This section contains the nature of the case and procedural background.

Donovan (P) was a seaman on the SS Penn-Sailor. P slipped on wet paint and injured his right wrist and elbow. P sued D under the Jones Act, 46 U.S.C. 688 and got a $90,000 verdict. D moved under Rule 50 and 59 to set aside the verdict as excessive. The court ordered remittitur to $65,000 or a new trial on the damages. P accepted under protest and appealed. The court of appeals dismissed the appeal. The Supreme Court granted certiorari.

The legal issues presented in this case will be displayed here.

The court's holding and decision will be displayed here.

Legal analysis from Dean's Law Dictionary will be displayed here.