Atlanta Medical Malpractice Attorney
When it comes time to choose a lawyer to represent you, there are a few key factors to look for. You want an attorney who has experience handling cases similar to your legal matter, and you want a lawyer who has amassed a record of successes over those years of experience. The opinions of colleagues and former clients can prove invaluable in helping you determine when you’ve found the right attorney for your vital legal need.
In over 15 years of legal practice, Atlanta medical malpractice attorney Stacey Carroll has litigated hundreds of civil lawsuits for individuals and businesses in Atlanta and beyond, including several cases where millions of dollars were at stake. He has been recognized as a top-tier litigator by Georgia Super Lawyers magazine. Moreover, he has earned the admiration of other lawyers and the praise of his clients who understand how Stacey’s meticulous preparation, attention to detail and skills as a courtroom lawyer and out-of-court negotiator are vital to the success and outstanding results he delivers.
If you need a skilled Georgia trial attorney to represent you in an Atlanta personal injury claim, medical malpractice lawsuit or business dispute, Stacey Carroll and the Carroll Law Firm should be your choice. Read on for a description of our firm’s main areas of practice, and contact the Carroll Law Firm with any questions or for more immediate assistance.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional’s negligence leads to injury, worsening of a condition, or wrongful death. In Atlanta, patients trust doctors, nurses, and medical institutions to provide competent care. However, when medical errors occur, the consequences can be life-altering. If you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence, understanding your rights and legal options is essential. Carroll Law Firm LLC is dedicated to helping victims of medical malpractice recover the compensation they deserve.
Contact the Carroll Law Firm if you believe you’ve been harmed by any Georgia medical mistake, including:
- Anesthesia Error
- Birth Injury
- Blood Transfusion Malpractice
- Cancer Misdiagnosis
- Delayed Diagnosis of Cancer
- Diagnosis Error
- Doctor/Nurse Error
- Emergency Room Malpractice
- Facial Nerve Injury or Paralysis
- Failure to Diagnose Cancer
- Hospital Error
- Infant Wrongful Death
- Labor & Delivery Negligence
- Medication Error
- Nerve Damage Malpractice
- Radiology Error
- Surgical Error
Thorough preparation is key to bringing a successful claim of medical malpractice against a doctor or hospital. Our Atlanta medical malpractice attorney works with a network of medical experts to understand what happened and build a strong case that proves you were injured by the failure to receive appropriate medical care. These complex cases are heavily defended by doctors, hospitals and their insurance companies. We put in the time and attention to detail to make sure your claim is solid, and your attorney Stacey Carroll employs his tested and excellent trial skills to make sure the jury understands the medical and legal issues involved in your case.
Common Medical Malpractice Cases in Atlanta
Medical malpractice can take many forms, but some of the most common cases in Atlanta include:
- Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis – Failure to properly diagnose a medical condition, such as cancer or a heart attack, can lead to severe complications or death.
- Surgical Errors – Mistakes during surgery, such as operating on the wrong site, leaving surgical instruments inside a patient, or causing unnecessary damage, can lead to life-threatening conditions.
- Medication Errors – Administering the wrong medication or dosage can cause severe adverse reactions, overdoses, or failure to treat the patient’s condition effectively.
- Birth Injuries – Negligence during labor and delivery can lead to conditions such as cerebral palsy, Erb’s palsy, or brain damage in newborns.
- Anesthesia Errors – An anesthesiologist’s mistake, such as incorrect dosage or failure to monitor a patient, can result in serious injury or death.
- Hospital-Acquired Infections – Unsanitary hospital conditions and lack of proper care can lead to life-threatening infections, such as sepsis.
- Failure to Obtain Informed Consent – Doctors must fully inform patients of the risks of a procedure. Performing a medical treatment without proper consent may be malpractice.
- Defective Medical Devices – Faulty medical implants or devices can cause severe complications if they malfunction.
- Emergency Room Negligence – Errors made in the ER, such as failure to recognize a stroke or heart attack, can have devastating consequences.
- Failure to Monitor – When healthcare providers fail to monitor a patient’s condition post-surgery or after medication administration, serious complications may arise.
Common Injuries Resulting from Medical Malpractice
Medical negligence can lead to various injuries, some of which may require lifelong medical care. Common injuries include:
- Brain damage
- Birth defects
- Paralysis or spinal cord injuries
- Organ damage or failure
- Severe infections
- Internal bleeding
- Permanent disfigurement
- Loss of limbs
- Psychological trauma
- Wrongful death
Potential Compensation for Medical Malpractice Victims
Victims of medical malpractice in Atlanta may be entitled to significant compensation, depending on the severity of their injuries. Potential damages include:
- Medical Expenses – Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
- Lost Wages – Compensation for missed work and future earning potential lost due to disability or long-term recovery.
