Case Dismissed 54-01-30 01 Criminal Liability

Summary

Case Dismissed 54-01-30 01: Criminal Liability

Overview

In this episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Case Dismissed 54-01-30 01: Criminal Liability," listeners are immersed in a dramatic narrative that intertwines everyday life with legal complexities. The story follows George Beaumont, a conscientious sales representative for the World Wisdom Encyclopedia, who finds himself entangled in a legal quandary after receiving a mysterious summons. Through George's journey, the episode highlights the importance of understanding one's legal rights and the pitfalls of seeking advice from uninformed sources.

Plot Summary

The Summons and Initial Panic

The episode opens with George Beaumont expressing his frustrations:

"What a nightmare I got myself into. It's really happening. I'm losing my job and my home and $25,000 to people I've never seen. Brother, how stupid can a man get?"
—George Beaumont [00:36]

George receives a summons accusing him and his wife, Ruth, of involvement in a car accident that resulted in substantial damages. Initially dismissing it as a possible mistake or prank, George's confidence wanes as the reality of the situation sets in.

Consulting the Wrong Advisor

Feeling overwhelmed, George turns to his neighbor, Chet Baker, for help. Believing Chet is innocent, George hopes to clear their names. Instead of finding solace, Chet inadvertently exacerbates the situation by admitting their minor involvement in a separate, unrelated accident.

Desperate for a solution, George seeks advice from Ted Nelson, a friend with limited legal knowledge:

"The average layman should be. Those two years I spent in law school taught me more than the average guy learns in a lifetime."
—Ted Nelson [15:06]

Ted confidently assures George that the summons is illegitimate, advising him to simply ignore it. This misguided counsel leads George to underestimate the severity of his legal predicament.

Facing the Consequences

Two weeks later, George and Ruth are confronted by Sheriff J.L. Beaumont, who delivers an execution notice demanding $25,000 in damages. Realizing the gravity of their situation, George seeks professional legal assistance from attorney Robert Pierron.

With Pierron's expertise, George learns that the summons was indeed valid, and failing to respond had led to a default judgment. Through diligent legal maneuvering, including collaboration with their automobile insurance companies, George and Ruth successfully contest the charges. Ultimately, the court dismisses the case:

"Case dismissed."
—George Beaumont [24:05]

Key Legal Discussions

The episode delves into several critical aspects of criminal liability and legal procedures:

1. Proper Service of Summons:

   • Ruth Beaumont: "He left a summon."
     —Ruth Beaumont [03:10]
   • The episode emphasizes that a summons must be properly served to the individuals named, highlighting procedural correctness.

2. Consequences of Ignoring Legal Notices:

   • George's initial decision to ignore the summons results in severe financial and personal repercussions, underscoring the importance of timely legal response.

3. Seeking Qualified Legal Counsel:

   • George's reliance on Ted Nelson, who lacks comprehensive legal training, leads to his near downfall. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of seeking advice from unqualified individuals.

4. Preventive Law and Legal Rights:

   • The episode concludes with insights from Dean John C. Fitzgerald of Loyola University Law School, advocating for preventive law—the practice of seeking legal advice proactively to avoid potential legal issues.

Character Insights

• George Beaumont: Represents the everyman caught in legal troubles due to a combination of unfortunate events and poor decision-making. His journey from panic to resolution highlights personal responsibility and the quest for justice.

• Ruth Beaumont: Acts as the voice of reason, encouraging George to seek proper legal assistance and questioning the validity of their situation.

• Chet Baker: A well-meaning but ultimately unhelpful character whose minor involvement complicates the Beaumonts' legal standing.

• Ted Nelson: Embodies the pitfalls of inadequate legal knowledge, providing false reassurance that nearly leads to disaster.

• Dean John C. Fitzgerald: Serves as the authoritative voice on legal matters, offering closure and reinforcing the episode's educational themes.

Notable Quotes

• George Beaumont:
  "There is time, though. If this man wakes up to his rights and duties, it may still be another case dismissed."
  —Dean John C. Fitzgerald [00:36]

• Ted Nelson:
  "You've got nothing to worry about. Nothing at all."
  —Ted Nelson [15:12]

• Dean John C. Fitzgerald:
  "Seeking advice from uninformed or partly informed sources may only lead to deeper water."
  —Dean John C. Fitzgerald [25:13]

Conclusion

"Case Dismissed 54-01-30 01: Criminal Liability" serves as both an engaging drama and an informative lesson on legal responsibility and the importance of qualified legal counsel. Through George Beaumont's ordeal, listeners learn the critical steps to take when faced with legal challenges and the value of preventive law. The episode effectively balances storytelling with educational content, making it a valuable listen for those seeking to understand their legal rights and obligations.

