Best Birth Injury Lawyers in Athens

About Birth Injury Law in Athens, Greece

Birth injury law in Athens, Greece, is a specialized area of medical malpractice law focused on injuries sustained by a newborn during the process of labor and delivery. These injuries may be caused by medical negligence or failure to adhere to the standard of care expected from healthcare providers. In Athens, as in the rest of Greece, such cases are adjudicated within the civil courts, where the main objective is to secure compensation for the injured party and their family to cover medical expenses and other related costs. Birth injury cases can be complex, often requiring expert testimony and a thorough understanding of both medical and legal standards.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you suspect that your child has suffered a birth injury due to the negligence of healthcare professionals, seeking legal advice can be crucial. Scenarios where legal assistance may be necessary include:

• Diagnosis of cerebral palsy or other neurological disorders in the newborn linked to a potential mishandling during delivery.
• An unexplained injury or medical condition in the newborn that may suggest improper prenatal care or delivery techniques.
• Need for long-term medical care for your child and seeking compensation to cover these expenses.
• Sift through complex medical records, which can often be daunting without legal assistance.
• Representation and advocacy during negotiations with hospitals or defense insurers.

Local Laws Overview

Greece follows a civil law system influenced by both contemporary Greek legislation and European Union directives. In cases of birth injury, several aspects of local laws are peculiar:

• The burden of proof generally lies with the claimant, who must demonstrate that negligence occurred and resulted in injury.
• There are specific statutes of limitations, usually two years from the day the injury is discovered, although exceptions can apply.
• Expert medical testimony is often required to establish the standard of care and how it was breached by the healthcare provider.
• Compensations can cover both economic damages (medical expenses, loss of future earnings) and non-economic damages (pain, suffering, and diminished quality of life).

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes a birth injury?

A birth injury is any harm or injury to a newborn that occurs during the process of labor and delivery. This can include physical injuries such as fractures or neurological injuries like cerebral palsy.

What is the difference between birth injury and birth defect?

Birth injuries are caused by complications or negligence during labor and delivery. In contrast, birth defects usually occur due to genetic or environmental factors before or during pregnancy.

How do I know if my child's injury was due to medical negligence?

It can be challenging to determine medical negligence without professional advice. Consulting with a legal expert and obtaining medical reviews can help establish if standard procedures were not followed.

What kind of compensation might we be entitled to?

Compensation can include medical costs, rehabilitation, ongoing care, loss of earnings, and sometimes compensation for pain and suffering of the child or family.

Can we still file a claim if we are unsure who was at fault?

Yes, an investigation and expert legal advice can help determine where fault may lie, whether with doctors, nurses, or the medical facility itself.

What should we expect from the legal process for a birth injury case?

The process typically involves collecting medical records, consulting medical experts, filing a claim, and negotiating settlements or going to trial.

Is there a time limit for bringing a birth injury claim in Athens?

Yes, generally you have two years from the discovery of the injury to file a claim, but this can vary based on specific circumstances and legal advice should be sought.

Are birth injury claims common in Greece?

While not overwhelmingly common, there are enough cases each year that the legal framework and processes are well established.

Will my case go to trial?

Many birth injury cases settle out of court, but there's always a possibility that a case could go to trial if settlements aren't reached.

How can I find the right lawyer for a birth injury case?

Look for a lawyer with experience in medical malpractice and birth injuries, preferably with a strong track record of settlements and courtroom success in similar cases.

Additional Resources

If you’re in need of more information or assistance, consider these resources:

• Hellenic Medical Association: Offers resources for medical cases and can be consulted for expert opinions.
• Ministry of Health: Provides guidelines and inspections of healthcare standards in Greece.
• Greek Bar Association: Can assist in finding qualified attorneys who specialize in medical malpractice law.
• European Parents Association: Offers support and information for parents dealing with childhood disabilities.

Next Steps

Here are some steps to consider if you believe you need legal assistance regarding a birth injury:

1. Document everything related to your child's injury, including medical records, appointments, and bills.
2. Consider obtaining an independent medical review to understand the nature of the injury.
3. Contact several lawyers specializing in birth injuries to discuss your case - many offer free initial consultations.
4. Evaluate each lawyer based on their experience, case success rates, and your comfort with them handling such sensitive matters.
5. Once you've chosen a lawyer, work closely with them to build your case and follow their guidance through the legal process.