Birth Defect Litigation

Certain injuries are beyond the parents of their control. When these injuries require special medical attention and expensive procedures, it can result in huge costs for families.

A New York birth defect lawyer can help stunned parents file an action and receive compensation to pay for future expenses. However, the law has strict deadlines when a claim must be filed.

Statute of Limitations

Modern medical technology and advancements in medical science have made it possible to reduce the risks associated with pregnancy, childbirth and birth. However birth defects and injuries do occur. If they're preventable families must explore their legal options.

Many birth defect lawsuits are founded on allegations of medical malpractice. These cases can involve errors made by doctors or nurses at any time during labor and birth procedures. Medical professionals may also commit malpractice after the birth of a baby in the event that they fail to provide appropriate treatment.

In general, the statutes of limitations for these cases are 2.5 years after the date of the medical error. The time frame can be extended for infants. It is nevertheless important to seek legal counsel early enough to ensure that all evidence has been collected and that a timely claim be filed.

A lawsuit can be filed on behalf of a child to claim birth defects caused by chemical and toxic exposures during pregnancy. Lawyers specially trained in birth defects can investigate and pursue these claims on behalf of the family.

Parents should be aware of the following characteristics when choosing an attorney to represent them in a lawsuit involving birth defects or injuries:

Medical Malpractice

Birth defects can lead to various mental and physical issues. Certain birth defects could be fatal. Some of these issues could be caused by genetics and others may be caused by exposure to the environment or prescription medications used during pregnancy.

A doctor or medical professional could be accused of misconduct when they cause fall river birth defect Lawsuit defects through their actions or inaction. These cases are usually due to medical negligence during labor or delivery. They may also involve any do something that is below the standard of medical care, like failing to recognize an illness or prescribing incorrect medication during pregnancy.

One example of this type of case involves a medication called teratogens. This medication can cause birth defects that are serious. When pregnant, doctors usually advise women to stay clear of this medication, which is used in the treatment of seizures. If women are exposed to the drug, then she should make an insurance claim.

It is vital to select an attorney with experience in these types of cases. Find a law firm that specializes in this field and operates on a contingency basis, so there is no cost unless you win. Choose an attorney with an excellent ability to communicate and negotiate. This will help ensure that your claim is filed before the time limit expires.

Prescription Drugs

Many birth defects can cause mental or physical disabilities that require costly medical treatment and accommodations for the child. Often, these conditions are genetically inherited, but some of them are caused by chemical or environmental exposure, or medications that the mother took while pregnant.

Drug manufacturers are required to test their products thoroughly and warn the public of any potential dangers. Sadly many pharmaceutical companies do not keep up with research or anticipate potential side effects. In addition, doctors can prescribe dangerous drugs to patients and some women do not have adequate information about the risks associated with taking certain drugs during pregnancy. These drugs, referred to as teratogens can cause birth defects such as spina-bifida in the fetus.

Other substances that could cause birth defects are the chemicals used in the agricultural and manufacturing industries, and heavy metals such as mercury that affect groundwater or the air. Diane Paolicelli has dedicated her legal career to fighting against powerful corporations that expose women chemicals and substances that can damage their reproductive health and cause birth defects.

It is crucial to collect as the evidence you can before filing a suit against the responsible parties. Included in this are ultrasound images and blood tests as well as medical bills incurred as a result. This information assists the attorney determine the worth of the case.

Product Liability

Pregnancy is among the most exciting and nerve-wracking times in a woman's life. But it's also a time where many medical professionals make mistakes that can lead to birth defects. An experienced attorney can help parents file a claim against those responsible for their child's disability and acquire the compensation they deserve.

Medical experts aren't always able to pinpoint the specific cause of quincy birth defect law firm defects, but a large number can be attributable to environmental or chemical exposure. This could include exposure of parents to toxic chemicals at work, such as glycol ethers and solvents in semiconductor manufacturing, as well as agricultural chemicals used for spraying crops and pesticides.

In addition, manufacturers and those who prescribe prescription medications are required to inform people of their risks. A large number of these drugs is marketed to women who are pregnant, without warnings of the possibility of birth defect. This is particularly relevant for antidepressants like Prozac and Zoloft.

Christian Uehlein is a partner with Thornton Law Firm. He represents plaintiffs in birth defect lawsuits against chemical and pharmaceutical companies. His practice is centered around cases involving the occurrence of birth defects caused by parental exposure to toxic chemicals, such as those in semiconductor manufacturing and agriculture. He is a graduate of the American University in Washington, D.C. and Suffolk University Law School.