Richard L. Pullano wins record awards for senior citizens
July 27, 2009
Richard Pullano earned headlines in 2008 when a Cook County jury awarded $2.5 million to the family of a 90-year-old Elmwood Park woman who was struck and killed by a van while crossing the street. According to the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, the “verdict is the largest ever in Illinois for someone 90 or older.” Verdicts for nonagenarians’ personal injury cases rarely exceed $800,000.
Mr. Pullano achieved similar success in 2007 when he earned a $927,000 settlement for an 89-year-old man who was fatally injured after being hit by a CTA bus while crossing the street.
“Time and again, we have dispelled the preconceived notion that the quality of a senior citizen’s life is diminished,” said Richard Pullano. “Juries understand that people in their 70s, 80s and 90s are still leading healthy lives and are integral parts of their family and community.”
In the Elmwood Park incident, a thriving, independent woman who was a valued member of her family and community had her life tragically shortened.
In the CTA bus accident, a family lost their beloved patriarch, a man whom they relied on for support, guidance and companionship. In each case, Pullano argued that the deaths of these remarkable people meant an irreplaceable loss of wisdom, guidance and support for surviving family members.
Richard Pullano leads discussion on how to maximize awards
July 27, 2009
Successful personal injury cases require intense preparation, a solid strategy, and a keen understanding of how to communicate with judges and juries. The difference between a routine settlement and a record-breaking award often comes down to the training, insight, and skill of the plaintiff’s attorney.
In May, Richard Pullano organized and led a discussion on how to maximize damages in personal injury cases. Pullano presented questions to an impressive panel of lawyers, who provided expertise and insight into best practices for opening statements, direct examination of plaintiffs, cross examination of medical experts, closing arguments and other integral aspects of the trial process.
“Awards are not won or lost in the deliberation room; they are decided during key moments in the trial,” said Pullano. “Success depends on capitalizing on these moments when juries determine whether they are for us or against us, and whether our claims deserve the damages we seek.”
The Illinois Trial Lawyers Association (ITLA) sponsored the event as part of its continuing legal education series. Visit www.iltla.com for more information.