Best Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Coral Gables

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Felicetti Law Firm
Coral Gables, United States

Founded in 2012
English
The Felicetti Law Firm is a multi state personal injury practice that represents accident victims across Florida, Georgia and New York. The firm handles car, truck, motorcycle and taxi cab accidents, as well as slip and fall, construction site injuries and other negligence claims. Through a network...
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1. About Medical Malpractice Law in Coral Gables, United States

Medical malpractice in Coral Gables is a subset of personal injury law that covers harm caused by a health care professional’s breach of the standard of care. A successful claim typically requires showing that a medical professional owed a duty, breached that duty, caused an injury, and that injury resulted in damages. Local hospitals and clinics in Miami-Dade County, including those serving Coral Gables residents, are frequently involved in such cases.

The state of Florida sets the framework for medical malpractice claims, including pre-suit requirements, deadlines, and damages. Understanding these rules helps you decide whether to consult a local attorney who handles medical malpractice for residents of Coral Gables. A Florida attorney can guide you through complex records, expert reviews, and potential settlements with insurers.

Florida statute 766.203 and related provisions govern pre-suit procedures for medical malpractice actions in the state, including the affidavit of merit requirement.

For precise rules, consult official sources. See Florida Statutes for Chapter 766 on medical negligence and related provisions, and review government guidance on statutes of limitations that apply in Coral Gables. These sources provide the legal basis for most medical malpractice actions in Florida.

Sources you can consult include: Florida Statutes Chapter 766 and related sections, and general guidance from Florida government sites on medical practice regulation.

Florida Statutes Chapter 766 - Medical Negligence and Florida Statutes Section 95.11 - Statute of Limitations.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Here are concrete, real-world scenarios in Coral Gables where seeking legal counsel is often essential. A local medical malpractice attorney can evaluate timelines, gather records, and coordinate with Florida health care providers and courts.

  • A patient experiences a surgical error during a procedure at a Coral Gables hospital that leads to long-term disability and costly care, prompting a potential malpractice claim.
  • A misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis in a Coral Gables clinic results in progression of disease that could have been treated more effectively with earlier intervention.
  • Post-surgical infection or anesthesia complications occur, resulting in prolonged hospitalization and permanent injuries requiring ongoing treatment.
  • Birth injury or neonatal complications in a local hospital setting lead to lifelong medical needs, raising questions about standard of care during delivery.
  • Medication errors in a local facility or urgent care center cause serious harm, such as adverse drug interactions or incorrect dosages.
  • An insurance dispute over coverage or settlement terms for a legitimate malpractice claim requires professional negotiation and litigation strategy.

In each scenario, an attorney who concentrates on medical malpractice in Coral Gables can help by identifying applicable deadlines, authenticating medical records, and coordinating with expert witnesses. They can also explain the pre-suit process and how it affects your timeline for filing.

3. Local Laws Overview

Two to three Florida laws commonly govern medical malpractice actions in Coral Gables. These statutes shape how and when claims are filed, how damages are claimed, and what evidence is required to move a case forward.

Florida Statutes Chapter 766 - Medical Negligence

This chapter governs medical malpractice actions in Florida, including definitions, pre-suit requirements, and procedures. It sets the foundation for how claims against providers such as doctors and hospitals are pursued in state court. See the official statute for precise provisions on duties, standard of care, and conduct that may lead to liability.

Chapter 766 outlines the general framework for medical negligence claims, including pre-suit review and affidavit requirements.

Florida Statutes Chapter 766 - Medical Negligence

Florida Statutes Section 95.11 - Statute of Limitations

Section 95.11 sets the primary deadlines for filing medical malpractice lawsuits in Florida. The standard time limit is two years from the date of the incident or when the injury was discovered, with specific rules for discovery and minors. This section is essential for determining when a Coral Gables case must be filed to avoid dismissal.

Florida Statutes Section 95.11

Florida Statutes Section 766.203 - Pre-suit Affidavit of Merit

765.203 governs the requirement for an affidavit of merit from a qualified medical expert before filing a medical malpractice action. The affidavit helps verify that the claim has a reasonable probability of success and is a critical step in the Coral Gables case lifecycle. This pre-suit step can affect both timing and strategy.

