If you could use a word to show what a person feels after being victimized by medical malpractice is betrayal. Who would have ever imagined that a doctor whom you trusted for your surgery would make slipshod mistakes? Or a nurse who is responsible for making life better has turned it upside down. The part that hurts the most to a person is that the physicians, nurses, or other healthcare professionals are not held liable for their actions. Instead of feeling remorse, such medical professionals never feel apologetic and try to conceal their errors.
Lately, a significant increase has been observed in the number of medical malpractice cases. And thus, the number of victims has also soared up. Medical negligence lawsuits are pretty intricate and get more convoluted as the case prolongs and proceeds for a long time. And the most daunting part? It is challenging to hire an attorney with years of definite success and a deep understanding of such cases. Not to forget how it is immensely tough for plaintiffs to file a lawsuit against the medical professionals as many obstacles impede the path.
During recent years, insurance companies and healthcare facilities have been incessantly supporting medical malpractices. The reason being – money. The insurance companies don’t wish to pay heavy claims. The medical workers don’t want to spend a substantial amount of insurance premiums.
It doesn’t matter if you wish to hire a lawyer for a birth injury lawsuit, surgical errors, or other medical mistakes. Medical negligence claims require the firm support of an attorney who has sufficient resources and success credentials.
The following are some of the factors that you should take into account to make well-informed decisions when hiring a medical malpractice attorney:
- Conduct a Thorough Research
If you or any of your close ones have encountered medical malpractice, your mind might conflict with your next move. You most likely are pondering about how to acquire a solid legal representation for your case? And how to pick the best attorney that has the most chances to win.
The very first step is to search for various skilled and competent lawyers in this specific area. Read online reviews and see what the previous clients have to say about them. Remember, sometimes clients post unjust and biased reviews only because they couldn’t get the settlement amount they wished. Identify a constant pattern in the negative feedback, such as lack of quality services or additional charges; these might be red flags that shouldn’t go unnoticed.
- Ask for Recommendations
Get in touch with your friends, colleagues, and family members. Let them know that you are actively looking for a lawyer for a medical negligence claim. If they aren’t aware of any attorney, ask them to spread the word in their circles.
Attorneys that hold a positive reputation in the legal industry not only provide exceptional services. These lawyers have also gained trust and respect from previous clients. When people appear contented and satisfied with their experience, they enthusiastically approve of those attorneys and spread good words about them.
A best practice is to reach out to an attorney that you already know and ask them to refer you lawyers in the immediate area. Attorneys usually have extensive networks and a list of contacts derived from various legal proceedings.
- Assess Background and Expertise
Medical malpractice cases aren’t ordinary, and it’s not even an exaggeration. These cases are quite complex as it requires scientific inquiry and exploration of facts. It is imperative to find out an attorney with in-depth knowledge about medical interventions and treatment. You will find it surprising that most lawyers lack the expertise to firmly grasp the facts and figures and have zero knowledge about procedures.
Assuming that the other party will also have a strong representation, your lawyer must have strong ties with the medical experts. Only then will it be possible to prove to the jury that the physician compromised on care and made sloppy mistakes.
Therefore, once you have narrowed down your choices, search for their online presence. Read the website content carefully and contemplate if you think they are the best fit for your case.
- Check The Personality
You deserve a considerable amount of finance and justice to make your life more manageable and supportable. How would you achieve this if you have qualms with your attorney? A lawyer with a toxic personality can negatively impact your case and risks the chances of winning. Not to forget, the legal proceedings might seem like forever and wither your confidence.
Therefore, it necessitates you to opt for the one with whom your mindset matches. You can always schedule meetings with potential lawyers. Check if the lawyer gives priority to your interests and caters to your needs. Ask them questions:
- Do they have sufficient medical knowledge and expert witnesses?
- Will they agree on a settlement offer or take your case to trial?
- Will they keep you updated with progress and dedicate time to your case?
- How many similar cases have they managed in their career, and what strategies will they apply?
If you find yourself on the same page as your attorney, this might be a good sign to proceed.
- Evaluate the Costs
After getting along with your attorney, it’s time to decide on the fees. It doesn’t matter how renowned an attorney is; if it causes you to cut too deeply into the bank accounts, it might not be a viable option.
Ask the potential attorneys what mode of payment do they consider. Generally, lawyers charge hourly or flat fees. However, when it comes to medical malpractice, lawyers take contingency fees. It implies that if your case doesn’t reach the desired settlement, you are not bound to pay any fees to the lawyer. Whereas you will have to pay the costs, in case you win the case. Ask how much percentage of the winning amount will they take. Make sure to clear any ambiguities about hidden fees and additional charges.
Final Words
Medical practitioners that provide a below-par treatment and put you or your loved one’s life at risk deserve to pay for their mistakes. The only surefire way to win the medical malpractice case and get the required compensation for the injuries is by hiring an experienced attorney. However, it is relevant to note that these cases can stretch for quite a long time. Therefore, make sure to choose the one with whom you feel the most comfortable. After all, you deserve justice for medical negligence.
