A client of CPA firm of Harston and Mendez is a medical practice of seven local doctors. One doctor has been sued for numerous million dollars as the result of a current operation. Because of what appears to be this doctor's very poor judgment, a patient died. Although that doctor was solely involved with patient in question, the lawsuit names the whole practice as a defendant. Originally, four of these doctors formed this business as a general partnership. Thus, five years ago, the partners converted the business to a limited liability partnership based on the laws of the state in which they operate.
Read the subsequent articles as well as any other published information that is available on partner and partnership liability:
"Partners Forever? Within Andersen, Personal Liability May Bring Ruin," The Wall Street Journal, April 2, 2002, p. C1.
"Collapse: Speed of Andersen's Demise Amazing," Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, June 16, 2002, p. D1.
Required
Based on facts presented in this case, answer questions:
1. Find what liability do the other six partners in this medical practice have in connection with this lawsuit?
2. What factors can be important in determining the exact liability (if any) of these six doctors?