- Pain and Suffering – Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Wrongful Death – Families of victims who died due to medical malpractice may recover funeral costs, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support.
- Punitive Damages – In cases of extreme negligence or reckless behavior, courts may award punitive damages to punish the responsible party.
Georgia Medical Malpractice Laws
Medical malpractice cases in Georgia are governed by specific laws that impact how claims are handled:
- Statute of Limitations – Victims generally have two years from the date of injury or death to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. However, no claim can be filed more than five years after the malpractice occurred (except in rare cases).
- Expert Affidavit Requirement – Georgia law requires plaintiffs to submit an affidavit from a qualified medical expert detailing how the provider deviated from the standard of care.
- Comparative Negligence Rule – If the patient is found to be partially at fault, compensation may be reduced based on their percentage of fault.
- Damage Caps – Georgia does not impose a cap on economic damages (medical bills, lost wages) but had previously limited non-economic damages (pain and suffering) before this cap was ruled unconstitutional.
What to Do if you Suspect Medical Malpractice
If you believe you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice in Atlanta, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention – If your health has been compromised, consult another doctor for a second opinion and necessary treatment.
- Obtain Medical Records – Request copies of all medical records related to your treatment.
- Document Everything – Keep track of medical bills, lost wages, and any notes on how the injury has impacted your life.
- Consult a Medical Malpractice Attorney – An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and determine if you have a valid claim.
- Avoid Talking to Insurance Companies Alone – Insurance companies may attempt to minimize or deny your claim. Always speak with an attorney before making statements.
- File a Claim Within the Legal Deadline – Since Georgia law imposes strict deadlines, it is crucial to act quickly.
Top Hospitals in Atlanta
- Emory University Hospital
- Piedmont Atlanta Hospital
- Northside Hospital Atlanta
- Wellstar Atlanta Medical Center
- Grady Memorial Hospital
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Egleston
- Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital
- Wellstar Kennestone Hospital
- Shepherd Center
- Atlanta VA Medical Center
- Emory Decatur Hospital
- Southern Regional Medical Center
- Emory Johns Creek Hospital
- Piedmont Fayette Hospital
- Wellstar North Fulton Hospital
- Emory Hillandale Hospital
- Eastside Medical Center
- Northside Hospital Forsyth
- Piedmont Henry Hospital
- Wellstar Cobb Hospital
Finding the Best Atlanta Med Mal Lawyer Near You
Finding the best Atlanta medical malpractice lawyer near you requires careful research and consideration of several key factors. Start by looking for attorneys who specialize in medical malpractice cases, as this area of law is complex and requires deep knowledge of healthcare regulations, expert testimonies, and Georgia’s malpractice laws. Check online reviews, client testimonials, and professional ratings to gauge a lawyer’s reputation and track record of success. Experience matters, so prioritize firms with a proven history of securing favorable settlements and verdicts in malpractice cases. Schedule consultations to discuss your case and evaluate the attorney’s responsiveness, communication style, and willingness to fight for your rights. When searching for the “best Atlanta med mal lawyer near me”, find those that will offer personalized attention, work with medical experts to strengthen your case, and aggressively pursue the maximum compensation possible. Carroll Law Firm LLC provides dedicated representation for victims of medical negligence in Atlanta, offering the experience and legal skill necessary to take on hospitals, insurance companies, and negligent healthcare providers.
Atlanta Medical Malpractice FAQs
- What qualifies as medical malpractice in Atlanta?
- Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care expected in their field, resulting in harm to a patient. This can include misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, anesthesia errors, birth injuries, and failure to obtain informed consent.
- How do I know if I have a valid medical malpractice claim?
- To have a valid claim, you must prove that a healthcare provider was negligent, that this negligence directly caused your injury, and that you suffered damages as a result. Consulting an experienced medical malpractice attorney can help determine whether your case meets these criteria.
- How long do I have to file a medical malpractice lawsuit in Georgia?
- Georgia law sets a two-year statute of limitations from the date of injury or death to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. There is also a five-year maximum deadline from the date of the malpractice, known as the statute of repose, which applies even if the injury was not immediately discovered.
- What compensation can I receive for a medical malpractice case in Atlanta?
- Victims of medical malpractice may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in cases of wrongful death, funeral costs and loss of financial support. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded.
- Do I need an expert witness to prove medical malpractice in Georgia?
- Yes. Georgia law requires an expert affidavit from a qualified medical professional, detailing how the healthcare provider’s actions deviated from the standard of care. This is a crucial requirement when filing a malpractice lawsuit.
- Can I sue a hospital for medical malpractice?
