Virginia medical malpractice and personal injury attorney Ben Glass has recently announced his effort to overturn Virginia’s Charitable Immunity Law. Mr. Glass represents a client who was allegedly hurt while under the care of a charitable organization named Didlake, Inc. This charity however, is big business because it earns $32 Million a year in revenue.
The Charitable Immunity Law is an old common law doctrine abolished by most states. The doctrine states that a charitable entity cannot be sued by a beneficiary of the charity’s services while injured in the charity’s care.
Washington state does not follow the Charitable Immunity Doctrine, which I believe is antiquated and unjust. Most people know that charities are big business nowadays. Some charities earn hundreds of millions of dollars, and also own various assets including other businesses. They run and operate like a typical corporation and also receive the benefits that corporate entities are allowed to enjoy. Charitable organizations should be held accountable for their wrongful acts just like any other person or legal entity.
In Mr. Glass’ case, his client suffered an injury while under the care of a charitable organization – Didlake, Inc. Now this charity’s lawyers are seeking to invoke the charitable immunity doctrine to shield it from its negligent acts. That just isn’t fair or right.
I hope the Virginia Supreme Court overturns this draconian and outdated law so that Mr. Glass’ client can have his day in court.
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