How to Choose the Right Medical Malpractice Attorney for Your Case

When you or a loved one suffers from medical malpractice, it can be a life-altering experience. You trust healthcare professionals to provide care, and when something goes wrong, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. In these difficult times, having the right legal representation is crucial. 

Serving Kansas City, Missouri, SJP Sifers Jensen Palmer is here to help. Choosing the right medical malpractice attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to find the best attorney to represent you and help you achieve justice.

The Basics of Medical Malpractice

Before we go over how to choose the right attorney, it’s important to understand what medical malpractice is and how it works. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider deviates from the accepted standard of care, leading to harm or injury to a patient. This can include errors in diagnosis, medication administration, surgical procedures, or aftercare.

Medical malpractice cases can involve complicated legal and medical issues, so having an experienced medical malpractice attorney is essential. A lawyer with experience in this field will have the knowledge and skills needed to handle your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Experience and Knowledge of Medical Malpractice Law

The first thing to look for when choosing a medical malpractice attorney is experience. Medical malpractice law is highly intricate, and not all lawyers have the knowledge required to handle these cases effectively. You need a lawyer who has a proven track record in medical malpractice cases and understands the nuances of the healthcare industry.

A good medical malpractice attorney will have handled cases similar to yours and know how to approach your situation. They'll also have relationships with medical experts who can support your case and testify if needed. It's crucial to choose a lawyer with specific experience in medical malpractice, as they’ll be familiar with the challenges and intricacies involved.

Reputation and Reviews

The reputation of an attorney is another key factor in choosing the right one for your case. Do some research to find out what others have said about the attorney’s work. Online reviews, client testimonials, and word-of-mouth recommendations can provide valuable insight into the quality of service and the attorney’s success rate in similar cases.

It’s also a good idea to check whether the attorney has received any accolades or recognition from professional organizations. Many respected legal groups, such as the Missouri Bar Association or the American Association for Justice, have lists of top attorneys in various practice areas. These are a strong indication of their skill and dedication to their clients.

Communication and Accessibility

Communication is key when working with any lawyer, but it’s especially important in medical malpractice cases. You want an attorney who’s responsive, listens to your concerns, and takes the time to explain your options. Medical malpractice cases can take time to resolve, and you’ll need an attorney who keeps you informed and updated throughout the process.

During your initial consultation, pay attention to how the attorney communicates with you. Are they willing to answer all your questions? Do they explain things in a way that you can understand? Do they make you feel heard and respected? The answers to these questions will give you a sense of whether the attorney is the right fit for your needs.

Fee Structure and Payment Terms

Before hiring a medical malpractice attorney, it’s important to understand how they charge for their services. Many attorneys work on a contingency fee basis for medical malpractice cases, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This can be a huge advantage for clients who may not have the resources to pay upfront fees.

It’s also important to discuss the fee structure in detail so there are no surprises later on. Make sure you understand what percentage the attorney will take from any settlement or award you receive and if there are any additional costs, such as court fees or expert witness fees, that you may be responsible for.

A reputable medical malpractice attorney will be upfront about their fees and will provide a clear explanation of their payment terms. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.

The Attorney’s Approach to Your Case

Every medical malpractice attorney has their own approach to handling cases. Some may prefer to settle cases quickly, while others may take a more aggressive stance in court. When meeting with potential attorneys, ask about their strategy for handling your case.

You want an attorney who will take the time to understand the specifics of your situation and develop a plan tailored to your needs. They should be willing to fight for the best possible outcome, whether that means negotiating a settlement or taking the case to trial. It's important to feel confident in the attorney’s ability to advocate for you every step of the way.

Availability and Personal Attention

In a medical malpractice case, you’ll want an attorney who gives your case the attention it deserves. Some large law firms may have a high volume of cases, which means you might not get the personal attention you need. While these firms can have the resources to handle your case, you may not get the level of individual attention you want.

When considering potential attorneys, ask about their caseload and how much time they can dedicate to your case. It’s important that you feel like a priority and not just another file on their desk. A good medical malpractice attorney will be available to discuss your case, address your concerns, and answer your questions in a timely manner.

Trial Experience

Not all medical malpractice cases end up in court, but it’s crucial to choose a medical malpractice attorney who has trial experience. Insurance companies and defendants often take cases more seriously when they know the attorney is willing to go to trial if necessary.

Ask the attorney about their trial experience and how comfortable they are handling cases in court. A lawyer with extensive trial experience can give you the confidence that they’ll be prepared for any eventuality, whether it’s negotiating a fair settlement or presenting your case to a jury.

Trust Your Gut Feeling

Finally, trust your instincts when choosing a medical malpractice attorney. After meeting with a few attorneys, you’ll likely have a sense of who you feel most comfortable with. 

You’ll want to choose someone who makes you feel confident, respected, and at ease. After all, this is a serious matter that will affect your future, and having the right attorney can help you move forward with peace of mind.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

While there are many excellent attorneys out there, it’s also important to watch out for red flags like the following:

• Lack of experience: If an attorney doesn’t have experience handling medical malpractice cases, it could be a sign that they’re not prepared to take on the challenges of your case.

• Unclear fees: Be wary of any attorney who is vague about their fees or reluctant to explain their fee structure in detail.

• Push for quick settlement: While settling a case quickly may seem appealing, an attorney who pushes for a quick resolution may not be fully considering all your options or the long-term implications of the case.

• Poor communication: If the attorney is difficult to reach or doesn’t respond to your questions in a timely manner, it could be a sign that they’re not dedicated to your case.

These are all signs that a medical malpractice attorney might not be the right fit for your case.

Reach Out Today

Choosing the right medical malpractice attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll make after suffering from medical negligence. By doing your research, asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts, you’ll be able to find an attorney who will be a strong advocate for your case. SJP Sifers Jensen Palmer serves clients in Kansas City, Missouri; Springfield, Missouri; the Kansas City Metropolitan Area; and throughout Kansas. Get in touch today.