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When to Contact a Medical Malpractice Attorney

When to Contact a Medical Malpractice Attorney

Written by George McCoy on . Posted in Medical Malpractice. No Comments on When to Contact a Medical Malpractice Attorney

The COVID-19 crisis showed us that medical professionals like doctors and nurses are brave and incredibly hardworking. Most of the time, you can be sure that the healthcare professionals in your life are doing their best to help you, but there may be incidents where doctors, nurses, or medical institutions result in inadvertent harm rather than aid. Through negligence or error, medical professionals can hurt instead of heal, and those are the times when you might consider hiring a medical malpractice attorney in Oregon or wherever else it is you might be.

In the case you’ve suffered injury as a result of medical malpractice, it may be necessary for you to work with a medical malpractice attorney to help you be made whole again. In this blog, we’ll examine the following questions:

  • What is medical malpractice?
  • What are some common examples of medical malpractice?
  • When should you hire a medical malpractice attorney?

What Is Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice is harm done by a medical practitioner, from a doctor to an anesthesiologist to a nurse or nurse practitioner. In layman’s speak, medical malpractice can refer to any treatment from a medical professional that results in substandard care.

From a legal perspective, there are three key components to medical malpractice:

  • There must be a relationship between doctor and patient. A medical professional who published a paper about a new treatment that wound up causing harm could not be accused of medical malpractice; only the doctor who recommended the treatment to their patient.
  • The medical professional must have been negligent. A healthcare professional who can argue that they were doing their best for the patient would have a potent defense against malpractice. For instance, the doctor who recommended the revolutionary new treatment mentioned in the first point would have an argument against malpractice. Similarly, a neurologist on a plane flight who was asked to help a patient suffering a heart attack could plausibly argue that they didn’t have the tools or expertise to properly help.
  • The negligence had a direct connection with the injury in question. The worst ophthalmologist in the world negligently giving an eye exam probably won’t be on the hook for medical malpractice if a patient has a heart attack while in their doctor’s office. Unless it can be shown that there is a direct line between negligence and harm, a medical malpractice claim is unlikely to stick.

What Are Common Types of Medical Malpractice?

Now that we’ve examined the criteria that define medical malpractice, let’s look at some of the most common types of malpractice that people might be unfortunate enough to encounter.

  • Misdiagnosis. An incorrect diagnosis can cost people valuable time in pursuing the correct treatment, and in the worst cases, by the time the real problem is identified it may be too late.
  • Medication. If a doctor prescribes you medication that has a poor reaction either with medication you’re already taking or a condition you’re known to have, then that is a classic example of malpractice.
  • Birth injuries. Childbirth can be a very dangerous time for both parent and child. Improperly handled childbirth that leads to injury for either party can be certainly considered malpractice.
  • Surgical mistakes. Errors during surgery that leave lasting harm instead of correcting the issue are a prime candidate for being considered medical malpractice.

When Should You Contact a Medical Malpractice Attorney?

Now that we’ve examined the sorts of scenarios that can be called medical malpractice, if you’ve encountered these situations, does that mean you should hire a medical malpractice attorney right away, whether you’re in Oregon or some other state?

The honest answer is “it depends.” If you think your case falls under the three criteria outlined in the first part of this post, then you certainly can consider hiring a medical malpractice attorney.

However, do keep in mind that medical malpractice can be difficult to prove and even with the best medical malpractice attorney in Oregon, you may be looking forward to a costly, prolonged legal battle. Therefore, if you believe you’ve suffered injury as a result of negligent care, your first step should be to file a medical malpractice claim with your state’s medical licensing board.

This will both inform your physician or health care facility that you are seriously unhappy with the quality of care received, and put pressure on them to reach an agreement that may result in your financial compensation without ever having to properly work with a medical malpractice attorney.

This will also result in your harm being officially investigated by the licensing bureau . While this may not directly result in restitution being made to you, it will make it more likely that harm does not come to any other people in the future as part of negligent behavior on the healthcare provider or institution.

Also, the medical licensing board can appoint an impartial arbitrator to analyze the facts and determine whether or not your medical malpractice case has enough substance to move forward, all without you having to spend a dime on a medical malpractice attorney.

However, if you do not have the time to wait for a medical licensing board to work, or if you believe your case is substantial, then you should contact a medical malpractice attorney as soon as you see fit. Medical malpractice attorneys are excellent partners for navigating the complex world of medical malpractice, and they can put together documents or navigate the law in a way that benefits you.

A medical malpractice attorney perhaps should not be your first go-to option, but in the event that you have suffered real harm at the hands of a negligent medical professional, hiring a medical malpractice attorney is a no-brainer.

If you’re looking for a top-class medical malpractice attorney in Oregon, it’s time to contact Warren Allen, LLP. We can help you find the restitution you seek and make you whole again.

