St. Charles Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Have you been injured while in the care of a medical professional? Get in touch with a St. Charles medical malpractice lawyer today!
We trust doctors and other medical professionals to take care of our healthcare needs and provide a high level of care. The nature of their jobs means that someone’s life could be in their hands. However, when something goes wrong, it can have serious and sometimes deadly consequences for the patient.
If you were harmed as a patient due to the negligence of a medical professional, reach out to a St. Charles medical malpractice lawyer for help with the claims process. To learn more about your eligibility to receive compensation for damages, schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable injury attorney today.
St. Charles Medical Malpractice Cases Mutrux Firm Handles
At The Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to providing our clients with an excellent experience. When you trust us with your case, we can help you recover damages incurred in the incident, such as hospital bills, lost wages, and more. We’ve experienced a varying degree of severity in these types of cases, therefore, we are willing and able to represent you.
Some of the most common types of scenarios we deal with regarding medical malpractice include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
- Errors during surgery
- Medication errors
There are many more scenarios that could constitute medical malpractice, therefore, we are ready to represent you, regardless of the nature of your medical malpractice case.
How Can a St. Charles Mo. Medical Malpractice Lawyer Help?
When you hire a medical malpractice attorney in St. Charles, we will walk you through the entire legal process and ensure that you are updated on your case. Your St. Charles, Missouri, medical malpractice lawyer will put together compelling evidence, gather eyewitness testimony, and consult industry experts to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
We will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible, and will not hesitate to go to court and fight for you if needed.
Furthermore, your attorney is well-versed in the legal system, and can help you stay up to date on the progress of your case. We are also here to answer any questions you have about your case, providing you with professional resources throughout the duration of your case.
St. Charles Mo. Medical Malpractice Compensation Owed
When you are a victim of medical malpractice, you are entitled to both economic and non-economic damages. Injured patients can seek compensation for a number of losses they suffered due to the alleged malpractice, which are divided into two categories. The first are economic damages, which includes lost wages, past medical bills, and funds for future necessary medical treatment.
Economic damages are more quantifiable than the second category, known as noneconomic damages. This category includes compensation for physical and mental pain and suffering, loss of earning capacity, and other related losses connected to the malpractice. Economic damages are damages that can be easily put into a monetary amount and include damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Cost of medication
- Lost wages
- Diminished earning capacity
- Cost of ongoing medical care
There are also non-economic damages, which are a little more difficult to put a dollar figure on; however, they are just as important. Non-economic damages include:
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
- Diminished quality of life
In the unfortunate circumstance that your family member perished due to medical malpractice, you might be entitled to the following damages:
- Funeral costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Medical costs for end-of-life care
Missouri is more doctor-friendly than other states when it comes to medical malpractice, and this is prominently shown through the state’s cap on noneconomic damages. Wrongful death and catastrophic injury damages are capped at $700,000, and all other cases are capped at $400,000. Whether the injuries are catastrophic or not is a question of fact, so talk to a healthcare negligence lawyer to see if your cases will fit the criteria.
Affidavit of Qualified Health Care Provider in Malpractice
Medical malpractice cases are complex, and are expensive to litigate. To help ensure that these cases have merit, Missouri requires that a plaintiff provide a “Affidavit of Qualified Health Care Provider” and file it either with their lawsuit or within 90 days of filing. This affidavit should contain the written statement of a legally qualified healthcare professional affirming that the defendant failed to provide reasonable care, and that failure caused the patient harm. If the affidavit is not filed in the right time frame, a judge will dismiss the lawsuit. Medical malpractice attorneys will know what information needs to be in the affidavit, and are adept at finding the right qualified professionals to provide one.
Are There Time Limits on Filing Medical Malpractice Suits in St. Charles?
All civil cases in Missouri have a time limit on filing a lawsuit, known as its statute of limitations. For medical malpractice cases, this time limit is two years after the injury occurs, or two years after the date of discovery. The latter allows patients the opportunity to extend the statute of limitations if they were unaware that potential medical malpractice has occurred. For example, if a patient undergoes a surgical procedure and the doctor leaves a foreign object in their body which causes an infection, the clock starts ticking when the patient discovers the surgeon’s error through future treatment. If you are unsure what day your statute of limitations clock started, seek the help of an attorney well-versed in Missouri medical malpractice law.
Speak with a St. Charles Medical Malpractice Attorney Today
All personal injury cases can be stressful, and this is only compounded when you are trying to recover your health. Medical malpractice cases are complex and need the attention of an attorney well-versed in this type of litigation. Do not delay your right to compensation. Contact a St. Charles medical malpractice lawyer to begin discussing your case.
St. Charles Missouri Medical Malpractice Lawyer FAQs
How do I know if I have a valid medical malpractice case?
To determine the validity of your case, consult with a medical malpractice lawyer. Generally, you must prove that a healthcare professional’s negligence caused your injuries and that the standard of care was breached.
What types of compensation can I pursue in a medical malpractice case?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages related to the malpractice incident. A lawyer will help assess the specific damages applicable to your case.
Is there a time limit for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit in St. Charles, Missouri?
Yes, Missouri has a statute of limitations for medical malpractice cases. It is crucial to file a lawsuit within the specified time frame, which can vary based on the circumstances. Consult with a lawyer promptly to avoid losing your right to pursue a claim.
How much will it cost to hire a medical malpractice lawyer?
Many medical malpractice lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This fee is typically a percentage of the compensation awarded. Discuss fees and payment structures with your chosen lawyer during the initial consultation.
Can I sue any healthcare professional for medical malpractice?
Medical malpractice claims can be brought against various healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, surgeons, pharmacists, and other medical professionals. Your lawyer will help identify the responsible parties in your case.
What should I do if I suspect medical malpractice has occurred?
If you believe you are a victim of medical malpractice, seek medical attention immediately and document all relevant details. Preserve any evidence, such as medical records and photographs. Contact a medical malpractice lawyer for guidance on the next steps.
How long does it take to resolve a medical malpractice case?
The duration of a medical malpractice case can vary. Factors such as the complexity of the case, negotiations, and court proceedings can influence the timeline. Your lawyer will provide an estimate based on the specific circumstances of your case.
How can I find the right medical malpractice lawyer in St. Charles, Missouri?
Research local lawyers specializing in medical malpractice, read reviews, and schedule consultations. Choose a lawyer with experience in similar cases and a track record of successful outcomes.