Threat of trial yields additional $1 million for medical malpractice case: Glenview cancer victim receives $7.5 million for missed diagnosis
March 26, 2010
Richard L. Pullano secured an additional $1 million for a medical malpractice victim, bringing the total settlement to $7.5 million.
In 2003, a neurologist and neurosurgeon at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare failed to properly review an MRI film and X-ray that showed a cancerous growth on the spine of Glenview resident Michael Corbitt. An internist who identified the abnormality never informed Michael of the problem. The cancer continued to grow, causing his spine to collapse. Michael, a husband and father of two daughters, is now permanently disabled and lives with chronic pain. (more…)
$6.5 million settlement for victim of medical malpractice at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare
September 30, 2009
A Cook County Court judge today approved a $6.5 million settlement for a medical malpractice victim represented by Chicago attorney Richard L. Pullano.
In 2003, Michael Corbitt of Glenview, Illinois sought treatment for lower back pain and numbness in his legs. He was eventually referred to a neurosurgeon and neurologist who both worked for Evanston Northwestern Healthcare.
An MRI film was ordered, which clearly showed a cancerous growth on his spine. However, the neurosurgeon failed to see the growth and the neurologist did not even look at the MRI film prior to reaching the wrong diagnosis. (more…)
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.
Police misconduct: A California settlement brings to light a national problem
April 17, 2009
On August 15, 2005, an inmate in a California jail was beaten to death by jail detention deputies. The attorneys for the family of the inmate said that the settlement sends a strong message to law enforcement that the beating of a completely defenseless inmate will not be tolerated.
Illinois residents are all to familiar with this tragic story. Thousands of complaints each year are made against police officers from Chicago to Champaign. However, few of these complaints ever result in disciplinary action against the law enforcement official.
At Pullano & Karnezis, we believe that it is our responsibility, as officers of the court, to ensure that rogue law enforcement officials are brought to justice. There are thousands of police officers throughout the country who wear their badge with honor and courageously help people in need. There are a select few officers, however, who tarnish the image other officers work so hard to attain.