Additional Resources

At the episode's conclusion, listeners are encouraged to utilize the Chicago Bar Association’s Lawyer Reference Plan and explore free legal resources, emphasizing that legal aid is accessible to all, regardless of financial status.

---

This summary is based on the transcript provided for the podcast episode "Case Dismissed 54-01-30 01: Criminal Liability" from Harold's Old Time Radio, released on April 14, 2025.

Transcript

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[Announcer]

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[Dean John C. Fitzgerald]

Case Dismissed.

[George Beaumont]

What a nightmare I got myself into. It's really happening. I'm losing my job and my home and $25,000 to people I've never seen. Brother, how stupid can a man get?

[Dean John C. Fitzgerald]

There is time, though. If this man wakes up to his rights and duties, it may still be another case dismissed. Wmaq, in cooperation with the Chicago Bar association, presents Case Dismissed. This is the story of your legal rights. How vital to preserve and protect them. How easily they may be lost. And now, meet a man who almost learned the truth too late.

[George Beaumont]

My name is George Beaumont. I'm a service representative for World Wisdom Encyclopedia. Sure, A book salesman. Only at World Wisdom, salesman is a vulgar word. Don't mention it around the boss. Old J.L. stevenson's a great guy, really, but a little fanatical on the subject of respectability. At least, I thought so. That afternoon when all my trouble began. The boss was handing us our advanced 1954 sales pep talk. And frankly, he had us a little worried. A cut in our sales force is a distinct possibility. Gentlemen, the future is up to you. Your sales records and your reputations are the keys to future employment with World Wisdom Encyclopedia. Please remember, gentlemen, the World Wisdom man is always a model of good taste and respectability in his community. By the way, Johnson, you could use a shoe shine. I'd like to conclude with an appropriate quotation by Fuller, found in volume five of World Wisdom, I might add. Take away my good name and take away my life.

[Announcer]

Meeting adjourned.

[George Beaumont]

Despite the old man's message of impending doom, I felt pretty confident as I wandered back to my desk. My sales were better than average. And when it came to reputation, well, in our community of Glen park, we Beaumonts rate just below the clergy. But then my phone rang. George Beaumont. George. Oh, hi, honey. What's up?

[Rose Beaumont]

Are you coming right home tonight?

[George Beaumont]

Sure. No calls to make? Something wrong?

[Ruth Beaumont]

Well, no, it's. Well, just come home right away.

[George Beaumont]

One of the kids sick?

[Ruth Beaumont]

No, no, it's not that Dear, it's probably just a mistake. I'm probably just being silly about nothing at all.

[George Beaumont]

Now, wait a minute, Rose. What on earth are you.

[Ruth Beaumont]

George, while I was out shopping, the sheriff came to the house.

[George Beaumont]

The sheriff? Oh, you're kidding.

[Ruth Beaumont]

No, George, I'm not. Mary Jane talked to him.

[George Beaumont]

But, honey, the sheriff. What would the sheriff.

[Ruth Beaumont]

He left a summon.

[George Beaumont]

I wasn't too concerned. To tell you the truth, I had it figured as a gag. Or at worst, maybe a stupid mistake on somebody's part. But just the same, at five on the nose, I got my car out of the office parking lot and headed straight home. I had kind of a sick feeling around the neighborhood of my stomach. By the time I hit the auto drive, I was thinking about all the movies where the innocent fella gets framed and is pardoned from prison years later, broken in mind and body. Then when I wheeled into our garage, the old man's words were ringing in my ears. The World Wisdom Encyclopedia. Man must always be the model of good taste and respectability in his community. Ruth looked so tense and wrought off, I decided to keep my nerves to myself. I casually hung up my coat and hat, gave her a hello pack and said, okay, let's see the official papers. When do they hang me, George?

[Ruth Beaumont]

It may be serious.

[George Beaumont]

Sure it is. But they'll never take me alive.

[Dean John C. Fitzgerald]

Do you hear me?

[Ted Nelson]

Never.

