Attorneys David Cates and Katie St. John Recover $1.1 Million Medical Malpractice Verdict

David Cates, Esq. and Katie St. John, Esq. of The Cates Law Firm recovered a $1.1 million verdict in a medical malpractice case against Gateway Regional Medical Center on behalf of the Woodside family.

In 2018, Dustin Woodside suffered a methamphetamine relapse and became suicidal. He sought help from the emergency department (ED) at Gateway Regional Medical Center. Healthcare professionals failed to provide adequate medical care, discharging Dustin shortly after his arrival. He took his own life hours later, leaving behind a wife, son, and other family members.

According to Dustin’s wife, he experienced a psychiatric emergency and was diagnosed in the ED with “acute psychotic break, acute anxiety disorder, paranoia, depression, and homicidal and suicidal ideation.” He was prescribed antipsychotic medication and discharged.

Following a two-week trial, a unanimous Madison County jury awarded the Woodside family $1.1 million against Gateway Regional Medical Center for their negligent treatment. This was Katie’s first medical malpractice case with The Cates Law Firm, and she credits her co-counsel and support staff for helping to develop a strong case and securing a unanimous verdict.

“We are honored the Woodside family trusted us with this important case and grateful to the jury for their verdict on behalf of the family,” Katie said. “This loss was devastating and still is, making the verdict that much better.”

Katie is a personal injury lawyer whose practice includes complex cases involving car accidents, defective products, premises liability, medical malpractice, and wrongful death.

David is an extensively experienced trial lawyer with a proven track record in class actions and mass tort lawsuits. Notably, David was part of the trial team that secured a historic $60 million verdict in the first NEC baby formula case in the country to reach trial, which took place in St. Clair County, Illinois.

To learn more about or schedule a free consultation, call The Cates Law Firm at 618-277-3644 or contact us online. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we serve clients in St. Louis, Belleville, East St. Louis, Edwardsville, Granite City, Waterloo, Chester, Carbondale, St. Clair County, Madison County, Monroe County, Randolph County, and other regions throughout Southern Illinois.