Adam Dan Hilyer v. Betti Fortier

Summary

The court held that the circuit court exceeded its discretion by refusing to set aside Hilyer's default judgment because all three required factors favored relief: Hilyer presented plausible negligence, contributory-negligence, and wantonness defenses; Fortier did not establish substantial unfair prejudice; and the default resulted from negligence and reasonable reliance on insurance-related representation rather than culpable conduct. The court therefore reversed and remanded. The court did not reach Hilyer's additional arguments concerning the minor's best interests or the amount of damages.