8. You are the attorney for one of the parents of one of the victims of the Columbine massacre. The parent's name is Jim. Jim's wife has fallen both physically and mentally ill since the incident. She is unable to work or care for their 4 year old daughter. The daughter has exhibited many signs of childhood depression and is often sick. The father's job has been severely affected by his own grief and depression. He often has to call in sick to care for his wife and daughter.

He needs financial assistance to help pay medical bills and in- home- care for his wife and daughter. He has fallen behind in his mortgage payments and fears losing the house. He may lose his job. He has come to your law office to seek assistance.

a. What can we do to help? Is there a cause of action here?

b. Is there a person or persons who were negligent?

c. Discuss this situation as completely as you can.

Be sure to include the elements of the cause of action and a discussion of how you would prove up the facts relevant to each element. If you need to look up some facts on the Columbine massacre, you may do so.

9. To continue the discussion:

a. Who do you think should pay Jim's medical bills and other expenses from a policy standpoint?

b. Where should Jim go for help? Is the legal system the right place to go?

10.Searchthe Internet for information on negligent parenting lawsuits by plaintiffs (who are outside the family unit) injured by the misconduct of minor children. This kind of lawsuit is the suit pursued by some of the victims of the Columbine High School of Littleton, Colorado tragedy.