Dr. Barry J. Brock, a longtime OB/GYN at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, is at the center of a legal battle involving multiple lawsuits filed by former patients. These lawsuits, brought under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act, accuse Dr. Brock of engaging in decades-long sexual abuse and Cedars-Sinai of knowingly allowing his misconduct to continue.
The cases, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, allege that Brock sexually harassed, assaulted, and abused numerous women under the guise of medical care. Patients describe inappropriate touching, lewd comments, and unnecessary, painful medical procedures. The lawsuits further claim that Cedars-Sinai failed to act despite receiving complaints about Brock’s behavior for years, raising serious questions about institutional accountability in medical settings.
As of February 2025, at least 167 women have come forward with allegations against Dr. Brock. The four lawsuits filed so far—24STCV26055, 24STCV27511, 24STCV34470, and 25STCV05645—include a wide range of legal claims:
- Sexual harassment, assault, and battery
- Fraudulent concealment of misconduct
- Negligence and gross negligence
- Violation of California’s Bane Act and Unruh Act
- Aiding and abetting abuse
These medical sexual abuse lawsuits not only seek to hold Dr. Brock accountable but also challenge Cedars-Sinai’s role in allegedly covering up and enabling his abuse. For survivors of medical sexual abuse, these cases represent a critical legal and social moment—shedding light on systemic failures within healthcare institutions and encouraging more victims to step forward.
Why This Case Matters
The allegations against Dr. Barry J. Brock go beyond individual misconduct. They expose a broader pattern of medical institutions failing to protect patients despite repeated warnings. Patients place immense trust in their healthcare providers, particularly in gynecology and obstetrics, where doctors oversee intimate aspects of women’s health. When that trust is violated, the damage can be severe, leading to long-term emotional and physical trauma.
This case also highlights a larger history of institutional cover-ups in the medical field. A well-known example is Dr. Larry Nassar, the former USA Gymnastics and Michigan State University doctor, who abused hundreds of young athletes over decades. In that case, multiple institutions were aware of allegations against him but failed to act until the number of victims became too large to ignore.
Similarly, the lawsuits against Dr. Brock and Cedars-Sinai allege that hospital officials had multiple opportunities to remove him from practice but instead allowed him to continue treating patients. Survivors and legal experts argue that hospitals often prioritize their reputation over patient safety, which allows abuse to continue unchecked.
This case raises urgent questions:
- How do hospitals handle sexual abuse complaints against doctors?
- Are medical institutions prioritizing patient safety or protecting themselves from liability?
- What systemic changes must occur to prevent cases like this in the future?
This case is about more than personal justice for survivors—it is about forcing institutions to take accountability and ensure that no other patients suffer the same fate.
The Broader Impact on Patient Trust
Cases of medical sexual abuse erode public confidence in healthcare institutions. Many survivors of Brock’s alleged abuse have expressed difficulty in seeking medical care again, fearing they may encounter another abusive doctor or that their concerns will be ignored.
Some victims experience severe psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety, making it harder for them to trust medical professionals in the future.
When hospitals fail to act on reports of abuse, they send a dangerous message to other survivors: that speaking out will not lead to justice. This inaction allows abusers to continue preying on vulnerable patients, often for years.
The lawsuits against Brock and Cedars-Sinai aim to change this pattern, forcing institutions to take patient complaints seriously and enact stricter policies to prevent future abuse.
Who is Dr. Barry J. Brock?
Dr. Barry J. Brock built a long career as an obstetrician-gynecologist affiliated with Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, one of the most prestigious hospitals in Los Angeles.
For decades, he provided care to women seeking routine gynecological services, prenatal care, and other reproductive health treatments. Patients trusted him to act professionally and ethically, believing they were in safe hands at a highly respected medical institution.
However, recent lawsuits have shattered his reputation, alleging that Brock engaged in a pattern of sexual misconduct that spanned years. According to court filings, numerous women reported that Brock subjected them to inappropriate medical exams, made sexual comments, and performed invasive procedures that were not medically necessary.
