What types of cases do malpractice lawyers typically handle?
Malpractice Lawyers: Handling Cases of Professional Negligence
Malpractice lawyers typically handle cases involving professional negligence by a medical, legal, or other licensed professional. Some of the common types of malpractice cases include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Surgical errors
- Medication errors
- Birth injuries
- Failure to obtain informed consent from a patient
Malpractice lawsuits can also arise from:
- Breach of contract
- Breach of fiduciary duty
- Intentional misconduct
Malpractice lawyers typically handle cases on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if they win the case. They will perform an initial investigation to determine if there is a case worth pursuing, then gather evidence such as medical records, expert testimony, and witness statements to support their client's claim. They will then negotiate with the defendant's attorneys or insurance company to reach a settlement, and if a settlement cannot be reached, they will take the case to trial.
It is important to note that each state has its own laws regarding malpractice, and the statute of limitations for filing a malpractice claim varies from state to state. It is recommended that victims of professional negligence seek the advice of an experienced malpractice attorney who can guide them through the legal process and help them recover the compensation they deserve.