Case Study: Frederick is a student at Central Fictional State University (CFSU), and he has agreatidea for a new business invention. Frederick's invention and the business that he plans to found based on it will absolutely revolutionize the market and will make him very rich. He decides to share his idea with a few trusted professors, and he even uses the idea in a research project for one of his classes.

While Frederick is at home over summer break, he discovers, much to his dismay, that his professors have stolen his idea and have opened a business marketing his new invention. Frederick immediately seeks the advice of the local lawyer who has a reputation for being a "scorched-earth" litigator. He advises Frederick that he should sue "those professors for everything they've got." Frederick, however, is not sure if he should file an aggressive lawsuit, or if there is a better way to proceed.

Frederick knows that your business recently completed mediation to settle a lawsuit filed by one of your suppliers. He comes to you for advice on how to proceed. What is your answer to Frederick? In your response, consider whether the decision to file suit or to proceed through some form of alternative dispute resolution is affected by the previous relationship with the professors (can/should you sue a friend, how will the decision impact an ongoing relationship, etc.).Also, what role could Frederick's faith play in his decision?

Refer to the Assignment Instructions folder of the course for general directions and grading rubrics for Discussion Boards, including requirements for word length, scholarly sources, and integration of a Biblical worldview.

Use the words "Lawsuit" or "ADR" in the subject line of your thread to reflect your conclusion. Do not use attachments, as these are cumbersome and inhibit the discussion process.

Suggested Readings:

Szto, M. C. (2001). Lawyers as hired doves: Lessons from the Sermon on the Mount.Cumberland Law Review, 31,27-46. (This article is available through the Jerry Falwell Library, using the JFL Library tab in Blackboard, in both the NexisUni and HeinOnline databases.)

Proverbs 17:14, 20:3, 25:8-10; Matthew 5:25-26, 38-42; Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 6:1-8 (For these passages, you should consult some trusted exegetical commentaries, many of which may be found on www.ccel.org.)