Independent experts confirm breaches of medical standards of care; civil discovery process initiated.
COVINGTON, Ky. — September 5, 2025 — The Lawrence Firm announced that it filed a civil complaint on September 3, 2025 in the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas (Case No. A 2504321) on behalf of families represented by the firm. The complaint alleges professional negligence and related claims against Howard M. Saal, M.D., a former geneticist at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, as well as systemic failures by the hospital that enabled his misconduct. The action is brought on behalf of affected families and is styled as a proposed class action.
Under Ohio law, no medical negligence case may proceed without supporting expert certification. Prior to filing, The Lawrence Firm obtained affidavits of merit and consulted independent experts in genetics, pediatrics, and hospital administration. Those experts confirmed multiple departures from accepted standards of care, including:
● Genital Examinations: Repetitive, medically unnecessary genital examinations on a pediatric patient.
● Clinical Photography: Routinely taking photographs at visits without a clear explanation, documented purpose, and preservation in the medical record.
● Retention of Photographs: Using or retaining pediatric photographs in a manner inconsistent with professional or institutional policy, particularly where the use appears to serve a physician’s personal interests rather than clinical necessity.
“Filing the complaint is the first procedural step toward fact-finding and accountability,” said Rob Lewis, attorney at The Lawrence Firm. “Independent experts have confirmed what families already suspected—these
were clear departures from accepted standards of care. Through civil discovery, we will pursue answers and accountability.”
“Families place extraordinary trust in medical providers and institutions,” added P.J. Beirne, attorney at The Lawrence Firm. “Our duty is to investigate rigorously, protect our clients, and help ensure safer practices going forward.”
Key Facts
● What was filed: A proposed class action civil complaint in Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas, supported by affidavits of merit and expert review as required by Ohio law.
● Nature of claims: Alleged medical negligence, breach of fiduciary duty, invasion of privacy, negligent supervision, and related causes of action.
● Next steps: The case now proceeds to civil discovery, where evidence will be gathered and evaluated under court supervision.
This civil action is separate from any criminal investigation or proceeding. The complaint contains allegations only; no court has made findings of liability.
Share Information or Seek Counsel
Individuals with relevant information—or families with questions about potential claims—may contact The Lawrence Firm at 513-651-4130. A single consolidated resource page with background and a secure intake form is available here:
https://www.lawrencefirm.com/blog/former-cincinnati-childrens-hospital-physician-facing-federal-charges/
