which it is based.
(b) The Chief Justice shall, within one week of receipt of the appeal, rule whether the issue involves a substantial public interest and whether delay may work a substantial injustice.
(c) Upon certification by the Chief Justice that a substantial public interest is involved and that delay may work a substantial injustice, the trial judge shall immediately transmit a certificate of his decision, together with a proper finding of fact, to the Chief Justice, who shall thereupon call a special session of the Supreme Court for the purpose of an immediate hearing upon the appeal.
(d) The Chief Justice may make orders to expedite such appeals, including orders specifying the manner in which the record on appeal may be prepared.
(1967, P.A. 895; P.A. 76-436, S. 140, 681; P.A. 82-160, S. 138.)
History: P.A. 76-436 removed appeals from orders or decisions of court of common pleas from purview of section, reflecting transfer of all trial jurisdiction to superior court, effective July 1, 1978; P.A. 82-160 rephrased the section and inserted Subsec. indicators.
Cited. 192 C. 704; 194 C. 677; 195 C. 303; Id., 384; 196 C. 451; 199 C. 667; 202 C. 252; Id., 405; Id., 660; 204 C. 212; 208 C. 156; Id., 329; Id., 515; 212 C. 258; 216 C. 253; 217 C. 303; 221 C. 346; 222 C. 331; 225 C. 305; 226 C. 757; 227 C. 545; 233 C. 557; 235 C. 206; Id., 671; 239 C. 93; 241 C. 282; 242 C. 409. Discovery order in insurance coverage case is appealable since such order directly involved attorney-client privilege, and could compromise such privilege in claims litigated in other jurisdictions and prejudice plaintiff's handling of ongoing and future actions due to the knowledge that communications with clients might not be kept confidential. 249 C. 36. Late petition for certification to appeal was proper under section where it was clear that Supreme Court had jurisdiction over certified matter and the facts of the case militated in favor of choosing the most expeditious route to avoid potentially irreparable harm to intervenors. 302 C. 162. A crime victim is not a party to the criminal proceeding in the trial court and is therefore precluded from pursuing an appeal under section. 304 C. 330.
Cited. 22 CA 73; 29 CA 105; Id., 716; 32 CA 340; 37 CA 269; Id., 694.
Cited. 37 CS 541.
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Sec. 52-266. Several issues; new trial to be limited to issue in error. If several issues are presented by the pleadings and, on the trial of one or more of such issues, an error or ground for a new trial intervenes which does not affect the legality of the trial or disposition of the other issue or issues, judgment shall not be arrested or reversed, nor a new trial granted, except so far as relates to the particular issue or issues in the trial of which such error or ground for a new trial intervened.
(1949 Rev., S. 8007.)
Reversal vacates whole judgment if it is not separable. 4 C. 196; 77 C. 537; 78 C. 202. But if erroneous portion is separable, new trial may be restricted to that portion; 1 R. 138; 8 C. 458; 15 C. 101; 31 C. 62; 32 C. 15; 64 C. 320; 72 C. 657; 76 C. 585; 80 C. 402; as in assessment of damages; 64 C. 320; 68 C. 237; 71 C. 452; 72 C. 617; 74 C. 546; 75 C. 197; 79 C. 189; 94 C. 507; 105 C. 662; 107 C. 72, 586; 108 C. 561; but error as to damages requires new trial unless way they were determined appears; 93 C. 413; in suits for construction of will; 65 C. 183; 67 C. 19; or only error is as to relief given; 79 C. 284; 105 C. 662; 107 C. 72; or in form of judgment. 74 C. 661. When proper to grant new trial as to certain issues. 94 C. 507; 107 C. 72. Where judgment is for one defendant and against rest, judgment for former may be separately affirmed. 71 C. 64; 78 C. 285. Judgment doubling or trebling damages may be reversed as to that part alone. 66 C. 578; 87 C. 253. If erroneous ruling as to damages enters into whole judgment, all falls. 67 C. 400. Where error lies at basis of judgment and justice requires retrial. 81 C. 467. Where injunction granted was too broad. 70 C. 516. Where judgment in contract action against two is reversed as to one. 75 C. 605. Where judgment is joint and only one party appeals. 89 C. 214. A judgment against several tortfeasors may be reversed as to some only. 83 C. 29. A part of a decree affecting one party, as to which no one objected, not disturbed. Id., 700. Where trial court improperly passed on question, cause was remanded with directions to enter judgment on portion properly determined. 65 C. 183. Whether trial court can require new trial as to one issue, quaere. 81 C. 104. Portion of judgment granting injunction may be set aside, rest affirmed. 90 C. 108. Part of probate decree may be set aside, rest affirmed. 92 C. 286. When general verdict rendered, and no interrogatories submitted, new trial will not be granted for error in trial of one count of complaint. 98 C. 62; 100 C. 321, 493; 104 C. 28. Only remedy for erroneous refusal to direct verdict is grant of a new trial. 107 C. 733. Cited. 182 C. 366; 190 C. 791; 191 C. 282; 207 C. 308.
