Panel: Judges Wardlaw, Bea, and Caine, Jr. (W.D. La.), with Judge Bea writing the opinion.
Key highlight: “Both California and Connecticut’s statutes of limitations are designed to protect in-state defendants and courts by preventing the litigation of stale claims and limiting in-state liability. But the Rusticos, now citizens of Florida, attempt to thwart this policy by reviving their stale claims and extending in-state liability. The application of only California’s statute of limitations, which would bar the claims, advances the purpose of protecting California defendants and California courts.”
Background: Plaintiff Jean Rustico, then a resident of Connecticut, underwent surgery in which the doctor used a surgical robot. The robot malfunctioned, causing Rustico internal injuries. Intuitive had designed and manufactured the robot in California, where it is headquartered.