Palo Alto, CA asked in Personal Injury, Civil Rights and Landlord - Tenant for California

Q: Is obstructing someone passing through a hallway an intentional tort? Is it also a "false imprisonment"?

There was a resident in the same apartment complex who obstructed our pathway as we were just walking through a hallway. He was very crazy, hysterical and violent to us. He was charging toward us and waving his arms while yelling, cursing, and screaming at us. The incident was recorded on video (our cell phones). Is this regarded as an intentional tort? And a "false imprisonment"? And what is the statue of limitation for this case?

2 Lawyer Answers
Patrick William Steinfeld
Patrick William Steinfeld
Answered
  • Coronado, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: I think the more pertinent question is... does this crazy, hysterical person who lives in an apt. have sufficient financial means to satisfy a judgment? If you were not physically injured you might consider writing it off as a bad experience with a crazy person. If this person was violent... call the police. If you feel you were damaged (physically or emotionally) and you want to pursue litigation you might consider small claims court.

Robert Kane agrees with this answer

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Obstructing someone in a hallway may be considered an intentional tort or even false imprisonment, depending on the specific circumstances and applicable laws in your jurisdiction. Video evidence can be valuable, so consult with a legal professional who can review the footage and provide accurate advice based on the details of your case and the laws in your jurisdiction.

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