To make sure that the new smartphone's battery design complied with safety regulations, MapleLeaf Technologies hired a consulting firm. Notwithstanding exhaustive testing, a number of occurrences have been documented in which the batteries overcharged, resulting in minor user injuries and property destruction. As the investigation progressed, it came to light that the subcontracted engineering firm may have failed to conduct critical battery safety testing. In addition, the advertising campaigns of MapleLeaf Technologies incorporated embellishments regarding the smartphone's safety attributes by the marketing team.

Legal Challenges:

1. Product Liability: Consumers injured by the overheating batteries are suing for damages. MapleLeaf Technologies needs to address claims related to negligence and strict product liability.
2. Professional Liability: The engineering firm's potential negligence in battery testing could lead to claims of professional negligence.
3. Advertising: In light of the marketing team's exaggerations, intentional torts may apply to claims of deceptive advertising.

Discussion Questions:

1. Negligence and Product Liability:
   • Evaluate MapleLeaf Technologies' responsibility under negligence for the injuries caused by the smartphone batteries.
   • Discuss the application of strict liability in this case. How does the concept of product liability apply to MapleLeaf Technologies and the engineering firm?
2. Professional Liability:
   • Analyze the engineering firm's duty of care in the context of professional liability. What standard of care was expected, and how did their actions potentially breach this standard?
3. Misleading Advertising:
   • Based on the intentional torts covered in Chapter 4, assess the potential legal outcomes of the exaggerated claims made in MapleLeaf Technologies' marketing campaigns.
4. Regulatory Compliance:
   • Discuss the potential regulatory implications for MapleLeaf Technologies in terms of consumer safety and advertising standards.
5. Fiduciary Duty and Ethics:
   • Consider the fiduciary duties involved between MapleLeaf Technologies and its consumers. How does the concept of informed consent play into the company's responsibilities?

Guideline:

1. Read the case study carefully and understand the different legal challenges the company is facing.
2. Prepare Your Initial Post:
   • Write a detailed post addressing the discussion questions. Your response should apply the legal principles from Chapters 1 through 6 to the scenario.
   • Aim for 300 words maximum for your initial post.
   • Cite any sources you use from the textbook or additional credible materials. Willes J. and Willes J. (2020). Contemporary Canadian Business Law: Principles and cases (12 th ed.). Toronto: McGraw-Hill Ryerson (note: 11^th ed. is also acceptable),