Consulting Services: Correlation Research Inc. - Statistics when the answer really counts

Correlation Research, Inc. (CRI) specializes in statistical, biostatistical and epidemiologic analyses for litigation support. We strive to provide the best advice by understanding not only technical issues, but also the broader scientific and business context within which these issues arise.

We have worked with attorneys at all stages of case evaluation and development, including expert interrogatories, discovery, drafting of expert affidavits, and deposition, as well as trial testimony. Most of our work relates to the issue of causation and, in some situations, the estimation of damages.

Primary types of cases:

Ways in which we can help litigators include:

Many of CRI's assignments involve exploratory behind-the-scenes investigations to determine the true state of affairs. Clients can have complete confidence in our thoroughness and discretion. We are happy to deliver findings through deposition or in court, or to play a supporting role for other experts. The examples of actual cases below illustrate the way in which Correlation Research can provide crucial support for legal actions.

Listeria Outbreak: This product liability case was brought by a group of plaintiffs who had contracted a disease known as listeriosis, which can be serious when affecting the elderly or others with weakened immune systems. A CDC study suggested that milk from a certain large New England supermarket chain was the source of the listeria (bacteria) that caused this outbreak. Extensive biostatistical research by CRI provided powerful epidemiological evidence that supported the defendant's contention of an alternative source.

Disgruntled Engineer: This employment discrimination case involved an engineer at a large government supported research laboratory. This individual alleged discrimination based on the system of personnel evaluations at the facility. CRI undertook a detailed analysis of the system, and determined that the system was essentially fair. The defendant prevailed at a trial in federal district court.

Race and Police Promotions: In this employment discrimination case, an urban police department was accused of favoring non-minority officers for promotion. CRI performed a study that involved sampling the employment records to test the allegations. The records showed that ethnic differences had a non-discrimination explanation. A favorable settlement was eventually reached, based in large part on the results obtained.

Dueling Drugs: This case involved a dispute over advertising claims by a major pharmaceutical manufacturer. The manufacturer of a new blood pressure medication claimed that its product was superior to our client's on the basis of clinical trials conducted to support a marketing campaign. CRI performed a number of re-analyses of the clinical trials data and provided strong evidence to counter these claims, helping to achieve a successful negotiated settlement.

Insurance Fraud Proof: CRI was retained to assist in the criminal and then later the civil prosecution for insurance fraud of a Boston area medical provider. CRI extracted data from hundreds of medical records to demonstrate a pattern of practice consistent with insurance fraud. Dr. Weisberg's testimony proved crucial in convincing the jury to award a multi-million dollar judgment to the insurance company defrauded.

Dangerous Toy Chests: In this unusual product liability case, a large retailer was sued for failing to warn customers about risks associated with a certain toy chest. A number of children had been injured by a heavy wooden lid. CRI supervised a customer survey to learn whether the instructions for use of the product were adequate.