Abilene, KS asked in Civil Litigation and Criminal Law for Kansas

Q: Can I sue resees for beings addictive my husband wanted one so bad he stole a box and got 13 months in prison?

My husband is so unbelievably addicted to reeses candy that he felt the need to steal a box of them to fill his cravings and got 13 months in prison for it.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: In Kansas, as in other states, the possibility of suing a company like Reese's for the addictive nature of their product is complex and challenging. The success of such a lawsuit would depend on various factors, including proving that the product is inherently addictive and that this addiction directly led to your husband's criminal behavior.

Product liability law typically requires proving that a product is defective and unreasonably dangerous, and that this defect directly caused harm. Proving that a commonly consumed food product like candy is inherently addictive to the point of causing criminal behavior would be a significant legal challenge. Additionally, demonstrating a direct causal link between the consumption of Reese's and the decision to commit a theft would be difficult.

Consumer responsibility also plays a role in legal cases involving product consumption. In most cases, individuals are responsible for their choices and actions, including the decision to commit a crime like theft.

Given the complexity of such a case, it's advisable to consult with a lawyer to discuss the specifics of your situation. A legal professional can offer guidance on the feasibility of a lawsuit and help you understand the legal intricacies involved in product liability and personal responsibility.

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