Medical Malpractice Lawyer Portland

Medical Malpractice Attorneys in Oregon Serving Injury & Malpractice Victims - Call (503) 862-8666

Medical malpractice is a serious problem in the United States. When you or a loved one is under the care of a doctor, physician, or medical professional, you expect the medical staff to resolve the issue—not cause further damage. When this happens, whether by an incompetent act or an omission of care, it can be considered medical negligence or malpractice, and you could have the right to financial compensation.

If a hospital or medical professional has failed to provide the expected level of patient care and it has resulted in a serious and damaging personal injury, now is the time to act. You need to reach out to our Portland medical malpractice lawyer right away for counsel regarding your personal injury case.

At Angel Law, P.C., our Portland medical malpractice lawyers are well-versed in this area of law and can provide the guidance and support you need. Our law firm understands that each medical malpractice case is unique and requires personalized representation. We pride ourselves on being available to our clients, ensuring that their voices are not only heard, but that their rights are vigorously protected. By understanding the intricacies and personal aspects of each individual situation, we are better equipped to offer formidable legal guidance.

Why Choose Our Medical Malpractice Attorney?

• Millions of Dollars Recovered for Clients in Portland
• No Attorney Fees Unless We Win
• Chosen for Super Lawyers® (Top 5% of Attorneys in the State)
• Selected for the National Trial Lawyers: Top 100

Click any of the topics below to jump to that section on the page:

• What is Considered Medical Malpractice?
• Is There A Difference Between Medical Malpractice and Medical Negligence?
• How to Find a Medical Malpractice Attorney
• Types of Cases Our Firm Can Handle
• Contact Our Firm Today

Take legal action by scheduling a free consultation. Call (503) 862-8666 today.

What is Considered Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a hospital, doctor, or health care professional, through a negligent act, causes an injury to a patient. The negligence could be the result of errors in diagnosis, treatment, aftercare, or health management.

Understanding what constitutes medical malpractice can be complex. It requires proving that the healthcare provider deviated from the standard of care in a way that resulted in harm to the patient. While occasional mistakes in healthcare settings can occur without constituting malpractice, instances where blatant errors such as improper medication doses or leaving surgical instruments inside a patient's body often meet the criteria. Each case demands a thorough review of the medical records and expert testimony to establish both negligence and causation.

There are four elements that must be proven in all medical malpractice claims. Our Portland medical malpractice attorneys will help you prove that the following elements were neglected:

• Duty - A professional duty owed to the patient to follow standard care practices.
• Breach - This occurs when the duty has not occurred. For example, a doctor ignores your symptoms and then misdiagnoses you.
• Injury - The resulting injury or illness caused by the breach. For example, extreme pain and infection after a medical instrument was left inside a patient's body during a surgery.
• Causation - Proving that the resulting damages were caused by the breach in duty of care.

Is There a Difference Between Medical Malpractice and Medical Negligence?

Generally speaking, medical negligence means that a medical professional failed to provide reasonable care for a patient. Malpractice, on the other hand, is a specific type of negligence that relates to medical professionals who failed to provide the required standard of care. Most medical malpractice claims are the result of a negligent doctor, nurse, or other health care professional.

While medical malpractice is a subset of negligence, the distinction between the two is critical in legal proceedings. Medical negligence refers more broadly to a lack of due care in a medical setting but without the intent of harm or significant breach. Malpractice implies a more grave dereliction of duty, often involving considerable deviation from standard practices, necessitating a higher burden of proof. This complexity requires adept legal navigation to accurately categorize the situation under review.

How to Find a Medical Malpractice Attorney

Finding a competent lawyer to handle medical malpractice cases can be a difficult task. It’s important to find an experienced lawyer who understands the complexities of medical malpractice law and knows how to achieve the results you need. In addition, victims of medical negligence must locate attorneys who are familiar with local medical laws to ensure they have the best chance of obtaining fair compensation.

When searching for a medical malpractice attorney, consider their track record with similar cases, and whether they offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs. Note their ability to explain complex medical issues in layman’s terms, which is vital for jury understanding in trial settings. Also, seek out those who can confidently take a case to trial if necessary, with resources and a strategic team to support the proceedings effectively.

When looking for a medical malpractice lawyer near you, there are a few questions you can ask to determine if you have found the right lawyer for your medical negligence case.

• Do you have experience handling medical malpractice cases?
• What results have you achieved for other medical malpractice clients?
• How will my case be handled and what role will I play in the process?
• Are there any personal injury lawyer fees involved in pursuing a claim with your medical malpractice law firm?
• What is your strategy to achieve the best outcome for me and my family?
• How often do you communicate with your clients during the course of their personal injury case?

At Angel Law, P.C., our Portland medical malpractice have decades of experience handling medical malpractice cases in Oregon and can provide the legal advice and representation you need. We understand that no two cases are alike, so we take the time to develop a personalized strategy for each case based on its specific needs.

Types of Cases Our Portland Law Firm Can Handle

Often, doctors and other medical professionals do everything they can to avoid association with poor care and will fight tooth and nail to cover up any instances of negligence. At our Portland law firm, we know how to buckle down for a tough fight. We have a background in the U.S. Marines, equipping us to take on challenging medical malpractice cases. Our founding attorney offers dedicated assistance to each one of his clients.

