3 Key Factors In Finding A Medical Malpractice Attorney

Medical malpractice cases tend to be very complex. Those involved in the case must have not only an understanding of the laws which apply to the case, but also some knowledge of medicine. Paperwork must be filled out correctly and filed in a timely manner, while expert witnesses must be called to testify. Proving a medical malpractice case isn’t easy, as the jury typically doesn’t have more than a basic understanding of either the law or medicine. The experts must be able to explain the facts in a way the average person can understand. For this reason, you need to look into hiring a medical malpractice attorney who specializes in handling cases like yours.

Finding an Attorney

To go about finding a lawyer, start with your local bar association. This professional organization for attorneys can provide you with names of medical malpractice attorneys in your area, and the Internet now offers similar resources to help you locate an attorney in this field. You’ll want to make appointments with a minimum of three lawyers to discuss your case. In addition to having the attorney review your case, this initial appointment allows you to discuss fees and ask questions of the attorney. One thing to remember is many attorneys in this field, work on a contingency basis, meaning they take a percentage of any settlement you are awarded.

Questions to Ask of an Attorney

When meeting with an attorney, ask if they typically represent patients injured by a medical professional or if they focus on defending medical practitioners accused of wrongdoing. Learn about their experience in medical malpractice cases and question what percentage of cases have been settled out of court and how many went to trial. Attorneys willing to go to trial on a regular basis show the other side they will do what is required to ensure you receive fair compensation. In addition, ask for references.

Additional Information to Obtain

Certain questions are often overlooked by clients when meeting with an attorney. Should you file a complaint with professional organizations, such as the state medical board, or will doing so harm your case? Will any money awarded need to be reported on income taxes? These are just two questions you will want the answers to before going forward.

Birth Injuries

When your child suffers a birth injury, you need a medical malpractice attorney who understands this is different from many other malpractice cases. Although studies have shown that some injuries disappear after merely a few days or weeks, others last a lifetime. In some cases, the child is deprived of oxygen during labor or birth, yet other children are exposed to an infection, possibly due to labor going on for an extended period of time. Not only will the birth injury attorney work to show how medical professionals contributed to the injury, they work to ensure the child receives the compensation needed to live the best life possible.

Don’t rush the process of hiring an attorney. Take the time to research various attorneys and meet with them to ensure you feel comfortable. Medical malpractice cases may drag on for years. You need an attorney you can work closely with for an extended period of time to ensure fair compensation is received. The best way to determine if you have a case is by speaking to a medical malpractice lawyer. He or she will thoroughly evaluate the case to determine if you should proceed.