News & Insights

Lightfoot Secures Summary Judgment in Jefferson County Medical Malpractice Case

September 15, 2025

Lightfoot, Franklin & White LLC obtained summary judgment on behalf of a hospitalist and his medical practice in a wrongful death medical malpractice case in Jefferson County Circuit Court.

The case involved a patient with a subdural hematoma who was later discharged from the hospital and died days later following a subsequent brain bleed. The plaintiff alleged that the hospitalist’s conditional discharge order contributed to the patient’s premature release and death.

At the summary judgment hearing, Lightfoot argued there was no evidence linking the physician’s order to the patient’s death. Judge Robert S. Vance agreed, holding that causation is a required element of the plaintiff’s claim and that the record contained no evidence that the physician’s order caused or contributed to the outcome. The court granted summary judgment in favor of Lightfoot’s clients.

Lightfoot frequently represents physicians and healthcare providers in medical malpractice litigation, securing dismissals, summary judgments and trial victories.

The Lightfoot team included partners Laura H. Peck, Rachel M. Lary and Christopher C. Yearout, associate Parker G. Jennings and Director of Litigation Technology Sam McAllister.