Summary: This program delivers a practical overview of Virginia’s strict contributory negligence doctrine, focusing on what the defense must prove and when it succeeds. Using key case law and common fact patterns, it highlights how contributory negligence arises in auto, premises, medical malpractice, and products cases—and, more importantly, how to defeat it. Attendees will walk away with concise, actionable strategies to limit or eliminate the defense, avoid harmful jury instructions, and effectively counsel clients in Virginia’s all-or-nothing system.

Who Should Attend: Plaintiff attorneys and paralegals handling personal injury, medical malpractice, premises, and products liability cases in Virginia who want to better evaluate risk, strengthen liability arguments, and effectively combat contributory negligence at every stage of litigation—from intake through trial.

Topics at a Glance:

• History and Basics
• Legal Framework - What the Defense Must Actually Prove
• Contrib as a Matter of Law - Supreme Court of Virginia Precedent that Results in Challenging Cases
• Turning Contrib Around on the Defense
• Contrib in Med Mal and Products Liability Matters
• Client Consequences - Practical Counseling

Recorded May 28, 2026