Greene Broillet & Wheeler Achieves Landmark Verdict in Whistleblower Case Against UC Regents

Landmark Verdict for Dr. Mark Linskey

In a significant legal victory, Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP has achieved a groundbreaking $5.8 million verdict for renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Mark Linskey in a whistleblower retaliation case against the University of California Regents. This verdict, reached by an Orange County jury on May 9, 2025, underscores the crucial role of protecting medical professionals who raise concerns about patient safety and institutional misconduct.

Dr. Linskey, a board-certified neurosurgeon and tenured professor at UC Irvine, had faced an extensive pattern of retaliation starting from 2014 after he voiced serious concerns regarding patient safety and administrative misuse of power at the university's medical center. The legal battle, which has lasted over a decade, reflects not only the challenges faced by whistleblowers but also the commitment of Greene Broillet & Wheeler to uphold justice in the face of institutional abuse.

Prior to this verdict, the firm had already secured a $2 million judgment in 2019 against UC Irvine for similar acts of retaliation. Attorney Ivan Puchalt noted, "This case focused on the university's failure to comply with a previous court order to reinstate Dr. Linskey to the residency program, asserting that the UC Irvine leadership continued to sideline him despite the ongoing legal directives."

The jury found substantial evidence indicating that UC Irvine retaliated against Dr. Linskey from 2015 onward, denying him essential duties such as teaching residents and participating in the neurosurgery on-call roster. The effects of this retaliation persisted even after the previous jury’s verdict.

Attorney Mark Quigley, a partner at Greene Broillet & Wheeler, expressed his pride in standing by Dr. Linskey through both trials, emphasizing that the verdict sends a notable message regarding the protection of whistleblowers within the medical community. "This verdict reinforces that those who expose wrongdoing related to patient safety should not face punishment, and we are proud to hold the University accountable for its actions," Quigley stated.

As part of the award, Dr. Linskey was compensated for both past and future economic losses, as well as for non-economic damages including emotional distress and reputational harm. In 2004, Dr. Linskey joined UC Irvine and eventually served as the Chair of the Department of Neurological Surgery. Throughout his tenure, he has championed the need for safe and ethical medical practices, voicing concerns regarding inappropriate patient handling and the impact of economic pressures on care quality.

Reflecting on the successful outcome, Dr. Linskey remarked, "Achieving two unanimous jury verdicts is incredibly validating. It shows that honest individuals can discern the truth and highlights that our legal system can prevail against adversity."

Despite the victory, attorneys Quigley and Puchalt anticipate that the defense may pursue post-trial motions or an appeal. They remain confident in the strength of their case, asserting that the jury's decision sends a clear message that retaliation in a healthcare environment will not be tolerated. "This ruling signifies a pivotal moment for whistleblowers and amplifies the need for a robust protective framework in academic medical settings," Quigley concluded.

The outcome of this case not only vindicates Dr. Linskey but also places a spotlight on the systemic issues that whistleblowers face within institutions. The commitment displayed by Greene Broillet & Wheeler underscores a growing momentum towards supporting and protecting those who dare to speak out against corruption and misconduct in the healthcare arena.