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Berman & Simmons Achieves Record Medical Malpractice Verdict in Maine

In a landmark case, attorneys Travis M. Brennan and Charles P. Hehmeyer from the Maine law firm Berman & Simmons have secured the largest non-death medical malpractice jury verdict in the state's history, amounting to an astonishing $23.1 million. This monumental verdict was awarded in the Aroostook County Superior Court to Robert Giordano, a man who has been left permanently paralyzed due to alleged medical negligence.

The verdict, reached on June 18, 2026, follows a grueling nearly two-week trial that featured testimony from thirteen expert witnesses. It marks a significant achievement, not just for the firm, but for the advocacy of patient rights and accountability in medical practices across the region. The jury's findings indicate that Northern Light AR Gould Hospital and Northern Light Health were negligent in their treatment of Giordano, which ultimately led to his permanent condition.

Case Background

The case stemmed from an incident in December 2020 when Giordano, a 40-year-old resident of Madawaska, Maine, sought emergency care after suffering a fall. At the Northern Light A.R. Gould Hospital, a CT scan was performed, but crucial findings were missed. The radiologist failed to report a large bony calcification invading Giordano's spinal canal, which posed a significant risk of spinal cord compression. Consequently, Giordano was discharged without any awareness of the dire situation developing in his back.

Over the following weeks, Giordano's health deteriorated rapidly. When re-evaluating with his primary care provider just before the onset of paralysis, his alarming symptoms were dismissed, as the doctor inaccurately attributed his condition to chronic pain and a potential intent to seek unnecessary pain relief. On the same day, an orthopedic specialist also overlooked the urgent nature of his symptoms, compounding the delays in securing proper care.

The Dire Consequences

Attorney Brennan articulates the severity of Giordano's situation: “As his neurologic condition worsened, nobody recognized the warning signs of a looming crisis. It culminated in tragedy on January 30, 2021, when Giordano became fully and permanently paralyzed.” Following the acute episode, Giordano was swiftly transported to multiple medical facilities where an MRI revealed the catastrophic extent of his untreated condition. Unfortunately, despite two surgeries aimed at relieving the pressure on his spinal cord, Giordano remained paralyzed from the chest down and has lost all bowel and bladder control.

The Significance of the Verdict

The jury's decision to award Giordano $23.1 million not only emphasizes the pain and suffering he has endured but also acknowledges the substantial future medical costs and emotional distress stemming from his injuries. This sum is intended to help Giordano acquire necessary medical equipment, specialized care, and support for navigating life with his permanent disabilities. Attorney Brennan believes this decision validates both Giordano's experiences and the ongoing fight for accountability in the healthcare system.

“The jury's verdict proves the fundamental truth that this tragic situation should have been avoided,” Brennan expressed in an interview following the verdict. “This is a clear indication that negligence will not go unnoticed and that victims deserve justice.”

The Berman & Simmons law firm, established in 1914, is renowned for its fierce advocacy for victims of personal injury and medical malpractice in Maine. With a dedicated team of legal professionals, the firm handles complex cases, including those involving severe injuries and wrongful deaths, and stands firm against powerful entities in pursuit of justice for their clients.

As this case demonstrates, the fight for justice in cases of medical malpractice can lead to significant outcomes that not only affect individual lives but can also pave the way for improved accountability in the medical field. The profound implications of this verdict are expected to resonate throughout Maine’s legal landscape for years to come.