California Medical Malpractice Legal Questions

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166 legal questions have been posted about medical malpractice by real users in California. Ask your question and dive into the knowledge of attorneys who handle your issue regularly. Similar topics to explore also include dental malpractice, birth injuries, and failure to diagnose. All topics and other states can be accessed in the dropdowns below.
California Medical Malpractice Questions & Legal Answers - Page 6
Do you have any California Medical Malpractice questions page 6 and need some legal advice or guidance? Ask a Lawyer to get an answer or read through our 166 previously answered California Medical Malpractice questions.

Recent Legal Answers

z,My dentist prepared a partial to fit over my gums. It cause pain and a sore that has lasted 2 months and aggrevated an existing EMJ injury.

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Dental malpractice cases are difficult to prosecute for a malpractice attorney because they are usually not financially viable. Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time-consuming.  Therefore, in most circumstances a patient must have suffered a significant permanent injury as a result of medical negligence for the case to be financially viable. Often, damage caused by dental malpractice can be remedied with additional care. Further, lasting damage is usually not significant enough to warrant the time and expense of a lawsuit. There are exceptions to this (for example trigeminal nerve injury cases). Additionally, since different offices have different standards for whether a case is worth prosecuting, if you are interested in pursuing this further you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
Dental malpractice cases are difficult to prosecute for a malpractice attorney because they are usually not financially viable. Medical malpractice... Read More

Do I have a malpractice case?

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Post-operative blood clots can develop in the absence of negligence. Nevertheless, in certain circumstances, accepted standards of care require a physician to anticipate the possibility of blood clots and prophylactically treat a patient with postoperative blood thinners to decrease the possibility that blood clots will develop. Additionally, in some circumstances people who are on lifelong anticoagulants need to be treated with a heparin bridge to avoid the possibility of developing postoperative blood clots. If you want to investigate a medical malpractice case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
Post-operative blood clots can develop in the absence of negligence. Nevertheless, in certain circumstances, accepted standards of care require a... Read More

Just wondering if it is worth pursuing

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If two separate physicians have told you that the surgery was done incorrectly than you may have a medical malpractice case worth investigating.  I think the question will be whether or not the case is financially viable.  This is especially the case if you are considering revision surgery, Which presumably will mitigate some of your problems. If you do want to investigate a claim, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
If two separate physicians have told you that the surgery was done incorrectly than you may have a medical malpractice case worth investigating.... Read More

Is it Malpratice if a DR. refuses to do a routine Urinalysis?

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I do not think you have a viable malpractice case. If the urinalysis came back negative but you were still having symptoms, it was probably within accepted standards of care to refer you for to a urologist. A course of antibiotics can result in a negative urine culture when you have bacterial infection, so I assume your doctor was foregoing the third urinalysis because he thought the antibiotics were creating false negatives. Beyond that, assuming the treatment for a Kidney infection resolves the issue, you will not have a financially viable claim even if they made a mistake.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This addresses the issue of financial viability.  Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
I do not think you have a viable malpractice case. If the urinalysis came back negative but you were still having symptoms, it was probably within... Read More

what is the statute of limitations for filing a medical malpractice

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
A statute of limitations is a law setting a time limit on legal action in certain cases. There are different statutes of limitations on different kinds of cases. For example, a breach of contract case often has a longer statute of limitations than a personal injury action. Complicating matters more is the fact that the statute of limitations in any cause of action is usually governed by state law, and different states have different time limitations. Click here for a website that provides a rough estimate of the statute of limitations in all 50 states for common causes of action. Note that this website advises that these limitations periods are merely rough estimates. You should contact a local attorney (one in your state) who can tell  you whether these estimates are correct. In medical malpractice cases, circumstances sometimes justify allowing cases to be filed after the statute of limitations expired. For example, if a surgeon leaves behind an instrument during a surgery and a  patient only discovers the foreign object after the limitations period has expired, most states have a common law exception to the statute of limitations that would allow a plaintiff to file a lawsuit that would otherwise be out of time. Finally, statutes of limitations usually incorporate exceptions that extend the limitations period for minors and people who are incapacitated. If you think that you may have a viable malpractice case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.... Read More
A statute of limitations is a law setting a time limit on legal action in certain cases. There are different statutes of limitations on... Read More

My vocal cord was paralyzed during surgery. Do I have a case for Medical Malpractice?

