In The News

Last week, in a courtroom in Cuyahoga County, we obtained a significant verdict that reaffirms our relentless commitment to the rights of the elderly and the integrity of the legal process. A jury, embodying the conscience of our community, rendered a powerful narrative through a verdict of $1.4875 Million in favor of our 92-year-old client.

For the trial duo, Susan and Todd Petersen, this case was anchored in principle; it represented a stand for the vulnerable and a commitment to ensuring that justice remains vigilant and unbiased, irrespective of an individual’s age.  Our client’s narrative was a testament to unyielding integrity: a U.S. Marine, a college graduate, a steadfast leader in his company, a devoted husband for 68 years, a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He redefined aging, making 90 the new 70, inspired by his 105-year-old sister living independently.  His story of loss was poignant and powerful.  The jury’s decision did more than compensate for the catastrophic harms and losses of this man; it resonated as a profound acknowledgment of the unseen, deep emotional and psychological scars borne from a life abruptly changed.  To us, this verdict stands as a powerful affirmation of the inherent worth of dignity and the quality of life our elders hold.

From the outset, it was evident that the Defendants opted to ignore the established rules — their failure to identify and address the signs of a severe eye infection after cataract surgery caused a critical delay in necessary treatment. This oversight led to the complete loss of vision in the infected eye.  As the legal narrative unfolded, it became apparent that the Defendants’ disregard for the rules permeated their approach to litigation.   They opted to ignore the rules of fair play.  In this domain, where fairness holds a revered status, allowing such violations to go unchecked was never an option for Petersen & Petersen. Our unwavering dedication to the sanctity of legal integrity spurred action, resulting in a Court Sanctions Order, which underscored our unwavering commitment to ethical legal practice and justice:

“… the Defendants did not participate in discovery in a forthright and timely fashion

Their conduct included violations of both the letter and spirit of the civil rules.”

For us, upholding ‘fair play’ in the legal arena isn’t just a duty, but a solemn pledge to the ideals of justice.  It is in the transparent and honest participation of all parties that the scales of justice find their true balance, ensuring that the pursuit of truth is not just a process, but a pathway to genuine fairness and equity.  This victory extends beyond a mere legal win for our client; it embodies our law firm’s steadfast dedication to advocating for the rights of every person. It affirms our belief that justice, undeterred by age, gender, race, or other differences, is an unyielding guarantee owed to all.