Florida Statutes Section 766.203 - Pre-suit Affidavit of Merit

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly counts as medical malpractice by a provider in Coral Gables, Florida?

Medical malpractice means a provider breached the standard of care and caused injury. It typically involves errors in diagnosis, treatment, aftercare, or informed consent. Local rules require evidence from qualified medical experts to support a claim.

How do I know if I have a medical malpractice case in Coral Gables?

A potential case starts with a medical review and records review by a Florida attorney. If a qualified expert concludes that the standard of care was violated and caused harm, you may have a viable claim. Early consultation is important due to deadlines.

When should I contact a local attorney after a potential medical error?

Contact an attorney as soon as you suspect malpractice. In Florida, deadlines can be strict, especially with pre-suit requirements. A local attorney can map important dates and help gather records quickly.

Where do I file a medical malpractice lawsuit in Miami-Dade County or Coral Gables?

Generally, such lawsuits are filed in the circuit court for the county where the claim arose. Coral Gables residents typically file in the Miami-Dade County Circuit Court. Your attorney handles the filing and service process for you.

Why might I need a doctor or medical expert to review my case?

Florida requires an affidavit of merit from a licensed medical professional before filing. An expert review provides the basis for proving the breach of standard of care and causation.

Can I sue for misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis in Coral Gables?

Yes, misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis can be medical malpractice if they meet the standard of care breach and causation criteria. A Florida attorney will assess the likelihood of proving damages.

Should I sign a settlement offer before speaking to a lawyer?

No. It is prudent to consult an attorney before accepting any settlement. An attorney can review terms, ensure you understand damages, and protect your rights.

Do I need a Coral Gables based attorney to handle my case?

While you can hire any Florida attorney, local familiarity helps with court practices, judges, and medical providers in the Miami-Dade area. A local malpractice attorney often coordinates well with nearby experts.

Is there a deadline to file a medical malpractice claim in Florida?

Yes. Florida generally imposes a two-year statute of limitations, but exceptions may apply. Consulting an attorney early helps identify any discovery rules or hold periods that affect your case.

How much does a medical malpractice attorney charge in Coral Gables?

Most medical malpractice attorneys in Florida work on a contingency fee basis. This means fees are paid from the settlement or verdict, subject to agreement and court-approved costs.

What is an affidavit of merit and do I need one to file a case?

An affidavit of merit is a sworn statement from a qualified medical expert confirming that the claim has potential merit. In Florida, you generally must obtain and file this before pursuing a suit.

What is the difference between economic and non-economic damages in these cases?

Economic damages cover tangible losses like medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages cover intangible harms like pain and suffering. Florida imposes caps and exceptions that a local attorney can explain.

5. Additional Resources

Use these official resources to understand medical malpractice regulation and patient safety in Florida. They provide authoritative information on facilities, licensure, and complaint processes.

  • Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) - Licenses hospitals and health care facilities; tracks patient safety data and quality indicators in Florida. ahca.myflorida.com
  • Florida Department of Health (DOH) - Oversees physician licensure and professional regulation; maintains license lookup and disciplinary actions for Florida providers. floridahealth.gov
  • National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) - Federal repository of information on professional disciplinary actions and malpractice payments; used by health care entities and regulators. npdb.hrsa.gov

6. Next Steps

  1. Identify potential medical malpractice questions and gather medical records from Coral Gables providers within 2 weeks of recognizing an issue. This helps the initial consultation be productive.
  2. Schedule consultations with 2-4 local physicians or medical malpractice attorneys in Coral Gables within the next 2-4 weeks. Ask about experience with Florida pre-suit requirements and expert networks.
  3. Prepare a fact summary and timeline, including dates of treatment, alleged errors, and injuries. Share this with your chosen attorney to accelerate evaluation.
  4. Ask each candidate about their approach, fees, and anticipated pre-suit steps. Obtain a written fee agreement and confirm contingent fee terms before proceeding.
  5. Decide on representation and begin the pre-suit process within 1-2 weeks after selecting counsel. Your attorney will determine if an affidavit of merit is required and coordinate reviews with qualified experts.
  6. Monitor deadlines and maintain organized records. Your attorney will manage communications with defendants, insurers, and the court to protect your rights.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.