Getting Answers After Suffering From Medical Malpractice
When a medical professional breaches their duty of care for you and causes you undue harm in the process, you deserve answers about what comes next and the resulting medical malpractice claim. At Hofeld and Schaffner, we take pride in providing the Chicago community with the guidance and representation they need after being hurt in such a vulnerable position. As we help you build a case to maximize the compensation you deserve in your claim, we can also help answer critical questions such as:
How long do you have to file a medical malpractice claim in Chicago?
An adult victim of medical malpractice generally has two years from the date they learn of their injury and that it may have been wrongfully caused to file a lawsuit. The time frame for a minor is generally longer. There can be many exceptions and nuances to the time limit laws (statutes of limitations) so it is important to seek counsel from an experienced medical malpractice attorney immediately to make sure you do not miss this important filing deadline.
If you miss the deadline, you will not be allowed to proceed with your lawsuit and no compensation can be obtained. Additionally, the longer you wait to investigate your claim, the longer it will take for you to receive the compensation you deserve to help you cover the costs of your injuries and recovery.
Who can be held liable in a medical malpractice claim?
Any number of people could be liable for your injuries, not just the doctor who treated you. Any healthcare provider involved in your care, depending on the details of your injuries, including nurses, therapists, pharmacists, for example, may share responsibility. We can review your case to determine who is ultimately liable for your injuries.
What should you do if you believe you are a victim of medical negligence?
If you suspect that you have experienced medical malpractice, the following actions you take can define the quality of the outcome of your malpractice claim. First and foremost, reach out to us so that your claim can be appropriately investigated.
Next, do not reach out to your doctor or health care provider about the incident, as it is not in their interest to confirm that negligence occurred. Do not make a “formal complaint,” orally or in writing, about the care you received; it only allows the potential defendants to get a head start on their defense. Finally, refrain from discussing your claim with anyone other than your lawyer.
How long do most medical malpractice cases take?
Every claim is unique, and so is the time it takes to resolve them. Medical negligence claims are highly complex and you only have one opportunity to do it correctly. We will work through your case thoroughly, deliberately, and, most importantly, effectively to obtain full and complete compensation. Medical negligence cases take longer than, say, an auto accident case.
Medical negligence lawsuits take 36 months to 48 months, on average, from the date of filing to trial. Most do not go to trial but resolve before that time. That being said, you will be fully informed as the case proceeds through the system and we will move expeditiously to bring your case to a successful conclusion.
If You Have More Questions, We Have More Answers
If you suffered from medical malpractice, allow our malpractice lawyers to offer you the information and guidance you deserve after your accident. Call us at 312-702-1918 or email us here to schedule your free initial consultation today. Se habla español.
