Memphis Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Medical Malpractice FAQ

What is medical malpractice? Generally defined, medical malpractice is negligent conduct by a professional in the field of medicine. It occurs when a doctor, nurse, surgeon, anesthesiologist, dentist or any other medical professional fails to provide a level of care as per the accepted standards at the time.

What is negligence? Negligence is a word that is often used in conjunction with medical malpractice and personal injury cases. By definition negligence is a civil wrong causing injury or harm to another through action or inaction. In the medical arena, negligence occurs when a medical professional fails to provide a reasonable or proper level of care to a patient. This may occur in the diagnosis or treatment of a patient, or in post-operative care.

What are some forms of medical malpractice? Some of the most common forms of medical malpractice include birth injuries, medication errors, surgical malpractice, failure to diagnose, medical errors, and pharmacy errors. Additional forms include anesthesia malpractice, dental malpractice, plastic surgery malpractice, and emergency room errors.

What are some injuries that may result from medical malpractice? Medical malpractice or medical negligence of any kind may result in a variety of injuries, ranging from relatively minor side effects of the wrong medication all the way to the loss of a limb or other body part due to a botched surgery. Medical malpractice may also result in death.

Do I need an attorney? While you are certainly not legally required to hire an attorney if you have been injured or lost a loved one due to medical malpractice, you will most likely benefit from at least consulting an attorney as soon as possible. A medical malpractice claim will be complex and will need to be handled properly in order for you to recover the financial compensation that you need and deserve. A Memphis medical malpractice attorney can determine what your claim is worth and can then take the necessary legal action to pursue that amount either in an out of court settlement or civil court judgment.

Contact a Memphis medical malpractice lawyer at the Law Office of John Whitfield today for a free consultation!