compensation Archives - Page 9 of 20 - New Jersey Medical Malpractice Lawyers

Medical Malpractice Attorneys File Lawsuit for Child’s Death

Medical malpractice attorneys have filed a lawsuit in Nebraska, in the Douglas County District Court, following a case of medical malpractice which led to the death of a two year old. Almariah Izabel Duque was approaching two years of age when her life came to an abrupt end. The young girl was given ten times the recommended dose of heparin as she was undergoing kidney dialysis. We have unfortunately found that this type of tragic occurrence is not uncommon in the medical world today.

Family Seeking Damages for Their Little Girl’s Death

new jersey philadelphia Medical Malpractice Attorneys file lawsuit heparin drug death The Duques brought their baby girl to Nebraska for a transplant after she was born with congenital defects. Almariah received a pancreas, liver, and small bowel transplant in late December of 2009. She was discharged from the hospital a few months later but quickly returned as she developed an infection.

The infection caused her kidneys to shut down, requiring her to undergo dialysis. The problem arose when the pump, used to disperse heparin, malfunctioned. The young child was given nearly ten times the proper dose. The mistake was not discovered for five hours and it caused severe bleeding in Almariah’s brain. The young girl passed away two short days later. The parents of the girl have filed a lawsuit seeking money damages for Almariah’s wrongful death, her suffering while she was living, and their emotional distress over losing their young child.

We also believe that the family will challenge the constitutionality of a state law which caps the maximum medical malpractice verdict award at $1.75 million. This issue has been litigated before, and in 2003, four judges left the door open for a challenge of this law because it may infringe on the right to due process.

Medical Malpractice Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you or a family member have recently been the victim of medical negligence, it is possible that you would like to speak with our professionals. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Birth Defects Attorneys Remind You About Success Stories

Our caring and experienced birth defects attorneys would like to remind parents of children with a cleft palate/lip birth defect that there is hope available. When you first learn of your baby’s diagnosis, several emotions hit all at once, including shock, disappointment, sadness, and anxiety. Of course, these are all reasonable emotions to experience, but it is important to remember that there are correct procedures for your baby, and he will live a happy and fulfilling life. The option of surgery is effective, and a search through internet resources will reveal many different success stories of corrected cleft palates. These children had their clefts corrected and now are living a normal life. Keep these success stories in mind while you provide for your child and his needs.

Sometimes parents ask what caused their baby to develop a cleft palate. In many cases the answer is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to say. There are many different environmental factors that can lead to the development of a cleft palate. However, in some cases, there may a clear indication of what caused the cleft palate. For example, the FDA recently announced that the drug Topamax (topiramate) has been linked to an increase in the development of cleft lip/palates. If you believe that this drug was a contributing factor in the development of your child’s cleft lip/palate you may have questions regarding your legal rights, especially if you are grappling with the expensive costs of treatment.

Birth Defects Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

Surgery is most effective the earlier it is preformed, thus contacting experienced birth defects attorneys quickly is beneficial to you. You have every reason to contact the Mininno Law Office to receive a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation in New Jersey (856) 833-0600 and in Philadelphia (215) 567-2380. There is no upfront cost to meet with our experienced birth defects attorneys, so please do not hesitate.

Medical Malpractice Attorneys – $2.6 Million Verdict for Plaintiff

Jorge Rosado was awarded a $2.6 million verdict following a short trial. Rosado filed the lawsuit against Dr. Richard Perugini and UMASS Memorial Medical Group. Rosado was scheduled to have a laparoscopic hernia operation in the summer of 2004 when he was twenty one years old. Medical malpractice attorneys say that Mr. Rosado’s serious health issues began after a surgical tack ended up in his small bowel rather than the lining of his stomach during the initial surgery. This medical malpractice forced the young man to undergo eight additional operations over the span of five months, landing him in intensive care with a breathing tube.

