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(212) 732-2262You trusted your doctor to recognize the signs. You went to the hospital believing you'd get the care you needed. But a stroke was missed, misdiagnosed, or delayed—and now, nothing is the same.
We understand the pain, frustration, and fear you're facing. For over 45 years, we've stood beside families like yours, fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve to move forward.
Let us carry the legal burden so you can focus on healing.
A stroke changes everything in an instant. But when that stroke was missed or misdiagnosed by a medical professional you trusted, the pain goes deeper.
Paralysis, difficulty speaking, loss of coordination—every day brings new challenges that shouldn't have been this severe.
Anger at the system that failed you. Grief for the life you had. Fear about the future. These feelings are valid, and we hear you.
Medical bills pile up. You can't work. Your family's savings disappear. The stress is overwhelming.
Simple tasks now require help. The life you planned feels impossibly far away. You deserve better than this.
Knowledge is power. Watch this important video to learn about stroke warning signs and what constitutes medical negligence.
If any of these warning signs were present and your doctor failed to act, you may have a case. Let us help you understand your legal options.
When doctors and hospitals fail to meet the standard of care, lives are shattered. Here's what we fight for on your behalf:
Every bill from the initial misdiagnosis through ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, therapy, medications, and future care needs.
Compensation for wages lost and your diminished ability to earn in the future, protecting your family's financial security.
Recognition of the physical pain, emotional trauma, and loss of life's pleasures that money can't replace but can help ease.
Funds for home modifications, assistive devices, in-home care, and everything needed to maintain your dignity and quality of life.
Every case represents a family whose life was changed by medical negligence. These results reflect our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation.
pre-trial medical malpractice settlement for failure to diagnose and properly treat stroke for our client, who had been complaining of severe headaches
pre-trial medical malpractice settlement for failure to treat atrial fibrillation, resulting in stroke
medical malpractice settlement for an anesthesia error resulting in permanent brain damage for our client
While past results don't guarantee future outcomes, they demonstrate our dedication to securing justice. Your case deserves the same tireless advocacy.
Shana De Caro and Michael Kaplen are nationally recognized leaders in brain injury law, and have been fighting for New York residents for over 45 years.
Partner, and Medical Malpractice Attorney
As a two-term Chairwoman of the Brain Injury Association of America, who was also selected as a Top 25 Brain Injury Attorney by the National Trial Lawyers Association, Shana brings unmatched expertise. But what drives her is seeing families regain hope after tragedy.
Partner, and Medical Malpractice Attorney
A Professor of Law at George Washington University and three-term President of the Brain Injury Association of NY, Michael's knowledge of brain injury law is encyclopedic. His knowledge and compassion for clients is legendary.
"We don't just handle cases—we walk this difficult journey with you. Your pain matters. Your story matters. And we'll fight with everything we have to make this right." — Shana & Michael
"I recommend so highly the firm of De Caro & Kaplen, LLP because they did for me incredible things in a place where I never thought I would be. When you're in that kind of place you need to have someone who can help you get through it. You need to have someone who really can help you find the way out. De Caro & Kaplen did that for me."
"I still hear from Michael's office and it's just so good that he still remembers us because we certainly can never ever forget Michael Kaplen. He knows about injury, he knows about loss, he definitely knows about brain injury. And he can help you."
"After my first meeting with Michael Kaplan I knew I was in the right hands. He and his team are amazing. I would recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney that will get the job done while giving their clients a piece of mind. Complete honesty and candor each step of the process which I respect."
We understand you have concerns. Here are answers to questions families often ask us.
If a stroke was missed, delayed, or misdiagnosed, and this resulted in worsened disability or death, you likely have a case. Every situation is unique, which is why we offer free consultations. We'll review your medical records, consult with experts, and give you an honest assessment. There's no pressure—just clarity.
Not a penny. We work on contingency, meaning we only get paid if we win your case. We cover all costs of investigation, expert witnesses, and litigation. If we don't recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing. This ensures everyone has access to justice, regardless of their financial situation.
New York's statute of limitations for medical malpractice is typically 2.5 years from the incident or from when continuous treatment ends. However, there are exceptions and complexities. The clock is ticking, so it's crucial to reach out as soon as possible. We'll protect your rights and ensure deadlines are met.
That fear is completely understandable. Hospitals have teams of lawyers and unlimited resources. But so do we. We've successfully taken on the largest medical institutions in New York and won. We know their tactics, we have the resources to fight, and we're not intimidated. Let us be your voice and your shield.
No. Your medical care continues as normal. In fact, pursuing justice can help ensure you can afford the best possible care going forward. We handle all the legal heavy lifting while you focus on recovery. Your treating doctors won't be involved unless absolutely necessary, and we coordinate everything with sensitivity to your health needs.
The path forward starts with a conversation. No obligation, no pressure—just honest answers about your legal options and what comes next.