Mistakes made by doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other medical professionals can have life-changing consequences. They may cause permanent health problems, loss of income or even death.
These preventable healthcare mistakes are known as medical malpractice. If you or a loved one have been injured as the result of a medical error, it is important to discuss your case with an experienced medical malpractice lawyer as soon as possible.
A lawyer can help you determine if your injury qualifies as malpractice and then build a strong case for compensation. They will review your medical records, conduct on the record interviews with you and any other involved parties, and work with a team of medical experts. In addition, they will be able to explain how the legal system works and what your options are based on your individual situation.
Medical malpractice claims are complicated and require a high level of skill. In general, a claim is successful when the attorney can show that your doctor violated the legal duty of care by failing to provide you with the level of treatment and skill that other similarly qualified medical or hospital professionals would have provided under the same circumstances. This standard is called “preponderance of the evidence” and is less demanding than the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard that is required for criminal cases.
Often, medical malpractice lawsuits are contested by the physician’s lawyers, who will present their side of the story at trial. The plaintiff’s attorney must demonstrate that it is more likely than not that the physician committed malpractice, using the information gathered during pretrial discovery. If the jury finds that it is more likely than not that the medical professional was negligent, they will award you damages for your injuries.
In some situations, it may be necessary to appeal the court’s decision. This is a separate process from the initial trial and involves presenting new evidence to a higher court for consideration. It is important to have an experienced attorney who can guide you through the appeals process.
If you believe you have been the victim of medical malpractice, contact Sullivan Papain Block McGrath Coffinas & Cannavo, P.C. today for a free consultation. There are time limitations imposed by the statutes of limitation for filing malpractice suits, so don’t delay.
All surgical procedures carry some risk, but when surgeons and other healthcare providers fail to take the proper precautions, patients can suffer serious or fatal injuries. At Sullivan Papain, we are dedicated to helping victims of medical malpractice receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to speak with an experienced NYC medical malpractice lawyer. We have the skills, resources and track record of success you need to get the results you want.