A productive and informative initial consultation with a medical malpractice lawyer depends on preparation – not just by the attorney and his or her legal team, but also by the prospective client. Below are a few items that will provide valuable information to help a medical malpractice attorney evaluate your case. Consider obtaining these items as soon as possible prior to your meeting.
Medical Records
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) gives you as a patient the right to access, review and keep a copy of your medical records. Bringing a copy with you can allow the lawyer to review crucial notes and other information that may better illustrate how an injury occurred.
Related Medical Bills, Lost Wages and Other Expenses
Having an exact dollar amount with regard to medial bills and out-of-pocket expenses related to the injury can be very helpful in evaluating the amount of damages awarded in a medical malpractice lawsuit. Bring bills and related receipts for the attorney to review. Bring prior paystubs if the accident caused you to miss work or made you unable to work.
Photos of the Injuries
Photos of the patient and his or her resulting health problems can further illustrate the magnitude of the alleged medical error.
Questions
A few good questions to ask a medical malpractice lawyer include:
- How much experience does your firm have in representing people with injuries similar to mine?
- Does your firm have the financial resources to take a serious injury case to trial?
- Who will I be communicating with about my case?
- What is your legal fee? How is the fee determined?
Being prepared gives your attorney a clearer picture of how the medical negligence occurred, and it can help the legal process start immediately.
Contact Anapol Weiss for assistance if you believe you were harmed by medical negligence. The initial consultation is free and only takes a moment of your time, but it could be the first step toward getting answers and obtaining justice.