Plaintiff is Compensated Following Traumatic Year

Over a span of five months of constant medical procedures, Rosado also underwent an ileostomy and suffered with an open abdominal wound. Medical malpractice attorneys , and later a jury, believed that Dr. Perugini should have closely monitored where he placed the tacks during surgery. This manner of careful monitoring would have ensured that the tacks were placed in the lining of the stomach as opposed to the wall of the small bowel. It is also believed that the tack could not have fallen into the wall of the small bowel, as the defense team argued, had it been properly secured during the procedure. Dr. Steven Cohen stated that he believes that Rosado’s “spiraling complications” would have been avoided with proper treatment and care. The medical malpractice attorneys who handled the case believe this verdict was a just result in part due to the life altering complications and the long and extensive recovery period. Rosado is now at risk of continuing bowel obstructions for the rest of his life, which could lead to the need for additional operations. In a 10-2 jury vote, the plaintiff was awarded $2 million for pain and suffering, over $586 thousand for his medical costs, and nearly $18 thousand for loss of earning capacity during the tumultuous months of operations and recovery.

Medical Malpractice Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you or a family member has recently been the victim of medical negligence, it is possible that you would like to speak with medical malpractice attorneys. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at 856-833-0600 in New Jersey, or 215-567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Birth Defects Attorneys Advise Mothers on Topamax Use

After the recent announcement by the FDA, Topamax (topiramate) labels are being updated to include the increased risk (twenty-one times the normal rate) of your newborn baby being born with a cleft palate or lip. If you are currently pregnant and taking Topamax, this news should cause alarm, of course. However, it is important to consult with your medical professional before making any decisions regarding your prescription drug regimen. There are negative consequences associated with discontinuing the use of Topamax abruptly, which is why a medical practitioner should be consulted first. We want you to be as safe as possible, and be informed about you and your child’s health.

With this in mind, it usually behooves women to discontinue use of Topamax, under medical care, if they are of child bearing age, or are pregnant. There are still legitimate uses for Topamax, including prevention of seizures and migraine headaches, but the potential side effects need to be seriously considered. If your child was born with a cleft palate or lip, it may negatively affect her health and wellbeing, so do not hesitate to contact the experienced birth defects attorneys at the Mininno Law Offices.

Birth Defects Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If your child was born with a cleft lip or palate birth defect, that you believe can be attributed to your use of Topamax before or during pregnancy, you will want to speak with one of our professionals. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.
It is important to have experienced birth defects attorneys on your side because they can provide financial assistance that could help your child immensely.

Medical Malpractice Attorneys: Understanding Damages Due to Negligence

Victims of medical malpractice and negligence should bring a lawsuit as soon as possible because it is very likely that they are entitled to compensation. Medical malpractice attorneys explain that there are many types of potential damages that could be awarded to plaintiffs. Meritorious lawsuits could allow an individual to receive economic and non-economic damages as well as punitive damages, which are generally used to punish an especially egregious action by the defendant. Although people are often entitled to compensation, we worry that many claims fall by the wayside because of specific time limitations in different jurisdictions.

Compensating Plaintiffs for Negligence

Juries frequently award plaintiffs both economic and non-economic compensatory damages. Medical malpractice attorneys explain economic damages as monies awarded to cover financial losses such as medical expenses, care expenses, and lost wages. Economic damages are frequently used to cover both the past and the future. Individuals who, because of negligence, can no longer work are entitled money damages for the time that they have already missed as well as future absence from their job. Medical malpractice attorneys explain non-economic damages as money that has been assessed for the injury itself. The types of recovery for non-economic damages are somewhat endless. Examples of these damages include psychological and physical harm, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium, emotional distress, and many others. Finally, punitive damages are used to “teach the defendant a lesson,” and they are generally utilized in the case of some sort of wanton or reckless conduct.

Avoiding the Statute of Limitations

Following a medical negligence incident, individuals are afforded only a limited time period in which they can bring a lawsuit. Each jurisdiction generally will have a limitations period specified by statute. These limitations periods may vary depending on the type of malpractice and the state in which the negligence took place. Medical malpractice attorneys urge victims to seek legal assistance as soon as possible in order to avoid being left out in the cold without a legal remedy.

