G & C Auto Body Inc. v. GEICO General Insurance

ORDER DENYING DEFENDANT’S MOTION FOR PARTIAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT

INTRODUCTION

Before the Court is Defendant GEICO’s Motion For Partial Summary Judgment. (Docket No. 274.) By a December 12, 2007 Order, this Court previously struck the portion of the Motion directed at Plaintiff G & C’s first cause of action for unfair competition. (Docket No. 287.) The parties have fully briefed the portion of the Motion seeking summary judgment on G & C’s second and fourth causes of action, for intentional interference with prospective economic advantage and defamation, respectively. Having reviewed the parties’ submissions, the Court finds this Motion suitable for resolution without oral argument, and DENIES the Motion in its entirety.

FACTUAL BACKGROUND

Plaintiffs are two auto body repair companies that have sued the defendant insurance companies. Defendants provide automobile coverage for their policyholders. Plaintiffs on occasion perform work for some of Defendants’ policyholders. Plain tiffs have asserted four claims against Defendants in this action: (1) unfair competition under Section 17200, (2) interference with economic relationship, (8) fraud and deceit, and (4) commercial…