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I think it is great that the facility is voluntarily taking responsibility for what they did. Nevertheless, you have to make sure that the resolution process is fair.  Generally speaking, there are two aspects of damages in a medical malpractice case: economic loss and non-economic loss. Economic loss consists of lost wages caused by the impact of the injuries to your ability to earn a living, and out of pocket medical expenses (medical bills if your bills were not covered by insurance, or if your insurance company is entitled to subrogate in your malpractice action, reimbursement for what they have paid for injuries caused by negligence). Non-economic loss includes damages for pain, suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.  I believe California has a statutory cap on non-economic loss claims in medical malpractice cases. (Click here for an article addressing this by the AMA). Therefore, your claim for damages for non-economic loss will likely be limited to that amount. If you have no economic loss claims, it might make sense for you to settle your claim for $250,000 under these circumstances. If you do have lost wages and medical expenses, your case is worth the $250,000 plus whatever the total of those items are. Before you resolve your claim, you will need to determine whether your health insurance carrier or Medicare/Medicaid has a right to reimbursement for bills they paid related to injuries caused by negligence.  My recommendation is that you seek out a local medical malpractice lawyer (one in your state) advise him of the circumstances, and have him help yo u determine whether you have any economic loss claims. You should start off by advising him that the facility has already admitted responsibility and has asked you for a demand. You should work out a compromised fee arrangement with the attorney. Generally, they get 1/3 of your recovery, but if the facility is already seeking to settle the claim, perhaps you could negotiate either a compromised flat fee or offer to pay them at an hourly rate so that they do not get an unfair amount of money for doing such little work.   Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.     ... Read More
I think it is great that the facility is voluntarily taking responsibility for what they did. Nevertheless, you have to make sure that the resolution... Read More

Can I pursue a lawsuit if the procedure caused horrific damage, long term pain, and physical limitations?

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
The problem with plastic surgery cases in general is that nearly all doctors require patients to sign extensive informed consent paperwork that explains that the results from the surgery are not guaranteed. Under the circumstances, it is difficult to prevail in these cases. The debate usually centers on whether the results from surgery were within the range of reasonable rather than whether the defendant doctor was negligent. Also, while jurors deny it, they give plastic surgeons the benefit of the doubt in these cases because jurors often conclude the plaintiff brought the problems on himself because of vanity. It is not necessarily a fair conclusion, but it is a big obstacle in these cases. If you do want to investigate pursuing the case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
The problem with plastic surgery cases in general is that nearly all doctors require patients to sign extensive informed consent paperwork that... Read More

After back surgery I could not use left leg. Dr. never did test to find the problem. Malpractice or personal injury?

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If the screws were contacting nerves that you probably have a medical malpractice case worth investigating. If your condition improves, then there might be a question about whether your claim is financially viable.  You should probably seek a second opinion from a neurologist regarding the likelihood of recovery, and whether there is medication that can help ease your symptoms. If you want to investigate a medical malpractice case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.   ... Read More
If the screws were contacting nerves that you probably have a medical malpractice case worth investigating. If your condition improves, then there... Read More
I am sorry to hear about your mother.  Yes, it is very hard to prove medical malpractice cases.  Most state laws make it very difficult to sue a doctor, hospital or other health-care provider for malpractice.  Expert witnesses must be hired and they are very costly, time consuming and difficult.  Keep calling around and maybe you will find someone who can assist  you.  If not, hopefully you can find someone who can review the particulars of your potential case and explain to you in detail why they do not believe they can assist and/or represent you.  Best of luck. NOTE:  This response is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice.  No attorney-client relationship exists or is formed by this response. ... Read More
I am sorry to hear about your mother.  Yes, it is very hard to prove medical malpractice cases.  Most state laws make it very difficult to... Read More

carelessness by the hospital nurse ,husband found in the floor, unattended. went to comma without making incedent report .