Medical Malpractice Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you or a family member have recently undergone surgery and have been the victim of medical malpractice or negligence, it is possible that you would like to speak with a professional. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Birth Defects Attorneys Supporting Children With Cleft Palates

It is now possible for medical practitioners to discover, before your child is born, if a cleft palate or lip will develop. Knowing that your baby will be born with a cleft palate/lip may come as a total shock and surprise. You may fear for his/her development and future. It is important to keep things in perspective, and realize that while this is definitely serious, this birth defect is treatable. Take a deep breath and realize that there is support out there for you, and that support includes our experienced birth defects attorneys.

Many parents ask, “What did I do wrong that allowed my child to develop this deformity and birth defect?” This type of thinking is counter-productive, as there are a whole host of different variables that affect the development of your baby. Certain medicines can cause cleft lips/palates. For example, the FDA has recently announced that Topamax (topirmate) has been linked to an increase of cleft palate/lip development by twenty-one times the normal rate. If you took Topamax while pregnant, or before pregnancy, you should seriously consider contacting the experienced our birth defects professionals.

Birth Defects Attorneys of New Jersey and Philadelphia.

If your child was born with a cleft palate or lip, that you believe can be attributed to your use of Topamax during pregnancy, you should not hestitate to contact our attorneys. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.
We work on a contingency basis, meaning that we do not get paid until you get paid. Let us work to get the relief your family deserves.

Medical Malpractice Attorneys: Proving Medical Negligence

Medical malpractice lawsuits begin with the filing of a complaint with the court in the appropriate jurisdiction. Once the process begins, both sides undertake discovery in an effort to uncover as much relevant information and evidence as possible prior to trial. This information must be shared between the two parties, as to avoid any surprises by the time the case reaches trial. Plaintiffs and defendants are able to negotiate before the trial in an effort to reach a settlement. If no agreement is reached, the parties will be forced to argue their case at trial. Medical malpractice attorneys strongly believe that plaintiffs need to fight for just compensation due to negligence, whether it is through a settlement or trial.

Acquiring Information and Proving the Case

During discovery, each party will conduct interrogatories, depositions, and file many requests for documents, in an effort to get to the bottom of the controversy. The plaintiff is required to prove each and every element of negligence (by a preponderance of evidence in civil court) in order to prevail in his or her medical malpractice claim. The first element is that the defendant (the physician, nurse, or hospital) owed a duty to the patient, such as caring for them or providing treatment.

Medical malpractice attorneys say that the second element of negligence is that the defendant breached his duty of care. When a defendant fails to live up to his duty as a professional caretaker, this duty is breached. Third, a plaintiff must show that the actions of the defendant, through the breach of his duty, directly caused the injury that has been sustained.

Finally, lawyers need to prove the plaintiff’s damages. Even if a doctor, nurse, healthcare provider, or hospital has been negligent (and fulfilled the first three elements), there is no claim without losses. Once the medical malpractice attorneys present and prove the plaintiff’s case, the injured party will be awarded damages from the fact-finder as compensation.

Medical Malpractice Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If you have recently undergone surgery and have been the victim of medical malpractice or negligence, it is likely that you may wish to speak with medical malpractice attorneys. Please contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.

Birth Defects Attorneys Urge You to Know the Side Effects of Your Drugs

Our birth defects attorneys have been contacted by many parents with children born with cleft lips and palates. Many of these mothers have taken Topamax (topiramate) for various reasons. One reason that Topamax is taken is for migraine headaches. If you have ever experienced a migraine headache you can attest to the fact that the pain and discomfort can be almost unbearable. However, it is extremely important to know what the side effects of the drugs you take are, especially if you are of child bearing age, or are pregnant.

Most of the time, drug side effects are published when the drug is released so that doctors and patients can consider them. However, some drugs, like Topamax, have had significant side effects discovered after they had been on the market for a considerable amount of time. It has recently been announced by the FDA that Topamax increases the likelihood that your child will develop a cleft palate birth defect in utero by over twenty-one times the normal rate. The birth defects attorneys of the Mininno Law Office suggest thorough research on any drug you may take, especially during pregnancy, and consultation with medical personnel to determine the right medications for you.

