Frisco, Texas – The Law Offices of Laird & McCloskey, based in Fort Worth, recently achieved a significant victory for a Texas man who suffered life-altering injuries after a failed spinal surgery. A jury in Collin County awarded Bill Proctor $6.2 million in damages, marking the largest medical negligence verdict ever recorded in the county.
Proctor, a resident of Lamar County, underwent elective lumbar spinal surgery in 2018 to address his chronic lower back pain, following the recommendation of a neurosurgeon. However, the procedure resulted in permanent neurological harm, leaving Proctor paralyzed from the waist down.
The lawsuit presented evidence suggesting that the surgeon excessively stretched or compressed Proctor’s nerves during the operation, leading to the irreversible impairment of his bowel and bladder functions. It further alleged that the surgical team failed to carry out proper neuromonitoring procedures, which would have facilitated the early detection of nerve conduction changes and allowed for corrective measures to prevent permanent injury.
Attorney Seth McCloskey, representing Proctor, emphasized the medical negligence involved in the case. He stated, “These were life-altering mistakes made by medical professionals entrusted with Bill’s health and well-being. Although nothing can change what happened, our hope is that this result brings him and his family peace.”
After a week-long trial, the jury held the doctor 60% responsible for Proctor’s injuries, making him liable for all damages under Texas law.
The legal team representing Proctor consisted of managing partners Seth McCloskey and Steven C. Laird. Both lawyers were recognized by Best Lawyers in America, featuring in their 2024 legal guide. Laird & McCloskey, known as prominent trial lawyers in Fort Worth, secured two of the state’s top verdicts in 2022, providing justice for victims of medical malpractice and motor vehicle accidents.
The outcome of this case shines a light on the importance of accountability and patient safety within the medical field. It serves as a reminder that negligence can have life-altering consequences for individuals seeking treatment.
As Proctor and his family move forward with their lives, this verdict brings some measure of financial assistance and closure. It also serves as a stepping stone in raising awareness about the impact of medical negligence and the need for improved patient care.