What To Do If You Are in a Hit-and-Run Car Accident

What To Do If You Are in a Hit-and-Run Car Accident

Written by George McCoy on . Posted in Car Accident. No Comments on What To Do If You Are in a Hit-and-Run Car Accident

Car accidents are stressful, no matter the circumstance. Add to that a hit-and-run, and the stress is manifold. Protect yourself and mitigate unnecessary stress by knowing how best to respond and what steps to take. The better prepared you are, the better your case for compensation.

Receive fair compensation so you can cover damages and medical bills, as well as any other losses resulting from the accident. Safeguard yourself against insurance companies who don’t represent your best interests by hiring an experienced car accident lawyer in Portland. A local lawyer understands state laws and will be your ally in a hit-and-run accident. 

Below are a few important steps to guide you through the process immediately following an accident so you can receive the best resolution possible and focus on what matters most: healing.

Prioritize Safety

First of all, make sure everyone is safe, including yourself. You may be worried about damages to your car and consequential expenses, especially if the other driver kept driving without taking accountability, but don’t let that distract you from what matters most. Your safety and that of your passengers are the most important.

Survey the scene. Is it safer to stay with your car or to remove all passengers and move to somewhere safer? If your car is on a busy freeway or intersection, you may run the risk of getting hit again. If you are able to move, get to a safer spot. However, if serious injuries have been sustained, it may not be safe to move. Assess the scene before deciding.

Is anyone injured? If you are able, call 911. If you are unable, tell someone else to call. Remember, some injuries are harder to detect, so when in doubt, make the call and don’t take any chances.

Call the Police

In the case of a hit-and-run, it’s important to immediately call the police without delay. A police report or accident claim needs to be filed to establish fault and aid in finding the missing driver. Since you are the victim of a hit-and-run, having the police involved will help your case. An official police report contains important details for the insurance claim, used to verify who is at-fault. This can help your claim if the other driver was responsible.

Even though the other driver fled the scene, try to jot down as many details about the car you can remember. You may not have been able to get the license plate number, but did you recognize the make or model of the car? What about the vehicle’s color? Which direction was it headed? Write details down as soon as possible, while your memory is fresh.

Collect Information

The more evidence and documentation you have, the better your case for claiming compensation. Document and record as much as possible. Take photos of any damage to your car and the scene of the accident. Where was the accident? Are there skid marks? Photograph, video, and write down what you observe. This includes personal injuries and symptoms. If you need medical care, keep copies of receipts and record your experience with treatment. What are your symptoms? Write these downs. Make sure to seek medical attention, if needed, as soon as possible.

As mentioned earlier, don’t wait to record these events. Write down your recollection of events while it is fresh in your memory. Include as much detail as possible.

When gathering information, collect contact information of any witnesses. A witness statement can help supply additional information about the accident. Ask if they are willing to stay to give a witness statement to the police. If they are unwilling to wait for the police, they can still make a witness statement to you. In this instance, make sure to get their contact information.

Enlist a Personal Injury Attorney

If you live in Oregon, hire a local car accident lawyer in Portland to represent your interests. No matter where you live, the right lawyer will have your best interests in mind and seek fair compensation. Insurance companies do not always act in good faith and may attempt to minimize how much you get.

A personal injury attorney with experience in hit-and-runs understands the law and how much your case is worth. They also know which documents must be filed by what deadlines. Hire an attorney to be your ally and represent your interests. They will ensure you receive compensation without delay and aren’t denied what you are owed by simple clerical errors or missed deadlines.

At Warren Allen LLP, our personal injury attorneys are here to help. Contact us for solid legal advice and representation. Our experienced team will help you receive fair compensation and the best resolution possible. If you have been in an accident resulting in injury or damage, contact our firm today and learn what your options are.

You may be entitled to more than you realize. Compensation can cover a range of expenses and symptoms, including, but not limited to:

  • Lost wages due to missing work
  • Future lost wages due to injury
  • Medical bills
  • Future medical costs
  • Punitive damages
  • Pain and suffering (physical or emotional)
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium
  • Disfigurement or dismemberment

Enlist the help of an experienced attorney who understands what you may be entitled to and help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Notify Your Insurance Provider

Call your insurance company as soon as possible. You will need to contact your insurance company and provide basic information so you can start your claim. Though you are obligated to report the accident to your insurance company, do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.

Once you hire a Warren Allen lawyer as your attorney, refer the insurance company adjuster to us, since we will now represent you. When you authorize your attorney to represent your interests, you will no longer have to deal with the insurance adjusters directly. We will focus on your economic recovery so you can focus on what matters most- physical and emotional recovery.

Is Hiring a Personal Injury Law Firm Worth It?

Is Hiring a Personal Injury Law Firm Worth It?

