The Process for a D.C. Medical Malpractice Case
First, what is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice happens when a hospital, doctor, or healthcare provider does not follow accepted standards of care and that failure causes serious harm to a patient. This can include surgical errors, misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, birth injuries, medication mistakes, or a failure to monitor a patient’s condition. In other words, it is not just a bad medical outcome—it is when a preventable error or unsafe care leads to life-changing injury or death.
Taking the First Steps in a Medical Malpractice Case in D.C.
After a life-changing injury caused by medical negligence, you may wonder if you have a valid case and how to begin the process. Medical malpractice doesn’t happen only in hospitals — it can occur in doctors’ offices, clinics, nursing homes, or any setting where patients receive care.
One of the first steps is to request your complete medical records, including x-rays, scans, and fetal monitoring strips. Providers usually make these available electronically, often on a CD. You should also gather records from the doctors treating your injuries and document the changes in your daily life. Photos and videos of your home, car, or activities can help show how your condition has affected you, especially when compared to images from before your injury.
Why You Need a Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Medical malpractice cases are complicated. They often involve detailed medical records, expert opinions, and questions about whether patient safety rules were followed. To help families understand the process, we provide resources such as The Patient’s Guide to Medical Malpractice and Picking Up the Pieces: A Parent’s Guide to Medical Malpractice. Choosing an experienced medical malpractice lawyer you can trust is critical.
How We Investigate Your Case
When we take on a case, we start by understanding your needs and goals. Then we gather and review all records, consult with expert doctors from multiple specialties, and analyze whether hospitals followed patient safety rules. We work with additional experts to assess the impact of your injuries, both medical and financial, and prepare a detailed case showing the harm caused. This evidence is submitted to the hospital as part of the process.
Filing or Settling a Medical Malpractice Case
Our approach sets us apart from many lawyers in this field: we file cases. In D.C., this means providing the hospital with formal notice as required by law. From there, we work to hold them accountable and secure compensation for your injuries. Time is critical because medical malpractice cases are subject to strict deadlines. If you wait too long, we may not be able to help. Call us today at 202-393-3320 or schedule a free consultation so we can guide you through the next steps and protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Malpractice
What qualifies as medical malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet accepted standards of care and causes serious harm. Common examples include surgical mistakes, failure to diagnose, misdiagnosis, medication errors, and birth injuries. Learn more about medical malpractice cases we handle.
How long do I have to file a medical malpractice case in D.C.?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the injury or discovery of the injury to file. Because deadlines can vary depending on your situation, it is important to contact a malpractice lawyer in D.C. as soon as possible.
Do I need a lawyer for a medical malpractice case?
Yes. Medical malpractice cases are complicated, requiring expert testimony, extensive medical records, and specialized legal knowledge. Trying to handle one on your own can lead to missed deadlines and lost compensation. You can explore more about why having a lawyer makes a difference.
What should I do first if I suspect malpractice?
Start by gathering all medical records, photos, and documentation of how your life has been affected. Then call Donahoe Kearney at 202-393-3320 or schedule a consultation to review your case and explain your options. You can schedule your consultation by clicking here!
When we take on a case, we start by understanding your needs and goals. Then we gather and review all records, consult with expert doctors from multiple specialties, and analyze whether hospitals followed patient safety rules. We work with additional experts to assess the impact of your injuries, both medical and financial, and prepare a detailed case showing the harm caused. This evidence is submitted to the hospital as part of the process.