[George Beaumont]

Now, let's see the summons then. In the name of the people of the state of Illinois, in the circuit court of Cook County, Illinois, Harry Morgan, Roberta Morgan and Mary Morgan. A minor plaintiff. I don't know any Morgans, do you?

[Ruth Beaumont]

Only back home in Montana, and I haven't seen them for years. Besides, those aren't their names.

[George Beaumont]

Ah, this must be a gag. Let's see now. Versus George Beaumont and Ruth Beaumont, defendants. You're in on this, too?

[Ruth Beaumont]

That's what it says.

[George Beaumont]

Oh, this is crazy. You are hereby summoned to answer the complaints in the above entitled cause. For what cause?

[Ruth Beaumont]

I don't know.

[George Beaumont]

George, take notice that you must file your answer or otherwise make your appearance in said court in the courthouse in the city of Chicago, Illinois, on or before Monday, January 18, 1954, provided this writ shall be served upon you less than 20 days before said date. And so forth, so forth.

[Ruth Beaumont]

In this next line, dear. If you do not appear according to the command on this writ, plaintiff may take judgment against you by default.

[George Beaumont]

But judgment against us for what, Honey.

[Ruth Beaumont]

I haven't any idea.

[George Beaumont]

Look, you haven't run over anybody with your card in the supermarket lately.

[Ruth Beaumont]

George, be serious.

[George Beaumont]

How Can I be? This thing is absolutely crazy. We haven't done anything to anybody.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Could it be some other George Beaumont?

[George Beaumont]

That's what I was thinking on the way out, but with your name on it, too. That's too much of a coincidence for.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Somebody'S idea of a practical joke.

[George Beaumont]

Well, I've considered that, too. But the only one I know with a sense of humor like this is Al, and I don't even think he'd pull something like this.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Well, how about this? This lawyer who signed his name at the bottom of the summons, see? James D. Parkinson, plaintiff's attorney.

[George Beaumont]

Sure. What about him?

[Ruth Beaumont]

Well, why don't you call him and settle the question once and for all?

[George Beaumont]

But, honey, I can't afford to start any rumors. Even if there's nothing to them. Things are rough at the office. The old economy acts could swing any day. And you know what a fanatic the old man is about world wisdom, encyclopedias, good name.

[Ruth Beaumont]

But, George, we haven't done anything. What do we have to worry about?

[George Beaumont]

That's a good question, honey, but I'm still afraid of bad publicity.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Well, if it isn't a joke and it isn't a mistake, what is it?

[George Beaumont]

Search me.

[Ruth Beaumont]

You haven't had any arguments with customers, have you?

[George Beaumont]

Oh, you know me better than that.

[Ruth Beaumont]

I know. I was hoping it might remind you of something.

[George Beaumont]

I'll try again.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Well, could it be the car? Have you had a small accident? Scraped the fender or something trivial?

[George Beaumont]

Nope. Oh, by the way, have you? No. Why, I haven't even had a near miss in a couple of years. Honey, that car hasn't been anywhere near. Hey, wait a minute. Wait a minute, George, you didn't. No, I didn't, but Chet did.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Chet Baker?

[George Beaumont]

Sure, sure. Remember that Saturday morning we loaned Chet our car? Yeah. Well, when Chet brought it back, he. Some minor accident, some kind of a two car accident that had already happened. Chet didn't cause any damage or injure anybody, so I didn't pay much attention to the details.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Chet's a nice boy, dear. He wouldn't get us in trouble.

[George Beaumont]

I know that, honey, but we're in trouble. And after dinner, I think we'd better get Chet over here and listen to that story all over again. Chet Baker came over in a hurry. He's our neighbor's boy, just out of high school. As nice a kid as you'll ever meet. When I showed him our summons, he was really upset.

[Chet Baker]

Gee, Mr. Beaumont, you think I've got you in trouble?

[George Beaumont]

It remains to be seen, Chet. I'm sure it can be straightened out, though.

[Ruth Beaumont]

We have to hear what happened before we can decide what to do about it, Chet. You understand?

[Chet Baker]

Oh, sure, Mrs. Beaumont.

[George Beaumont]

Let's see now, Chet. Your car froze up, and you had to see some man downtown about a job, right? Yes, sir.

[Chet Baker]

You saved the day when you offered me your car. I picked up Dottie in front of our house.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Oh, you. Your sister was with you?

[Chet Baker]

Yes, ma'am. Daddy wanted to do some Christmas shopping in the Loop. Come to think of it, we were singing carols all the way along the outer drive. Wasn't any traffic to speak of that Saturday morning.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Jack the horse with bows of holly.

