Case Result: Verdict in Favor of Physician Accused of Failing to Treat Severe Pain from Inguinal Hernia

Areas of Law:
42 U.S.C. § 1983
Correctional Healthcare

Venue:
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan

Judge:
Chief Judge Gerald Rosen

Facility:
Cotton Correctional

Allegations:
Plaintiff Colton contended that the physician ignored his alleged severe pain and allegations that his previous right inguinal hernia surgical repair had failed.

Plaintiff argued that he had significant pain and suffering for three years. He alleged he should have had inguinal hernia surgery as early as October 2009. He also demanded right inguinal hernia surgery.

Defense contended that plaintiff never reported pain and, in fact, a hernia that is not incarcerated or strangled is not a serious medical need. Pursuant to Napier v. Madison County, Plaintiff must produce expert support that a delay in treatment proximately caused additional damages.

Settlement History:
Plaintiff demanded $20,000. We rejected.

Trial:
Trial started on October 27, 2014, and ended October 29, 2014. At the close of Plaintiff’s proofs, we moved for a Directed Verdict. The court deferred until after defense proofs. Following defense proofs, the court granted the motion for Directed Verdict.

Bases for Relief:
The court accepted our argument that this was a Napier case and not a Blackmore v. Kalamazoo County case; therefore, Plaintiff needed medical testimony to support the fact that the medical condition worsened as a result of the delay. Plaintiff was unable to prove same.

Chance of Appeal:
60% chance Plaintiff will file a Pro Se appeal; 1% chance he will be successful.

Disclaimer:
This information is a sample of our past results. Prospective clients may not obtain the same or similar results. Every case is different and each case must be evaluated and handled on its own merits. The circumstances of your case may differ from the results provided. The information provided has not been reviewed or approved by the State Bar.