On December 14, 2016, Gary W. Patterson, Jr. secured a directed verdict in the Rockland County Supreme Court on behalf of a board certified neurologist. It was claimed the doctor negligently assessed the patient’s risk for suicidality and failed to hospitalize him, leading to the 47 year old’s death by suicide a week later.

During cross examination, Mr. Patterson was able to elicit significant concessions from plaintiff’s psychiatric expert. At the close of the case, Mr. Patterson moved for a directed verdict, arguing that the plaintiffs had failed to make a prima facie case. After hearing oral arguments and reviewing the testimony, the Honorable Robert M. Berliner granted the application.

This is Mr. Patterson’s second consecutive directed verdict, and the Firm’s fourth in less than two years. He has now successfully tried cases in seven New York Counties.