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Bar News - April 18, 2003 Morning Mail Representing 9/11 Families I recently had the privilege of representing a young widow and her two teenage children in connection with a September 11th Victim’s Compensation Fund claim and I wanted to pass along to you a brief history of my experience and offer my assistance to anyone who may be involved in such a claim. I volunteered as a member of Trial Lawyers Care (TLC) in October 2001 after seeing a story on television about the pro bono services provided by TLC to victims of the Sept. 11th tragedy and their families. In a few weeks I was matched up with a resident of my community who had lost her husband on American Airlines Flight 11. She was left to care for her two children who will soon be reaching college age. My client (who wishes to remain anonymous) was soon confronted with a difficult decision. The special master, Kenneth Feinberg, had selected her case as one of a few "lead cases" that he wanted to decide very early on in the process. After much soul-searching and discussion, my client agreed to forego her right to bring a lawsuit against any U.S. citizen or domestic corporation and to file a claim with the Victim’s Compensation Fund (VCF). Within a short time, we marshaled all of the evidence to present to Master Feinberg. Needless to say, this was a difficult and stressful experience. Imagine preparing a substantial wrongful death case from start to finish in only six months. After expert witnesses were retained and all of our documentary and testimonial witnesses were prepared, we attended the hearing at Mr. Feinberg’s office in New York City. The process was a difficult one for my client, but she maintained her dignity throughout the process. She spoke eloquently about the magnitude of her family’s loss. Some observers were brought to tears. Our nationally recognized economist presented a strong case for a substantial award. Within a few weeks of the hearing, we were notified that Mr. Feinberg had issued his decision. It stands today as one of the largest VCF awards ever given. If you are involved with one of these claims, I would be happy to discuss it with you. I would also encourage anyone interested in representing a victim to contact TLC at (917) 464-0105. There are many family members in need of your services and I am confident you will find the experience gratifying and rewarding. Michael P. Rainboth
Opinions in Bar News Unless otherwise indicated, opinions expressed in letters or commentaries published in Bar News are solely those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the policies of the New Hampshire Bar Association Board of Governors, the Bar News Editorial Advisory Board or the Bar Association staff.
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