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If you have been the victim of physician negligence or medical malpractice, your main focus should be on returning to good health. However, when hospital bills, lost wages and other expenses begin to pile up, filing a lawsuit is often necessary.

While preparing a medical malpractice lawsuit, it is essential to try to keep stress to a minimum. Often, the best way of achieving this is to enter into the process knowing what to expect. Here is what you need to know.

Your Initial Consultation

Most reputable personal injury lawyers will offer a free consultation to victims of medical malpractice. During this meeting, the lawyer will assess your case and outline your options going forward. It is also your chance to ask questions and, if appropriate, determine whether you are comfortable proceeding with a lawsuit.

Some items you should bring with you to the initial consultation include medical records and other documentation related to your case, photos of your injuries, copies of medical bills, insurance information and even past paystubs if your condition has resulted in missed work and/or lost wages. The more information you can provide, the more accurate and honest your lawyer will be about your chances for success.

It is important to remember that medical malpractice lawsuits can take months or years to resolve. During this time, your lawyer is someone you’ll have to work closely with.

Investigating Your Claim

Once you’ve agreed to work with a medical malpractice lawyer, the investigation process will begin. This involves several steps, including notifying the doctor and facilities involved, contacting your state’s medical board, confirming the incident does not fall outside of the statute of limitations and collecting the evidence and expert testimony that will form the backbone of your case.

During this time, your lawyer will gain a clearer picture of the specifics of your case and begin to develop a strategy for moving it through the legal system.

The Path Forward

Not all physician negligence lawsuits end in a trial. In fact, many lawyers can often reach an out-of-court settlement, either through negotiations with the insurance company or through arbitration. No matter how you choose to proceed, it is important for you maintain good communication with your legal team throughout the process. That way, there are no surprises that could potentially jeopardize your claim. Let your attorneys know if your condition changes in any way, and they will adjust their strategy appropriately.

Ready to Get Started? Contact Shulman Rogers Today

The medical malpractice lawyers at Shulman Rogers can handle any case involving misdiagnosis, hospital negligence, nursing home abuse and more. Headquartered in Potomac, Maryland, we are licensed to practice in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC. If you would like to explore your options for pursuing a medical malpractice lawsuit, contact our office and schedule a free, no-pressure consultation with one of our team members.