Texas Medical Malpractice Legal Questions

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Texas Medical Malpractice Questions & Legal Answers - Page 5
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Recent Legal Answers

Do i still have case after two years if i am still under doctors care for same thing

Answered 13 years and 5 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.  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

Do doctors have to tell a patient they have cancer?

Answered 13 years and 5 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Accepted standards of care certainly require a doctor to tell a patient that he has cancer if that diagnosis was made. If the failure to advise your grandfather that he had cancer impacted his chance of a cure, and you want to investigate a 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 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 Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
Accepted standards of care certainly require a doctor to tell a patient that he has cancer if that diagnosis was made. If the failure to advise your... Read More
I don't think you have a viable malpractice case. If you carry the baby to term and there are some kinds of issues with the baby, that is an entirely different issue, and you should consult an attorney at that point if you ever cross that bridge. Click here for an article regarding the potential impact of taking birth control pills while pregnant. You'll see that the evidence suggests that everything should be okay. 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 Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
I don't think you have a viable malpractice case. If you carry the baby to term and there are some kinds of issues with the baby, that is an entirely... Read More

Medical malpractice and medical negligence

Answered 13 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Not every bad result following spinal surgery is a result of medical negligence.  Without knowing more facts, it is hard to tell you whether you have a viable case.  Nevertheless, if you want to investigate a 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 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 Web: www.starrgern.com. ... Read More
Not every bad result following spinal surgery is a result of medical negligence.  Without knowing more facts, it is hard to tell you whether you... Read More

I had a blood clot in my leg due to a broken ankle. I was not told till two weeks after they did a doppler

Answered 13 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Assuming that they negligently failed to report the results of the dopplers, I do not think the outcome would have been different, and therefore I do not think you have a financially viable medical malpractice case.  Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time 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.  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
Assuming that they negligently failed to report the results of the dopplers, I do not think the outcome would have been different, and therefore I do... Read More

I was taken into emergency surgery due to an ectopic pregnancy which was not diagnosed by my doctor.

Answered 13 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
On balance, it does not sound to me like you have a viable medical malpractice case. When a patient has an ectopic pregnancy, symptoms include bleeding, back pain, flank pain, and elevated blood serum pregnancy levels. If these symptoms are present, and the diagnosis is suspected, a physician should perform frequent examinations and serially test for “Hcg" levels. A sonogram after about the 7th week of gestation can usually determine if the pregnancy is within the uterus. If the pregnancy hormone levels are increasing, and the pregnancy is not within the uterus, and the patient is experiencing symptoms, there should be a higher index of suspicion of an ectopic pregnancy. It sounds like the signs and symptoms were not there. Nevertheless, 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 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
On balance, it does not sound to me like you have a viable medical malpractice case. When a patient has an ectopic pregnancy, symptoms include... Read More

Do I have a case for medical malpractice?

Answered 13 years and 6 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
It sounds like you have reason to suspect whether you are the victim of a medication error.  The question will be whether you have a financially viable case.  The answer turns on whether the medication error caused you any permanent harm.  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 sounds like you have reason to suspect whether you are the victim of a medication error.  The question will be whether you have a financially... Read More

Do I have a case of medical neglect from an colonoscopy?

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Assuming that the second doctor successfully removed the remainder of the precancerous polyps, you do not have a financially viable medical malpractice case.  Medical malpractice cases are very costly and time 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.  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 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
Assuming that the second doctor successfully removed the remainder of the precancerous polyps, you do not have a financially viable medical... Read More

How long are the statue of limitations on 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

Do I have a case against an ER doctor for causing unnessery pain by repeattly stick a qtip down my nose over and over thinking i wasnt ill.

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
What you describe is certainly not medical care that comports with accepted standards, but I don't think you have a financially viable medical malpractice case.  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.  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
What you describe is certainly not medical care that comports with accepted standards, but I don't think you have a financially viable medical... Read More

In April 2010 I hit my elbow on a door jam really hard and passed out. I went to my primary care doctor and was referred to an orthopedic surgeon.

