Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Suicide is a painful experience for families. Many loved ones live with guilt, wondering if they could have done something to prevent it. They do not usually blame others or hold them accountable, but there are actually some cases in which seeking accountability for suicide is legally warranted.
Medical malpractice may occur in cases of suicide. These situations occur when medical staff fail to recognize that a patient is at risk of harming themselves, which means the patient does not receive proper treatment, such as involuntary hospital admission. When a lack of treatment causes a patient to attempt suicide, a doctor or hospital may be held liable.
Patient suicides are difficult cases. If you believe a doctor is responsible for your loved one’s death, our Fort Lauderdale preventable suicide lawyer at Freidin Brown, P.A. can assess your case and see who can be held liable.
Signs of a Possible Suicide Attempt
Doctors and family members should be aware when someone is considering suicide. Here are some common signs:
- Talking about death or suicide
- Giving away belongings
- Talking about going away or “getting their affairs in order”
- Talking about how they will their own life
- Self-destructive behaviors, such as using illegal drugs or binge drinking
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Isolating themselves
- Losing interest in activities they used to enjoy
- Suddenly having trouble in school or work
- Changing in sleep or eating habits
Was Suicide Preventable? Let Us Help You Seek Justice and Accountability!
How Do Doctors Contribute to a Suicide?
The main way in which doctors can be held liable for a suicide is if they fail to assess the patient’s risk. A suicide risk assessment will address the patient’s risk of suicide by inquiring about relationship issues (such as issues with parents, child custody, and marital disputes), chronic health issues (such as cancer and other illnesses), substance abuse, and a history of mental illness or suicide attempts).
The biggest risk factor for a suicide risk assessment is a history of suicide attempt. A recent suicide attempt (within the last year) places a person at particularly high risk for suicide. So do certain psychiatric conditions, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
When a person faces an emotional crisis, such as marital or child custody problems, this increases stress and hopelessness in a person’s life. This also increases the risk of suicide.
Being male is a risk factor for suicide. Although women attempt suicide almost five times than men, they tend to choose less lethal means of suicide. Men tend to be much more successful at suicide.
You and your staff are simply the best. Jonathan I would like to say I proud of the manner in which you conducted yourself toward my family matter. You are my mentor and someone that I look up to. . . . I will always remember you and would highly recommend you to any family and friends. We appreciate everything you did for us. Staying with us. Being patient with us. And, most importantly believing in us. Our family will forever have a feeling of gratitude for all that you have done. I have tremendous respect and appreciation for Phil Freidin. He is a powerful and kind lawyer. He has proven to me that he genuinely cares about his clients; however, he is a force to be reckoned with in the conference and court rooms. Jonathan impressed me with his professionalism and expertise! Jonathan and Lizy handled my Medical Malpractice case with skill and secured a favorable outcome! They were responsive and kept me informed throughout my process. I highly recommend them to my Family and Friends! They were not even able to take on my case, but the person who did my intake and the lawyer I spoke to were incredibly validating, kind, and helpful. I appreciated the care and time they gave me even when I did not become a client. Jonathan, Phil, and the rest of the Freidin Brown attorneys were both professional and compassionate. They were always responsive to my family and me, and they have a deep dedication to their clients. I highly recommend the great lawyers at this firm! My experience with Freidin Brown was above my expectations. Philip Freidin took my case and settlement to finish line with amazing results. I highly recommend this Law Firm. Our family was referred to Freidin Brown by another attorney who could not handle our case and from day one we felt like we were in good hands. Johnathan Freidin was always available and willing to answer any questions we had. We are extremely happy with the results of our case and would recommend this team in a heartbeat. Had the pleasure of working with Andrew this year. He was very knowledgeable, but most importantly, he asked questions and listened to truly understand MY needs. Would definitely use this team again.
Contact Freidin Brown, P.A. Today
Doctors have a lot of responsibility and you may not know that they are supposed to help prevent patient suicide whenever possible. When a patient does kill themselves, it can be a devastating experience for all involved, especially when there is a legal aspect involved.
Seek legal help from Freidin Brown, P.A. Our knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale preventable suicide lawyer will help you understand your legal rights. Fill out the online form or call us today to schedule a free consultation.
