Finding the Right Medical Malpractice Lawyer for You

When facing a potential medical malpractice case, it can be altogether terrifying and overwhelming. Not only are you faced with making a severely important legal decision, you are also dealing with the fact that you or a loved one has been harmed in some way as a consequence of said medical malpractice. This can be a whirlwind of stress and anguish and in situations such as these, it is all too easy to lose your head. Take a step back and breathe. There a number of questions to ask yourself regarding whether or not you are truly dealing with a medical malpractice lawsuit and multiple steps to take to ensure that you are hiring the best lawyer for you and your needs.

Ask the Tough Questions

Medical malpractice cases are highly sensitive and can be difficult to maneuver. Before even beginning to research a possible lawyer, make certain that you indeed have a medical malpractice case. It is easy to point blame in such delicate situations, but it is paramount to remember that medical practice and doctors are not perfect and bodies can react to medical practices in unpredictable ways. Gather your medical records and get a second opinion from a doctor outside of your regular medical team. He or she will be able to comment on whether or not your treatment had been the procedural course of action generally taken. Also, take a look at your medical facility's code of conduct for care. If you feel that your situation was due to negligence, double check with their care code to see if your treatment had fallen out of line.

Ask Around for Lawyers

When it comes to looking for any lawyer, medical malpractice or not, asking around to friends, family, and acquaintances will give you an excellent idea of where to start. Anecdotes and opinions regarding lawyers from people whom you know and trust will give you insight to how working with a certain attorney or firm might be. Focus on local lawyers who will know the court system in your area well, as well as the judges and how best to appeal to them with your individual case.

Do Your Research

Once you have an idea of a few attorneys or law firms that you may wish to have on your team, do a little internet searching. Websites and webpages will provide you with types of cases that a lawyer takes on, his or her rates and hours, and any other information he or she may feel relevant to provide an interested potential client. If you wish to learn more than that, a quick Google query will provide you with statistics as given by the local bar association.

Meet Up

Always have a consultation with an attorney previous to hiring. This will give you an opportunity to let the lawyer state whether he or she believes you have a case as well as give you a chance to ask him or her any questions you might have. Meeting face to face for a conversation will also allow you to better decipher how you and that lawyer might work together, whether or not they are the right fit for you.