Crandall & Pera Law would like to congratulate co-founder Steve Crandall, who has been admitted to practice in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. The CFC is the modern incarnation of the oldest Court in American history (established in 1855). There are 16 judges, nominated by the President, who serve for 15-year terms. Unlike other courts in the civil justice system, the CFC does not convene juries; rather, decisions are made by the judges themselves in what is known as a “bench trial.”
The Court makes rulings in cases where citizens have claims against the U.S. government, and “is authorized to hear primarily money claims founded upon the Constitution, federal statutes, executive regulations, or contracts, express or implied in fact, with the United States.” Because its jurisdiction reaches throughout the country, it hears cases throughout the U.S.
Claims under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act
Because Steve Crandall is now admitted to practice in the CFC, he is able to represent clients seeking compensation under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986. This “Act establishes the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program under which individuals may bring claims for alleged vaccine-related injuries or deaths” in front of the Office of Special Masters.
In layman’s terms, this means that if you or your loved one was given a vaccine – like a flu shot, or an MMR shot, for example – that resulted in a severe allergic reaction, or that was found to be defective or dangerous in some way, you may be entitled to compensation from the VICP. Because these are federal claims in a special court, you must be represented by an attorney, like Steve Crandall, who has been admitted to practice in that court.
You can find the full list of covered vaccines here.
Crandall & Pera Law is extremely proud of Steve for this accomplishment. Only a handful of attorneys from each state are admitted to practice in front of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. It is a testament to his advocacy for, and dedication to, his clients’ best interests that he was admitted to practice in front of such a venerable Court. We offer a heartfelt “congratulations,” and believe that injury victims in Ohio and Kentucky can rest easier, knowing he is on their side.