As parents, our number one focus is on our children. Bringing a new life into the world should be a joyous experience that you cherish forever. However, there are instances where births don’t go to plan. It is estimated that roughly 28,000 babies in the United States are born each year with a birth injury, many of which are unfortunately caused by a healthcare professional’s negligence.
If your baby sadly falls into this statistic, you have the legal right to hold the healthcare provider responsible for their injuries. Regardless of where you live, here is a guide on how to pick the right birth injury lawyer for your case.
Hire a Lawyer that Focuses on Birth Injuries
One of the biggest mistakes that many individuals make when finding a birth injury lawyer is hiring a general practice attorney instead of one that specializes in birth injuries. While such claims and cases are unique, there are Birth injury malpractice lawyers who can help. Many general practice lawyers will be more than willing to take on your case. However, they may not be the right person for the job.
Look for Experience
Understandably, you will want to hire a lawyer who has broad experience in handling birth injury claims. If your baby suffers from HIE (hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy), you must find a lawyer who has had success in filing HIE claims. The more experience your birth injury lawyer has in cases like your own, the better.
Find a Lawyer with the Right Connections
The sole aim of a birth injury case is to prove that the healthcare provider in question was negligent with their care. This tends to be performed by hiring expert witnesses like obstetricians and neonatal specialists who will act and testify on your behalf. A reputable birth injury lawyer will have ready access to such experts.
Look for Transferable Skills
When filing your birth injury case, you must choose a lawyer who empathizes with your situation. The process can be lengthy and take its toll on your health. So, finding a birth injury lawyer that has transferable skills is key. Knowing how to communicate effectively, having compassion, and understanding time management are critical traits that all reputable birth injury lawyers must have. When going for your consultation, you will immediately know whether the law firm are suitable for your case.
Research Testimonials
If you’re still in doubt about what birth injury lawyer to hire, you can research into testimonials from past clients. All trustworthy birth injury law firms will house reviews and testimonials on their website which will give you a better indication of whether they’re right for you. If you can’t find reviews, you can take to social media platforms to find out more.
From the moment your child is born, you will do everything you can to keep your baby safe and out of harm’s way. Unfortunately, many babies are born with a birth injury that can have catastrophic consequences on their health and development. All the tips above can help you select the right birth injury lawyer in your area.
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