If you or a loved one suffered unexpected harm after medical treatment in Maryland, you may be wondering: Was this just a bad outcome, or was it malpractice? And if so, is now the time to speak with an attorney?
Knowing when to get a lawyer for medical malpractice is not always obvious. Some people wait too long—hesitating because they are unsure if their case qualifies. But if you’re asking these questions, it’s time to get answers.
At Brockstedt Mandalas Federico LLC, our team has decades of experience guiding families through these difficult decisions. This post explains when to hire a medical malpractice lawyer and what to look for in a medical malpractice attorney in Maryland.
When to Get a Lawyer for Medical Malpractice
When you suspect a serious injury may have been caused by a medical mistake, you should contact an attorney. Even if you’re unsure whether malpractice occurred, an experienced lawyer can help you evaluate your case and determine what steps to take next.
Signs It’s Time to Call a Lawyer
Here are a few situations where you should consider speaking with a Maryland medical malpractice attorney:
- You suffered a life-altering injury after a surgery, hospital stay, or medical procedure;
- Your condition worsened significantly after what should have been routine care;
- You received a misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis that caused serious complications;
- There was a failure to treat a condition in a timely or appropriate manner;
- Your loved one died unexpectedly after medical treatment;
- You suspect birth injury, surgical error, or ER negligence;
- You were not told about the risks of a procedure that caused serious harm; or
- Another doctor expressed concern about the care you received.
If any of these apply to your situation, you should not delay. Maryland law limits how long you have to file a medical malpractice claim, so it is essential to act quickly to protect your rights.
Maryland’s Medical Malpractice Time Limits
Medical malpractice claims in Maryland are subject to strict deadlines, but those deadlines can vary depending on the facts of your case. In general, you have a limited window to file a lawsuit after the injury occurs or is discovered.
There are also different time considerations for cases involving children. In those situations, the timeframe to file a lawsuit will vary from a case involving an adult.
Because these deadlines are complex and can affect your ability to recover compensation, it’s critical to speak with a qualified attorney as soon as you suspect malpractice. A lawyer can assess your situation and help ensure your case is filed on time.
What to Look for in a Medical Malpractice Attorney
Choosing representation is one of the most important decisions you will make. Here are some essential traits to look for when hiring a Maryland malpractice lawyer.
1. Proven Experience in Medical Negligence Cases
Medical malpractice cases are among the most complex types of civil litigation. Your attorney must understand both the law and the medicine involved. Look for a firm that has:
- A dedicated focus on malpractice cases,
- Experience with serious injury and wrongful death claims, and
- A record of verdicts and settlements in complex cases.
At Brockstedt Mandalas Federico LLC, we have spent decades handling malpractice claims throughout Maryland. Our attorneys have deep knowledge of hospital systems, medical standards, and litigation strategy.
2. Resources to Build a Strong Case
These cases require expert testimony and detailed investigation. Your attorney should have access to:
- Medical experts who can testify about standards of care,
- Resources to gather and review extensive medical records, and
- Litigation support to pursue the case through trial if needed.
Not every lawyer has the resources or network to handle a medical malpractice case properly. Be sure to ask how the firm approaches case investigation and expert review.
3. Clear Communication and Compassion
You’re going through a tough time. The right attorney should make the legal process easier, not more overwhelming. Look for someone who:
- Listens to your concerns,
- Answers your questions thoroughly,
- Keeps you informed at every stage, and
- Shows respect for what you and your family are going through.
Legal representation should be personal, respectful, and compassionate, especially in cases involving medical harm.
4. Reputation and Trust
Finally, when considering how to choose a medical malpractice attorney, do your research. Look at:
- Client testimonials,
- Peer reviews and industry recognition, and
- The firm’s reputation in the Maryland legal community.
At Brockstedt Mandalas Federico LLC, we are known for our professionalism, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication to our clients. Our results and client satisfaction speak for themselves.
Do You Need a Lawyer to File a Medical Malpractice Case?
Yes. Medical malpractice cases are not something you can or should handle alone. Maryland law requires the certificate of a qualified expert before a lawsuit can proceed. This certificate must be signed by a healthcare provider in a similar specialty, stating under oath that the care you received was negligent and caused your injury.
This process, along with the required pre-suit steps, strict filing deadlines, and high burden of proof, makes malpractice litigation one of the most challenging areas of law.
A qualified Maryland medical malpractice attorney can:
- Investigate your claim,
- Identify all liable parties,
- Work with medical experts,
- Handle communications with hospitals and insurers,
- File all required documents on time, and
- Represent you in court if necessary.
If you wait too long or try to handle the case alone, you risk losing your right to compensation.
Ready to Talk? Contact Brockstedt Mandalas Federico LLC
If you are wondering when to hire a medical malpractice lawyer, the answer is simple: as soon as you suspect something went wrong. Whether you are recovering from a preventable injury or grieving the loss of a loved one, we are here to help.
Our lawyers bring decades of experience, extensive resources, and a long track record of successful results in Maryland medical malpractice cases. We also maintain strong relationships within the medical and legal communities to help support your case every step of the way.
We offer compassionate, personalized representation and are ready to help you pursue the answers and justice you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Phil Federico is a partner at Brockstedt Mandalas Federico where he helps lead the Mass Tort / Class Action and Environmental Law practices, transitioning into these areas after beginning his career as a medical malpractice litigator.
Phil has led and been involved in historic and groundbreaking litigation with verdicts and settlements exceeding one billion dollars.
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