In: Accounting
5. Argo Motor Company, a motorcycle manufacturer, had the following contingencies:
a. Argo estimates that it is reasonably possible that it will lose a current lawsuit. Argo’s attorneys estimate that the potential loss will be $2,200,000.
b. Argo received notice that it is being sued. Argo is advised by its attorneys that the lawsuit is considered frivolous.
c. Argo is currently the defendant in a lawsuit. Argo believes it is probable that it will lose the lawsuit. Estimated damages to be paid will be between $70,000 - $100,000. Argo’s attorneys believe the judge will award the plaintiff approximately $90,000.
d. Argo recently filed a lawsuit against the manufacturer of a brake pedal used in a popular motorcycle sold by Argo, which had to be recalled due to a defective braking system. Argo is seeking damages of $1,500,000. Argo feels confident that it will be awarded the full amount of damages it is seeking.
Determine the appropriate accounting treatment for each of Argo’s contingencies
| a. Argo estimates that it is reasonably possible that it will lose a current lawsuit. Argo’s attorneys estimate that the potential loss will be $2,200,000. | Describe the situation in a note to the financial statements | 
| b. Argo received notice that it is being sued. Argo is advised by its attorneys that the lawsuit is considered frivolous. | Do not Disclose | 
| c. Argo is currently the defendant in a lawsuit. Argo believes it is probable that it will lose the lawsuit. Estimated damages to be paid will be between $70,000 - $100,000. Argo’s attorneys believe the judge will award the plaintiff approximately $90,000. | Record an expense and a liability based on estimated amount | 
| d. Argo recently filed a lawsuit against the manufacturer of a brake pedal used in a popular motorcycle sold by Argo, which had to be recalled due to a defective braking system. Argo is seeking damages of $1,500,000. Argo feels confident that it will be awarded the full amount of damages it is seeking. | Describe the situation in a note to the financial statements | 
| Contigient Assets. This potential asset will generally be disclosed in its financial statement, but not recorded as an asset until the lawsuit is settled. |