R.P.C. v. HHS - Autism (2014)

Rodney and Dina Caudillo, parents of R.P.C., filed a claim for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on May 6, 2008, alleging their son suffered from autism due to a vaccine. The case progressed, and on January 23, 2014, the petitioners filed a motion for final attorneys' fees and costs.

Respondent did not contest entitlement to fees and costs but objected to the hourly rates requested. The Chief Special Master found that the petition was brought in good faith and upon a reasonable basis, entitling the petitioners to attorneys' fees and costs.

However, on November 19, 2013, the claim was dismissed for failure to prosecute. The decision addresses the reasonableness of the requested attorneys' fees and costs, making specific reductions to the hourly rates for attorneys and paralegals.

Ultimately, the petitioners were awarded $22,302.38 in attorneys' fees and costs, to be paid jointly to the petitioners and their counsel, with a portion payable solely to the petitioners.