Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Florida Medical Malpractice Attorney

After suffering injuries due to negligence by a health care provider, it is normal to feel angry, confused, and violated. Retaining a skilled legal professional to pursue your remedies under Florida medical malpractice laws, may be a step in the right direction. Once you start your search for a lawyer, you may soon realize that you need some guidance in finding the right fit. Of course, you know that it is important to inquire about the basics like education, admission to the Florida State Bar, and years the attorney has been practicing. However, with complicated medical malpractice cases, it is crucial to dig deeper.

Many individuals in your position will need some guidance on choosing the right Florida medical malpractice lawyer and one way is to come prepared to your first consultation with a list of questions. Depending on your situation, you may want to ask about the following: 

Do you have specific focus on medical malpractice? Because of the highly technical subject matter and legal requirements under Florida law, you should narrow your search to attorneys who primarily concentrate in medical malpractice cases. Those who practice in a broad range of legal areas may not have in-depth knowledge, even when they focus on a range of personal injury matters. 

Have you taken many medical malpractice cases to trial? Some claims will settle out-of-court, but you want the confidence of knowing that your lawyer is prepared to take the case to trial if necessary. Ask the candidate about experience and trial advocacy skills related to:

• Pre-filing investigation requirements
• Drafting the complaint
• Motion practice
• Discovery and depositions 

Do you have proper resources to pursue a medical malpractice claim? One of the key pre-filing requirements under Florida’s statute is obtaining a written opinion from a medical professional. The litigation process may also require additional investigation, input from other experts, and financial investment in tools to support your claim. You want to know that your attorney is set up to access these resources. 

What factors support or work against me? Though they cannot predict all contingencies, a solid medical malpractice lawyer should be able to tell you the strengths and weaknesses of your claim. These details will be important as your attorney develops a strategy for seeking compensation, along with your input. When vulnerabilities may lead to risks in pursuing litigation, you might consider settling. For a medical malpractice claim supported by solid evidence, a lowball offer by an insurance company may not be sufficient to cover your losses. Your lawyer may recommend taking the case to court to have a jury decide.

Consult with a Florida Medical Malpractice Attorney Today 

At Freidin Brown, P.A., our team is happy to answer questions and provide other information that makes you feel confident in choosing our firm. Many of our attorneys are recognized and highly rated such organizations as Best Lawyers in America, Florida Super Lawyers, and Miami Metro Top Lawyers. For additional information, please contact our offices in Miami or Fort Myers, FL to set up a free consultation.

Resource:

floridabar.org/