Page 5 - Anatomy of a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit
P. 5
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................... 7
Preliminary Matters ................................................................................. 10
What is the difference between a claim and a lawsuit? ........ 10
Where can I expect to be sued? ........................................................... 13
When can I be sued? ................................................................................... 18
Are there rules that regulate the litigation process? ................ 19
Who will decide my case? ....................................................................... 20
The Elements of a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit .................... 21
Duty ....................................................................................................................... 22
Standard of Care ........................................................................................... 25
Breach of the Standard of Care (Negligence) ............................ 27
Damages ............................................................................................................ 27
The Phases of Litigation ....................................................................... 31
Receipt of Suit Papers/Notice ............................................................... 31
Discovery ............................................................................................................ 37
Trial ........................................................................................................................ 45
Emotional Impact .................................................................................... 64
Conclusion ................................................................................................... 68