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If you are considering a medical malpractice case, the big question will be whether it is financially viable. A lawyer will have to get a better understanding of your husband's underlying health conditions and investigate his financial circumstances at the time that the negligence occurred.  You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case.   Click here for an article that provides the main seven reasons why falsification of records does not pose a major problem in medical malpractice litigations. Click here for an article that provides suggestions about how to get answers to questions when an unexpected medical outcome occurs. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
If you are considering a medical malpractice case, the big question will be whether it is financially viable. A lawyer will have to get a better... Read More

Dr prescribed wrong dosage of meds for my grandson

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If you want to investigate a medical malpractice case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  I think the big question in your circumstances is whether the case is financially viable. Medical malpractice cases are very costly and tie consuming for lawyers to pursue, and in most circumstances attorneys will not take them on unless a patient suffered a significant permanent injury that causes substantial disability as a result of the medical mistake. If your grandson improves after he is taken off of the medication, then you will have a difficult time convincing a lawyer to take the case. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
If you want to investigate a medical malpractice case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take... Read More

At Kaiser had a breast reduction&lift done May 3rd 2012 both incisions underneath my nipples split open and it''s been almost 4months and I have

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
The problem with plastic surgery cases in general is that nearly all doctors require patients to sign extensive informed consent paperwork that explains that the results from the surgery are not guaranteed. Under the circumstances, it is difficult to prevail in these cases. The debate usually centers on whether the results from surgery were within the range of reasonable rather than whether the defendant doctor was negligent. Also, while jurors deny it, they give plastic surgeons the benefit of the doubt in these cases because jurors often conclude the plaintiff brought the problems on himself because of vanity. It is not necessarily a fair conclusion, but it is a big obstacle in these cases. If you do want to investigate pursuing the case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.... Read More
The problem with plastic surgery cases in general is that nearly all doctors require patients to sign extensive informed consent paperwork that... Read More

Please advise if this is a case of medical malpractice. All I need is to be back to normal, no money gain, I need help!

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It certainly sounds like you received inadequate post surgery follow-up care. Nevertheless, if the treatment that you finally received corrected these problems you likely to not have a financially viable medical malpractice case. Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time-consuming and in most circumstances unless the patient suffers a permanent injury that causes significant disability they cannot be pursued. If you want to investigate the claim further, you should contact a local personal injury attorney (one in your state).  Personal injury attorneys take  cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research personal injury attorneys. Then, visit each attorney's website and select a firm that has a record of successful verdicts. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.... Read More
It certainly sounds like you received inadequate post surgery follow-up care. Nevertheless, if the treatment that you finally received corrected... Read More

I had hip surgery nine months ago. I now have one leg higher than the other by approximately one inch. Do I have a case?

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I think you will find that this is an accepted complication of the procedure, that is, it is an outcome that can occur in the absence of negligence. If you want to investigate a claim, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.... Read More
I think you will find that this is an accepted complication of the procedure, that is, it is an outcome that can occur in the absence of... Read More

I was hospitalized in October 11, 2006 for treatment of a stroke that was cause by prescribed medications for diabetes.

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I believe you are going to have a problem with the statute of limitations in California if you are pursuing a medical malpractice case. The SOL is two years. There are exceptions to that rule, so if you want to investigate a case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  If you are investigating a products liability claim against the manufacturer of the drug that caused the stroke, that SOL might be longer.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
I believe you are going to have a problem with the statute of limitations in California if you are pursuing a medical malpractice case. The SOL is... Read More

I am trying to figure out if I have a medical malpractice case or not.

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It is not clear that the first surgery was negligent, and while the errant second surgery might have been, I think you are going to have a hard time proving that it was the cause of the ailment that persisted since the first surgery.  Nevertheless, if you want to investigate the case further, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts. Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Click here for more information about me. Click here for more information about my firm. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.   ... Read More
It is not clear that the first surgery was negligent, and while the errant second surgery might have been, I think you are going to have a hard time... Read More

Do I have any legal way to have a Dr who to me seems negligent in what he did, to be liable for the cost to repair his damage?

