New Jersey Medical Malpractice Legal Questions

Want a good answer? Ask a thorough question starting with "Who, What, When, How, Will I or Do I".
Then, add details. This will help you get a quicker and better answer.
Question field is required
Explanation field is required
A valid US zip code is required Validating the Zip Code.
Question type field is required
Question type field is required
1
Ask a Question

2
Details

3
Submit
1
Ask a Question

2
Submit
Fullname is required
A valid email address is required.
Receive a follow-up from lawyers after your question is answered
A valid phone number is required
Select the best time for you to receive a follow-up call from a lawyer after your question is answered. (Required field)
to
Invalid Time

*Required fields

Question
Description
By submitting your question, you understand and agree to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy for use of the site. Do not include any personal information including name, email or other identifying details in your question or question details. An attorney-client relationship is not being established and you are not a prospective client of any attorney who responds to your question. No question, answer, or discussion of any kind facilitated on this site is confidential or legal advice. Questions answered are randomly selected based on general consumer interest and not all are addressed. Questions may display online and be archived by Martindale-Hubbell.
173 legal questions have been posted about medical malpractice by real users in New Jersey. 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.
New Jersey Medical Malpractice Questions & Legal Answers - Page 2
Do you have any New Jersey Medical Malpractice questions page 2 and need some legal advice or guidance? Ask a Lawyer to get an answer or read through our 173 previously answered New Jersey Medical Malpractice questions.

Recent Legal Answers

Is it to late to still file a lawsuit

Answered 11 years and 3 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 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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website. ... 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

How do I press charges against a doctor?

Answered 11 years and 3 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
The amazing part is that if you google this, you will learn that it happens pretty frequently. This is yet another example of how doctors are decades behind other industries in a basic committment to detail and safety. It is totally ridiculous.  I would think that a doctor who mistakenly impregnated you with the wrong sperm acted negligently and that this conclusion is largely indisputable. The tougher issue is how to quantify damages. In New Jersey, there is a cause of action for wrongful life, but these kinds of cases usually concern the birth of a baby with severe defects which should have been diagnosed early on in the pregnancy. There are probably parellels, but your situation is different for obvious reasons because you have a healthy baby. You might also have a case based on a breach of contract.  I think because this is not an ordinary medical malpractice case, an attorney will have to do some research to figure out how to help you. There are out of state cases litigating this issue, and they might provide guidance. After doing some research to determine the parameters of the various causes of action, the lawyer will be in a better position to provide you with insight about what you can expect in the way of a remedy through a litigation. Beyond this, family law issues also might be implicated, because your daughter's biological father was also a victim here. Do you know if they contacted the donor already?  I would start with a medical malpractice lawyer. Med mal lawyers (as opposed to contract lawyers or family lawyers) 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.             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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.       ... Read More
The amazing part is that if you google this, you will learn that it happens pretty frequently. This is yet another example of how doctors are decades... Read More

does my mother have the right to sue for medical Negligence

Answered 11 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It is hard to answer your question because you're not providing any information about the specific medication your mother took, but obviously if that's what caused your mother symptoms and problems then she probably received negligent care. The real question will be whether the case is financially viable because if the subsequent medical care obviated any problems then with no permanent injuries you will have a difficult time finding an attorney to get involved in a protracted litigation. 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.  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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. ... Read More
It is hard to answer your question because you're not providing any information about the specific medication your mother took, but obviously if... Read More

What determines if you have a case for medical malpractice or can you sue a medical establishment for insufficient health care

Answered 11 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It sounds like you have concluded that you have grounds for medical malpractice case although you have failed to provide enough information to really evaluate whether your suspicions are well grounded. The big question the case will be whether you can overcome a statue limitations defense because you have two years to file a malpractice case in most circumstances. There is an exception called the "discovery rule" which will allow you to file malpractice case when you knew or should've known that you were the victim of negligence. This might toll the statute limitations. This is a fact sensitive inquiry to know whether discovery rule applies an attorney will have to carefully review the medical records. 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.  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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website. ... Read More
It sounds like you have concluded that you have grounds for medical malpractice case although you have failed to provide enough information to really... Read More

can I sue the hospital and 2 physicians?