[George Beaumont]

FA la la la la la la.

[Ted Nelson]

Tis the season to be jolly FA la la la la la la John.

[Chet Baker]

We now are gay apparel FA la.

[Ted Nelson]

La la la Sing the ancient yule ty carol La la la la la.

[Ruth Beaumont]

La.

[Chet Baker]

No more singing now, Daddy. We'll be turning off the drive in a minute. The city streets are slippery in spots.

[Rose Beaumont]

Thank goodness you concentrate on your driving better than you do on your singing.

[Mary Jane Beaumont]

Insult.

[Chet Baker]

All I get is insult.

[Rose Beaumont]

You were singing flat several times, old boy.

[Chet Baker]

Well, at least I'm sharp at the steering wheel, old girl.

[Rose Beaumont]

Oh, gee, wasn't it nice of Mr. Beaumont to own you his car?

[George Beaumont]

Oh, you aren't kidding.

[Chet Baker]

He's a real swell guy.

[Rose Beaumont]

Golly, when your old car wouldn't stop, I get to see you arriving late and missing this job.

[Ted Nelson]

Me too.

[Chet Baker]

As it is, I'll make the appointment right on the nose. Gee, won't it be an extra great Christmas if I land that job, sis?

[Rose Beaumont]

Oh, you will, Chet, once Mr. Hawkins sees you and talks to you.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Chet, up ahead. Those two cars.

[Chet Baker]

Hey, they're gonna crash.

[George Beaumont]

Holy smokes.

[Chet Baker]

They're blocking the street.

[Ted Nelson]

I gotta use the emergency.

[George Beaumont]

Chet, we're skidding.

[Announcer]

Hold tight.

[George Beaumont]

I can't blow off. Ooh. G Person.

[Chet Baker]

That could have been bad. You all right, sis?

[Rose Beaumont]

Uh huh? Did we have the car? I had there.

[Chet Baker]

Just nudged him, I think. Have to see.

[Rose Beaumont]

Oh, gee, I hope we didn't hurt Mr. Beaumont's car.

[Chet Baker]

Yeah. Slide out, careful of traffic.

[George Beaumont]

Look.

[Chet Baker]

Got a scratch on Mr. Beaumont's car.

[Rose Beaumont]

Oh, golly, that's lucky. And only a tiny little dent in the center of this other car.

[Chet Baker]

Chance, I don't even think we did that fifth. Looks kind of rusty to me.

[Rose Beaumont]

Why, two cars must have met head on. Well, I hope nobody's hurt.

[Chet Baker]

We better check and see.

[Police Officer]

Guess you kind of slid right into the middle of an accident, sonny.

[George Beaumont]

Yeah.

[Chet Baker]

First time I ever collided with anybody.

[Ted Nelson]

And would it Be on the morning.

[Chet Baker]

I'm hurrying to get a new job.

[Police Officer]

Don't see how you could have avoided it, Sonny.

[Chet Baker]

Man, those two cars really smacked each other.

[Rose Beaumont]

Was anybody hurt?

[Police Officer]

No, appears not, young lady. Two drivers been jawing back and forth, that's all. All the other passengers sitting in there big as life. Guess they're waiting for the police to get here.

[Chet Baker]

Holy cow. There goes my job. Only 10 minutes to make that appointment.

[Rose Beaumont]

Oh, chap. That's right. Suppose we'll have to wait here.

[Police Officer]

I don't see any reason why you should. Plenty of help around here in case any's needed.

[George Beaumont]

Sure.

[Chet Baker]

Only. Well, I kind of feel responsible too. After all, I did slide into this car.

[Police Officer]

But you only ticked him. Sonny struck an icy stretch and skidded. I seen it happen. Didn't cause no damage and nobody's. You can see that for yourself.

[Chet Baker]

Well, sure.

[Police Officer]

Only, what's the point in hanging around?

[Chet Baker]

Well, what do you think, Chip?

[Rose Beaumont]

Golly, I don't know what to say, Chet. He's right, though. You didn't cause any damage or hurt anybody.

[Police Officer]

I don't know what you're fretting about, Sonny. No point getting messed up with the law when you ain't broke any law.

[George Beaumont]

Well, it's not that. It's just.

[Chet Baker]

I hate to miss that job.

[Rose Beaumont]

Let's take his advice, Chet.