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It is not clear that you have a medical malpractice case. It is possible that you would have had the same result even if you were sent to a qualified surgeon at the outset. If you do have a case, there will be a question about whether it is financially viable. Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time-consuming.  Therefore, in most circumstances a patient must have suffered a significant permanent injury as a result of the medical negligence for the case to be financially viable. If you want to investigate a claim further, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability.  Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
It is not clear that you have a medical malpractice case. It is possible that you would have had the same result even if you were sent to a qualified... Read More

An 88 year old FINALLY got the hip X-Ray that he needed since the last one in 2005. But his PCP failed to order a hip X-Ray even though asked.

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Assuming your factual analysis is correct, you may be able to prove that the primary care physician was negligent.  Nevertheless, I think you're going to have a difficult time finding an attorney to take on the case because the advanced age of potential plaintiff is going to raise issues about the financial viability of the case. You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case. Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.   ... Read More
Assuming your factual analysis is correct, you may be able to prove that the primary care physician was negligent.  Nevertheless, I think you're... Read More

MY MOTHER IN LAW HAD AN OPERATION WHERE THEY REMOVED HER UTERUS 8 YEARS AGO AND 8 DAYS AFTER THE OPERATION THEY FOUND A BLOOD CLOT NOW SHES HAVING ISS

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Postoperative blood clots happen in the absence of negligence. Usually when they occur, a patient must be placed on anti-coagulants. In the absence of other information, it does not sound like your mother has a viable malpractice case.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.... Read More
Postoperative blood clots happen in the absence of negligence. Usually when they occur, a patient must be placed on anti-coagulants. In the absence... Read More

the radiologist misread my ct scan as me having ascending aortic dissection tpye - a went into surgery and there was no aorta tare my heart was fine

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
The mere fact that the radiologist read the film wrong does not necessarily mean that he was negligent. It is possible you have an anatomic anomaly that led to the diagnosis. That issue aside, if you suffered no ill-effects from the surgery, you probably do not have a financially viable malpractice case. Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time-consuming.  Therefore, in most circumstances a patient must have suffered a significant permanent injury as a result of the medical negligence for the case to be financially viable. If you would like to investigate a case, however, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well.  Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability.  Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
The mere fact that the radiologist read the film wrong does not necessarily mean that he was negligent. It is possible you have an anatomic anomaly... Read More

can i sue for damages after a rhinoplasty that didnt turn out as desired

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
The problem with plastic surgery cases in general is that nearly all doctors require patients to sign extensive informed consent paperwork that explains that the results from the surgery are not guaranteed. Under the circumstances, it is difficult to prevail in these cases. The debate usually centers on whether the results from surgery were within the range of reasonable rather than whether the defendant doctor was was negligent. Also, while jurors deny it, they give plastic surgeons the benefit of the doubt in these cases because jurors often conclude the plaintiff brought the problems on himself because of vanity. It is not necessarily a fair conclusion, but it is a big obstacle in these cases.  If you want to pursue a case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  They take these cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free. You can use the "Find a Lawyer" service through this website to research medical malpractice attorneys.  Then, visit each attorney's website and look for a firm that has a record of successful verdicts.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.  They are written for a New Jersey audience (where I practice) but the ideas discussed in these articles usually apply in most other jurisdictions as well. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.... Read More
The problem with plastic surgery cases in general is that nearly all doctors require patients to sign extensive informed consent paperwork that... Read More

My situation involves fee disputes over early termination of an orthodontic contract as well as dental malpractice

