When we visit the doctor, we expect to be healed, not harmed. We trust that the physician will accurately diagnose our illness, plan the best course of treatment, and take care not to make mistakes that damage our health. But, when a healthcare provider fails to fulfill their duty of care and a patient is harmed, they could be liable for medical malpractice. If you suspect that you didn’t get the appropriate level of care for your condition or, worse, you know that someone made a dangerous mistake (like operating on the wrong body part), then consult with an experienced Vestavia Hills, AL, medical malpractice lawyer.
At Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC, we support people like you who suffered a decline in health due to medical malpractice. Our team of litigators is tough, insightful and places your interests at the forefront. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Does A Vestavia Hills Medical Malpractice Lawyer Do?
Medical malpractice is defined as the failure of a healthcare professional, like a nurse, doctor, physician assistant, or anesthesiologist, to provide the standard level of care for their patient. Medical malpractice can take many forms, such as performing an operation on the wrong body part or leaving something inside the patient after the operation, failing to take appropriate steps for cleanliness and sanitation, or even giving them the wrong medication. Malpractice also includes medical misdiagnoses. You may have not been diagnosed with a condition you actually have, and miss the window for early intervention. Or, perhaps, you were diagnosed with something you don’t have and subjected to fear, worry, and unnecessary medical procedures.
Your attorney evaluates your situation, and at our firm, we employ the services of medical experts who can attest to what other medical professionals faced with a patient presenting your symptoms would have done. This helps us determine if the doctor’s care reached the level of malpractice. Then, we initiate legal action on your behalf, suing for full compensation of all your losses, both material and non-economic.
Compensation Available In Medical Malpractice Claims
The purpose of your suit is to secure fair compensation for your losses. You may have significant medical debt, especially if you need additional medical treatment to repair the damage from a botched medical procedure. You may have missed work, both for the initial procedure and to heal from the damage. You can sue for the full amount of lost wages, too.
Finally, you likely experienced pain and suffering from the incident, plus the emotional trauma of facing a medical error or misdiagnosis. While these losses are not material, they do have value, and you’re entitled to demand compensation for them. We help you do it.
Healing After Medical Malpractice
If you contracted an illness due to unsanitary conditions, were misdiagnosed, or were the victim of a surgical error, the attorneys at Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC, want to hear your story. We take your health and care seriously and want to give you the means to heal and rebuild your life. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Vestavia Hills medical malpractice lawyer.
The Impact Of Medical Malpractice
Our Vestavia Hills, AL medical malpractice lawyer understands that in the healthcare system, patients place their trust in medical professionals to deliver care that aligns with established standards. Nevertheless, errors can happen. When errors occur, they can have significant consequences for patients and their families. This is where the law steps in to provide a framework that holds medical providers accountable and protects the rights of those affected.
Importance Of Accurate Documentation
Medical records are a cornerstone of the healthcare process, serving as the primary way to track diagnoses, treatments, and outcomes. In cases where care does not meet acceptable standards, these records often become critical evidence. It is important to recognize that incomplete or inaccurate documentation can not only impact patient outcomes but also influence the legal process. As a law firm, we emphasize the importance of thoroughly reviewing these records when evaluating potential cases.
Recognizing When Care Falls Short
While many medical issues can occur naturally, there are instances where avoidable errors play a role. These errors might include errors in diagnosis, medication administration, surgical procedures, or follow-up care. Identifying whether a provider’s actions, or lack thereof, contributed to harm requires careful examination of the facts. We work closely with clients to analyze their experiences and determine whether those experiences align with recognized legal standards.
Legal Standards And The Burden Of Proof
Every case in this field must meet specific legal standards to proceed. The injured party typically needs to demonstrate that the provider deviated from the accepted standard of care and that this deviation caused or contributed to the harm at issue. Establishing this connection often involves conducting independent evaluations and thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the case. Understanding this process helps clients feel more informed as they consider their legal options.
Timelines And Legal Deadlines
Each state has its own statute of limitations, which dictates the amount of time available to file a claim. Acting within this timeframe is essential to preserve your legal rights. Missing these deadlines can prevent individuals from seeking accountability, even in cases where harm is evident. Our Vestavia Hills medical malpractice lawyer prioritizes working with clients to evaluate their cases promptly, helping them stay on track to meet all requirements.
The Value Of Legal Advocacy
The legal system can provide an avenue for individuals and families to seek compensation or legal damages for the harm they have experienced. This compensation may cover medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation costs, and other damages related to the incident. While no financial settlement can fully undo the effects of harm, it can help clients manage the challenges they face and work toward rebuilding their lives.
Our Approach
As a firm, our approach is centered on open communication and personalized service. Championing your cause, we believe that every client deserves to feel heard and supported throughout their legal journey. By taking the time to understand each situation in detail, we can offer tailored guidance and work toward achieving a favorable outcome. Our award-winning Vestavia Hills medical malpractice lawyers are committed to our clients every step of the way.
Taking The Next Step
If you or a loved one has been affected by improper medical care, it’s important to explore your legal rights. At Marsh | Rickard | Bryan, LLC, we’re here to help you take the first step toward holding the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today to schedule a risk-free, free consultation and discuss how we can assist you in pursuing justice.
