Cohen v. Cowles Media Co.

457 N.W.2d 199 (1990)

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Cohen v. Cowles Media Co.

Minnesota Supreme Court
457 N.W.2d 199 (1990)

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Facts

Cohen (plaintiff) approached Cowles Media Co. (Cowles) (defendant), a news organization, among others, with information regarding a state gubernatorial candidate. The reporters for the news organizations promised Cohen he would remain anonymous as a confidential source. The editors of the news organizations chose to disclose Cohen’s identity. Cohen brought suit against Cowles and the other organizations for breach of contract and fraudulent misrepresentation. The matter went to trial and the jury found for Cohen. Cowles and the other defendants appealed. The court of appeals dismissed Cohen’s fraudulent misrepresentation claim, but upheld the jury’s decision on his breach of contract claim. All parties appealed to the Minnesota Supreme Court.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Simonett, J.)

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