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If the orthopedist never even took an x-ray or did anything to evaluate the possibility of the fracture you may have a medical malpractice case. There will be an issue about whether it is financially viable. The answer to that question may depend on how well you recover from the surgery. 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
If the orthopedist never even took an x-ray or did anything to evaluate the possibility of the fracture you may have a medical malpractice case.... Read More

I was just wondering if i had case if a pharmacy gave me the wrong perscription for my 4 mth old son which according to the doctonr could have kille

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Assuming your son is healthy, you probably do not have a financially viable case. If it caused him lasting harm, then you should consider 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.  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. 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
Assuming your son is healthy, you probably do not have a financially viable case. If it caused him lasting harm, then you should consider contact a... Read More

statute of limit med.malpractice? shoulder surgery missed tear, only labrum repaired, 2nd surgery required. Cortisone shots caused hospital visit

Answered 13 years and 7 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Most states have a statute of limitations between 2-3 years. Some have SOL that are longer. Nevertheless, because malpractice is not always obvious, and people only become suspicious after receiving a second opinion, the common law allows for the tolling of the statute of limitations under a "discovery rule."  The argument is that a "reasonable person" in the patient's position would not have initially known that he was the victim of medical malpractice. The SOL in these circumstances begins to toll when a reasonable person should have known that the defendant doctor did something wrong.  I think you will get by any SOL problem, but if the second surgery cures your problems, I think there will be a question about whether or not the malpractice case is financially viable.  To investigate your 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. 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
Most states have a statute of limitations between 2-3 years. Some have SOL that are longer. Nevertheless, because malpractice is not always obvious,... Read More

My mother was having symptoms of a stroke and her Dr. sent her home and my mother passed away soon after. Would this be a case of negligence?

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
it sounds like you have a potential medical malpractice case although if the autopsy indicates that your mother did not die from a stroke then there will be a question about whether the negligent medical care led to death. 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. ... Read More
it sounds like you have a potential medical malpractice case although if the autopsy indicates that your mother did not die from a stroke then there... Read More

if a doctor did a surgery on me and did not follow up because of the fact i had no insurance and it later caused damage to my kidneys do i have a case

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
I think the problem you are going to have is an issue of proximate cause.  While the doctor refused to provide you with continuing care, there was nothing preventing you from visiting the hospital earlier to deal with these problems and so arguably damages caused by the delay were not specifically caused by the doctors refusal to provide you with uncompensated care. This is only my opinion, and another malpractice attorney might come to a different conclusion.  If you would like to pursue 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.  At face value, you may have a statute of limitations problem.  This is an issue you should raise with any attorney that you contact. 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
I think the problem you are going to have is an issue of proximate cause.  While the doctor refused to provide you with continuing care, there... Read More

Can a dentist be held liable for a botched root canal in which the dentist failed to remove an entire root and failed to completely clean out the site

Answered 13 years and 8 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 the 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.  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

I was diagnosed with Parkinsons. I was taken off depakote and started on Zonisamide. The depakote caused the symptoms. Do I have grounds to sue?

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
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. If you cannot find an attorney who prosecutes these cases specifically, choose a reputable firm who may attempt to refer you to the right person for a referral fee. You may have a viable products liability case against the manufacturer of the drug.  If you Google the drug and "class-action lawsuits" you will see that there have been litigations related to birth defects.  Additionally, click here for a link regarding a recent settlement regarding the promotion of the use of the drug for "off label" use. 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 should contact a local personal injury attorney (one in your state).  Personal injury attorneys take  cases on a contingency basis... Read More

Can i sue the hospital? And win the case? With a lawyers help?

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
The failure to diagnose a medical condition immediately is not always negligence. Infections are usually an accepted complication of any medical procedure. I think the problem with any case that you pursue will be that the delay in diagnosis is not likely going to be the cause of lasting harm.  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 attempt 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. 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 failure to diagnose a medical condition immediately is not always negligence. Infections are usually an accepted complication of any medical... Read More

My husband just recently passed away 7/2/12. He was diagnozed with Bladder Cancer Stage 4 in March 2011.

