Chicago Hospital Settles $18 Million Birth Injury Case

News Summary

A Chicago-area hospital has settled an $18 million lawsuit following a birth injury caused by alleged medical negligence. The case highlighted a critical oversight in failing to perform a timely cesarean section, leading to the infant suffering from hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and subsequent cerebral palsy. The settlement is a significant milestone for the family, providing essential support for the child’s medical needs. The law firm Levin & Perconti represented the family, continuing their pursuit of justice and accountability in medical negligence cases.

Chicago Hospital Settles $18 Million Birth Injury Case

In a high-stakes legal battle that captivated the attention of the community, a Chicago-area hospital has agreed to an $18 million settlement following a three-week trial centered around a devastating birth injury case. The trial revolved around the tragic experience of a first-time mother who, after a seemingly routine pregnancy, presented at 40 weeks but faced grave challenges when medical protocols were allegedly breached.

The Heartbreaking Circumstances

The crux of the case hinged on the hospital’s failure to promptly call for a cesarean section—a critical oversight that resulted in the infant suffering from hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). This serious condition, caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain during labor, has had catastrophic repercussions for the baby girl, who was subsequently diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The profound impact of this condition on her life and her family’s future was a focal point during the entire legal proceedings.

Making a Stand for Justice

The legal team representing the family included notable figures from the prominent law firm Levin & Perconti, who have garnered a reputation for their steadfast work in birth injury cases. Managing Partners Mike Bonamarte and Margaret Battersby Black led the trial team along with partners Dov Apfel and Seth Cardeli, and associate Jenna Ewing. Their collaborative efforts and unwavering commitment to seeking justice for the affected family marked this case as another significant victory in the firm’s storied history.

A Pivotal Settlement

The $18 million settlement is not only a monumental financial triumph but serves as an essential lifeline for the young girl and her family. It is expected to provide crucial support to address the child’s intensive medical needs, therapeutic interventions, and specialized educational services. The financial relief aims to alleviate some of the burdens the family faces as they navigate the complexities of caring for a child with special needs.

A Proven Track Record in Birth Injury Cases

This settlement adds to Levin & Perconti’s impressive history in securing substantial verdicts and settlements in similar birth injury cases. In previous years alone, the firm achieved a record-breaking $40 million verdict in a birth injury case in 2023, along with a $29 million settlement that same year and a $20 million verdict in June 2022. The firm’s determination to protect the rights of those affected by medical negligence is evident through their extensive case history and the substantial recoveries, totaling over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements for their clients.

Behind the Success

The recent settlement results from a powerful combination of legal expertise, thorough preparation, and the collective efforts of the trial team along with their expert witnesses and dedicated support staff. These professionals worked tirelessly to demonstrate the extent of negligence on the part of the healthcare providers involved and the lasting impact on the family’s life.

A Mission Driven by Compassion

Levin & Perconti has made it their mission to protect and vindicate the rights of those who have suffered due to negligence. Their ongoing commitment to holding negligent parties accountable in cases of serious injury, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, and wrongful death reinforces the importance of justice in the healthcare system.

This astonishing $18 million settlement not only reinforces the value of diligent legal representation but also highlights the fundamental need for hospitals and medical professionals to maintain high standards of care. For affected families, this settlement provides hope and a secure foundation as they move forward in their journey.