Best Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Irving

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Founded in 2009
English
Dashner Law Firm, PLLC is a Texas based injury practice with offices in Irving, Arlington and McAllen. Led by Geoffrey B. Dashner, the firm concentrates on helping injured clients obtain maximum compensation through skilled negotiation and litigation. The firm is recognized for its experience in...
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1. About Medical Malpractice Law in Irving, United States

Medical malpractice in Irving, Texas, occurs when a healthcare provider’s negligence causes injury or harm. This includes misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, surgical errors, anesthesia mistakes, medication errors, and improper treatment. The law in Irving follows Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code rules that apply to health care liability claims in the state’s courts.

Irving is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, so many malpractice matters involve providers and facilities in the Dallas County and surrounding counties. Local courts handle these cases, but the underlying rules come from state statutes and Texas licensing bodies. A key point is that plaintiffs must prove that the provider breached the applicable standard of care and that the breach caused the claimed injury.

Two important features shape most malpractice litigation in Texas: first, the need for expert testimony to establish negligence in many cases, and second, a damages framework that includes caps on non-economic damages in health care liability claims. These elements influence both the strategy and the potential outcome of a malpractice action in Irving.

Source: Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code governs health care liability claims, including expert report requirements and damages caps.

For reference and further reading, consult Texas Legislature Online for statutes governing health care liability and the Texas Medical Board for licensing and disciplinary actions against physicians.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Being treated by a medical professional in Irving or nearby communities does not automatically mean you have a case. Common, real-world scenarios in this area that often lead to legal advice include:

  • A misdiagnosis in an Irving-area emergency department that delayed essential treatment, resulting in worsened outcomes for the patient.
  • A surgical error during a procedure performed at a Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex hospital or surgical center, leading to ongoing pain or disability.
  • A failed or delayed diagnosis of cancer or infections that progressed because proper testing and interpretation were not performed in a timely manner.
  • An adverse reaction or medication error in a hospital or clinic setting that caused harm or additional medical problems.
  • A birth injury or neonatal complication tied to hospital care or obstetric procedures at a nearby facility, affecting the child or mother.
  • A failure to obtain informed consent, where the patient was not adequately told about risks, alternatives, or likely outcomes before a procedure.

In Irving, a lawyer with experience in medical liability can help assess whether negligence occurred, identify the correct defendants (physicians, hospitals, clinics, or nursing facilities), and navigate the Texas requirements for bringing a claim, including expert reports where applicable.

Source: Texas Legislature Online and state legal resources outlining health care liability claim elements and procedural requirements.

3. Local Laws Overview

The medical malpractice framework in Irving is shaped by state laws that apply statewide, plus licensing and professional standards enforced by state agencies. Here are 2-3 key statutes and regulatory concepts you should know.

Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 74 - Health Care Liability Claims

This chapter governs health care liability actions in Texas, including definitions of health care liability claims and the general procedural framework for suing health care providers in Irving and across the state. It sets the stage for when and how cases may be filed in Texas courts.

Effective context: Chapter 74 remains the foundational statute for medical liability claims. Plaintiffs should understand how it interacts with later requirements such as expert reports and discovery.

Source: Texas Legislature Online - Health care liability claims overview under Chapter 74.

Section 74.351 - Expert Report Requirement

Texas requires an expert report in many medical liability cases. The report must be prepared by a qualified health care professional and serves to establish that the claim has merit before proceeding to formal litigation. The timeline and content of the report are dictated by statute and court rules.

In Irving, as elsewhere in Texas, failing to timely file a proper expert report can lead to dismissal of the case without prejudice or on the merits, depending on the court’s ruling.

Source: Texas Legislature Online - Expert report requirements for health care liability claims.

Texas Medical Practice Act and Licensing - Occupations Code and Texas Medical Board Rules

The Texas Medical Board regulates physician licensure, disciplinary actions, and practice standards. While the Board does not decide malpractice cases, its actions can influence the available remedies and the admissibility of certain allegations. Physicians and facilities in Irving must comply with these professional standards.

For more information, consult the Texas Medical Board and related licensing rules, including Administrative Code provisions that implement practice standards.

Source: Texas Medical Board (tmb.texas.gov) - licensing, discipline, and professional standards.

