4yo girl awarded €20k after hand trapped in lift

Juliette Croke, a four year old girl has been awarded €20,000 damages in the Circuit Court for injuries suffered when her left hand was trapped in a lift door. The court heard how Juliette, who was just over one year old at the time of the incident, was attending the Convention Centre at Spencer Dock, North Wall, Dublin with her aunt and grandmother.

Noel Cosgrove BL told the court that Juliette suffered a crush injury to her middle and ring fingers and was taken to a VHI clinic to have her wounds dressed and cleaned. The court heard how she suffered pain and swelling for a number of weeks and that it was a very traumatic experience for the girl. The incident left visible permanent scars on her fingers.

Juliette sued Spencer Dock Convention Centre through her mother Addie Croke for negligence. The defendants made an offer of €12,500 which was refused by another Circuit Court Judge and the case was adjourned for full hearing. Counsel stated that an offer of €21,352, which included €1,352 for fees and expenses, was made on behalf of the defendants. This was approved by Justice Berkeley.

The above case illustrates that in matters when it is a minor is suing a defendant the court must approve any settlements on behalf of the minor.