LITTLE ROCK - The U.S. has filed a notice of appeal after a federal court awarded nearly $3 million to an Arkansas veteran who suffered permanent brain damage due to medical errors during a routine spinal surgery at the VA hospital in Little Rock in 2018.
On Dec. 5, 2023, a district court found the VA liable for medical malpractice and in favor of Marine Craig Dobbs—a veteran who served his country for 32 years including 7 combat tours, a press release states.
National Trial Law partners Laurie Higginbotham and Tom Jacob tried the lawsuit against the United States on behalf of his family.
“It’s time for the VA to admit defeat and stop delaying the compensation this Veteran needs for the medical care caused by the VA’s negligence,” said Higginbotham.
The VA issued a notice of appeal to the district court on May 2.
“The VA has no basis in law to appeal this verdict, so we see this appeal as a frivolous waste of time at the expense of Mr. Dobbs’ care and treatment,” said Jacobs.
The Arkansas federal court issued a 107-page verdict holding the VA liable for surgical negligence.
Once a “physically-fit,outdoors-loving” man, the court found Dobbs now has brain damage and requires daily care and supervision. The verdict attempts to compensate for lifelong medical bills, pain and suffering, and Dobbs’ loss of companionship.
Established in 1971 and located in Austin, National Trial Law handles lawsuits against the federal government nationwide, and has handled hundreds of administrative claims, lawsuits, and appeals on behalf of military and veteran families.