Answered 11 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It's hard to provide you with a reasoned analysis of your circumstances because you don't indicate what your mother was finally diagnosed with. If you think your mothers death could have been prevented by appropriate medical care then you should contact the malpractice attorney. 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.  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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website. ... Read More
It's hard to provide you with a reasoned analysis of your circumstances because you don't indicate what your mother was finally diagnosed with. If... Read More

Do I have a law suit?

Answered 11 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You are going to have a difficult medical malpractice case because it sounds like your infection was timely diagnosed when you presented with symptoms of that problem. If it was a simple laceration and not a deep puncture one and I don't think accepted standards of care would've required to receive prophylactic antibiotics. It does sound like you might have a significant injury and so you should probably contact the Worker's Compensation Atty. relative to that claim.  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 and here for more information about me. 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. ... Read More
You are going to have a difficult medical malpractice case because it sounds like your infection was timely diagnosed when you presented with... Read More

Possible medical wrong doing

Answered 11 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Its a little hard to follow what your specific question is, but in general, when falls occur in a facility and the patient is a known fall risk, there is a possible case. The fact that your mom passed away after the second fall raises issues about the finanial viability of the case, but there is the potential for fee shifting in every nursing home negligence case if she was a patient in a nursing home.  If you want to investigate a case, you should contact a lawyer who specializes in nursing home negligence cases.  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. If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine.  Click here and here for more information about me. 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. ... Read More
Its a little hard to follow what your specific question is, but in general, when falls occur in a facility and the patient is a known fall risk,... Read More

Was my Ob/GYN negligent and can i sue?

Answered 11 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You may have a viable medical malpractice case. Most hospitals have strict ectopic pregnancy protocols and you would expect a reputable OB/GYN to screen for that condition if you presented with signs and symptoms consistent with it. To know for sure, attorney would have to look at the pertinent medical records. 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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website. ... Read More
You may have a viable medical malpractice case. Most hospitals have strict ectopic pregnancy protocols and you would expect a reputable OB/GYN to... Read More

Can I sue the 1st hospital that only treated me for a bowel blockage when I really needed a bowel resection?

Answered 11 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
it is hard to tell you whether you have a viable medical malpractice case without looking at the records. Obviously, the fact that you were discharged from the hospital and then readmitted with what amounted to a medical emergency requiring surgical intervention provides you with a good reason to be suspicious about the care that you received in the first hospital. You should contact a medical malpractice lawyer in the state where you receive the care. 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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.   ... Read More
it is hard to tell you whether you have a viable medical malpractice case without looking at the records. Obviously, the fact that you were... Read More

Do I have a medical malpractice case for misdiagnosis

Answered 11 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice cases based on failure to diagnose Lyme disease are difficult because Lyme disease mimics the signs and symptoms of other medical conditions. Nevertheless, if you live in an area where Lyme disease is prevailant and you had signs and symptoms of that condition for a prolonged period of time it is possible that you have a viable case. An attorney will have to request all of the pertinent medical records and then run them by an expert, probably a rheumatologist. 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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.   ... Read More
Medical malpractice cases based on failure to diagnose Lyme disease are difficult because Lyme disease mimics the signs and symptoms of other medical... Read More

I believe my husband died from a cerebral hemorrage due to the use of Warfarin also known as Coumadin

Answered 11 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If your husband was on Coumadin and they failed to monitor his INR levels and this caused his stroke, you may have a viable medical malpractice case. To know for sure an attorney would have to review the medical records.  Patients on Coumadin with some kidney dysfunction may suffer kidney failure because of renal hematomas, so your hunch that the Coumadin use was related to that problem as well might be correct.  You have two years from the date your husband passed away to file a medical malpractice/wrongful death case.  Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. I recently dealt with a case involving Coumadin. Click here to review articles that I have published.  Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.   ... Read More
If your husband was on Coumadin and they failed to monitor his INR levels and this caused his stroke, you may have a viable medical malpractice case.... Read More

Can I sue for a horribly done root canal

Answered 11 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Dental Malpractice   Answered by New Jersey Medical Malpractice Attorney John Ratkowitz.   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.  If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. 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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.    ... Read More
Dental Malpractice   Answered by New Jersey Medical Malpractice Attorney John Ratkowitz.   Dental malpractice cases are difficult to... Read More