These allegations describe a doctor who used his position of power to exploit patients under the guise of providing medical care.
A Career Rooted in Cedars-Sinai
Dr. Brock was deeply entrenched in Cedars-Sinai’s network, holding positions at multiple affiliated clinics and medical groups. The lawsuits specifically name the following institutions as defendants for their alleged failure to intervene:
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Cedars-Sinai Health System
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Group
- Beverly Hills OB/GYN
- Rodeo Drive Women’s Health Center
These medical institutions are being sued for negligence, with claims that they knowingly ignored patient complaints about Brock, failed to remove him from practice, and allowed him continued access to vulnerable patients.
Allegations of Systematic Abuse
The lawsuits describe a pattern of sexual misconduct that allegedly took place over decades. The plaintiffs claim that Brock used his position as a trusted OB/GYN to take advantage of vulnerable patients under the pretense of medical treatment. His alleged actions range from inappropriate touching to performing unnecessary procedures that caused lasting physical and emotional trauma.
Women who sought care from Brock describe similar experiences of misconduct, leading attorneys to argue that his actions were not isolated but rather part of a deliberate pattern. The lawsuits detail disturbing behaviors that went beyond acceptable medical practice, including:
- Conducting unnecessary pelvic and breast exams without medical justification
- Performing internal exams without wearing gloves, violating basic medical protocols
- Making inappropriate and sexually suggestive comments during appointments
- Using excessive force or inflicting unnecessary pain during procedures
- Manipulating medical instruments in ways inconsistent with standard gynecological care
- Engaging in non-consensual touching under the pretense of treatment
Some of the most disturbing allegations involve claims that Brock performed unwarranted episiotomy sutures after childbirth, allegedly causing extreme pain and long-term physical damage. Several plaintiffs believe this was a form of medical sexual violence rather than a necessary medical procedure.
How Many Women Have Come Forward?
As of February 2025, at least 167 women have filed lawsuits against Brock, and that number continues to grow. Many of these survivors initially remained silent, either because they did not realize they had been victims of abuse or because they feared speaking out against a well-respected doctor.
Medical sexual abuse is widely underreported, and attorneys handling the lawsuits believe there may be dozens or even hundreds of additional survivors who have not yet come forward. The growing number of plaintiffs suggests that Brock’s alleged misconduct was widespread and ignored by those who should have taken action to protect patients.
The Lawsuits Against Dr. Brock & Cedars-Sinai
As the allegations against Dr. Barry J. Brock surfaced, four separate lawsuits were filed in the Los Angeles County Superior Court between 2024 and early 2025. These lawsuits bring forward more than 167 plaintiffs who claim to have been sexually abused under his care.
They also accuse Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and its affiliated institutions of knowingly allowing Brock’s misconduct to continue for years, despite repeated patient warnings.
The lawsuits are being pursued under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act, a law designed to hold both individual perpetrators and institutions accountable for failing to prevent or stop sexual abuse. Each lawsuit presents allegations of abuse, along with claims that Cedars-Sinai shielded Brock rather than taking steps to protect patients.
Breakdown of the Four Lawsuits
24STCV26055 – The First Filing
- Filed: October 7, 2024
- Plaintiffs: Multiple Jane Does
- Defendants: Dr. Barry J. Brock, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Health System, Cedars-Sinai Medical Group, Beverly Hills OB/GYN, Rodeo Drive Women’s Health Center
- Claims: Sexual assault, sexual harassment, medical battery, negligence, fraudulent concealment, institutional failure to act
- Summary: The first lawsuit set the foundation for the legal battle against Brock and Cedars-Sinai, alleging a history of sexual abuse and the hospital’s failure to investigate complaints.
24STCV27511 – Expanding the Allegations
- Filed: October 21, 2024
- Plaintiffs: 35 women initially, later expanded to 60
- Defendants: Dr. Barry J. Brock, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Health System, Cedars-Sinai Medical Group
- Claims: Sexual battery, fraudulent concealment, aiding and abetting, gross negligence
- Summary: This lawsuit added more victims and reinforced claims that Cedars-Sinai had received complaints years ago but failed to take action.