Birth Defects Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

If your child was born with a cleft lip or palate you may be asking yourself if legal representation is necessary. The answer certainly depends on your individual circumstances. If you believe that Topamax may have been linked to the development of your child’s birth defect, do not hesitate to contact the Mininno Law Office for a free consultation and case evaluation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey, or (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.
Our birth defects attorneys have your interest at heart, and can provide financial remedies that will make dealing with your child’s cleft lip/palate easier.

Adding Your Child’s Teacher to the Cleft Palate Care Team

The birth defects attorneys of the Mininno Law Office would like to share with you some advice about preparing your child with a cleft lip/palate for school. There are many things you may want to communicate with your child’s teacher. First and foremost, in as tactful a way as possible, let the teacher know that your child is an individual, not a diagnosis. Other children will naturally be curious, because your child’s appearance may be different, but the teacher can make this a positive experience by respectively educating the other children about the birth defect, as well as making your child feel more welcome.

It is also important to let the teacher know that your child may have hearing issues tied to the cleft palate, which should be considered if the teacher believes the child isn’t listening. Lastly, try to encourage the teacher to maintain an open line of communication, as the first years of school are most likely going to shape your child’s self-image strongly, and it should be as positive as possible. Teachers are generally compassionate people, so adding your child’s teacher to your care-team along side your doctors, birth defects attorneys, and other professionals is a great idea.

Birth Defects Attorneys In New Jersey and Philadelphia

Now that your child is getting ready for school, you may be asking yourself if you need birth defects attorneys. The simple truth is that in a great portion of cases there is no one to blame for the development of the birth defect as it was caused by natural forces. However, in some instances, there are external forces at work which may have affected your child’s development. For instance, the FDA has recently announced that Topamax (Topiramate) has been linked to an increase in the development of a cleft lip/palate by 21 times the normal rate.
If you believe that Topamax may have been a factor in the development of your child’s cleft lip/palate please do not hesitate to contact us. Our lawyers are experienced and in many cases can help achieve financial judgments that can help your family.

Contact the Mininno Law Office in New Jersey at (856) 833-0600 and in Philadelphia at (215) 567-2380 for a FREE case evaluation and consultation.

Birth Defects Attorneys Discuss Cleft Palate Hearing Issues & Remedies

Babies that are born with a cleft palate are more likely than other children to frequently suffer from ear infections. The cleft palate contributes to a buildup of fluid in the middle ear, and if this becomes infected, the baby can develop a fever and an earache. Unfortunately this buildup can also cause moderate hearing loss. This hearing loss, if treated properly, need not be permanent. It is recommended that the child have their ears checked yearly so that if fluid is detected, it can be treated with the appropriate medicine or minor surgical procedures. This may seem daunting on top of all of the other responsibilities a parent of a child with a cleft palate birth defect may face, but it is possible that experienced birth defects attorneys may be able to alleviate the financial burden on your family.

Possible Remedies Available to Prevent Hearing Loss

Often, when a baby suffers from a cleft palate and frequent ear infections, a doctor may insert tubes into the baby’s ear. The desired effect of the tubes is to alleviate fluid build-up in the ears and restore hearing for the baby. If left for too long, it is possible that hearing damage will become permanent. You should have your baby see an ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor) as well as an audiologist for more information. It may also be important to consult with a speech language pathologist to remedy any speech issues that may be caused by the temporary hearing loss.

Birth Defects Attorneys in New Jersey and Philadelphia

The mental, emotional, and economic stresses of caring for a child with a cleft palate can be overwhelming. In a large portion of the cases, no one is to blame for the development of the cleft palate. However, the FDA has recently announced that the epilepsy and migraine treatment Topamax (Topiramate) has been linked to an increase in the development of cleft lips and palates when taken by women during pregnancy. If you believe that Topamax may have been a cause to your baby’s cleft lip or palate, you have legal options with the Mininno Law Office’s birth defects attorneys.

We offer FREE consulations and case evaluations. There is NO upfront cost to meet with the Mininno Law Office’s experienced birth defects attorneys. Please do not hesitate to ask for help from our birth defects attorneys for your child. Contact the Mininno Law Office for a free case evaluation, or call for a free consultation at (856) 833-0600 in New Jersey and (215) 567-2380 in Philadelphia.