Can I sue if I have nerve damage

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
To know whether you have a viable medical malpractice case, an attorney would have to look at the records. Nerve damage can occur following spinal surgery in the absence of negligence. The question will be whether you can determine how the nerve damage occurred. If you woke up from surgery and you had symptoms immediately, that suggests that the damage occurred during the surgical procedure. If the symptoms developed over time and got progressively worse, that could suggest a failure of hardware or prosthetic.  Also, what is the nature of your symptoms? Every medical malpractice case raises the issue of financial viability. That subject is covered in some of the articles in the hyperlinks below.  If you want to investigate a case, you should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  Most medical malpractice attorneys (including me) work 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.   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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.     ... Read More
To know whether you have a viable medical malpractice case, an attorney would have to look at the records. Nerve damage can occur following spinal... Read More

Based on the details shown below, does my case qualify filing a lawsuit?

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Mytomycin is given directly into the bladder through a urinary catheter.  The urinary catheter is inserted through the urethra (the tube which carries urine from the bladder to the outside the body).  The mitomycin solution is injected into the catheter, which is then removed.  Normal walking around helps to disperse the medication throughout the bladder.  The medication is left in for about 2 hours, after which the patient then empties the bladder (urinates).  The question is how did the medication get into your pelvic region. I think your theory that there was a perforation during the surgery is the most likely. Click here for a paper discussing a similar complication. In that case, a cytoscopy revealed the perforation. Was that done? If you have a perforation, I would think that needs to be surgically repaired, so it sounds like the medical side of your story is still incomplete. It sounds like a cytoscopy needs to be performed and if you have a perforation, that needs to be surgically repaired. I do not think that will ameliorate all of your problems, however, because Mytomycin likely damaged your internal organs.  All attorneys (including me) who litigate medical malpractice cases do so on a contingency basis.   Below are some articles you may find helpful.  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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.   ... Read More
Mytomycin is given directly into the bladder through a urinary catheter.  The urinary catheter is inserted through the urethra (the tube which... Read More

I was hurt during my pregnancy at UMDNJ. I was wondering can I sue them ?

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If they let a sponge in, that is malpractice. If they prescribed medicine you were allergic to, and the allergy was noted in your chart, that is malpractice. The question is whether a medical malpractice case is financially viable. To know the answer to that question, an attorney would have to review the medical records.  Note that you have ninety days to file a Notice of Claim against UMDNJ.  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.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.   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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website. ... Read More
If they let a sponge in, that is malpractice. If they prescribed medicine you were allergic to, and the allergy was noted in your chart, that is... Read More

I wanted to know if there is any change to sue a doctor.

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You have reason to be suspicious if your mother underwent surgery to correct a leaky heart valve and within a month of that procedure she had the same problem the surgery was supposed to correct. I think the question in the case will be whether it is financially viable, because if the second surgery repairs the problem then most attorneys will conclude that the damages are limited and probably do not warrant the time and expense of a medical malpractice litigation. Financial viability is a judgment call, however, and different attorneys have different standards about the issue.  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.  Below are some articles you may find helpful.   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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website. ... Read More
You have reason to be suspicious if your mother underwent surgery to correct a leaky heart valve and within a month of that procedure she had the... Read More

Can you sue your dentist if they messed your teeth up with braces but u stop going to your checkup?

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
if you can prove that the dentist or orthodontist was negligent, you may have a viable case. Nevertheless, if you didn't follow up and not had an impact on the outcome the dentist/orthodontist will definitely have a noncompliance defense. Beyond this, 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.  If you are unable to find a lawyer who meets these qualifications within your state, sometimes you may contact an out of state lawyer who can refer you to a qualified attorney in your state while providing support related to the issues of medicine. 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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.  ... Read More
if you can prove that the dentist or orthodontist was negligent, you may have a viable case. Nevertheless, if you didn't follow up and not had an... Read More

I had rotator cuff surgery and now I cant use my (dominant) hand

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It sounds like the surgeon caused a brachial plexus injury during surgery.  Unfortunately, injuries to the peripheral nerve during surgery can be treatable, but brachial plexus injuries do not have a good prognosis. You should definitely contact a medical malpractice lawyer so that he can review the pertinent records.  Medical malpractice lawyers take cases on a contingency basis which means you only have to pay if you succeed.  Additionally, initial consultations are usually free.  Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Below are some articles you may find helpful.   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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.  ... Read More
It sounds like the surgeon caused a brachial plexus injury during surgery.  Unfortunately, injuries to the peripheral nerve during surgery can... Read More

I was treated at a local hospital and was treated terrible. very very bad. And then I went to a diff hospital and was told I have a herniated disc.

