Filter by

star star star star star
14 Aug, 2020 by Rose
I was referred to Jeff by a family member who is familiar with him and has been for at least two decades. The issue at hand is still in process, and as such I will leave out details except to say that Jeff made himself available immediately and completely, listens very well, asks questions that help round out and complete the scenario in question from all sides, lays out what the likely course of events will be while still being upfront about the fact that there are no guarantees, as well as what is expected if the result is or is not what you hoped for. To date, his communication has been prompt, professional, and very clear as to what he needs from me and what the next step is likely to be. He makes himself available for questions and shows utmost respect for the mental and emotional stress that brings one to an attorney in the first place, especially when you are not the type to have ever considered doing it before! Such an approach also shows complete respect for the time and individual struggles and issues of the client. Jeff has been nothing but professional and expedient, and no matter the outcome of the case I would not hesitate to contact him again.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2020 by Carlos ramirez
My name is Carlos from Idaho a Nam Grunt.Jeff helped me with my V.A. benefits when other V.A. organizations could not.He done an amazing job resolving it and I am forever greatfull to him.He is a very good man.I highly recommend him to anyone. Thank You Very Much Carlos
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2020 by Shane
Jeff handled my disability claim with the Dept of Veterans Affairs with professionalism. Jeff kept me up to date with changes and even called when nothing new was happening to check on me. I never worried about anything when he was handling my claim. Now on something new and I'm not worried at all.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
22 Nov, 2024 by Heidi gerber
Brian is the best! He helped me get a TN, then my green card, and finally, my U.S. citizenship. He was professional, thorough and extremely patient with all of my questions/concerns along the way. If you're thinking of utilizing Brian's services, I highly recommend you do. Thank you, Brian!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2024 by Jason grosse
Brian was outstanding in helping me secure my Green Card. He and his team are highly responsive, professional and break down the daunting application process into manageable steps. Brian's counsel was invaluable in helping me make decisions related to my immigration status. Highly recommended.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Sep, 2024 by Dauble
Straight to point, had great answers and alternatives to our questions. He was very informative, problem solving and very helpful. Thank you!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Mar, 2020 by Km c
Very warm family feeling. Professional and friendly. Always working for the client in any situation.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jan, 2020 by James k
We were very pleased with Mr Jaworski and his staff. There knowledge and insights made us confident that our will and estate plan would protect our assets and interests of our family.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2019 by Don errington
Very friendly and professional experience. This was the first time I used a lawyer for family court and I was very happy with what they achieved. I used others that were just horrible. I highly recommend them. Thanks again!!!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Sep, 2023 by Peter thomas
I am grateful for the professionalism from Kris, Liesl and the front desk. I highly recommend this firm. They were always available to answer any questions and eased my concerns throughout the process. Thank you for all your help and support.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jul, 2023 by Mike randall
Herschel and Stephanie Gelber are the dynamic duo. They did a wonderful job for us and kept us all on the same page through a very challenging experience. They were always easy to get a hold of and available to answer questions, guiding us through the process. Their incredible knowledge, expertise and personal attention is without equal. Thank you so much! Mike & Kathy Randall
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Nov, 2022 by Heather geoghegan
Mr Gelber represented my husband after being struck head in by a drunk driver in the City of Rochester. We received excellent treatment and prompt responses to any and all questions, and questions were answered with explanation so as anyone could understand car insurance phrasing and coding. I would highly recommend Gelber & O’Connell to anyone.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Sep, 2023 by Peter thomas
I am grateful for the professionalism from Kris, Liesl and the front desk. I highly recommend this firm. They were always available to answer any questions and eased my concerns throughout the process. Thank you for all your help and support.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jul, 2023 by Mike randall
Herschel and Stephanie Gelber are the dynamic duo. They did a wonderful job for us and kept us all on the same page through a very challenging experience. They were always easy to get a hold of and available to answer questions, guiding us through the process. Their incredible knowledge, expertise and personal attention is without equal. Thank you so much! Mike & Kathy Randall
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Nov, 2022 by Heather geoghegan
Mr Gelber represented my husband after being struck head in by a drunk driver in the City of Rochester. We received excellent treatment and prompt responses to any and all questions, and questions were answered with explanation so as anyone could understand car insurance phrasing and coding. I would highly recommend Gelber & O’Connell to anyone.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Apr, 2014 by Mila
This lawyer was the 1st one we ever consulted, and that was for a medical malpractice case. He emailed me retainer papers, we signed them and mailed them to him. After that, no matter how many times we tried to reach him, via phone or email, we couldn't get in touch with him! More than a year and a half went by with no updates. We were very young and had never dealt with lawyers prior to that, plus we ere dealing with a lot of medical issues on my part, so we didn't realize that so much time went by. When we did, I again tried many, many times to call him, but he had no secretary (so I could not even leave a message for him), and his voicemail was always full. I finally got his vicemail and let a message saying that if he doesn't return my call immediately we will fire him. Of course he called when I wasn't available, and left a voicemail saying sorry and to call him back. Guess what happened next? No matter how many times I called, again I couldn't reach him! So we hired another lawyer. Turns out, without even telling us, he filed a lawsuit right before we fired him!!!! On top of that, when my new lawyer requested all the case documents from him, he didn't even have my medical records!!!!!! He lost us 1.5 years and screwed up the case, because without even reviewing my records, he included in the case some doctors who did nothing wrong. Horrible, horrible lawyer. He even had the nerve to request a percentage of the award for his "hard" work. Go elsewhere.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Can Do for You

A medical malpractice lawyer specializes in helping individuals who have been harmed due to the negligence or misconduct of healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, or hospitals. These lawyers assist in cases where a healthcare provider deviates from the accepted standard of care, resulting in injury or death. Medical malpractice cases can involve misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, birth injuries, and other forms of medical negligence.

