How to Find a Qualified Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Michigan

If a medical error has injured you or a loved one, you may wonder whether you have a case for medical malpractice. Michigan has specific laws that complicate these cases, so choosing a lawyer with the right experience and qualifications is essential. How do you find a qualified, trustworthy lawyer to help you pursue your claim?

What Is Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional’s care fails to meet the accepted professional standard and harms a patient. Some examples of medical malpractice include misdiagnosis, surgical errors, birth injuries, and medication mistakes. Medical malpractice can lead to severe, long-term injuries or even death.

Medical malpractice claims can involve doctors, nurses, technicians, specialists, hospitals, and other medical professionals. They often involve complex, specialized medical questions. Insurance companies fight hard to defend these claims, frequently spending vast sums of money and dragging the process out for many years.

Michigan medical malpractice lawsuits have more procedural requirements than other lawsuits. For example, you must provide a written “Notice of Intent” to the healthcare provider before you file a case. You also need an affidavit from a medical expert supporting your malpractice claim. If you don’t comply with these rules, you may lose your right to pursue a claim.

Why Choosing the Right Lawyer Matters

Medical malpractice cases differ from other types of personal injury lawsuits. They often involve intricate medical questions and multiple expert witnesses. They can be challenging and expensive to pursue. Special rules that apply to medical malpractice claims can derail lawyers who don’t have experience handling these cases.

A qualified Michigan medical malpractice lawyer should have the resources and experience to:

• Investigate your claim thoroughly.
• Work with medical experts.
• Handle Michigan’s pre-lawsuit filing requirements.
• Navigate court procedures and deadlines.
• Negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to trial.

The right lawyer can make the difference between a successful case and one that gets dismissed.

What To Look for in a Michigan Medical Malpractice Lawyer

The key qualities and credentials to look for when choosing a Michigan medical malpractice attorney are:

• Knowledge of Michigan law. The rules for pursuing medical malpractice cases differ from state to state, so look for a lawyer who knows the ins and outs of Michigan medical malpractice law. Your attorney should fully understand Michigan’s requirements and have experience following them.
• Medical malpractice experience. Look for a lawyer who focuses on medical malpractice, not just general personal injury. Ask how many malpractice cases they’ve handled and whether they’ve gone to trial. A lawyer who regularly works on these cases will be well-versed in handling medical records, expert witnesses, and the legal hurdles involved.
• Proven track record. Although the details of many settlements are confidential, ask about their past cases. Have they won settlements or verdicts for people in situations similar to yours? They can often provide you with some representative examples while maintaining confidentiality. Seeing a strong record of success can give you confidence in their advocacy.
• Access to medical experts. Malpractice cases often hinge on the persuasiveness and credibility of the medical experts who review your records and testify on your behalf. A good lawyer will have relationships with experts in various medical fields. Their access network of credible experts makes meeting Michigan’s affidavit requirements easier and helps you build a compelling case.
• Communication and trust. You should feel comfortable asking questions and getting clear answers. A good lawyer will explain your options, be honest about the strengths and weaknesses of your case, and update you regularly. You’ll work closely with your legal team, so ensure you can communicate easily with them and trust their judgment.

How To Start Your Search for a Michigan Malpractice Lawyer

Although many malpractice lawyers advertise on billboards and television commercials, how do you know which ones to trust? These steps can help you find highly qualified, competent Michigan medical malpractice lawyers:

• Ask for referrals. Ask your friends, family, and community members. If you know any lawyers, ask them for input. Even if they don’t handle medical malpractice cases, they may be able to recommend someone they trust.
• Check with the State Bar. The State Bar of Michigan’s lawyer directory provides information about all attorneys authorized to practice in the state. You can search for attorneys by practice area and location to find a medical malpractice attorney near you.
• Review their background and reputation. Check with the Michigan Attorney Discipline Board to find out if an attorney has any prior history of professional misconduct (like a suspension or disciplinary action). Private review sites like Google, Avvo, and Martindale-Hubbell can reveal what previous clients have to say.
• Schedule free consultations. Most medical malpractice lawyers offer free, no-obligation initial consultations. Once you have a few good leads, take advantage of this opportunity. Ask about each lawyer’s experience and how they would handle your case before choosing one who seems like the best fit.

How Sommers Schwartz, P.C., Can Help You

Medical malpractice can change your life in an instant. Although finding the right lawyer takes some effort, it can make all the difference. A skilled, experienced Michigan malpractice attorney can help you regain control of your life and future. They’ll guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been harmed by a medical mistake, don’t wait to seek legal help. Michigan has time limits, or “statutes of limitations,” limiting your time to file a case. Contact the experienced medical malpractice attorneys at Sommers Schwartz, P.C., for a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation today.