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
A viable malpractice case requires three essential elements: negligence, proximate cause and damages. The short delay diagnosis probably caused you no additional harm and therefore any case against the first hospital is going to have difficulty proving proximate cause and damages. 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.  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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.    ... Read More
A viable malpractice case requires three essential elements: negligence, proximate cause and damages. The short delay diagnosis probably caused you... Read More

Do I have a New Jersey Medical malpractice case?

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You do not have a financially viable medical malpractice case because while you may have received sloppy care, you were not significantly harmed by what you went through, and under the circumstances the case is not financially viable. The articles below describe this in more detail.  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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.  ... Read More
You do not have a financially viable medical malpractice case because while you may have received sloppy care, you were not significantly harmed by... Read More

can I sue if they doctor did my epidural wrong

Answered 11 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It sounds like you might have a case worth investigating. Have you seen a neurologist since the injection? Have they performed an EMG to determine whether you have an injured nerve? When you solve the questions surrounding your current medical condition an attorney will have a better idea if you have a viable malpractice case.  You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your state).  Most of us 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.   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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.  ... Read More
It sounds like you might have a case worth investigating. Have you seen a neurologist since the injection? Have they performed an EMG to determine... Read More

I had blood clots in my leg and foot. Procedure to remove them was done.

Answered 11 years and 9 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Go to a physician or the emergency room, because the danger is that you have additional clots, which if left untreated can progress to a pulmonary embolism, a life threatening condition.  After you have sought medical care, and you have some idea of what you are dealing with, contact an attorney. You have two years from the date of negligence to file a lawsuit, so you have plenty of time to deal with the medical issues first, which should obviously take priority until you know exactly what is going on. Then, if you want to invetigate 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. This discusses the issue of financial viability. Click here for an article that explains what you can and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website. ... Read More
Go to a physician or the emergency room, because the danger is that you have additional clots, which if left untreated can progress to a pulmonary... Read More

Do I have grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit?

Answered 11 years and 9 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You can probably establish a liability claim, perhaps against the surgeon or the anesthesiologist, but the real question will be whether the case is financially viable. Click here for a discussion of these claims and their value.  If you were significantly traumatized, then you might have a claim worth investigating, but if the value of the case is less than $100,000, you might have a difficult time finding an attorney to take the case on.  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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website.   ... Read More
You can probably establish a liability claim, perhaps against the surgeon or the anesthesiologist, but the real question will be whether the case is... Read More

Daughter had stomach surgey on tue may 13 sent home by surguron on may 20 without doctor permission

Answered 11 years and 10 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It is hard to tell you whether you have a viable medical malpractice case because we do not know the outcome yet. If you daughter was permanently harmed because she was discharged prematurely, she might have a viable medical malpractice case. Deal with the medical issues that are on your plate right now, and when the dust settles and you have a better idea if this extends beyond a day of discomfort, then contact a medical malpractice lawyer. Ordinarilly, you have two years from the date of negligence to file a lawsuit under the SOL. If your daughter is a minor, that is extended until two years from her 18th birthday.  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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website. ... Read More
It is hard to tell you whether you have a viable medical malpractice case because we do not know the outcome yet. If you daughter was permanently... Read More

am i at fought because i didn't demand a mri?

Answered 11 years and 10 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
You are not at fault for failing to insist on an MRI, you are not a doctor. You may have been the victim of negligent care, but the question in the case will be whether an earlier diagnosis would have changed the outcome. When people are diagnosed with avascular necrosis, the disease is usually pretty advanced and surgery is really the only option. Click here for an article discussing the medicine. If you cannot prove that the delay in diagnosis caused a different outcome, you will lose the case on proximate cause.  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 and should expect when pursuing a medical malpractice case. Click here, here  and here for more information about me. Click here for summaries of some of the cases that I have litigated. Click here to review articles that I have published. Since I am a lawyer, I need to advise you of the following when I communicate with you: 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  Click here for my website. ... Read More
You are not at fault for failing to insist on an MRI, you are not a doctor. You may have been the victim of negligent care, but the question in the... Read More