December 9, 2010 – Philadelphia, PA – A $20 million award in a medical malpractice lawsuit has been upheld by a Pennsylvania appeals court, the King of Prussia Courier has reported. Though the case was challenged by plastic surgeon Richard P. Glunk, Pennsylvania Superior Court panel judges found that the decision by a Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas was sound. In 2001, local college student Amy Fledderman, 18, went to Glunk’s clinic for a liposuction operation. Fledderman suffered complications during the surgery and died at the clinic.
It was later determined that Glunk’s clinic was not properly licensed at the time of the operation. The jury has awarded Fledderman’s family $20 million in their lawsuit against Glunk and his nurse, Edward J. DeStefano. Punitive damages total $15 million of that award. An additional $2 million has been awarded to Fledderman’s mother for emotional distress as she was forced to stand by for more than 2 hours while Glunk refused to have her daughter transported to a hospital. The Pennsylvania appeals court has completely rejected the argument of the defendant that $15 million is excessive for punitive damages. Furthermore, the appeals court ruled that evidence showing that Glunk’s clinic lacked a proper license was legal and permissible.
Contacting a New York Medical Malpractice Lawyer
When you have sustained a serious injury or lost a loved one because of medical negligence you are entitled to seek compensation for your damages and suffering. Consulting with a New York medical malpractice lawyer can help you better understand your rights, determine liability for your injuries and decide if filing a medical malpractice claim is right for you. At Gacovino Lake & Associates we have formed a dedicated network of medical malpractice lawyers that serve clients nationwide. Our New York office serves residents of the 5 boroughs with their auto accident, medical malpractice, defective drug, premises liability and Workers’ Compensation claims. For experienced help with your medical malpractice claim, contact us today – 1-800-246-4878.
