Important Factors to Consider When Filing for a Medical Malpractice Claim in the State of California
If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of the carelessness of a medical practitioner or hospital, it is important to know that there may be an opportunity to seek financial compensation for the injuries sustained. As a patient in the State of California, you may have a legal right to file a medical malpractice claim. While the laws regarding medical malpractice can be complex and change from time to time, it is important to understand essential elements that could affect the filing process and other aspects of the claim. Consider seeking the support of an attorney that has extensive experience in medical malpractice cases. An experienced attorney will be able to guide you through the process of handling and prosecuting a claim.
State of California Statute of Limitations
Every state in this nation has its own rules and regulations regarding specific time frames for filing medical malpractice claims. If you do not comply, all rights to bring a case may be lost. These sets of laws are legally referred to as statute of limitations. In the State of California, these laws can be highly complex due to the many different deadlines involved. In California, a medical malpractice case generally must be filed within three years after the injury occurred, but it must also be filed within one year of when the victim made the “discovery” of the injury and its cause. “Discovery” dates are often disputed and sometimes relate to when a person should have suspected something was wrong with the way they were treated.
Even shorter time limits are involved with “public entity” hospitals and providers, with time to file a claim as short as 6 months from the date of the claimed malpractice. Even though this article contains a general discussion of time limits, exceptions may apply (for example, with minors) that can change the entire picture. It is essential to consult a qualified attorney as soon as possible. Do not delay!
The Cost of Medical Malpractice Injury
As a result of medical malpractice, a victim can experience worsening conditions, needs for more evaluation and treatment, extreme emotional and physical pain as well as financial instability and even death. Many victims experience the inability to return to work, and the inability to financially care for their families. Medical malpractice injuries could also result in high cost medical expenses and the need of extensive treatments but a successful medical malpractice claim can help to provide the victim and his or her loved ones with the financial stability and care they deserve. A successful medical malpractice claim can cover the victim’s medical costs and medical treatments, financial losses, loss of earning capacity and money for pain and suffering.
Obtain Legal Support
If you or someone you love has experienced injuries as a result of medical malpractice, it is important to understand that there may be an opportunity to seek financial compensation for the injuries. Seek the legal support of a qualified attorney who has experience in dealing with medical malpractice claims in the State of California.
The attorneys at Heiting & Irwin are dedicated to helping medical malpractice victims obtain financial compensation for injuries sustained. They have extensive experience in dealing with medical malpractice cases in the State of California. Medical malpractice cases in California have strict time limitations; seek the support of an expert attorney as soon as possible.
