This case is famous for its mention in the John Jay Osborn Jr. novel The Paper Chase and in the film version of that work, as well as its use in legal education.

[2] George A. Hawkins' hand was scarred from contact with an electrical wire, after turning on the light in his family home's kitchen when he was 11 years old (1915).

His father, Charles, was approached by Edward R. B. McGee, a local doctor in Berlin, New Hampshire, about having the scars removed.

On appeal, the New Hampshire Supreme Court held that the amount of damages awarded should be equal to the difference between the value of what Hawkins was promised to receive—a "one hundred percent good hand"—and what he in fact received—a hairy palm—as well as any incidental losses he incurred as a result of the breach.

[3] Professor Kingsfield refers to the "Hairy Hand" case in the opening scene of the popular movie The Paper Chase.