Because Marlin thinks there might be something fishy about the fire, he refuses to commit the insurer before completing his investigation, a process that drags out for several months. When his suspicions of arson are confirmed, Marlin denies the claim. Under these circumstances,

$($Search Chapter $4)$

a$.$ Marlin should have simply paid the claim after reading the claim and conducting an initial interview.

b$.$ the courts may hold Marlin liable for a bad faith claim because he ultimately denied coverage for a claim that should have been promptly paid.

c$.$ the courts may hold Marlin liable for a bad faith claim due to the length of the investigation.

d$.$ the courts will recognize Marlin's duty to complete a thorough investigation before determining whether to pay the claim