Opinion ID: 2226717
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Kimberly Santiago

Text: Kimberly Santiago, an infant, was allegedly poisoned by lead paint in her apartment. Benita Santiago, the child's mother, sued their landlord on behalf of herself and Kimberly, and the parties settled the case for $140,000. After subtracting attorneys' fees and expenses, the Santiagos netted $89,759, which they proposed to deposit in a supplemental needs trust. Kimberly had received $12,877 in health care benefits under the Medicaid program. The New York City Department of Social Services asserted a lien on the settlement proceeds to recoup those benefits and demanded that it be satisfied before the Santiagos funded the trust. The Santiagos moved in Supreme Court to vacate the lien, arguing that Social Services Law § 104 (2) prevents the City from recovering from an infant. Agreeing with the Santiagos, Supreme Court vacated the lien. The City appealed, and the Appellate Division reversed, holding that the City may recoup fully notwithstanding Social Services Law § 104 (2). The Appellate Division also granted the Santiagos leave to appeal to this Court.