Barry Griffiths v. HHS - Influenza, right shoulder injury and Parsonage Turner’s Syndrome (2025)

Barry Griffiths filed a petition on February 21, 2023, alleging that an influenza vaccine received on October 27, 2021, caused or aggravated a right shoulder injury and Parsonage Turner's Syndrome. This decision addresses a motion for interim attorneys' fees and costs filed by Petitioner's counsel, Phyllis Widman.

Respondent deferred to the Special Master's determination on the award. The Special Master found the claim was brought in good faith and on a reasonable basis, making an interim award appropriate, especially as counsel was ending her vaccine injury practice.

The court awarded $21,178.75 in attorneys' fees and $8,127.64 in costs, for a total of $29,306.39. Reductions were made for clerical tasks billed as attorney work and for an expert's hourly rate exceeding previously awarded amounts.

The decision does not rule on entitlement or final damages.