- Yes, hospitals can be held liable for malpractice if their staff (nurses, technicians, or employed doctors) were negligent. However, many doctors are independent contractors, so the hospital may not be directly responsible for their actions. A lawyer can determine whether a hospital or another entity can be sued.
- How much does it cost to hire an Atlanta medical malpractice lawyer?
- Most medical malpractice lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only owe attorney fees if they win your case. The fee is usually a percentage of the final settlement or court award.
- What should I do if I suspect medical malpractice?
- If you believe you are a victim of medical malpractice, seek medical attention immediately to address any health concerns. Gather copies of your medical records, document your symptoms and experiences, and contact a medical malpractice attorney as soon as possible to evaluate your case.
- How long does a medical malpractice case take to resolve in Atlanta?
- Medical malpractice cases are complex and can take months or even years to resolve. The timeline depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, the amount of evidence, the willingness of the opposing party to settle, and whether the case goes to trial.
- 1How can Carroll Law Firm LLC help with my medical malpractice case?
- Carroll Law Firm LLC has extensive experience handling medical malpractice cases in Atlanta. We work with medical experts to build strong cases, negotiate aggressively with insurance companies, and take cases to trial when necessary. Our goal is to help victims secure the compensation they deserve while holding negligent healthcare providers accountable.
Carroll Law Firm LLC Can Help
Medical malpractice cases are complex and require a thorough investigation, expert testimony, and strong legal representation. Carroll Law Firm LLC has extensive experience handling medical malpractice claims in Atlanta. Our firm can:
- Review Medical Records & Consult Experts – We work with top medical professionals to determine if malpractice occurred.
- Handle All Legal Aspects – From filing paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies, we manage every step.
- Fight for Maximum Compensation – We aggressively pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Litigate When Necessary – If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
If you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence, Carroll Law Firm LLC is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.
Personal Injury
If another person or company injures you through their negligence, you’re entitled to recover compensation for your present and future medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other legal damages. However, the burden is on you as the injured victim to prove every element of your negligence claim by showing that the weight of the evidence is on your side. Insurance company defense lawyers will deny that their insured is at fault, and they’ll dispute your claim that you are seriously injured. They’ll even try to put some or all of the blame for the accident on you. Every percentage of responsibility they can saddle you with reduces your compensation proportionately, and if they can convince a jury that you are 50% or more at fault, then you may not be able to recover any compensation at all.
Atlanta personal injury lawyer Stacey Carroll works hard to prove the other party’s negligence and responsibility to you and vigorously defends you against any unfounded accusations that your own negligence is to blame. Although most personal injury cases eventually settle without a trial, we prepare every case from the very start as though it’s going to court. This approach enables us to negotiate the best settlement from a position of strength, and we are always ready to try your case to a jury if that’s what is needed to get you the best result.
Call the Carroll Law Firm for help with any Atlanta personal injury negligence claim, including:
- Auto Accidents
- Defective Product Injuries
- Trucking Accidents
- Unsafe Premises Accidents
- Workplace Accidents
- Wrongful Death
Business Litigation
At the Carroll Law Firm, your business dispute will be handled by an experienced litigator ready to resolve your claim through negotiation, mediation, arbitration or trial in DeKalb and Fulton County courts. From pre-suit strategy through settlement talks and trial, you’ll find Stacey Carroll to be a creative problem solver who works to resolve the matter in your best interests efficiently and effectively. We take the time to understand your needs and goals in any business litigation and map out a plan to reach those ends.
Reach out to the Carroll Law Firm for advice and representation in any of the following areas:
- Breach of Contract
- Employment Disputes
- Partner/Shareholder Disputes
- Unfair Competition
Med Mal Lawyers Serving Throughout Atlanta
- Buckhead
- Midtown
- Virginia-Highland
- Old Fourth Ward
- Inman Park
- Grant Park
- West End
- East Atlanta Village
- Little Five Points
- Candler Park
- Atlantic Station
- Decatur
- Brookhaven
- Edgewood
- Kirkwood
- Morningside
- West Midtown
- Reynoldstown
- Castleberry Hill
- Druid Hills
Contact An Experienced Atlanta Medical Malpractice Attorney
At the Carroll Law Firm, we strive to be responsive to your needs and provide you with sound advice and excellent representation in every matter. Evening and weekend meetings are available by appointment, and we offer a variety of fee structures appropriately suited to your case, including contingency fee arrangements in appropriate matters. With a contingency fee, our legal fees are drawn from the recovery we obtain for you, and you never have to pay any costs upfront to pursue your case. When working on contingency, we only charge a fee if we are successful for you. Call our Atlanta med mal attorneys for a free consultation so we can learn more about your needs and let you know how we can help.
