How to Prepare for the Initial Consultation with a Medical Malpractice Lawyer

If you received questionable medical care and you called an attorney as soon as you realized you might have been the victim of malpractice, you’re on the right track. Medical malpractice claims are inherently complex, so enlisting legal help right away can give your action the best chance of success.

A resourceful law firm can handle virtually every aspect of the case on your behalf. There are a few things you can do on your end, however, to ensure your claim gets off to a strong start.

When preparing to meet with your personal injury lawyer for the first time, for example, make sure to do the following:

1. Compile Your Medical Records

Your medical records will inevitably serve as the foundation of your claim, so gather everything you can in preparation for your initial consultation. Pertinent documents include diagnostic images, nursing logs, hospital intake forms, prescriptions, and psychological evaluations. If you sought care from another provider after suffering complications, compile the records associated with that treatment, as well.

2. Start a Daily Journal

Victims of medical malpractice are encouraged to start a personal injury journal as soon as possible Write daily entries about your journey on the road to recovery, so you can back up your claim for non-economic damages like pain and suffering when the time comes. These entries will also supplement your medical records, giving the insurance adjuster a clearer picture of how your doctor’s negligence has impacted your everyday life.

3. Gather Documentation of Damages

In order for your legal team to determine how much your claim is likely worth, they’re going to have to review all the expenses you’ve incurred as a result of the complications you suffered. While the damages are going to keep adding up until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement, you can help them establish a starting point by bringing the bills and invoices that correspond with the losses you’ve already incurred to your first meeting.

If you’ve been unable to work because of your condition, you should also bring along your most recent tax return and the paystubs tracking any missed shifts.

4. Write Down Any Questions You Have

At the end of the consultation, you’ll get the opportunity to ask any questions you might have. Since you’ll likely be inundated with information during the meeting, it’s wise to write these down in advance, so you don’t forget any of them.

Questions worth asking during your first meeting include:

• What is your fee structure?
• What do you think is the most likely outcome of my claim?
• Do you think my case will go all the way to trial?
• How can I reach you if I have any questions or concerns?
• What can I do to bolster my claim moving forward?

Discuss Your Case with a Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Florida

If your health care provider made a mistake and you suffered as a result, turn to Emerson Straw for help. With the resources of a powerhouse practice, we still approach every claim with the care and attention of a small, local firm. Call (727) 821-1500 or fill out our Contact Form to set up a free case review with a medical malpractice attorney in Florida.