24STCV34470 – Over 100 New Victims Come Forward
- Filed: December 27, 2024
- Plaintiffs: 107 women
- Defendants: Dr. Barry J. Brock, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, affiliated clinics
- Claims: Violation of California’s Bane Act and Unruh Act, gender violence, medical negligence
- Summary: With over 100 additional women joining the legal battle, this lawsuit demonstrated the widespread nature of Brock’s alleged abuse and Cedars-Sinai’s continued failure to act.
25STCV05645 – The Most Recent Filing (February 27, 2025)
- Filed: February 27, 2025
- Plaintiffs: 7 Jane Does (with potential for more)
- Defendants: Dr. Barry J. Brock, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Health System, Beverly Hills OB/GYN, Rodeo Drive Women’s Health Center
- Claims:
- Sexual harassment, assault, and battery
- Fraudulent concealment and aiding and abetting abuse
- Unfair business practices and institutional negligence
- Violation of mandated reporting laws
- Summary: The most recent lawsuit expands claims against Cedars-Sinai, arguing that hospital staff violated reporting laws by failing to notify authorities about prior complaints.
Cedars-Sinai’s Role in the Cover-Up
While Brock is accused of committing sexual abuse, the lawsuits extend far beyond his actions. Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, one of the most prestigious hospitals in Los Angeles, now faces allegations that it knowingly allowed Brock’s misconduct to continue for years.
According to multiple plaintiffs, Cedars-Sinai had numerous opportunities to act on complaints against Brock but chose not to. Instead, the hospital allegedly ignored patient reports, failed to investigate properly, and prioritized its reputation over patient safety. If these allegations are proven in court, Cedars-Sinai could face significant legal and financial consequences for its role in enabling abuse.
How Cedars-Sinai Allegedly Enabled Brock’s Misconduct
The lawsuits claim that Cedars-Sinai engaged in the following actions:
- Ignoring or dismissing multiple patient complaints over the years
- Failing to conduct proper investigations into allegations of misconduct
- Allowing Brock to continue practicing without restrictions despite red flags
- Failing to warn or inform other patients about past complaints
By choosing inaction, Cedars-Sinai allegedly allowed abuse to persist for decades, leaving countless patients vulnerable to further harm.
Failure to Follow Mandated Reporting Laws
California law requires healthcare professionals and medical institutions to report suspected sexual abuse to the appropriate authorities. However, the most recent lawsuit (Case No. 25STCV05645) specifically accuses Cedars-Sinai of violating these laws.
Under California’s mandated reporting requirements, medical professionals must:
- Report suspected sexual abuse of patients to law enforcement or medical boards
- Document and investigate allegations made by patients
- Take appropriate action to remove doctors who pose a risk to patient safety
If Cedars-Sinai staff failed to report known complaints against Brock, the hospital could face further legal liability under negligence per se laws, which establish automatic liability when an institution violates established legal duties.
A Culture of Silence and Institutional Protection
The lawsuits argue that Cedars-Sinai maintained a culture of silence, allowing Brock’s behavior to continue unchecked. Similar patterns have been seen in other high-profile medical abuse cases, where hospitals and institutions have:
- Discouraged victims from filing complaints or speaking publicly
- Allowed abusive doctors to retire quietly rather than face consequences
- Settled claims privately rather than publicly acknowledging wrongdoing
The plaintiffs claim that Cedars-Sinai followed a similar approach, protecting its image rather than ensuring patient safety.
Potential Legal Consequences for Cedars-Sinai
Cedars-Sinai is facing multiple legal claims, including:
- Negligent hiring, supervision, and retention for failing to monitor Brock properly
- Negligence per se for violating California’s reporting laws
- Aiding and abetting sexual misconduct by allowing Brock’s actions to continue unchecked
- Fraudulent concealment for allegedly hiding evidence of abuse from patients and authorities
If Cedars-Sinai is found liable, the hospital could face significant financial damages, regulatory penalties, and increased public scrutiny. These lawsuits may also force the institution to change its policies regarding how it handles sexual abuse complaints against doctors.