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
First, I'm sorry for your loss. Losing a loved one to cancer is a very rough process to go through and it is a hard thing to bounce back from.  Many clients that I have in circumstances similar to you really do benefit from grief counseling and support groups and if you are not doing that you should consider it. Most states require physicians to provide patients with informed consent, which would include an accurate description of any treatment options and the likely expectations related to these options.   At face value, it does not sound like any physician attempted to mislead you.  Appreciate the fact that prognoses related to cancer treatment are based on a statistical analysis, and any single patient can have a different outcome from the statistical norm.  For example, Lance Armstrong had metastatic cancer and he managed to survive what was essentially a death sentence and he has been cancer free since then.  Statistically, he had close to a 0% chance of five-year survival rate, but in hindsight he was one of the lucky ones. Beyond this, even if the doctors were less than forthright regarding your husband's prognosis, it's very unlikely that you have a financially viable malpractice claim given your husband's untimely death due to the disease. 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 article 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
First, I'm sorry for your loss. Losing a loved one to cancer is a very rough process to go through and it is a hard thing to bounce back from.... Read More

If a person is misdiagnosed and not given appropriate medication to prevent pain and suffering can doctor''s be sued?

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
it sounds like your mother received care that was negligent, but there is going to be a big question about whether a medical malpractice case is financially viable given the fact that (1) the fracture was eventually diagnosed and dealt with and (2) your mother's untimely death due to the cancer. If you would like to investigate whether you have a 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 free. 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 which is an obstacle you're going to have to overcome in a case filed on behalf of your mother. 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 sounds like your mother received care that was negligent, but there is going to be a big question about whether a medical malpractice case is... Read More

I fealt severe pain during my c-section and was told I wouldn''t. Dr kept drugging me until I was loopy.

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
If you suffered no permanent injury, then you likely do not have a financially viable medical malpractice case.  Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This article discusses why a doctor's malpractice must cause significant permanent injuries for a case to be financially viable. 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 suffered no permanent injury, then you likely do not have a financially viable medical malpractice case.  Click here for an article that... Read More

I received a 3rd degree burn on my calf and foot from a cast applied after ankle surgery in August of 2010. Do I have a case?

Answered 13 years and 8 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Surgical burns are usually preventable and the result of negligence.  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. 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.... Read More
Surgical burns are usually preventable and the result of negligence.  You should contact a local medical malpractice attorney (one in your... Read More
The answer is yes.  Search for attorneys in your area (or, if your husband is being held somewhere else, then in the area or state where he's being held) who do civil rights or federal tort claims act cases.  Searching for both or either of those terms should turn up a group of lawyer who you can talk to about your husband's case. I wish you and him the best of luck.... Read More
The answer is yes.  Search for attorneys in your area (or, if your husband is being held somewhere else, then in the area or state where he's... Read More

want to know if i have a case my daughter had her apendix taken out but she developed an infection due to the dr wrong procedure

Answered 13 years and 9 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 medical malpractice case given the factual description you have provided. If you are suggesting that your daughter suffered an infection because the surgeon mistakenly ruptured her appendix during the surgery to remove it then you may have a malpractice case. You should contact a medical malpractice attorney in Texas and discuss the facts of the case with him. These cases are taken on a contingency basis and initial consultations are free. Even if there was a surgical mishap if your daughter completely recovered from this episode there may be a question about whether the case is financially viable. Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential medical malpractice case. This article addresses 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 hard to tell you whether you have a medical malpractice case given the factual description you have provided. If you are suggesting that your... Read More

What is the statute of limitations for med. malpractice? I

Answered 13 years and 9 months ago by John Joseph Ratkowitz, Esq. (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Medical Malpractice
Statutes of limitations vary from state to state. I do not know what the statute of limitations for a medical malpractice is for Texas. In New Jersey, it is two years from the date that you knew or should have known the physician committed malpractice. This is a fact sensitive inquiry and often an attorney can only determine whether you can overcome a statute of limitations problem by looking at the relevant medical records. You may or may not have a viable malpractice case. Some surgical mishaps are deemed to be "accepted complications" of the surgical procedure. I have investigated hernia surgery cases involving surgical mishaps and reached that conclusion. An attorney will need to evaluate your medical records to ascertain whether your complications were the result of negligence. Also, there have been recalls and products liability cases filed against some manufacturers of hernia meshes. A local malpractice attorney will be able to advise you whether you have a products liability claim. The statute of limitations on these cases are usually longer than in medical malpractice cases. Medical malpractice and products liability cases are usually taken on a contingency basis, and consultations are free.  Click here for an article that discusses the three main questions I ask when deciding whether to investigate a potential 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
Statutes of limitations vary from state to state. I do not know what the statute of limitations for a medical malpractice is for Texas. In New... Read More