[Police Officer]

Sure thing. No point in hanging around, kids.

[Chet Baker]

Well, okay. Come on, sis. Let's get going. Oh, thanks for the advice, mister.

[Police Officer]

Forget it, Sonny. Just common sense, that's all. Just good common sense.

[Chet Baker]

And that's all that happened, Mr. Bo except, well, I got the job and we drove back here that afternoon. Holy cow. Mr. Beaumont, do you think I'm to blame for the summons?

[George Beaumont]

Well, let's not go around blaming anybody, Chet. But it's the only possible explanation I can think of. You see, the summons is made out to both Mrs. Beaumont and myself. That's the way the car is registered too. It fits together.

[Chet Baker]

Gee, you think somebody in one of those wrecked cars wrote down my license number? I mean, your license number.

[George Beaumont]

It's more than likely.

[Chet Baker]

Gee, I barely touched him.

[George Beaumont]

Honestly, that's all.

[Ruth Beaumont]

We believe you, Chet.

[Mary Jane Beaumont]

Now, don't be upset.

[George Beaumont]

That's right. Lacking the facts, Chet, we've got to imagine what happened.

[Ruth Beaumont]

But why imagine, George? The obvious thing to do is to wait until morning, call the plaintiff's lawyer and find out the facts.

[George Beaumont]

Look, honey, I told you how the boss feels about things like this. And if there's any way I can keep this out. Oh, well, tell me, Chet, are you sure. No one was injured in either car.

[Chet Baker]

I don't see how, Mr. Beaumont. They were all sitting around or standing around talking. That man told us they were all okay.

[George Beaumont]

You got his name and address?

[Chet Baker]

No, Gee, I didn't get anybody's name and address, Mr. Beaumont. I guess that wasn't very bright.

[George Beaumont]

Oh, that can happen, Chip. What about license numbers? No, sir.

[Chet Baker]

I didn't think to get those either.

[George Beaumont]

But you're positive our car didn't cause any real damage?

[Chet Baker]

No, sir. That was all up in front where the other car hit him.

[George Beaumont]

How much damage would you say?

[Chet Baker]

I'm no mechanic, Mr. Beaumont, but I'd say at least $150.

[George Beaumont]

150? Well, let's figure it this way. Car A is badly damaged by car B. Then along comes car C, that's our car, and skids lightly into car A. Now, car A owner finds out car B's driver is a deadbeat. Or maybe he has no insurance. Okay. So he turns around and slaps another damage suit on car C, meaning us.

[Chet Baker]

But that wouldn't be fair. We didn't hurt car A at all.

[George Beaumont]

Well, that would be for us to prove, I suppose. Only I'd rather not have it reach Court Station for. Well, for personal reasons.

[Ruth Beaumont]

But you can't simply ignore the summons, dear.

[George Beaumont]

Well, I have something in mind.

[Chet Baker]

See, I feel awful about this. If there's anything at all I can do.

[Ruth Beaumont]

If we need you, we'll call on you, Chet.

[George Beaumont]

That's right. Cheer up, boy. These things happen. Now, go on home and don't worry about it.

[Chet Baker]

Well, okay, Mr. Beaumont.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Good night, Chet.

[Chet Baker]

Good night, Mrs. Beaumont. And, Mr. Beaumont, if there's anything at all, I can.

[George Beaumont]

Forget it, Chet. I'll have this all ironed out tomorrow morning. Now, take my advice and go home and get a good night's sleep.

[Chet Baker]

Okay, Mr. Beaumont. Good night.

[Ruth Beaumont]

And who's going to get a good night's sleep in this household?

[George Beaumont]

Well, there's always a kid.

[Ruth Beaumont]

I'm really worried, dear.

[George Beaumont]

Oh, so am I. But not for long.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Who are you phoning?

[George Beaumont]

About time we found out where we stand legally.

[Ruth Beaumont]

I was hoping you'd call a lawyer.

[George Beaumont]

Well, he's the next best thing, hon. I'm calling Ted Nelson.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Ted Nelson's no lawyer.

[George Beaumont]

I know, but he took two years of law in college and I've never yet heard him stumped on any question, legal or otherwise.

[Ruth Beaumont]

George, Ted didn't even go to school around here.

[George Beaumont]

What's the difference, honey? The law is the same no matter where you study it. Now, stop Worrying good old Ted may not be a full fledged lawyer, but you can sure bet he'll fix up our case.

