Kenum v. Henderson

Supreme Court of Alabama
Kenum v. Henderson, 6 Ala. 132 (Ala. 1844)
Coldthwaite

Kenum v. Henderson

Opinion of the Court

COLDTHWAITE, J.

There is nothing shown here by *133which the judgment can be sustained. It is true, the judgment is for a less sum than 20 dollars, and, therefore, no pleadings were necessary ; but a court is not authorized, in such a case, to give a final judgment without considering the facts any otherwise than it would be in a suit for a greater sum.

If the debt, is ascertained by a writing, the judgment by default, whatever is the sum, may be final; but, when it is not, the damages must be ascertained by a jury, if for more than 20 dol lars, and by the court, if for a less amount.

Let the judgment be reversed, and the cause remanded.

Reference

Full Case Name
KENUM v. HENDERSON
Cited By
2 cases
Status
Published