The Verdict

Frank Galvin, once a promising lawyer, spirals into a life of self-destruction, now earning a living as an ambulance chaser. His reputation has faded, leaving him entrenched in a cycle of poor decisions and questionable ethics.

Galvin receives a groundbreaking medical malpractice case from his former partner, Mickey Morrissey. The case involves a young woman who has been left comatose after childbirth due to negligence, and her family hopes to secure a settlement to aid in her ongoing care.

During his first meeting with the comatose woman's family, Galvin is deeply affected by the gravity of their situation. He begins to grapple with his emotions, realizing the weight of the case and its implications for the victim's family.

The Catholic diocese offers Galvin a settlement of $210,000, which he unexpectedly declines. This shocking move stuns opposing counsel and the judge, as Galvin decides to take the fight back to court instead.

Amid the chaos of trial preparations, Galvin encounters Laura Fischer at a local bar. An intimate bond begins to form between them, providing a glimpse of hope in his tumultuous life.

The trial takes a heated turn when the comatose woman’s brother-in-law accuses Galvin of mishandling the case after learning about the rejected settlement. This confrontation adds to the growing tension and pressure surrounding Galvin's quest for justice.

Just as the trial begins, Galvin's medical expert mysteriously disappears, compelling him to scramble for a last-minute replacement. The new expert’s credentials raise doubts, further complicating Galvin's case.

In a private meeting, Judge Hoyle threatens Galvin with disbarment, trying to assert his authority over the chaotic courtroom. Galvin staunchly defends himself, accusing the judge of being a mere puppet for local political interests.

Galvin’s instincts lead him to Kaitlin Costello, an admitting nurse, after he notices an intriguing question on her report. This leads him to uncover information that could shift the case's outcome, revealing her previous position that contradicts the hospital's account.

Galvin's trust is shattered when he learns that Kaitlin is receiving payment from opposing counsel for insider information. This revelation leads to a heated argument with Laura, further complicating Galvin's personal and professional life.

Kaitlin finally takes the stand to testify but her account contradicts the patient's records. She reveals a crucial nine-hour gap since the last meal before admission, causing an uproar in the courtroom and igniting conciliatory arguments from Concannon.

The tense atmosphere reaches a boiling point when Kaitlin discloses that the anesthesiologist neglected important notes about the patient’s condition, leading to the negligence that resulted in her choking incident. This news sends shockwaves through the courtroom.

After revealing critical information, Kaitlin's testimony is dismissed by Judge Hoyle, much to Galvin's dismay. This leaves Galvin's case faltering under the weight of opposing counsel's objections and the loss of vital evidence.

Despite the setbacks, Galvin delivers a heartfelt closing argument that encapsulates his dedication to the plaintiff’s family. He fervently pleads for justice, pouring every bit of his passion into the performance.

In a surprising turn of events, the jury rules in favor of the plaintiff, elevating Galvin's spirits and restoring some of his lost honor. As he leaves the courtroom, he catches a meaningful glance from Laura, hinting at unresolved feelings.