When we see a doctor for a checkup, procedure, or some other reason, we expect a high level of care. Unfortunately, however, our expectations are not always met. In fact, some people leave the doctor’s office in worse shape than they arrived. Doctors are legally required to provide their patients with a certain standard of care, and when they don’t do this, they may be held liable for medical malpractice. In many cases, this results in financial compensation for the patient. If you have suffered harm of any kind at the hands of a medical professional, you deserve to have compensation for your damages. Below are some tips for choosing a Florida medical malpractice attorney.
Choose an attorney who specializes in medical malpractice law
When choosing an attorney, the first (and most important) thing you need to do is ensure that he or she specializes in or devotes a significant amount of his or her practice to medical malpractice law. Medical malpractice is a highly specialized area of the law, and it is in your best interest to hire an attorney with experience trying medical malpractice cases.
Ask about cost
Cost is an important consideration when choosing an attorney. Determine whether your prospective attorney charges by the hour, by the case, or on a contingency basis. Attorneys who work on a contingency basis are paid a percentage of the settlement or jury verdict when you win your case.
Choose a medical malpractice attorney with a strong track record
Related to the first point above, make sure the attorney you choose has a strong reputation and a proven track record of successfully resolving cases for medical malpractice clients. An attorney with a strong reputation gives you leverage in negotiating and litigating against defense lawyers and insurance companies When the opposing attorneys know that your lawyer is ready and willing to fight for you in court, they are far more likely to consider settling your case for a fair amount.
Choose an attorney you’re comfortable with
Finally, make sure you feel comfortable with your prospective attorney before hiring him or her to represent you in your medical malpractice case. You may be working with this person for a long time, so it’s important to make sure that the two of you have a good rapport.
Contact our medical malpractice attorney today for a consultation
If you’ve suffered injuries at the hands of a medical professional, you need an experienced attorney on your side. Located in Pensacola, Florida, Staples, Ellis + Associates, P.A., has over seventy years of combined experience representing medical malpractice victims in Northwest Florida. At Staples Ellis, we will fight for your right to receive compensation for your injuries. Please contact our office as soon as possible to set up a consultation.
Posted in: Medical Malpractice