Daley's Medical Records to Remain Private in Park Grill Case

Former Mayor Richard M. Daley's medical records will remain private in Chicago's lawsuit against the Park Grill owners, a Cook County judge ruled Wednesday.

Daley's attorneys instead will give a private, on-camera deposition on his medical condition in the judge's chambers. That information will not be disclosed or presented in court.   

The former mayor's attorneys had filed their response earlier this month in the city’s case to end the long-standing agreement with the Millennium Park restaurant, explaining why Daley wants an “in camera” inspection – for the judge only -- of his medical records rather than release them in open court. 

One of his attorneys, Terrence Burns, cited “Mr. Daley’s medical information is privileged and confidential.”

Daley is not excused from testifying in the case, though, and Judge Moshe Jacobius still plans to argue in open court whether or not he will be forced to testify. If that happens, attorneys will have to omit details on Daley's health.

The 72-year-old Daley reportedly suffered a stroke in January but has not confirmed it. His attorneys argued his “medical information has no bearing on any claim or defense in the litigation.”

Mayor Rahm Emanuel wants to end the contract with the clout-heavy investors. Daley’s attorney says the former mayor has a medical hardship and “has offered to provide evidence by way of medical affidavits” but wants those records “reviewed in camera” because they “contain information that is private, confidential and privileged.”

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