Jeff Varcadipane
February 26, 2024
$3.25M NY Medical Malpractice Settlement where primary care doctor chose not to supervise his Physician’s Assistant who failed to diagnose an impending heart attack leading to the wrongful death of a 48 year old husband and father.
As published in Verdict Search: Published Morris Case Report
Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is an unimaginable tragedy. The emotional pain and financial burden can be overwhelming, leaving families feeling helpless and devastated.
In a recent case handled by Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., justice was served and a significant wrongful death settlement was obtained for the grieving family. If you or someone you know has suffered a similar loss, it’s important to understand your rights and have the support of dedicated legal professionals like the New York wrongful death attorneys of Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C.
The Case: Candra V. Morris v. Louis Joseph Morledge, M.D., et al.
On July 25, 2023, Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C. achieved a remarkable settlement in the case of Candra V. Morris, as Administrator of the Estate of Michael P. Morris, Deceased v. Louis Joseph Morledge, M.D., Morledge Medical Services, PLLC, and Ashley Biondo, PA. The lawsuit was filed in the New York Supreme Court, NY, and involved a wrongful death claim.
The facts of the case were distressing. On June 7, 2019, Michael Morris, a 48-year-old exchange business manager, visited his primary medical care office, Morledge Medical, with complaints of chest pain. Physician Assistant Ashley Biondo, on duty that day, performed an electrocardiogram and determined that there were no acute issues with Morris’ heart. Despite the patient’s symptoms, he was sent home.
Unfortunately, two days later, Morris suffered a heart attack and ultimately passed away several days after the incident. Candra Morris, acting as the administrator of her late husband’s estate, pursued a legal course of action. She filed a lawsuit, alleging negligence on the part of Biondo, Dr. Morledge, and Morledge Medical.
The Allegations and Arguments
The plaintiff’s counsel argued that Michael Morris displayed signs of an impending cardiac event during his visit to Morledge Medical. These signs included complaints of chest pain and the feeling that something was “sitting on his entire chest.” It was contended that Biondo should have recognized the symptoms and immediately referred Morris to a hospital for proper treatment.
Additionally, the plaintiff claimed that Dr. Morledge failed in his duty to supervise Biondo appropriately. By not providing the necessary oversight, it was argued that Morledge violated New York State laws. Consequently, Biondo acted independently and made the decision to send Morris home without consulting with her supervisor.
The defense, represented by Louis E. Jakub Jr. of Garson & Jakub LLP, denied the allegations. They argued that Biondo met the standard of care in her treatment of Morris, and Dr. Morledge concurred with her decision to discharge the patient.
The Injury and Damages
Morris suffered a heart attack on June 9, 2019, and was rushed to the hospital. He underwent bypass surgery but sadly experienced a second cardiac event, leading to his untimely death on June 11, 2019. He left behind his wife and two minor children. The estate sought damages for the decedent’s conscious pain and suffering from June 7th to June 11th, as well as pecuniary damages totaling $8,920,194. These pecuniary damages included lost wages, health insurance, household services, and parental nurturing and guidance. Additionally, the estate sought recovery of funeral, cemetery, and memorial expenses.
The Settlement
After negotiations, a pretrial settlement was reached in this heartbreaking case. The defendants’ insurer, MLMIC Insurance Co., agreed to pay $3.25 million from a policy that provided $3.3 million of coverage. This significant settlement will help provide some measure of financial security for the family left behind.
It’s important to emphasize the significance of this outcome and the dedication of Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C. in achieving justice for their clients. They tirelessly fought for the rights of the estate of Michael P. Morris and ensured that the family received the compensation they deserved.
Contact Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C.
If you or a loved one have experienced a similar loss due to wrongful death or personal injury, don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel. Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C. is here to help. With their expertise and commitment to their clients, they provide the support and guidance necessary to navigate complex legal processes and obtain the justice you deserve. Call us or contact us online to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
Call a New York Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C. understands the pain and loss that come with personal injury and wrongful death claims. With their extensive experience and dedication to their client’s well-being, they are the trusted advocates you need by your side. Serving the community of New York, they fight relentlessly to ensure that their clients receive the compensation they deserve.
If you’re in need of a personal injury or wrongful death attorney who will prioritize your interests, call Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C. today or contact us online.
Jeffrey W. Varcadipane
Jeffrey W. Varcadipane is a Certified Civil Trial Attorney by the Supreme Court of the State of New Jersey and a Founding Partner of the Firm. He handles a variety of matters including civil and commercial litigation, appellate practice, real estate, and business law.
University: J.D. Fordham Law School
Bar Number: 29472005
Locations: New Jersey, New York, and Florida.
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