With a 2020 population of 1,585,480, Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the 7th largest city in the United States. In 2018 alone, there were 272 reported medical malpractice cases in Philadelphia County.
Medical malpractice is a serious issue. If you believe that you or a close one has been the victim of medical malpractice, it is essential to take steps to prove it. A Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyer can help you prove it, and get you the compensation that you are entitled to.
This article will walk you through the step-by-step process of proving medical malpractice. It will cover everything from gathering evidence to filing a lawsuit.
How to Prove Medical Malpractice:
Gather Evidence
Medical malpractice cases are often complex and can involve a variety of evidence. Try to gather evidence to support your case. Some of this evidence include:
- Medical Records: It is essential to obtain copies of your medical records. These documents will show the care that you received and can be used to support your case.
- Photographs: If you sustained physical injuries, it is a good idea to take pictures of them. Even the photographs can be used as evidence in your case.
- Expert Testimony: In many cases, you will need to hire an expert witness to help prove your case. This witness will testify about the standard of care that should have been provided and whether or not it was violated.
- Witness Testimony: You may also need to call witnesses to testify on your behalf. Witnesses can talk about your treatment and how it has impacted your life.
Establish A Timeline
It is essential to establish a timeline of the events in question. It will help prove that actual malpractice occurred and that it was not simply a coincidence.
If you were injured or suffered a medical condition, it is essential to keep your treatment records. It may include copies of prescriptions, medical bills, and receipts from doctor visits. This can help you prove that you have suffered as a result of the malpractice, and are hence entitled to compensation.
Identify The Parties Involved
There are 1,616 people in residential treatment centers for adults in Philadelphia. If you were treated in a residential treatment center, it is essential to identify the parties involved in your case.
It includes the doctor, hospital, nurses, and other medical professionals involved in your care. You will also need to identify any other parties who may have been involved, such as the insurance company or hospital administrator.
File A Lawsuit
If you have gathered enough evidence, it is time to file a lawsuit. A lawsuit means that you are taking legal action against someone else for their actions, and it is essential to file one as soon as possible if you have been affected by the malpractice.
A Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyer will work as follows:
The first step is to file an official complaint with the court. The complaint will outline your case in detail. You will also need to file a summons, which is a document that officially notifies the other party of the lawsuit. The defendant will then file their response to the lawsuit. From there, the parties will begin to exchange evidence and prepare for trial.
Conclusion
If you consider filing a medical malpractice lawsuit, it is essential to speak with a Philadelphia medical malpractice lawyer. They can help you gather the evidence you need and guide you through the process.
