Medical Malpractice Lawyer - FAQ

in Houston, Texas

What is Medical Malpractice and how do I know if I suffered from it?
The legal definition of medical malpractice is a medical professional's failure to act as a reasonable and prudent medical professional would under similar circumstances. If a medical professional's actions, negligence or other wrongdoing caused injury or illness to a patient, the injured party may be eligible to file a legal claim to seek compensation for their losses and suffering. An experienced medical malpractice lawyer at Kennedy Hodges L.L.P. in Houston, Texas will tell you if you have a valid legal claim during your initial consultation.

I am displeased with the result of my cosmetic surgery. Can I sue for malpractice?
Possibly. However, not being happy with the result of a medical procedure does not necessarily mean malpractice occurred.

What are some examples of Medical Malpractice?
Substandard medical care can involve medical errors and mistakes made by doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Some of the most common medical malpractice cases involve errors during surgery, emergency room errors, failure to diagnose, prescription errors, birth injuries and nursing home errors.

Is it common?
Unfortunately, medical malpractice is frighteningly common. It has been estimated that nearly 98,000 people die each year in the United States as a result of medical malpractice. Thousands more are injured or suffer some type of illness as a result of medical malpractice.

Who can I sue for medical malpractice?
This varies from state to state, but generally speaking, any party who caused injury to a patient as a result of professional negligence or wrongdoing may be held liable for medical malpractice. Our cases have involved surgeons, physicians, nurses, private hospitals, government institutions, dentists, and anesthesiologists.

My injury occurred two years ago. Is it too late to file a malpractice claim?
Again, this varies from state to state, and every state has established a statute of limitations for medical malpractice cases. Our attorneys will look closely at your medical information and tell you if you have exceeded the statute of limitations or not.

What is necessary to prove my case?
There are three basic elements necessary to prove medical malpractice was the cause of your injury or illness. First, the plaintiff (you) must show that the defendant (medical professional) had a duty to follow a certain standard. Second, the plaintiff must show that the defendant failed to act in accordance with that standard. This requires expert testimony confirming the defendant committed malpractice. Third, the plaintiff must prove that the negligence or wrongdoing caused the patient's injury or suffering.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice in Houston or anywhere in Texas, please contact the experienced medical malpractice lawyers at Kennedy Hodges L.L.P. today to schedule your initial consultation.