When you or a loved one is ill or injured, it’s natural to want the best medical care. Patients rely on the knowledge and experience of doctors and other medical professionals to provide services that meet the applicable standard of care.

Unfortunately, healthcare personnel make mistakes or may behave in a negligent or reckless manner. Accordingly, the patient can be left in worse shape than they initially were.

Medical malpractice may occur in clinics, hospitals or care facilities. Errors occur in surgery or with the administration of anesthesia. Childbirth injuries and nursing home abuse are surprisingly common. Additionally, doctors sometimes misdiagnose or fail to diagnose a condition that has serious consequences.

If you believe that any of these incidents have happened to you, then you may seek the advice of a medical malpractice attorney. Some doctors are not as skilled as others, and this also is the case with attorneys. When seeking a lawyer, use these five guidelines.

5. Choose a Lawyer That Focuses on Injured Patients

Some medical malpractice lawyers defend health care providers, but others focus almost solely on representing injured patients. Known as a “plaintiff’s lawyer,” this is exactly the kind of practitioner you want. They spend the majority of their career fighting for the rights of people who have been injured through the recklessness or negligence of healthcare personnel, giving them the experience you need.

4. Look for an Attorney with Trial Experience

The vast majority of lawsuits never make it to trial. That’s a good thing because trials are risky. Still, it’s vital that your attorney is willing and able to go to court if it is necessary. Ask your prospective lawyer about their level of courtroom experience. You may never need it, but it’s valuable to know that their capacity to argue before a judge and jury is there if your case goes that far.

3. Working on a Contingency Basis is Critical

Most medical malpractice attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. Essentially, this means that the lawyer is paid a percentage of the money that their client receives in a settlement. This provides the attorney with an excellent incentive to fight on behalf of their client to get the largest possible settlement. Still, it’s a good idea to ask about how upfront expenses like filing fees and document preparation will be handled.

2. Don’t Trust an Attorney Who Makes Sweeping Promises

Nothing is guaranteed in litigation. Do not trust an attorney who promises to get you a certain dollar amount or other specific outcomes. The most attorneys can ethically promise is to use all of their knowledge, experience and legal acumen in service of your rights.

1. Choose a Lawyer Who Cares

You may work with your attorney over the course of months or years, so it’s important that you like them and are comfortable with them. Ideally, they demonstrate compassion and kindness in your interactions, showing that they actually care about you, your family and your case.

The medical malpractice lawyers from Tittle Law Firm remind readers to choose their representation with care, as this may have a direct effect on the outcome of your case.