If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to improper medical treatment, a medical malpractice lawyer can help you understand your legal options, file a lawsuit, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.

When Should I Hire a Medical Malpractice Lawyer?

Hiring a medical malpractice lawyer is essential if you’ve been seriously injured due to the negligence of a healthcare provider or institution. Situations where you should seek legal representation include:

  • Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis: If a doctor fails to diagnose or delays diagnosing a medical condition, leading to harm or progression of the illness.
  • Surgical errors: Harm resulting from surgical mistakes such as operating on the wrong site, leaving instruments inside the body, or performing unnecessary procedures.
  • Medication errors: Injuries caused by prescribing the wrong medication or dosage, or mistakes made by pharmacists in dispensing drugs.
  • Birth injuries: Injuries to a newborn due to medical negligence during labor and delivery, such as failing to perform a timely C-section or improper use of delivery instruments.
  • Anesthesia errors: Complications arising from improperly administered anesthesia, which can lead to serious injury or death.
  • Inadequate follow-up or aftercare: Suffering due to lack of proper monitoring or care after a medical procedure, leading to complications.
  • Hospital or nursing home negligence: Harm caused by the negligence of hospital staff, nurses, or administrators who failed to provide adequate care.

Medical malpractice cases are complex, and hiring a lawyer early can help ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled effectively.

What Does a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Do?

A medical malpractice lawyer provides various legal services to help injured patients hold negligent healthcare providers accountable. Their responsibilities include:

  • Evaluating your case: Reviewing medical records and consulting with experts to determine if you have a viable claim based on the standard of care and harm suffered.
  • Filing a lawsuit: Initiating legal action by filing a complaint against the responsible parties in the appropriate court.
  • Gathering evidence: Collecting medical records, expert testimonies, and other relevant evidence to build a strong case.
  • Negotiating with insurance companies: Working to secure a fair settlement that compensates you for your injuries without the need for a trial.
  • Litigating in court: Representing you during trial proceedings if a settlement cannot be reached, presenting evidence and arguing your case.
  • Calculating damages: Assessing the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
  • Handling expert testimony: Coordinating with medical experts who can testify on how the standard of care was breached and how it led to your injuries.

How Are Medical Malpractice Lawyers Paid?

Most medical malpractice lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they recover compensation for you. Key aspects of this payment structure include:

  • Contingency fee percentage: The lawyer's fee is typically between 25% and 40% of the settlement or award.
  • No upfront costs: You do not pay any legal fees unless the lawyer successfully recovers compensation on your behalf.
  • Case expenses: Costs for expert witnesses, medical record retrieval, and court fees may be deducted from your settlement or award in addition to the lawyer's fee.

Always discuss the fee arrangement during your initial consultation to understand your financial obligations.

How Much Does a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a medical malpractice lawyer is usually based on a contingency fee model. General estimates include:

  • Contingency fee: Lawyers typically charge between 25% and 40% of the total recovery amount.
  • Case expenses: Additional costs such as expert witness fees and court expenses can range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the case complexity.

Ensure you receive a clear explanation of all potential fees and expenses before proceeding with your case.

Top Questions to Ask a Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Before hiring a medical malpractice lawyer, consider asking the following questions:

  1. What experience do you have with medical malpractice cases like mine?
    Confirm the lawyer has a successful track record with similar cases.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Understand the contingency fee percentage and any additional costs you may incur.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Seek an honest assessment of your case's strengths and potential challenges.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Get an estimate of the timeline for settling or taking the case to trial.
  5. Will you handle my case personally?
    Ensure you know who will be managing your case and their level of involvement.
  6. Have you worked with expert witnesses?
    Verify the lawyer's experience in collaborating with medical experts essential for your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Medical Malpractice Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association for their license and any disciplinary actions.
  • Review their experience: Look for specialization in medical malpractice and a history of successful cases.
  • Read client reviews: Consult platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell for testimonials and ratings.
  • Ask for references: Request contact information of previous clients willing to discuss their experience.
  • Check professional affiliations: Membership in organizations like the American Association for Justice (AAJ) indicates a commitment to the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To maximize the effectiveness of your initial meeting, bring the following:

  • Medical records: All documents related to your treatment and injury.
  • Evidence of harm: Photos, medical bills, and records of lost wages.
  • Communication records: Any correspondence with healthcare providers or institutions.
  • List of healthcare providers: Names and contact information of all involved medical personnel.
  • Questions for the lawyer: A prepared list to address all your concerns.
  • Timeline of events: A detailed chronology of your medical care and the issues encountered.

Being well-prepared helps the lawyer assess your case accurately and advise you on the best course of action.

Scroll to top