#United States #Bronx #Lead Poisoning #Frankel Law Firm #Bronx Child

Frankel Law Firm Secures Significant Settlement for Lead-Poisoned Child in Bronx

In a groundbreaking case, the Frankel Law Firm has successfully achieved a $1 million settlement for a young child in the Bronx who suffered from lead poisoning due to hazardous conditions in their family's apartment. Marking yet another important milestone in the fight against lead poisoning, this settlement highlights the ongoing public health issues related to lead exposure, especially in urban settings populated by families with young children.

The lead poisoning lawsuit was filed in the New York State Supreme Court, Bronx County, after the child was exposed to dangerously high levels of lead-based paint. The child's blood tests revealed a shocking lead level of 11 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL), which is significantly higher than the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) reference level of 3.5 µg/dL. The exposure to lead has caused neurocognitive deficits, a concern that can significantly affect the child's future educational and social experiences.

The lawsuit asserted that the property owner failed to maintain a safe living environment, neglecting to adhere to New York City's Local Law 1 of 2004, which mandates the prevention and remediation of lead paint hazards in residential buildings. The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene documented violations, clearly indicating that the landlord did not fulfill their responsibility to provide safe housing.

In discussing the complexities of this case, Reuven Frankel, the lead attorney representing the child, mentioned, "This settlement is a testimony to our unwavering commitment to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves, especially children. The pressure exerted on the landlord throughout this protracted litigation has been a significant factor in reaching this settlement. When there’s a child poisoned within a led-safe mandate, it is imperative that we do not falter in our pursuit of justice."

Michael Stewart Frankel, the firm’s founder, commented on the wider impact of their work in this sector: "Behind every settlement, there lies a child's life transformed before they are capable of voicing their struggles. Our goal is to ensure they receive full support to thrive, while also holding negligent landlords accountable for their actions and inactions."

This case is one of many significant recoveries piloted by the Frankel Law Firm. Other recent settlements highlight the dire consequences of lead poisoning in the area:

• - $3 million for a child whose blood lead levels surged to 46 µg/dL, incurring severe neurological damage.
• - $2.35 million for another child affected by lead poisoning, with blood levels registered at 34 µg/dL.
• - $1.75 million settled for two sisters living under lead-poisoned conditions.
• - $750,000 for a child from Brooklyn experiencing developmental delays due to lead exposure.
• - $500,000 obtained for a child poisoned in low-income housing, achieved despite the landlord being uninsured.

Lead poisoning remains a devastating public health crisis in New York City, particularly in older residential buildings where potential hazards lurk. Even low levels of exposure can lead to irreversible developmental problems, affecting cognitive abilities and behavior. As such, it is vital for parents to recognize the warning signs, which can often be easily mistaken for other health issues, like learning difficulties or changes in behavior.

In light of this, the Frankel Law Firm is inviting families who suspect their children may have been exposed to lead paint hazards to reach out for a free and confidential consultation. For over 47 years, the firm has actively championed the rights of lead-poisoned children and their families throughout New York City, ensuring that every child can have the chance to live a healthy and fulfilling life.

For more information or to schedule an evaluation, families can contact The Frankel Law Firm directly.

The legacy of Michael Stewart Frankel, a pioneer in lead poisoning litigation, continues to shape the legal landscape, reinforcing the necessity for strict accountability among landlords. His efforts have facilitated millions of dollars in recovery for families affected by these preventable circumstances, forging a path toward safer homes for New York's most vulnerable residents.