Larissa S. Ford, Respondent v. Arthur C. Hutson, Appellant

Summary

The court expressly recognized intentional infliction of emotional distress as an independent tort in South Carolina and adopted a rule requiring intentional or reckless conduct that is extreme and outrageous and causes severe emotional distress. It held that the evidence, including repeated abusive confrontations, plaintiff's deterioration, and expert causation testimony, was legally sufficient for the jury. The court also held that the six-year limitations period applied because the tort was independent of traditional torts, and it affirmed the judgment after remittitur.