Friedman

This is a consolidated appeal from judgments of dismissal entered after the trial court sustained demurrers without leave to amend. We affirm.

Facts

The facts of this case, involving attorneys licensed to practice law in the State of California, may explain why there is such a backlog of civil cases pending in the appellate courts of this state. In 1977 respondent Edward Stadum was representing Maynard Idleman in a personal injury action. (Op. A, at p. 2) At trial, Stadum called as a witness Dr. Peter Neblett, who had treated Idleman’s injuries. (Ibid.) The case resulted in a defense verdict, and when Dr. Neblett requested $1,000 for his expert witness fee, Stadum and Idleman refused payment. (Ibid.) Dr. Neblett sued Stadum and Idleman for breach of contract. In that action Neblett was represented by Morton Friedman, appellant in the present appeal.

In connection with Idleman’s breach of contract action, Stadum appeared at Friedman’s office to be deposed. (Op. A, at p. 3.) According to Stadum, Friedman, in the presence of others, referred to Stadum as a “deadbeat.” (Ibid.) Stadum then brought a defamation action against Friedman and also against Dr. Neblett, on the…