Denise Mariani, Esq., and Jonathan Lauri, Esq. Secure $750,000 Jury Verdict Against Hamilton Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center

It is our pleasure to announce that Denise Mariani, Esq., and Jonathan Lauri, Esq., secured a $750,000 jury verdict on behalf of a nursing home resident and her family in a case against Hamilton Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center.

Following a hard-fought trial, the jury found that Hamilton Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center deviated from accepted standards of nursing care and awarded $750,000 in damages. Throughout the proceedings, the defense presented four expert witnesses and five fact witnesses, attempting to attribute the resident’s injuries to the challenges posed by COVID-19. However, the evidence demonstrated otherwise.

Testimony and records revealed that the facility was significantly understaffed compared to other nursing homes in Mercer County and throughout New Jersey. Despite citing staffing shortages and difficulties in providing adequate care, the facility continued to accept additional residents. The jury ultimately rejected the argument that pandemic-related challenges excused failures in providing basic care and accountability.

“This verdict reinforces that even during unprecedented times, nursing homes must uphold fundamental standards of care,” said Mariani and Lauri. “Our client and her family deserved accountability, and we are proud to have helped them achieve justice.”

This result underscores that vulnerable residents are entitled to safe, dignified, and competent care at all times, regardless of external circumstances.

Denise Mariani, Esq., and Jonathan Lauri, Esq. are Shareholders at Stark & Stark and members of the firm’s Nursing Home Negligence Group. They dedicate their practices to advocating for individuals who have suffered neglect or abuse in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and similar settings. Denise Mariani is also a certified Civil Trial Attorney by the Supreme Court of New Jersey.

*Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.