[Mary Jane Beaumont]

So that's the whole story, Ted.

[George Beaumont]

Are we in trouble? Sure.

[Ted Nelson]

Glad you buzzed me.

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[Ted Nelson]

About this, pal. Always happy to give expert counsel to friends.

[George Beaumont]

Well, I'm not much up on the law, you know, Ted, no reason why.

[Ted Nelson]

The average layman should be. Those two years I spent in law school taught me more than the average guy learns in a lifetime.

[George Beaumont]

That's exactly why I came to you, Ted. I figured there's no point in seeing a lawyer. Now, about our situation.

[Ted Nelson]

Yes, sir, George. Lucky for you I'm around to interpret Blackstone for you, eh, boy?

[George Beaumont]

You bet, Ted. But to get back to our case, now, what's your my opinion?

[Ted Nelson]

Glad to give it to you, pal.

[George Beaumont]

Okay, okay.

[Ted Nelson]

You've got nothing to worry about. Nothing at all.

[George Beaumont]

No fooling. Nothing at all.

[Ted Nelson]

You dick me, chum.

[George Beaumont]

Well, I'd appreciate knowing just how.

[Ted Nelson]

Oh, I arrived at my decision. That's easy, my boy. Look, item one, you're not driving your car.

[George Beaumont]

Sure, but Chet was driving.

[Ted Nelson]

Item two, the second accident occurs before.

[George Beaumont]

Your car is involved.

[Ted Nelson]

Item three, the kid that's driving your car skids trying to avoid the accident. Right?

[George Beaumont]

Right. Okay.

[Ted Nelson]

Item four, your car only touches this car. Item five, no damage and no injury caused. So the kids that's driving your car doesn't have to leave his name and address or license plate number, doesn't have to wait till the cops arrive, and doesn't have to file a report on the accident. Not if your car didn't cause it. Item six. Now get this one, chum. That summons you got isn't even legal.

[George Beaumont]

It isn't?

[Ted Nelson]

Who's it made out to again?

[George Beaumont]

To my wife and myself.

[Ted Nelson]

Okay, so who did the sheriff leave the summons with?

[George Beaumont]

My daughter.

[Ted Nelson]

Okay, pal, you get it.

[George Beaumont]

No kidding. You mean a summons has to be served on the people it's made out to?

[Ted Nelson]

Now you're cerebrating, pal.

[George Beaumont]

And besides, how old is your daughter, Mary Jane? 17.

[Ted Nelson]

There you are again, boy. She's a minor.

[George Beaumont]

How about that? The summons is illegal, huh?

[Ted Nelson]

Correct. And they can't touch it. Now, let's see. Said you wanted to keep this little situation as quiet as possible, right?

[George Beaumont]

That's right. Ted the boss is death on any of us getting involved in any kind of trouble. You know the type. A fanatic on community reputation and.

[Ted Nelson]

Yeah, well, I know if I got that summons, I just file it and forget it. File it in the waste basket, throw it away.

[George Beaumont]

Really.

[Ted Nelson]

Look, pal, I'm drawing on my expert knowledge to tell you the summons isn't legal and they've got no case against you anyway. Just forget it.

[George Beaumont]

Well, I suppose if they do want to talk to me about it, they'll get in touch with me and I can explain their mistake.

[Ted Nelson]

They won't come. Believe me, they won't.

[George Beaumont]

All right. My. All right. I. I'm going to forget it completely. Ted, let's say I don't know how to thank you.

[Ted Nelson]

Ah, you think of a way, pal. You'll think of a way.

[George Beaumont]

No, no, I mean it, really. You've done plenty for Ruth and me.

[Ted Nelson]

Ah, dismiss it from your mind, chum. It's nothing. Nothing at all.

[George Beaumont]

It was nothing at all. But if I'd been smart, I wouldn't have taken Ted literally. Ruth fretted about, but like a lot of fellas, I'm a wishful thinker. And that confident air of Ted's really cinched it for me. I suppose I should have had my head examined, but instead I put it on my pillow and got a good night's sleep. Well, two weeks passed and we'd practically forgotten there ever was a summons. We even begun talking about a winter vacation. Everything was quiet and serene around the Beaumont homestead. And that set the stage for our second Black Friday. George Beaumont. George. Oh, hon.

[Ruth Beaumont]

George, the sheriff was just here again. What savvy? He brought an execution.

[George Beaumont]

Good Lord. What's an execution?

