Here Are Some of the Most-Asked Questions About Medical Malpractice and Pacific Medical Law
We want you to be fully informed. Chances are you can find answers to many of your questions right here. If not, don’t hesitate to call us.
Does Pacific Medical Law only act for patients?
We only represent patients and their families. We do not defend doctors and hospitals. Some of our lawyers have defended doctors and hospitals in the past. This past experience provides a unique and invaluable insight into the strategies and tactics of the other side, and can help avoid pitfalls along the way.
Do I have a medical malpractice case?
Many people contact us just wondering if they have a reason to sue their doctor or hospital.
Contact us by e-mail or telephone us for a free initial telephone consultation to discuss your problem. Our toll-free number is 604-685-2361. Our number in the Lower Mainland is 604-685-2361. You will have a free confidential discussion with one of our lawyers.
How long do I have to sue?
Many people do not realize that there are deadlines for starting medical malpractice suits.
In general, British Columbia law requires that your lawsuit be filed within two years of the date of the injury or the date that you became aware of the injury and the potential for a malpractice claim. There are ultimate limitation dates for suing and special rules for people injured before they turned 19 years old and people with mental disabilities. The entire area of limitation periods law is complex, and there is a lot of work that must be done before a lawsuit can be started. Contact our office as soon as possible to discuss the limitation dates in your situation.
How much will it cost me?
Frequently, our clients are worried about how much they will have to pay to have a lawyer protect their interests.
Most cases are taken on a contingency or “percentage of monies successfully recovered” basis. If we decide to take your case on a contingency basis, we will invest thousands of dollars of our time to investigate and discover the facts and law that are important to your lawsuit. We spend the time necessary to find the medical experts in Canada or the United States to support your case.
Beyond our initial investigation fee, we will not charge you any fees for our time unless we are successful, and then our fee is based on an agreed-upon percentage of what we have recovered for you. Special rules apply when we represent people under the age of 19 years or people with mental disabilities. There are also out-of-pocket expenses such as fees charged by expert witnesses and the court in addition to our fees. A lawyer will discuss with you the arrangements for the fees and out-of-pocket expenses.
How long will it take until my case is finished?
Medical malpractice cases are not easily resolved.
Although some cases are settled, many cases go through to trial and some are even appealed. Every case is prepared as if it is going to trial. Cases that are settled are often only settled in the last days before trial. We will endeavour to handle your case at a speed that is in your best interests. Often, the full extent of the injuries is not apparent until several years after the alleged medical mistake, although if a medical malpractice case is to proceed, it must be commenced within the limitation period.
I live outside BC – can you help me?
We take on cases in many provinces and territories across Canada. Please contact us so we can determine if it would be appropriate for us to represent you or whether it would be better for us to refer you to someone else.
Devoted to Success in Medical Malpractice Cases
If you believe that a medical error has resulted in an injury to you or your child, speak with us at Pacific Medical Law to learn more about your rights. Legal time limitations require cases to be started within a specific time. Call our firm for an initial consultation at 604-685-2361.