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You are going to have a very difficult time finding a malpractice attorney to take the case. To the extent that the orthodontist's care caused harm, it can probably be remedied by additional care, so you lack permanent damages and therefore the case is probably not financially viable.  The problem with pursuing a contract case is that you will essentially have to show that the care was inadequate or incorrect, which is the same thing as proving malpractice. Inevitably, the case will require expert support, which will make the case costly.  If you do want to pursue this, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  Medical malpractice attorneys work on a contingent fee basis, which means they only get paid out of the proceeds of the lawsuit if you win. They provide free initial consultations. Sometimes an attorney will ask you to pay a "retainer" to cover the some of the expenses of a case, this is an issue that varies from office to office. Again, I think you will have a difficult time finding an attorney who wants to take on the case.   Below are some articles that you may find helpful. Although they are written for my clients in New Jersey, most of the concepts carry over to other jurisdictions. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This discusses the issue of financial viability.  Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.... Read More
You are going to have a very difficult time finding a malpractice attorney to take the case. To the extent that the orthodontist's care caused harm,... Read More

This case is for the state of Missouri. I need help finding a lawyer. Will you be able to help?

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Go to Lawyers.com, and click the "Find a Lawyer" tab. It will walk you through how to select a lawyer with search criteria. You can then visit the websites of the attorneys in Missouri who you prefer, and call them directly.  Medical malpractice attorneys work on a contingent fee basis, which means they only get paid out of the proceeds of the lawsuit if you win. They provide free initial consultations. Sometimes an attorney will ask you to pay a "retainer" to cover the some of the expenses of a case, this is an issue that varies from office to office.  Good luck.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com.... Read More
Go to Lawyers.com, and click the "Find a Lawyer" tab. It will walk you through how to select a lawyer with search criteria. You can then visit the... Read More

I am just wondering if this is a case worth pursuing? The doctors put a cast on so tight it cut off circulation to my foot and now i have dead tissue.

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If you complained of a loss of sensation, they should have at least split the cast. If that did not relieve the problem, they should have taken the cast off. The question will be whether you are left with permanent damage as a result of the mistake. If the problem resolves, you probably do not have a financially viable case. If it does not, you should consult a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state). Medical malpractice attorneys work on a contingent fee basis, which means they only get paid out of the proceeds of the lawsuit if you win. They provide free initial consultations. Sometimes an attorney will ask you to pay a "retainer" to cover the some of the expenses of a case, this is an issue that varies from office to office. Gangrene is a very serious complication and if it spreads, you are going to have allot of issues to deal with. If your orthopedist has not referred you to a wound care specialist, you should absolutely insist on this.  Below are some articles that you may find helpful. Although they are written for my clients in New Jersey, most of the concepts carry over to other jurisdictions. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com... Read More
If you complained of a loss of sensation, they should have at least split the cast. If that did not relieve the problem, they should have taken the... Read More

I had gone to e.r. complaining of left shoulder and arm pain, i could"move my arm and instead of running any tests he just accussed me of wanting drug

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
The question is whether earlier intervention would have changed the outcome. MRSA infections are very insidious, so you will have to prove that an earlier diagnosis would have changed the circumstances. It will be difficult to do that, and assuming that you can, the damages in the case will be limited to the difference between those two possible outcomes.  Reasonable minds may differ in the analysis of whether you have a malpractice case. You might consider  contacting a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state). Medical malpractice attorneys work on a contingent fee basis, which means they only get paid out of the proceeds of the lawsuit if you win. They provide free initial consultations. Sometimes an attorney will ask you to pay a "retainer" to cover the some of the expenses of a case, this is an issue that varies from office to office. Below are some articles that you may find helpful. Although they are written for my clients in New Jersey, most of the concepts carry over to other jurisdictions. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case.  Click here for an article that explains what you can expect when filing a medical malpractice case.  Please note that by attempting to answer your question, I am not acting as your attorney. I will do nothing further to protect or preserve your interests in the absence of any additional discussion with you about this matter. John Ratkowitz, Esq. Starr, Gern, Davison & Rubin, P.C. 105 Eisenhower Parkway Roseland, NJ 07068 Office: (973) 830-8441 Cell: (732) 616-6278 Fax: (973) 226-0031 Email: jratkowitz@starrgern.com  Skype: john_ratkowitz Web: www.starrgern.com... Read More
The question is whether earlier intervention would have changed the outcome. MRSA infections are very insidious, so you will have to prove that an... Read More