Medical malpractice is a growing concern for patients, their families, and medical professionals. It results from negligence or medical practitioners' errors, which can have severe consequences for patients, often leading to injury or even death. As a legal term, medical malpractice refers to medical professionals' liability for mistakes or failures to take appropriate action.
What is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider, whether a doctor, nurse, or other medical practitioner, fails to provide a standard of care that meets the accepted medical standards. In other words, it means that medical professionals have failed to offer patients the care they are entitled to. This failure can take many forms, including misdiagnosis, prescribing the wrong medications, operating on the wrong patient, or failing to diagnose a medical condition on time.
The Legal Process for Medical Malpractice Litigation:
If you or a loved one believes that medical malpractice has occurred, you can contact a medical malpractice attorney who can help you understand the legal process. The initial step is to file a lawsuit in court against the healthcare provider. This typically involves reviewing the medical records, speaking with expert witnesses, and investigating the medical provider's actions. The attorney will then negotiate with the medical provider's insurance company or their lawyer to seek a settlement or proceed with litigation in court.
Statute of Limitations:
It is important to note that many medical malpractice claims have statutes of limitations, which can vary depending on state laws. Therefore, it is important to act as soon as possible after discovering medical malpractice. An attorney can help you monitor the statute of limitations and take appropriate legal action to protect your rights.
Case Settlements and Trial Verdicts:
Many medical malpractice cases never make it to trial. Instead, they are settled between the parties. In a settlement, the parties agree to accept a specific sum to compensate the victim or victims. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial, where the judge or jury hears the evidence and decides.
The Importance of Hiring an Experienced Medical Malpractice Attorney:
Medical malpractice cases are complex, and hiring an experienced medical malpractice attorney is crucial to increase the chances of a positive outcome. The attorney understands the complexities of medical malpractice law and can work with medical experts to prove that the healthcare provider was negligent. They can also help you understand the legal process and your rights, ensuring you receive the proper compensation for your injuries.
Kent Medical Malpractice Lawyer
At Dore Law Group, PLLC, we specialize in handling wrongful death cases providing compassionate and expert legal representation to families in Kent, WA, and surrounding areas. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping you seek justice and obtain your deserved compensation. Contact us today at (253) 236-3888 for a free consultation, and let us guide you through this difficult journey.