Matis Baum Rizza O'Connor

Bernard R. Rizza

Focus:

The representation of physicians, physician practice groups, hospitals and other health care professionals in litigation involving hospital and healthcare law, malpractice and insurance defense.

Of Interest:

Bernie was inducted as a Fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers in September 2006. Fellowship is extended only by invitation to attorneys whose professional careers have been marked by the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, civility and collegiality.

Membership can never be more than one percent of the total lawyer population of any state or province, and requires lawyers to be actively engaged in trial work as their principal activity for a minimum of 15 years.

In his spare time, Bernie is involved with the North Pittsburgh Wildcats, a Pennsylvania Amatuer Hockey League AA team that his son, Julian, plays in. In 2006, Bernie was responsible for scheduling tournaments for the team.

Bernie is a founding member of Matis Baum Rizza O'Connor.

Testimonials:

“As you know, the lawsuit against me has recently been dropped. I am writing to thank you for providing me with excellent legal council. My attorney in this matter was Bernard R. Rizza. Working with Bernie was a true pleasure. Bernie was tenacious in his defense of my case. Again, many thanks.”

“Recently, I was involved in a malpractice suit, and the trial is now completed with the judgment in our favor. I would like to bring to your attention the outstanding work done by our attorney, Mr. Bernie Rizza. He worked very hard, was extremely well prepared, and was superbly competent. He has exceptionally superior skills and his professional mannerism and quiet, unassuming personality make him a first class attorney. Also, he is a very caring, understanding and kind human being. I went into this trial with a lot of apprehensions and misgivings of lawyers and the court system, but when I came out of it my opinion was dramatically changed, and I now carry the utmost respect for the individuals, the system and the profession of law.”

Sample of Experience and Verdicts:

  • Defense of alleged medical malpractice claim for failure to diagnose cardiac decompensation resulting in death in 60 year old male. Jury returned a defense verdict.
  • Defense of alleged medical malpractice for failure to diagnose C-5-6 disc herniation. Jury returned a defense verdict.
  • Defense of alleged medical malpractice claim for failing to diagnose proximal blockage of lower leg resulting in amputation. Jury returned a defense verdict.
  • Defense of alleged medical malpractice case alleging liver damage and need for liver transplant following transsection of common bile duct laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Jury returned a defense verdict.
    Defense of alleged medical malpractice in delivery of baby with shoulder dystocia. Jury returned a defense verdict.

Publications/Presentations:

  • Christy Imaging Seminars, "You and Malpractice Potential" lectures given September 24 & 25, 1993 during a national gathering of radiographers on the subject of "Orthopedics--A Radiographic Specialty," Hyatt Regency, Pittsburgh, PA.
  • KQV Radio (1410 AM) HEALTHLINE, "Medical Malpractice,” July 25, 1996, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. with Richard T. Vagley, M.D., FACS.
  • "Streetwise! Risk Management Seminar for Physicians,” Sheraton Inn (Pittsburgh North), August 22, 1996.
  • "Streetwise! Risk Management Seminar for Physicians,” Sheraton Inn (Pittsburgh North), August 20, 1997.
  • Christy Imaging Seminars, "Medical-Legal Issues Involving the Radiologic Sciences,” Airport Marriott, November 7, 1996, Pittsburgh, PA.
  • “Taking and Defending Depositions,” lecture given April 28, 1998 at the downtown Pittsburgh Ramada, Pittsburgh, PA on behalf of the Pennsylvania Bar Association's Pennsylvania Bar Institute (fully accredited CLE by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court).
  • "Streetwise! Risk Management Seminar for Physicians,” Marriott Hotel (Pittsburgh Airport), August 17, 1998.
  • “Christy Imaging Seminars, Medical-Legal Issues Involving the Radiologic Sciences" during national gathering of Radiographers on "Orthopaedic -- A Radiographic Specialty,” Greentree Marriott, November 7, 1998.
  • "Streetwise!  Risk Management Seminar for Physicians,” Sheraton Hotel and Conference Center, Cranberry, Pennsylvania, August 23, 1999.
  • "Taking and Defending Depositions,” lecture given April 18, 2000 at the downtown Pittsburgh Ramada, Pittsburgh, PA on behalf of the Pennsylvania Bar Association's Pennsylvania Bar Institute.
  • "Medical Malpractice In Orthopaedics,” October 25, 2000, lecture to first through sixth year orthopaedic residents, UPMC Presbyterian Hospital.
  • "Medical Malpractice Regarding Dental & Oral-Maxillofacial Surgery Matters,” lecture given on November 1, 2000 at Nevillewood Country Club, Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, on behalf of The Medical Protective Company to an audience of dentists and oral-maxillofacial surgeons.
  • "Medical Malpractice Insurance Premiums in Pennsylvania,” round table discussion between members of the Academy of Trial Lawyers of Allegheny County and the Board of Directors of the Allegheny County Medical Society, May 8, 2001 at the Allegheny County Medical Society, Pittsburgh, PA.
  • "The Nuts and Bolts of the Medical Malpractice Case,” December 12, 2001 (Westin William Penn Hotel, Pittsburgh, PA) on behalf of the Pennsylvania Bar Institute.