If your case involved any of the following incidents, call on us right away:

• Hospital negligence
• Misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose
• Surgical error
• Medical mistakes
• Wrong prescription
• Any other type of medical malpractice

In cases that involve babies, you may need the aid of a birth injury attorney to help recover compensation. Remember, you aren’t just going up against a negligent doctor, but serious malpractice insurance companies, biased jurors, and strict regulations on medical malpractice cases.

That is why you need an advocate who is ready to stand on the front lines for you and that is exactly what you will find at Angel Law, P.C. Our thorough knowledge of the medical and legal landscapes in Oregon allows us to navigate these facets effectively, giving you the opportunity for a fair result. By standing firm against powerful entities, we remain committed to ensuring justice is achieved for our clients, regardless of the complexities involved.

Let Our Portland Law Firm Help: Call (503) 862-8666 Today

Our law firm can help craft a compelling case to pursue a negotiated settlement or trial verdict. We are prepared to take on cases involving defective drugs, harmful medical devices, birth injuries, and nursing home neglect. Injuries from any of these avoidable errors and situations can lead to pain, discomfort, disability, and worse. Your quality of life may be greatly impacted down the road. We can fight for compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, and other costs.

A doctor's negligence, such as delaying a cancer diagnosis or failing to identify a patient's risk for pulmonary embolism, can cause any number of injuries. Many injuries even require substantial life changes and lifelong medical care. Ensure that you have a caring and competent injury lawyer on your side in this crucial time! Our team understands the impact these injuries can have, not only physically but emotionally and financially, offering the compassion and dedication necessary to see you through each step of the process. By focusing on your needs and goals, we strive to alleviate the burden and secure the support required for your recovery.

Understanding Oregon’s Medical Malpractice Laws

Oregon’s medical malpractice laws are designed to protect patients while also providing a fair legal framework for healthcare providers. Generally, the statute of limitations for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit in Oregon is two years from the date the injury was discovered or should have been discovered. There is also a statute of ultimate repose, which requires that all claims be filed within five years of the act or omission causing the injury, regardless of when the injury was discovered. This means that timely legal consultation is crucial to ensure you meet all deadlines and preserve your rights.

Medical malpractice claims in Oregon also involve complex issues surrounding the proof of negligence and causation. The state requires that the plaintiff prove not only that a medical provider deviated from accepted standards of practice but also that this deviation directly resulted in harm. Medical experts play a pivotal role in substantiating claims, as their testimony is indispensable for illustrating how the standard of care was breached. Engaging with a law firm experienced in this nuanced legal area ensures that the gathering and presentation of expert medical testimony are executed efficiently and effectively.

FAQ: Portland Medical Malpractice

What Should I Do If I Suspect Medical Malpractice?

If you suspect medical malpractice, it is important to seek immediate legal advice. Begin by collecting all relevant medical records and documentation surrounding your treatment. Detailed notes about your communications with healthcare providers, including dates and names, can also be incredibly valuable. Avoid making accusations directly to the healthcare provider involved, as this can complicate the situation. Instead, consult a qualified medical malpractice attorney who can assess the validity of your claim and guide you through the legal process. Engaging with an attorney early can help preserve crucial evidence needed to substantiate your claim.

How Long Does a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit Take in Portland?

The duration of a medical malpractice lawsuit in Portland can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of parties to reach a settlement. On average, these cases can take anywhere from a few months to several years to resolve. Factors such as the necessity for expert medical testimony, discovery processes, and potential court backlogs can extend timelines. Initial stages often involve thorough investigations, negotiations, and possibly mediation. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial, further prolonging the process. Whether settling or litigating, having a dedicated law firm ensures procedural efficiency and strategic advocacy.

Can I Afford a Medical Malpractice Attorney?

One of the most common misconceptions about hiring a medical malpractice attorney is the cost. Many law firms, including Angel Law, P.C., operate on a contingency fee basis for medical malpractice cases, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless your case is successfully resolved. This arrangement alleviates the financial burden for clients seeking justice. During your free consultation, you can discuss specifics regarding fees and any possible additional expenses, ensuring full transparency. Knowing the financial aspects enables you to focus on initiating your claim confidently and expediently.

What Types of Compensation Can I Seek in a Medical Malpractice Claim?

In a medical malpractice claim, you may seek several types of compensation, known as damages. Economic damages cover tangible financial losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Non-economic damages address intangible impacts, including pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and diminished quality of life. Oregon law also allows for punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct, though these are rarer. A precise assessment of damages is crucial and best done through a detailed review by your attorney, ensuring all potential losses are identified and accounted for in your claim.

How Is Medical Malpractice Proven in Court?

Proving medical malpractice in court involves demonstrating four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. Your attorney must first establish the existence of a professional duty owed to you by the healthcare provider. Next, they must show how this duty was breached through actions or omissions that fell below the accepted standard of care.

Causation requires linking this breach directly to the harm suffered, necessitating expert medical testimony to explain how the malpractice resulted in injury. Finally, your attorney will quantify and substantiate the damages incurred, emphasizing both economic and non-economic impacts. Proficient legal representation is vital for effectively articulating these elements in court.

Contact our Portland medical malpractice attorney at (503) 862-8666 today for caring legal guidance.