Filing a medical malpractice lawsuit in New Jersey is a complicated and time-consuming process. If you do decide to file a medical malpractice lawsuit, there are certain steps to take before you get started.
See If the Healthcare Professional Can Remedy the Situation
The first step to take if you believe you’ve been the victim of medical malpractice is to bring your concerns to the attention of the healthcare professional in question. It’s possible that the situation can be remedied without taking any further action.
Alert the State Medical Licensing Board
If the healthcare professional is unable or unwilling to remedy the situation, your next step should be to contact the state medical licensing board. The board will then typically investigate your complaint, and they may take disciplinary action if they find merit in your claim.
Gather Your Medical Records
If you are interested in filing a medical malpractice lawsuit, it’s important to have your medical records in order. This includes all records related to the care you received from the healthcare professional in question. It’s also important to get copies of your medical records from all of your past and current medical care providers and not just the one involved in your case.
Know the Statute of Limitations
Each state has a statute of limitations for medical malpractice lawsuits. This is the deadline for filing a lawsuit. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the alleged malpractice. If you miss the deadline, you cannot initiate a malpractice case.
Medical malpractice can leave you with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and a lifetime of physical and emotional pain and suffering. It’s important to follow all required steps before initiating a claim.