James J. Cotner v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barrè syndrome (2015)

James J. Cotner filed a petition on October 9, 2013, seeking compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.

He alleged that he suffered from Guillain-Barrè syndrome (GBS) as a result of receiving an influenza vaccine on October 7, 2010, and that he experienced the effects of this injury for more than six months. The respondent denied that the vaccine caused Petitioner's injuries or his current condition.

Despite maintaining their positions, both parties agreed to settle the case through a stipulation filed on January 14, 2015. The Special Master reviewed the stipulation and found it reasonable, adopting it as the decision.

The stipulation awarded a lump sum of $150,000.00 for all damages, payable to Petitioner. Additionally, a lump sum of $7,961.81 was awarded for attorneys' fees and costs, payable jointly to Petitioner and Petitioner's attorney, Douglas Lee Burdette.

No out-of-pocket litigation-related costs were incurred by Petitioner. The Special Master, Brian H.

Corcoran, approved the award amounts. Judgment was to be entered accordingly.

The respondent was represented by Alexis Babcock.