Three Things to Know About Medical Malpractice Suits
Statute of Limitations
Depending on the state in which you live, there is a statute of limitation that tells you how long you have to file your lawsuit. The time frame typically ranges from six months to two years. When the time begins also depends on where you live. It's absolutely necessary that you talk to your lawyer as soon as possible to find out the guidelines that you need to follow to have your case heard. If you fail to file in a timely fashion, you could be at risk of having your case dismissed.
Review Panel
Some states require you to submit a claim to a review panel before you can continue to pursue your lawsuit. The panel is made up of experts who will review the evidence and listen to expert testimony. They will determine whether or not the case should be considered malpractice. The results of the panel don't affect your lawsuit, but it's a hoop that you must jump through before you can hear your case heard before a judge.
Expert Testimony
For the review panel or for the trial, you need to have an expert who will be willing to testify on your behalf. This person should be someone in the medical field who is knowledgeable enough to discuss the issue and details of your case. Hiring an expert witness can be an expensive endeavor, but it's a necessary step to building a strong case.
When you've been the victim of medical malpractice, you deserve financial restitution for your pain and suffering. It can also be a great way to change policies and alert others to the concern before they have to experience the same problems. You should take some time to find a lawyer with experience with similar cases, such as those working with Meyers Evans & Associates LLC. You may want to schedule an initial consultation to discuss the details of the case and get an assessment to help you know what to expect.