Ferrill, Buckley Secure Defense Verdict in Premises Liability Case
Swanson, Martin & Bell, LLP attorneys Sarah A. Ferrill and Shannon E. Buckley obtained a defense verdict at trial on behalf of their client, a prominent hospital, in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois.
Plaintiff alleged that the defendant’s negligence in maintaining a walkway outside the hospital was the cause of a fall that led to the need for a arthroscopic labral tear repair, therapy, injections, and, eventually, a total right hip replacement.
At trial, Ferrill and Buckley skillfully addressed many inconsistencies in plaintiff case, including plaintiff’s own and their forensic engineer expert’s testimony. This included presenting evidence of the plaintiff vacationing abroad, after testifying about her inability to walk long distances, dance, and more. Ferrill and Buckley also contended that the hospital had a well-established Grounds Team who patrolled, inspected, and maintained the exterior portion of the campus to ensure it was free of potential hazards.
Plaintiff asked the jury for $1.04M. After approximately three days of deliberations, the jury returned a verdict for the defense. The case was tried before Judge Marguerite Quinn.
Sarah A. Ferrill has devoted a majority of her practice to the defense of medical negligence claims and has substantial litigation experience in other areas, including pharmaceutical and medical device litigation. She represents hospitals, physicians, physician groups, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Additionally, she represents clients in general tort, premises, and product liability work. Learn more about her practice here.
Shannon E. Buckley focuses her practice on healthcare and commercial litigation, working to resolve disputes through negotiations and taking matters to trial when necessary. She represents medical systems, hospitals, physician groups, and individual medical providers in medical negligence cases in Cook County and collar counties across Illinois. Learn more about her practice here.
