12 May 2005
David Mattis, who was stabbed by an unlicensed doorman, has finally received compensation after a protracted legal battle against the owner of the Woolwich nightclub. The doorman stabbed David in the back, severing his
spinal cord, leaving him a
paraplegic.
This case was complicated by the fact that the stabbing happened outside the nightclub. The Court of Appeal had to decide whether the nightclub owner was legally responsible for the deliberate and violent assault committed by his doorman. Fortunately, the Court of Appeal found in Mr Mattis’ favour.
Compensation covers future care needs
Although liability for the attack was decided back in 2003, it has taken until now to agree the level of compensation. This was finalised in an out of court settlement. The level of damages takes in to account David’s future care needs as he gets older; his mobility needs, allowing him to buy a car that will take a wheelchair; his accommodation, having a new home adapted for his requirements; his daily care, allowing his wife to go back to work and have her independence.
The compensation means that David can now plan for the future with more certainty and regain some of his lost dignity: “The stabbing left me with physical disabilities as well as financial concerns. The compensation has helped to remove those financial burdens and given my family and I hope for the future.”
Specialist accident and injury solicitor Saira Habib in the Accident Department negotiated Mr Mattis’ case: “I am privileged to have been involved in this case in which the Court was once again invited to consider the boundaries of an employers’ responsibility for the wrongful acts committed by its employee.”
For more information or for free initial advice on a potential claim please contact Sally Moore on 020 7650 1315.
Information was correct at time of publishing. See terms and conditions for further details.
Information was correct at time of publishing. See terms and conditions for further details.