Written by George McCoy on . Posted in Personal Injury. No Comments on Is Hiring a Personal Injury Law Firm Worth It?

Nobody expects to be injured, but when it happens, it changes everything. Your focus turns to healing and protecting yourself and your family. 

If someone else’s carelessness causes your injury, it can bring on many questions, including:

  • Will insurance cover this? 
  • My injury wasn’t that bad; should I hire a law firm?
  • Can I afford to hire a lawyer?

In the middle of handling all of the things you’re facing as a result of your accident, choosing to work with a law firm and finding the right one to represent you may seem overwhelming. Where should you begin? Read on to learn the benefits of hiring personal injury law firms in Portland, Oregon

Is It Worth Hiring a Personal Injury Law Firm?

Facing a personal injury from an accident or workplace can be life-changing. The more serious the injury, the more beneficial working with a personal injury law firm in Portland, Oregon, will be. No matter what you’re facing, your situation deserves to be handled with care.

If you’re skeptical about how much you can gain, your best action step is to speak with a lawyer, as the one you hire will have a vested interest in your outcome. 

Hiring a personal injury lawyer doesn’t cost you a thing unless you win, and they work hard to ensure a case has merit before moving forward. You’ll get an honest assessment of your situation, and understand what to expect before you move forward. 

6 Reasons You Should Hire a Personal Injury Law Firm

If you’re wondering if talking with a lawyer is in your best interest, ask yourself these questions. 

1. Did I Suffer Injuries in the Accident?

Today’s automobiles are safer than ever before. Still, thousands of people die each year in car accidents, and those numbers are climbing. 

If you’ve been injured in an accident, a personal injury law firm can help you get the compensation you deserve. You should seek legal representation if you:

  • Have a severe injury
  • Have pain and suffering
  • Are temporary or permanently disabled

If you’re suffering from an injury that resulted from someone else’s negligence, it’s time to put the concern back on your needs. A personal injury law firm fights for your rights for fair compensation. 

2. Do I Need Help Dealing With the Insurance Company?

Insurance adjusters have one goal: To save the insurance company as much money as possible. They review cases and handle claims daily. They know the law, and how to settle a case with as little payout as possible. 

That’s rarely in your best interest. Instead of dealing with never-ending phone calls and paperwork, you should focus on your injuries and getting help to receive the maximum compensation. An experienced personal injury lawyer knows how to handle the insurance company, even out the playing field, and negotiate your case to ensure you get a fair offer.

3. Is There a Question of Who Is Liable?

Not all accidents have clear outcomes. Sometimes it’s unclear who the negligent party is. If there is any question of who is liable, it’s in your best interest to seek legal representation. 

By hiring a personal injury law firm, they will work to prove your innocence. If you believe the other party was at fault, it’s up to you to confirm the responsible party’s negligence. A lawyer will look at the evidence, including:

  • Official accident reports
  • Medical records
  • Photos from the scene
  • Police records
  • Eyewitness testimony

They will build up enough evidence to prove you have a legitimate case. If you were partially or fully at fault, you should definitely seek out legal guidance. 

4. Will My Future Be Impacted By a Settlement?

If you’re facing temporary or permanent disability, your future may seem uncertain. Now more than ever, a settlement will help you and your family retain some sense of hope as you move forward. According to studies by the Insurance Research Council, those who filed claims with attorney representation received significantly higher settlements than those without.  

It’s easy to see why. When a law firm specializes in personal injury cases, they work with cases similar to yours daily. They understand the strategy, what to do, and how to approach it to reach an ideal resolution. 

It’s about letting an experienced firm handle what they are in business for. They won’t be overwhelmed because they’ve been through it before. 

5. Can I Manage My Own Case?

At first, it can seem straightforward. File paperwork, communicate clearly, and justice will prevail. However, there are a lot of little nuances that go into a case. Things you might not be aware of. Things that can be detrimental to your case. 

Sometimes people do well in handling their own cases. It might be easy to take on your own if it’s a minor fender-bender in a parking lot without much damage. If you’re a confident negotiator, you might be able to handle all communications with the insurance adjuster and receive a maximum settlement offer. 

When you add in injury and are dealing with the added stress that goes with extensive trauma, that’s where a personal injury lawyer can help. Their effective negotiation skills are the key to maximizing your settlement payout. 

6. What Should I Do Next? 

Personal injury isn’t something most of us expect to face. It happens suddenly and changes everything in the blink of an eye. Suddenly, you’re left with endless questions. 

Working with a personal injury law firm in Portland, Oregon, gives you the answers to the endless questions. They’re there to guide you through every step of the process and be your negotiator as well as your advocate. They answer questions and provide guidance every step of the way. 

When your world feels like it’s upside down, that can be a comforting feeling. 

Should You Hire a Personal Injury Law Firm? 

