Court Overturns $208M Verdict Against Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital

The Second District Court of Appeals has reversed a significant verdict against Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, ending a nearly two-year legal battle. This ruling overturns the previous $208 million judgment awarded to Maya Kowalski and her family.

Background of the Case

The case gained national attention following the tragic events surrounding Maya Kowalski, a young girl suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). In October 2016, her family took her to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital for treatment. They claimed the hospital’s actions led to the suicide of family matriarch Beata Kowalski.

Incident Details

• Maya was receiving ketamine treatment for pain relief.
• Hospital staff denied further ketamine treatments, raising suspicions of potential abuse by Beata Kowalski.
• A report was filed with the Child Abuse Hotline, resulting in state custody for Maya and severed contact with her mother.

Trial Outcome

The subsequent trial lasted eight weeks. In November 2023, the jury found the hospital liable on seven counts, including medical negligence and emotional distress, initially resulting in a $261 million verdict. This amount was later reduced to $208 million by a Sarasota County judge.

Following the trial, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital filed an appeal, arguing the initial court’s decisions were flawed. Key points of contention included the misapplication of Chapter 39 immunity, which is intended to protect those reporting child abuse in good faith.

Appeals Court Findings

In its nearly 50-page ruling, the appeals court found that the lower court’s interpretation of several critical legal standards was incorrect. Specifically, the court noted:

• The hospital acted in good faith regarding child protection activities.
• There was insufficient evidence of intentional misconduct by the hospital staff.
• Punitive damages were wrongly submitted to the jury due to lack of clear evidence.

Statements from Involved Parties

Ethen Shapiro, representing Johns Hopkins, emphasized the ruling’s protection for mandatory reporters across Florida. He insisted this case underscores the importance of safeguarding children while ensuring a fair judicial process.

The Kowalski family’s attorney expressed disappointment but remained determined. The family believes future jurors will recognize the hospital’s misconduct towards Maya.

Looking Ahead

The appeals court acknowledged that some claims remain for retrial, which would require a proper application of immunity principles. However, the court ruled out punitive damages for any remaining claims due to a lack of supporting evidence.

As the legal battle continues, both sides are preparing for the next steps in this high-profile case.