Ronald De Vere, MD., PA Board Certified Neurologist Board Certified Electromyography Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology Fellow of the American Academy of Disability Evaluating Physicians 317 RR 620 South, Suite 200 Austin, Texas 78734 July 17, 2004, Re: Austin Neurologist: Dr. Philip J. Leonard Dear Dr. Anderson: I am a board certified neurologist, practicing full-time in Houston, Texas, for twenty-eight years, and in the past two years or so, in Austin, Texas. I am also a neurology peer review member of the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners. It is in that capacity that I write this letter. I have known Dr. Philip Leonard as a colleague since 1985, when he was a member at large in the Texas Neurological Society during my tenure as President. As you know he has not been able to practice in neurology in the last few years because his license was suspended by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners. Four months ago, I agreed to testify as an expert witness for Dr. Leonard, at his criminal trial. I had the opportunity to review all the medical records and reports generated in his case. His attorney told me that this trial and this plaintiff represented the best case of all the cases that were filed against Dr. Leonard. When I reviewed this case and testified at the trial I realized how weak the allegations were in regard to Dr. Leonard. In my opinion Dr. Leonard did not breach the standard of care by the manner in which he examined his patients. The testimony of both the complainant, and the complainant's physician were very weak and unconvincing. The jury agreed and returned a verdict of not guilty. It is my opinion that the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners should reinstate Dr. Leonard's medical license so that he can once again practice medicine. If there are any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Yours truly, Ronald DeVere, MD RDV: jig