When it comes to matters of your health, you want to make sure you’re in the best hands — and that doesn’t just apply to medical professionals. If you feel you’ve been a victim of medical malpractice, it’s imperative to find the right attorney to represent your case effectively. Here are ten key questions to ask before hiring a medical malpractice attorney.
- What is your experience with medical malpractice cases?
This might sound obvious, but experience specifically in medical malpractice is crucial. These cases are complex, need extensive knowledge about medicine, and require particular legal expertise. - Have you handled cases similar to mine before?
Your situation may encompass specific medical procedures or conditions. Ask if the attorney has dealt with such cases and understand their outcomes. - How much time can you dedicate to my case?
Medical malpractice cases can be time-consuming, and each often requires meticulous attention. Ensure that your attorney has adequate time to commit to your case. - What resources do you have at your disposal?
Adequate resources — which might include medical experts for testimony, access to medical libraries, and a team to dig deep into your case — are crucial for building a solid case. - Are you handling the case yourself or passing it to another attorney?
Often, the person you speak with initially may pass your case onto another, less experienced lawyer. Make sure you know who will handle your case from start to finish. - What fees will I be charged?
Most medical malpractice attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they’ll only get paid if you win your case. Ensure to clarify this, as well as any other pertinent financial information upfront. - Can you provide references?
Ask for references to communicate with past clients. Their experiences will provide valuable insight into how the attorney operates. - Who is going to be my day-to-day contact?
Having clear communication channels established at the outset ensures you’re up-to-date with all the happenings related to your case. Knowing who to contact for updates reduces stress and confusion. - How long do you think this case will take?
While it’s impossible to determine exact timelines for legal proceedings, based on their experience, a good attorney should provide a reasonable estimate so you can prepare mentally and financially. - What is your track record of settlements and verdicts?
Although it does not guarantee future performance, knowing an attorney’s past successes lends confidence to your choice.
Remember, though, the choice of attorney isn’t solely about professional competency. You should also feel comfortable with them on a personal level. Being a victim of medical malpractice is an emotionally draining experience; having an empathetic and understanding attorney makes a huge difference.
Although finding the right attorney may seem daunting, by asking these questions, you can effectively separate the wheat from the chaff. Making the right choice here is paramount for navigating the shark-filled waters of malpractice litigation. Choose wisely, and remember- it’s your rights, health, and potentially your life on the line.