Doctor Negligence • Birth Injury • Hospital Error
Once Cirignani Heller & Harman, LLP, determines that medical malpractice has likely occurred we begin the process of filing the lawsuit. Here is what the process looks like:
First, we have to get the “letter.” In Illinois, the letter is the certification from an expert doctor who, after reviewing the medical records and case material, certifies that the lawsuit has merit. Other states have similar requirements.
With letter in hand, we next draft, file and serve the complaint (lawsuit) against the doctor or hospital who was negligent (defendant).
Once the defendant gets a copy of the complaint (has been served) he has time to “answer” it, which means he can either admit or deny the complaints made against him. As you might guess, most defendants deny the material allegations being made against them which moves us to the discovery stage.
Learn more about the various aspects of a medical malpractice claim:
- Discovery in medical malpractice claims: This is the investigatory stage that begins immediately after a lawsuit is filed and answered, in which both parties exchange information relevant to the case. There are different ways attorneys obtain discovery information and three stages of the process.
- Deposition by the plaintiff: If you are bringing the lawsuit, you are the plaintiff. The plaintiff’s deposition is when the other party’s attorney will question you about your case on record. It is not held in the courtroom but it is an official procedure in any lawsuit of this kind.
- Time limit for your claim: The statute of limitations is just one more thing to be concerned about in the medical malpractice litigation process. Make sure you talk with a lawyer as soon as possible about bringing a claim before you miss your chance.
At the Law Firm of Cirignani Heller & Harman, LLP, we serve clients in all types of medical malpractice claims in Chicagoland and throughout Illinois. Our attorneys are committed to helping you get results and receive a justifiable outcome.
To speak with an experienced medical malpractice lawyer and receive high quality legal advice, contact the Law Office of Cirignani Heller & Harman, LLP.
