When medical care goes wrong, determining whether a doctor or hospital is legally responsible requires more than just a bad outcome – it takes proving that the provider failed to meet the standard of care. That’s where expert witnesses come in. In a medical malpractice case, these professionals play a pivotal role in helping judges and juries understand complex medical issues and determine whether negligence occurred.
If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to suspected medical negligence, don’t wait. Call us at (800) 541-9376 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation today.
What Makes Fagel Law Different?
Not all attorneys are equipped to handle the unique challenges of medical malpractice litigation. These cases require a deep understanding of medical standards, access to qualified experts, and a track record of success in the courtroom. Dr. Bruce Fagel is not only a licensed attorney but also a licensed physician. He has tried and settled more medical malpractice cases than any other attorney in California, recovering over $100 million in catastrophic injury settlements for clients in just two years alone.
What Is an Expert Witness?
An expert witness in a medical malpractice case is typically a medical professional, such as a physician or surgeon, who is qualified to give opinions on whether a healthcare provider met the accepted standard of care. Their testimony helps bridge the gap between technical medical procedures and the legal questions at hand.
Expert witnesses are not just helpful – they’re often legally required. California law, like many states, mandates expert testimony in malpractice claims to establish both the standard of care and the breach of that standard.
Key Roles of Expert Witnesses
An expert witness plays a critical part in medical malpractice litigation, serving four essential functions that help the court understand what went wrong and why it matters.
1. Defining the Standard of Care
An expert will explain what a reasonably competent medical professional would have done in the same situation. This provides a benchmark to assess the defendant’s actions.
2. Identifying Negligence
If a healthcare provider failed to act in line with accepted practices, the expert witness clarifies how that deviation directly caused harm to the patient.
3. Explaining Causation
It’s not enough to show that a mistake was made. The expert must demonstrate that the mistake caused or significantly contributed to the injury or death.
4. Educating the Jury
Medical language and procedures can be overwhelming for the average person. An expert witness breaks down complex topics into understandable terms so jurors can make informed decisions.
Choosing the Right Expert
The strength of a malpractice case often hinges on the quality and credibility of the expert witness. A seasoned medical malpractice attorney will work with experts who are not only highly respected in their fields but also capable of clearly communicating with a jury. Dr. Fagel’s extensive medical and legal background gives him a unique advantage when vetting and preparing expert witnesses to support your case.
Take the Next Steps
If you believe you or your child has suffered due to medical negligence, it’s critical to work with a law firm that understands how to present a compelling case backed by expert testimony. Call The Law Offices of Dr. Bruce G. Fagel & Associates at (800) 541-9376 or complete our online form to arrange your free consultation today.
