Cerebral Palsy affects a baby’s movement, muscle tone, and posture. It can be caused by damage to the brain before, during, or after birth. If someone you know has cerebral palsy, you may need the help of a cerebral palsy lawyer.
These lawyers can help you file lawsuits, seek compensation, and get benefits. This article will discuss what to ask cerebral palsy lawyers and how they can help you.
1) What Is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral Palsy is caused by specific damage to the brain, typically occurring during pregnancy or after birth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that roughly 10,000 babies born each year show signs of cerebral palsy.
CP ranges from mild to severe, and symptoms vary depending on the individual. Many people with this condition require lifelong care and assistance with activities of daily living.
2) How Could Your Loved One Develop Cerebral Palsy?
Here are some reasons why a baby might develop cerebral palsy:
-The baby was born prematurely
-There was a problem with the placenta or umbilical cord during pregnancy
-The baby had a severe infection while in the womb
-The mother contracted an illness, such as rubella, during pregnancy
-The baby suffered from a lack of oxygen during delivery
-The baby was injured during delivery
If you’re not sure how your loved one developed cerebral palsy, their doctor should be able to give you more information. You can also ask a cerebral palsy lawyer for advice.
When meeting with a lawyer, it’s essential to ask them about their experience with these cases. You should ask them about their success rate and what they think your chances are of winning your case.
3) What Damages Can You Sue For?
Expert cerebral palsy lawyers will help you and your family understand what damages you can sue for. These may include:
-Medical expenses
-Pain and suffering
-Loss of enjoyment of life
-Loss of earnings
-Emotional distress
-Wrongful death
Each case is different, so it is vital to speak with an experienced attorney to understand what damages may be available to you.
If a child’s been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, an experienced attorney can help you and your family understand your legal rights and options.
4) What Are the Steps to File a Cerebral Palsy Lawsuit?
The steps to filing a cerebral palsy lawsuit vary depending on the state in which you live. However, most states require that you first file a notice of claim with the state or local government entity responsible for your child’s injuries.
This notice must be filed within a certain period after the injury occurred, usually between six months and one year.
If the government entity denies your claim, you have a certain amount of time to file a lawsuit. The statute of limitations for a CP lawsuit is usually two to four years from the date of the injury, but it can be as short as one year in some states.
It is essential to consult with a cerebral palsy lawyer as soon as possible after your child is diagnosed with the condition to ensure that you do not miss any deadlines for filing a claim or lawsuit.
Your lawyer would help you navigate the complex legal processes and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
5) What Documents and Evidence Are Needed to Prove a Case?
CP lawyers will need access to certain documents and evidence to prove your case. It may include medical records, birth records, and educational records.
You must be able to provide these items to your lawyer so that they can build a strong case on your behalf.
Medical Reports: All medical reports related to the child’s condition should be given to the lawyer.
Birth Records: The date of birth, time of delivery, and any other relevant information should be provided.
Educational Records: These will help determine if the child is eligible for certain forms of compensation.
Other Evidence: There may be other types of evidence like video footage or photographs that can help prove the case.
6) How Much Compensation Can You Expect to Receive?
The amount of compensation you can expect to receive will depend on the severity of your child’s condition, injuries, and the financial impact those injuries have had on your family.
Insurance companies will often try to lowball you with an initial offer. Still, an experienced cerebral palsy lawyer will know how to negotiate the total amount of compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
Whether you have already filed a CP lawsuit or are considering doing so, it is essential to consult with an experienced attorney. A lawyer can help navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and build a strong case.