[Ruth Beaumont]

It says we've been found guilty in default and the judgment's been rendered against us with the amount of.

[George Beaumont]

Honey. The amount? What amount?

[Ruth Beaumont]

It says, George. It says $25,000.

[George Beaumont]

$25,000. 25,000 do. Yes? J.L. beaumont. Have you seen the afternoon paper? Why, no, sir, I haven't. I suggest you reach page 10 carefully.

[Announcer]

There's a rather surprising item there from.

[George Beaumont]

The circuit court records. Yes, sir. After you carefully considered how and when you're going to lay your hands on $25,000, Beaumont, I'd appreciate Your stepping into my office. Time you and I had a little talk. What a nightmare I've got myself into. And it's really happening. I'm losing my job and my home and $25,000 to people I've never seen. Brother, how stupid can a man get? And that's the whole sad story, JL Every last unbelievable detail. It's any foolish story, Beaumont. Frankly, I'm surprised to hear it from one of my best employees. Don't you mean one of your ex employees? That's largely up to you, Beaumont. If they garnish ye your wages and slap a levy on your car and take away your home just because you're afraid to stand up for your legal rights, well, there's nothing I can do about that. But if you feel like fighting back.

[Announcer]

You'Ll find me in your corner.

[George Beaumont]

You'll back me. After this, I see no reason why I shouldn't. I guess I've had you figured all along, JL that things highly possible only. Well, in a mess like I'm in, where do I start fighting back? What are my legal rights? What do I do, J.L. don't ask me for advice.

[Announcer]

You drunk from.

[George Beaumont]

You are drunk from enough fountains of misinformation. But tell me, Beaumont, you ever actually read from the worthy encyclopedia you and I represent? Well, yes, of course, JL Will you please be kind enough to read a portion from this volume aloud, please? Sure. Lawyer. One whose principal occupation is related to the making or administration of the law, and who has received an education sufficiently wide in scope to distinguish him from minor administrative official.

[Announcer]

Yes.

[George Beaumont]

And to distinguish him from would be lawyers with free advice. Proceed. Many vexatious disputes and pointless litigation may be avoided by timely consultation with a lawyer. Excuse me, J.L. but I'm leaving. My consultation won't be timely, but it might still be in time. I headed for the law offices of attorney Robert Pierron. In approximately 60 seconds, I discovered how little my friend Ted Nelson knew about law and how lame brained I had been for consulting him.

[Announcer]

Mr. Beaumont, your summons was perfectly legal. You say it was left with your daughter and that she is a minor. So, 17 years old.

[George Beaumont]

That's right, sir.

[Announcer]

Well, you see, by law, summons may be served on any member of the household as long as he or she is over 10 years of age.

[George Beaumont]

I see.

[Announcer]

However, a copy of the summons should have been sent by mail to both you and your wife.

[George Beaumont]

That's when we didn't receive it. But, brother, how long could I get?

[Announcer]

I'm very glad you brought Chet Baker. With you, Mr. Beaumont, our first move is to go to the State's Attorney's office and purge both of you of any criminal aspect.

[George Beaumont]

Criminal aspects?

[Announcer]

Yes, of course. You, Mr. Beaumont, are obviously in the clear of any criminal aspect, since you were not even in your car at the time.

[George Beaumont]

Holy cow.

[Chet Baker]

Did I Do something criminal, Mr. Parent?

[Announcer]

I'm afraid you made some pretty wrong guesses, Chet. First, you left the scene of the accident. Now, although you didn't cause the original accident, you became a party to it and shouldn't have left. That's a criminal violation punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or one year in jail, or both.

[Chet Baker]

Honestly, Mr. Perrin, man, I didn't have any idea.

[Announcer]

I'm sure you didn't, Chet. Ignorance of the law, of course, is no excuse, but I believe the circumstances will be in your favor. There is another point, too. One or the other of you should have reported this accident to the State of Illinois Division of highways within 10 days after it happened.

[George Beaumont]

Holy cow. You mean even if you don't cause the accident yourself?

[Announcer]

That's right, Mr. Beaumont. Again, it's a case of any vehicle involved in any manner in an accident resulting in death, bodily injury, or Property damage over $100. Failure to report can mean revocation of your driver's license.

[George Beaumont]

Move over, Chet. Make room for another ignoramus.

[Announcer]

I believe we can clear both of you with the State's Attorney's office. But let's not delay it any longer.