Non-Economic Damage Cap in Medical Malpractice

Texas imposes a cap on non-economic damages in medical liability actions, generally limited to a certain amount per defendant. This cap affects potential compensation for pain and suffering in Irving cases and has implications for settlement negotiations and trial strategy.

Note that the cap rules are part of the statutory framework and are frequently interpreted in court decisions across Texas. Always verify the current cap level with an attorney when evaluating a claim.

Source: Texas Legislature Online - non-economic damages cap in health care liability claims.

Recent changes or trends in Irving mirror statewide developments. The core framework-Chapter 74 for health care liability claims, the expert report requirement, and the non-economic damages cap-remains in place. Changes typically involve clarifications issued by courts or adjustments in how the expert report process is applied in practice. For precise, up-to-date details, consult the official statutes and local court rules cited above.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is medical malpractice in Irving, Texas?

Medical malpractice is negligence by a health care professional that causes injury or death. It must involve a breach of the standard of care and damages resulting from that breach.

How do I know if I have a claim in Irving?

Evaluate whether a diagnosed injury, treatment error, or delayed diagnosis caused harm that could have been prevented with proper care. An attorney can assess your medical records and expert opinions.

What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Texas?

Texas generally requires filing within two years of when the injury was discovered or should have been discovered, with a long-stop limit applicable in many cases. Exceptions and discovery rules can apply, so legal counsel is important.

How much does a medical malpractice lawyer cost in Irving?

Most malpractice lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and attorney fees come from any settlement or verdict. Discuss the exact fee arrangement during a consultation.

Do I need a local lawyer to handle my Irving case?

Local experience matters. A lawyer familiar with Irving and Dallas County courts can navigate local judges, procedures, and medical networks effectively.

What is an expert report in Texas medical liability cases?

The expert report is a formal document from a qualified medical professional stating that the claim has merit. It is often required before proceeding with the lawsuit in many health care liability cases.

How long does a typical malpractice case take in the Dallas area?

Case duration varies widely. Some claims settle within months, while others proceed to trial after several years. Complex cases with expert reports often take longer.

What is the difference between a settlement and a trial in malpractice cases?

A settlement resolves the dispute without a trial, typically through negotiation or mediation. A trial ends with a court verdict or jury decision and potential damages awarded.

Can I sue multiple doctors or hospitals in Irving?

Yes, you may be able to name multiple defendants if each contributed to the alleged malpractice. The legal strategy considers causation and the exposure to liability of each defendant.

Should I file an insurance claim before consulting a lawyer?

Often you should inform your insurer, but do not settle or sign waivers without legal advice. Insurance considerations can affect coverage and claim value.

Do I need to prove all damages to recover compensation?

Yes, you must show actual damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and non-economic harms within the statutory framework. An attorney helps quantify and document these damages.

Is there a difference between Texas and federal malpractice rules?

Medical liability is primarily governed by Texas state law in most cases, with some federal questions possible in certain circumstances. State law typically controls who can sue, what must be proven, and damages caps.

5. Additional Resources

  • Texas Medical Board - Licensing, disciplinary actions, and patient complaint processes for physicians. Official site: https://www.tmb.texas.gov
  • Texas Legislature Online - Official statutes for health care liability claims, expert reports, and damages limits. Official site: https://legis.texas.gov
  • Texas Courts - Court statistics, filings, and procedural guidance for civil cases including medical liability claims. Official site: https://www.txcourts.gov

6. Next Steps

  1. Collect all medical records, billing statements, and any communication with providers in Irving or nearby hospitals.
  2. Determine the nature of the alleged negligence and damages with a qualified medical expert who can review the records.
  3. Consult a local medical malpractice attorney in Irving for a free initial evaluation and determine if an expert report is required.
  4. If pursuing a claim, discuss the statute of limitations, discovery rules, and potential timelines with your attorney.
  5. Have a clear record of all injuries, ongoing treatment, and financial losses to support damages calculations.
  6. Ask about fee arrangements, costs, and possible settlement options during your consultation.
  7. Decide whether to pursue settlement negotiations or proceed to a formal lawsuit based on your attorney’s guidance.

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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.

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