Thomas Lane v. HHS - Meningococcal, shingles (2025)

Thomas Lane filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on January 9, 2025, alleging he developed shingles after receiving a meningitis B vaccination on September 16, 2019. This decision addresses his motion for interim attorneys' fees and costs.

Mr. Lane requested a total of $25,885.62, comprising $20,067.50 in attorneys' fees and $5,818.12 in costs.

Respondent deferred to the Special Master's determination of a reasonable award. The Special Master found that interim fees were warranted due to the withdrawal of Mr.

Lane's previous counsel and the absence of any issues regarding the reasonable basis for the claim. The requested hourly rates for attorneys and paralegals were found to be reasonable and consistent with prior awards.

The hours billed were also deemed reasonable, with no objections raised by the respondent. Costs, including a significant portion for an expert witness, Dr.

Durvasula, were also found to be reasonable and supported by adequate documentation. The Special Master granted the motion, awarding the full requested amount of $25,885.62 to be paid to petitioner's former counsel.