[George Beaumont]

Well, thanks to you, Mr. Pierron, I still have my driver's license. But with $25,000 in damages to pay, I. I won't own a car to drive.

[Announcer]

Now, our next step is to call in your Automobile Insurance Company, Mr. Beaumont. And yours, too, Chet. If you'd gone on without notifying them for a longer time than your policy allows, the company wouldn't have shouldered your burden. I'll phone them. Well, now that we have both of your insurance companies working with us, it's time to go to court.

[George Beaumont]

Court? But I thought they'd already had me in court, you know, when I defaulted by failing to show up after the summer.

[Announcer]

Luckily for you, it's less than 30 days since the judgment was added. Otherwise, it would be almost hopeless. We'll have to show sufficient reason for your failure to appear, and that's going to be an uphill job.

[George Beaumont]

Yes, I know what you mean.

[Announcer]

However, if we succeed in vacating that original judgment, it ought to be easy to show you're not liable for any damages or injuries that may have occurred we'll not only have to show you weren't in the car but also that Chet was solely on his own business and not doing anything for you on that trip.

[George Beaumont]

I see.

[Announcer]

If you're ready, Mr. Beaumont, we'll go to court. The clerk finds that neither of the defendants, George Beaumont or his wife, Ruth Beaumont, were drivers or occupants of the vehicle. And that Chester Baker was not acting as their agent.

[George Beaumont]

Case dismissed. Well, honey, how does it feel to be out from under a 25,000?

[Ruth Beaumont]

It's a wonderful relief, dear.

[Mary Jane Beaumont]

Thanks to Mr. Pierum.

[George Beaumont]

Yes and no thanks to me.

[Ruth Beaumont]

I'm glad you're taking care of Chet's legal fees, George.

[George Beaumont]

Mr. Pierron told me he's confident Chet will win a dismissal too.

[Ruth Beaumont]

Is that your considered opinion too, dear?

[George Beaumont]

Madam, on encyclopedia matters, I am at your service. But on legal matters, honey, do you. My lawyer.

[Dean John C. Fitzgerald]

Here to summarize today's case dismissed is your counselor, Dean of the Loyola University Law School, John C. Fitzgerald.

[Mary Jane Beaumont]

We have seen that in our complex world it sometimes becomes difficult to know where one man's rights leave off and another's begin. The Chicago Bar association hopes to remedy this problem by spreading the gospel of preventive law. We can avoid legal ills before they happen by seeking early counsel from our lawyers. In tonight's case, George Beaumont showed how really sick the patient can get we before he sees his legal doctor and begins receiving the aid of preventive law. Seeking advice from uninformed or partly informed sources may only lead to deeper water. But you may have no one to recommend a lawyer to you. Help is available. The Chicago Bar association renders to you a direct service through its lawyer Reference Plan. And legal services are not restricted only to those who can pay for them. Because across the nation, legal aid societies make it possible for anyone to be to receive the equal protection of the law and not to be denied simply because he or she is poor. In Chicago, the services of the Legal Aid Bureau are available in civil cases to any person of low income in connection with this broadcast. Case dismissed. The Chicago Bar association is making available in four free folders on some of the subjects covered. One is entitled Meet yout Lawyer. To receive your free copy, simply write the Chicago Bar Association, 29 S. LaSalle St, Chicago, IL. I'll repeat that address, 29 S. LaSalle Street, Chicago. Next week, WMAQ and the Chicago Bar association will explore with you some of the legal hazards of buying a home. Until then, this is your counselor, Dean John C. Fitzgerald, wishing for each of you a good night, good luck and good laws.

[Dean John C. Fitzgerald]

Case Dismissed Case Dismissed is written by Robert Carmen and is based on information supplied by the Chicago Bar association and its lawyer members. We remind our listeners in other areas that legal points mentioned in tonight's script are based on Illinois laws and may not apply in your state. That's why you should always consult your own attorney. All characters were fictitious. Any resemblance to any person, living or dead, is purely coincidental. Members of the cast were Fern Persons, Patricia Crane, Philip Lord, Harry Elders, Jack Lester and John Galvaro. Case Dismissed is produced by Betty Ross, the direction by Her Plateau. Musical effects were transcribed Sound by Tom Evans Engineering by Harold Whitt. This is Lee Bennett speaking, inviting you to return next Saturday at this same time when we'll follow the trials and tribulations of buying a home on Case Dismissed. This is the NBC Radio Network.

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