Bartholomew v. Bartholomew

This record has been reviewed for basic accuracy, correcting any discovered errors.
Docket No. Op. Below Argument Opinion Author Term
850462 - - - - March 6, 1987 Compton 1987

Holding

This is another case dealing with the retroactive application of Code § 8.01-35.1, the covenant-not-to-sue statute enacted in 1979.

Prior to 1979, Virginia followed the strict common-law rule that the release of one joint wrongdoer released all joint tort-feasors. Wright v. Orlowski, 218 Va. 115, 120, 235 S.E.2d 349, 352 (1977). Additionally, it should be remembered that there may be contribution among wrongdoers when the wrong results from negligence and involves no moral turpitude. Code § 8.01-34.