Medical malpractices are, unfortunately, all too common. Around 41 percent of people claim they’ve been victims of medical malpractice.
If your child has cerebral palsy and you believe it was caused by a medical mistake, you may be wondering how to find the best attorney for your case. You can check sites like https://cpfamilynetwork.org/resources/legal-advocates/ to find the right attorney.
Choosing an attorney experienced in medical malpractice cases involving cerebral palsy is crucial. Here are some tips on how to find the right lawyer for you:
Ask friends and family for referrals
One way to find an experienced and reputable medical malpractice attorney is to ask your friends or family members who have gone through a similar experience.
Check the attorney’s credentials
Cerebral palsy cases are complex. You need an attorney familiar with the condition, its effects, and the legal issues involved in these cases. Make sure the attorney you choose has experience handling cerebral palsy cases and is a board-certified civil trial lawyer.
You can also check to see if the attorney is a member of the American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine or the American Association for Justice’s Birth Trauma Litigation Group. These organizations offer resources and support to attorneys who handle these cases.
Ensure the attorney has experience in medical malpractice cases involving cerebral palsy
Medical malpractice cases involve many essential steps and a great deal of legal strategy. For example, you will need to show evidence like medical records and expert testimony to prove that the health care provider’s negligence caused your child’s cerebral palsy.
Therefore, you should ensure that the attorney you are considering has experience in medical malpractice cases, specifically those involving cerebral palsy.
Additionally, you should ask about the attorney’s medical malpractice trial experience. While many cerebral palsy cases are settled outside of court, some go to trial.
Schedule a consultation with the attorney to discuss your case
After you have gathered a list of potential attorneys, the next step is to schedule a consultation with each one. You can ask the attorney about their experience and expertise during your consultation.
You should also discuss what you can expect from working with the attorney and get a feel for their personality. Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition, so you must choose an attorney you feel comfortable working with for the long haul.
After your consultations, you should know which attorney fits your family best.
Get a fee agreement in writing
The total charges for filing a lawsuit and going to trial can be significant. Before hiring a legal professional, be sure you understand what fees will be charged, when they will be due, and how they will be calculated.
Most attorneys require a retainer fee. It is an upfront sum of money to pay for the initial costs of filing your lawsuit. The retainer fee is non-refundable, even if you eventually decide not to use the attorney’s services.
Some lawyers also charge an hourly rate for their time. If this is the case, ask for estimates of how many hours will be needed for different tasks related to your lawsuit.
Takeaway
Whether your child has just been diagnosed with cerebral palsy or you believe medical negligence may have played a role in developing your child’s condition, it is important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. An experienced cerebral palsy lawyer can help you investigate your claim, identify the responsible parties, and fight for the compensation your family deserves.
Ellen Diamond did her degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