Cited. 4 CA 46; 26 CA 1. Section empowers court to order a retrial restricted in scope to a unique issue or issues. 63 CA 199.
Cited. 6 Conn. Cir. Ct. 240. No right to jury trial in a summary process proceeding in which no money damages are claimed. Id., 246.
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Sec. 52-267. Judge dying or ceasing to hold office at the time of decision; cause remanded to court rendering decision. If, at the time of the decision upon an appeal from the judgment of a judge, the judge rendering the judgment has died, ceased to hold office or become incapable of performing his duties, the Supreme Court or Appellate Court, as the case may be, shall remand the action to the court in which the decision was filed. The court shall proceed to final judgment thereon and issue execution for the costs thereof in the same manner as if the action had been tried and decided by such court.
(1949 Rev., S. 8008; P.A. 82-160, S. 139; June Sp. Sess. P.A. 83-29, S. 43, 82.)
History: P.A. 82-160 replaced “such cause” with “the action” and rephrased the section; June Sp. Sess. P.A. 83-29 included reference to appellate court.
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Sec. 52-268. New trial when judge, stenographer or court reporter dies or becomes incapacitated and review of errors not possible. (a) Any party who intends to appeal or has appealed a final judgment of the Superior Court, or of a judge thereof, an appeal from which properly lies, may move the court in writing for a new trial if the judge who rendered judgment, or the stenographer or court reporter who took the testimony at the original trial therein if his stenographic notes are not decipherable, has died or become incapable of taking the action necessary for the appeal, and the party had complied with the rules relating to the taking of appeals before such death or incapacity.
(b) The motion shall be filed in the court within ten days after the death or incapacity of the judge or stenographer or court reporter has become known to the party appealing from the judgment.
(c) The motion shall contain a statement of errors which are claimed to have occurred in the trial of the matter.
(d) After hearing the motion, the court shall grant a new trial if, in its opinion, the errors claimed to have been committed are of such a nature as fairly entitle the party appealing to a review of the errors by appeal and a review of the errors cannot otherwise be had.
(1949 Rev., S. 8009; 1959, P.A. 28, S. 119; 1967, P.A. 25, S. 1; P.A. 74-183, S. 94, 291; P.A. 76-436, S. 485, 681; P.A. 82-160, S. 140.)
History: 1959 act deleted reference to judgments rendered in municipal courts which were abolished; 1967 act added circuit court to purview of section; P.A. 74-183 removed circuit court from purview of section, reflecting transfer of its functions in reorganization of judicial system, effective December 31, 1974; P.A. 76-436 removed court of common pleas from purview of section, reflecting transfer of all trial jurisdiction to superior court, effective July 1, 1978; P.A. 82-160 rephrased the section and inserted Subsec. indicators.
Rule before act was passed. 76 C. 534; 105 C. 718. Does not apply to constitutional incapacity arising where judge becomes disqualified because of age after judgment and before finding made; scope of section is mental or physical incapacity. 97 C. 565. Cited. 105 C. 718. Allegations which a motion under section should contain, stated. 134 C. 480. Court's conclusion that notes were decipherable and transcript substantially correct, upheld. 136 C. 705. Although referee died before making finding requested by appellants, new trial properly denied as issues raised on appeal were matters of law not requiring the finding. 168 C. 135. Cited. 195 C. 60; 213 C. 486.
Defendant's oral motion for new trial which did not include the necessary statement of errors does not satisfy requirements of section. 69 CA 21.
Cited. 14 CS 503. Statute not applicable when judge dies after directed verdict and before decision on motion to set aside verdict. 25 CS 60. Statute only applicable when judge dies after final judgment. 46 CS 650.
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Sec. 52-269. Record fee in Supreme Court. Section 52-269 is repealed.
(1949 Rev., S. 8011; 1959, P.A. 547; 1963, P.A. 416, S. 2; P.A. 82-160, S. 141; P.A. 83-577, S. 5; June Sp. Sess. P. A. 91-3, S. 167, 168.)
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