The Verdict

Frank Galvin, an alcoholic ambulance chaser and once-promising attorney, is handed a medical malpractice case involving Deborah Ann Kaye, who was left comatose after childbirth complications at a Catholic hospital. The case promises a significant settlement, but Galvin chooses to challenge this by intending to try the case in court instead of settling. His former partner Mickey Morrissey offers him the case as a favor, setting the stage for his legal battle. The family of Kaye aims to use the settlement to cover her ongoing care needs.

Galvin visits the hospital and sees Kaye in her devastated state. Moved by her condition, he declines a proposed settlement of $210,000 from the Catholic diocese and instead commits to fiercely fighting the case in court. This decision surprises the hospital and judges, demonstrating his renewed dedication. His choice to go to trial marks a turning point in his approach to the case and his career.

While preparing for trial, Galvin faces multiple challenges, including the disappearance of his medical expert and difficulties in finding witnesses willing to testify about the hospital’s negligence. His legal team struggles as defendants’ lawyers manipulate the press and complicate his efforts. Despite setbacks, Galvin remains determined to pursue justice, fortified by his resolve to expose malpractice.

In a courtroom showdown, Judge Hoyle confronts Galvin during a hearing, threatening him with disbarment. Galvin criticizes the judge’s bias and political influences, leading to a heated exchange. The judge dismisses Galvin’s motion for a mistrial and warns him of legal repercussions. This confrontation highlights the judiciary’s hostility and the political pressures surrounding the case.

Galvin notices inconsistencies in the hospital admission records, discovering that nurse Kaitlin Costello altered the form regarding Kaye’s last meal. He travels to New York City to find her and subpoena her testimony, suspecting her role in concealing evidence of negligence. This investigation is crucial as it uncovers key discrepancies that could prove medical malpractice.

Morrissey uncovers that Laura Fischer, Galvin’s romantic interest, was being secretly paid by the hospital's legal team, revealing her as a spy. Galvin confronts Laura in a bar and reacts emotionally, even striking her. Morrissey warns Galvin about her betrayal, complicating his personal and professional life. This event exposes deeper corruption and personal betrayal affecting the case.

Kaitlin Costello testifies that she initially filled out the hospital form indicating Kaye had eaten a full meal an hour before arriving, but her superiors coerced her to alter the record from '1' to '9'. She also reveals that the anesthesiologist failed to read her notes, administered anesthesia dangerously late, and threatened her career to keep silent. Her testimony exposes serious hospital negligence and misconduct tied to the case.

Concannon's team objects to the admissibility of the altered record, claiming the original document has legal precedence. Judge Hoyle unexpectedly rules that the testimony is stricken, damaging Galvin’s case. Despite this setback, the court scene underscores the manipulation and legal hurdles faced by Galvin.

Despite feeling the case may be lost, Galvin delivers an impassioned closing argument, appealing to the jury's sense of justice. The jury surprisingly finds in favor of the plaintiffs and awards more than the original settlement amount. The verdict signifies a moral victory after many struggles. Galvin’s perseverance is rewarded as he achieves justice for Kaye and her family.

Outside the courthouse, Galvin is congratulated by others but notices Laura watching him from afar. Later that night, Laura calls his office while drunk, and Galvin, contemplating his future, decides not to answer her call. This moment highlights his internal conflict and a possible resolve to move on.