A personal injury lawyer can put your mind at ease, and they’ll work hard to get you the compensation you deserve. Because of their vast knowledge and experience working with the law, they are invaluable when you’re faced with the outcome of an accident. Hire one today, and let them go to work for you.

5 Tips for Finding a Qualified Family Law Attorney in Portland Oregon

5 Tips for Finding a Qualified Family Law Attorney in Portland Oregon

Written by George McCoy on . Posted in Family Law. No Comments on 5 Tips for Finding a Qualified Family Law Attorney in Portland Oregon

If you’re getting married, going through a divorce, or in the midst of a custody battle, you know how important it is to have a good family law attorney by your side. You want to find someone who will protect your assets and fight for your interests. But where do you begin?

Warren Allen LLP is experienced in all types of family law matters, and we have some great tips for finding a qualified family law attorney in the Portland, Oregon, area.

1. Ask for Referrals

The best place to start is with your own personal network. If you know anyone who has hired a family law attorney in Portland, Oregon, recently, ask them about their experience. Were they satisfied with their representation? Did they receive a favorable outcome? If so, ask questions about whether they settled the matter out of court or if litigation was involved. What was it about the attorney that made them particularly effective at handling this particular family law matter?

If the person was unsatisfied with their representation, find out why. Getting information about which attorneys to avoid is just as helpful as getting a recommendation for who to hire. If you don’t personally know anyone who has retained a family law attorney in the Portland, Oregon, area, there are other ways to find a reputable attorney.

2. Check Professional Associations

Another option for locating a family law attorney is to check professional membership associations. For instance, the American Bar Association (ABA) has a lawyer referral directory. You can also search your local and state bar associations to find a family law attorney near you. For instance, the Oregon State Bar has both a lawyer referral service and a searchable membership directory.

If you decide to choose an outside lawyer referral and information service, make sure it has the ABA logo. The use of the logo ensures the service meets ABA public service standards.

Whether using your own personal network, checking professional membership organizations, or paying for a lawyer referral service, be sure to properly vet the attorneys you are considering by doing your due diligence in researching their backgrounds and credentials.

Choosing a family law attorney is an important decision. Never make a decision to hire a family law attorney solely based on a recommendation or referral. Instead, gather as much information as you can before making a final decision.

3. Conduct an Internet Search

You can uncover a lot of information about an attorney through a simple internet search; think of it as doing a background check for free. When you’ve narrowed your search for a family law attorney down to a select few, do some internet sleuthing and see what you can find out about each. At a minimum, most lawyers will have a website bio that outlines their background and experience.

You may also be able to find online reviews that will tell you whether the attorney has a favorable track record with former clients. You should also check both their personal and professional social media profiles. LinkedIn, for instance, may provide a breakdown of their employment history and professional accolades. Other social media platforms could give you a glimpse at how they conduct themselves in their personal lives as well.

4. Verify Track Record

Be sure to verify an attorney’s track record beyond a simple Internet search. If you’re using the Oregon Bar Association lawyer referral service (LRS), you can be confident LRS attorneys “are in good standing with the bar, have no current disciplinary proceedings pending, carry malpractice insurance” and agree to abide by customer service standards.

On the other hand, if you find an attorney through another means, you may need to do your own research. If you’re based in Oregon, you can obtain information regarding a state bar member’s current status, past complaints, and history of disciplinary action by calling 503-620-0222, ext. 394. If you’re based outside of Oregon, check your own state bar association to confirm whether the attorney you are considering is in good standing.

5. Schedule a Consultation

Once you’ve narrowed your search, the best thing you can do is schedule an in-person consultation. Some attorneys charge for a consult, while others do not. Contact the firm to see if there is a charge and if so, inquire about the cost.

If there is a fee for an in-person consultation and you’re trying to save money, ask if there is a fee for a phone consult. Whenever possible, you should try to meet in person with any family law attorney you’re considering. At your consultation, ask them about their background and experience, whether they specialize in your particular family law matter, how many similar cases they’ve worked in the past, and for an overview of your options.

Be as detailed and specific as possible with your questions. Take notes. Get a sense of the attorney’s communication skills and whether you feel you could foster a strong attorney-client relationship with them. The impression you get when meeting an attorney face-to-face can go a long way in helping you decide if they’re the right one for you.

If you’re looking for a family law attorney in Portland, Oregon, area, add Warren Allen LLP to your list. We have experienced attorneys skilled in an array of family law matters, from prenuptial agreements to separations and paternity issues. Whether a marriage, civil union, or domestic partnership, we handle each case personally and with the utmost integrity.

As we’ve discussed, first do your due diligence by conducting some research and then schedule a consult with us. We’ll provide you with an honest assessment of your case and if you choose to retain us, we’ll provide you with top-notch legal representation at every stage.