What Happens Next?
Cedars-Sinai must respond to these allegations in court as the legal battle unfolds. The growing number of plaintiffs increases the likelihood that more survivors may come forward with additional claims.
Beyond financial settlements or verdicts, these cases could lead to industry-wide changes, compelling hospitals to adopt stronger safeguards against medical sexual abuse. For survivors, this case represents more than just legal action—it is an opportunity to hold institutions accountable and prevent future abuse within the healthcare system.
What Legal Claims Can Survivors Pursue?
The lawsuits against Brock and Cedars-Sinai include multiple legal claims that other survivors may also be able to use, including:
1. Sexual Harassment and Gender Violence
Under California Civil Code §§ 51.9 and 52.4, patients can sue for sexual harassment and gender-based violence if a healthcare provider engages in non-consensual sexual acts, inappropriate touching, or coercive behavior.
2. Sexual Assault and Battery
California law allows survivors to sue for sexual assault and battery if they were touched sexually without consent. In the lawsuits against Dr. Brock, many plaintiffs claim that they were subjected to unnecessary pelvic exams, breast exams, and other invasive procedures under false pretenses.
3. Fraudulent Concealment
If a hospital or institution knew about a doctor’s misconduct but failed to disclose it to patients, survivors may be able to sue for fraudulent concealment. The lawsuits against Cedars-Sinai claim that the hospital ignored complaints about Dr. Brock for years, allowing him to continue harming patients.
4. Negligence and Gross Negligence
Hospitals have a legal duty to properly hire, train, and supervise medical staff. If they fail in this duty, they can be liable for negligence. The lawsuits claim that Cedars-Sinai negligently hired and retained Dr. Brock despite multiple warnings.
5. Violation of California’s Bane Act and Unruh Act
- The Bane Act (Civil Code § 52.1) protects individuals from intimidation, coercion, or threats interfering with their legal rights. Survivors can sue if they were threatened or pressured into staying silent.
- The Unruh Act (Civil Code § 51) prohibits discrimination, including gender-based abuse, in medical settings.
What Are Survivors Entitled To?
If a lawsuit is successful, survivors may be entitled to:
- Financial compensation for pain, suffering, emotional distress, and medical expenses.
- Punitive damages against institutions like Cedars-Sinai if they are found to have actively covered up misconduct.
- Injunctive relief can force hospitals to change policies and implement stronger patient protections.
What Survivors Should Know Before Taking Legal Action
If you or someone you know has experienced medical sexual abuse, it is vital to understand your rights. Here are key steps survivors can take:
- Document the Abuse—Keep records of medical visits, inappropriate behavior, and communications with the healthcare provider or hospital.
- Seek Legal Advice – Speaking with an experienced attorney can help survivors understand their legal options.
- Know That Time May Be Limited – Although California has extended the statute of limitations for some cases, survivors should act as soon as possible to protect their rights.
- Consider Reporting to Authorities – In addition to civil lawsuits, survivors may be able to file criminal complaints against medical professionals who commit sexual abuse. Learn how to report sexual abuse.
Confidential Consultation with a Trusted Medical and Sexual Abuse Attorney
If you or someone you love experienced sexual misconduct by Dr. Barry J. Brock, you have the right to seek justice and hold both him and Cedars-Sinai accountable. Survivors of medical abuse deserve to have their voices heard, confront those responsible, and push for systemic changes that protect future patients.
At FileAbuseLawsuit.com, we are committed to helping survivors take legal action with confidence and dignity. Our team works with experienced sexual abuse attorneys who understand the sensitivity and complexity of these cases. We know that filing a lawsuit isn’t just about financial compensation—it’s about exposing institutional failures, preventing future abuse, and reclaiming your power.
We recognize the difficulty of this process, so we provide compassionate, confidential, and professional legal support at every step. Whether seeking justice for yourself or taking a stand to protect others, we are here to guide you through the legal process with care and respect.
We offer free and completely confidential consultations if you’re ready to discuss your case. Call 209-283-2205 or complete our online case evaluation form to get started.