City not listed? Use the search field at the top of the page to find local lawyers.
Professional negligence or wrongdoing by a healthcare provider that causes harm or injury to a patient is referred to as medical malpractice. Medical malpractice cases can span a wide range of situations, such as surgical errors, birth injuries, misdiagnosis, and medication errors. Determinations are made by failing to provide a standard of care that a reasonably competent professional in the same field would have provided under similar circumstances.
Medical malpractice cases are complex. If you believe you are a victim of medical malpractice, consultation with an experienced medical malpractice attorney is recommended to evaluate your claim, guide you through the legal process, and protect your rights, as state laws vary. Generally, steps include:
There are several types of compensation, also known as damages, which can be sought in medical malpractice cases. These can vary, depending on the state and circumstances of the case. Common types of compensation include:
There are two main components to most medical malpractice cases: figuring out who was at fault, and then proving that fault legally. Medical malpractice liability is not limited to just doctors. It can also apply to nurses and others who provide health care services. Even hospitals and pharmaceutical companies can be found liable for malpractice. To establish medical negligence, an injured patient must prove:
Consider the following:
Make informed decisions with useful legal information.
Learn About the Law articles clearly explain what you need to know about a wide variety of legal issues. You'll also find answers to common legal questions and case summaries to explore.
Read about choosing and retaining legal help with FindLaw's Guide to Hiring a Lawyer.
Our Guide to the U.S. Legal System explains legal basics including federal and state court systems.