How do we know if a doctor or health care provider was negligent or committed malpractice?
The laws in Washington and Idaho require testimony from medical experts in order to prevail in any lawsuit alleging medical negligence. A major part of our representation of clients in these cases involves obtaining the right kind and quality of this vital medical testimony. We will typically review medical records and in appropriate cases, pay for a qualified medical expert to review those records and all pertinent facts in evaluating the case.
What are the time deadlines?
There are many different laws and statutes that may come into play in any given case. In certain cases, formal action must be taken as early as within six months. Because of the unique difficulty and complexity of these case, it is very important to at least seek initial information as soon as possible. We can provide that initial evaluation at no cost to you.
How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
There is typically no fee charged to you during our pursuit of your case. Our firm exclusively represents the victims of harm or injury, and these cases are pursued under a "contingency fee" arrangement. That is, we receive a minority percentage of your settlement or verdict at the end of the case. We will be happy to discuss and explain in detail how this works.
What about court costs and expenses?
Our firm has the means to pay the costs of obtaining medical records, and where appropriate, pay the costs of hiring medical experts. Those costs in advance during the course of the case, and typically will be repaid only at the end of the case as well.
By hiring an attorney, am I committing myself to a lawsuit?
No. Many of the medical malpractice claims we pursue for our clients are settled without any lawsuit being filed. Our clients want fair justice, and nothing more. We do not believe in filing lawsuits unless we, and our clients feel there is no other alternative.