AGG Secures Favorable Settlement for Estate of Renowned Artist Chuck Close in ERISA Dispute With Cigna

AGG has secured a favorable settlement with Cigna Health and Life Insurance Corp. on behalf of the estate of Charles T. Close. The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, which alleged that Cigna wrongfully denied coverage for over $686,000 in medically necessary at-home skilled nursing care for Close, a world-renowned artist, under his employee benefit plan.

Represented by AGG Healthcare Litigation partner Matt Lavin, the estate argued that Close’s plan, provided through Pace Gallery, required unlimited coverage for his care. Despite initially covering Close’s care from 2015 to 2017, Cigna later refused coverage. AGG successfully challenged Cigna’s position, ultimately leading to a favorable resolution for the estate.

This settlement exemplifies AGG’s commitment to advocating for the rights of individuals and beneficiaries in complex ERISA disputes. AGG is proud to have obtained this outcome, ensuring the estate receives the benefits rightfully owed under Close’s health plan.

Law360 reported on the settlement in an article available here. To learn more, please contact Matt.