Los Angeles Shoulder Dystocia Lawyer
Shoulder dystocia is a childbirth emergency that can have lifelong consequences for both mother and child if not promptly and properly managed. When this complication results from medical negligence, families deserve answers – and legal support. At The Law Office of Dr. Bruce G. Fagel & Associates, we help families across Los Angeles pursue justice in cases involving shoulder dystocia and other birth injuries.
If your child suffered injuries due to shoulder dystocia during delivery, contact us now to discuss your legal options. Your consultation is free, and we only get paid if we win your case.
Why Families Trust Us
Many attorneys handle a variety of personal injury cases. However, medical malpractice – especially birth injury cases like shoulder dystocia – requires deep experience in this specific area of law.
Dr. Bruce Fagel is not only a licensed attorney but also a licensed physician. He has successfully tried and settled more medical malpractice cases on behalf of injured patients than any other attorney in California. Over the last two years alone, he has recovered over $100 million in compensation for victims of catastrophic medical injuries.
When you work with our firm, you’re partnering with a legal team that:
- Focuses exclusively on medical malpractice
- Understands both the legal and medical complexities of birth injury claims
- Has a proven track record in securing significant verdicts and settlements for families
We are committed to holding negligent doctors, nurses, and hospitals accountable when their actions – or inaction – harm your child.
What Is Shoulder Dystocia?
Shoulder dystocia occurs when a baby’s shoulders get stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone during delivery, preventing the baby from exiting the birth canal after the head has emerged. It is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate, skilled intervention.
Without timely and appropriate management, shoulder dystocia can lead to:
- Brachial plexus injuries (such as Erb’s palsy)
- Fractured collarbone or arm
- Permanent nerve damage
- Hypoxia or brain damage due to lack of oxygen
- Death in severe cases
Medical staff are trained to recognize risk factors for shoulder dystocia and take precautions. Failure to anticipate, identify, or correctly manage shoulder dystocia can constitute medical negligence.
Do I Have a Shoulder Dystocia Malpractice Claim?
You may have grounds for a claim if:
- Your medical team failed to identify known risk factors, such as gestational diabetes, maternal obesity, or a large baby (macrosomia), which increase the likelihood of shoulder dystocia.
- Preventative measures, such as recommending a C-section, were not discussed or offered despite clear indicators that a vaginal delivery might pose risks.
- The medical team failed to respond appropriately during delivery, including using excessive force or not following accepted maneuvers to safely free the baby’s shoulders.
- Your child suffered a permanent injury, such as brachial plexus damage, nerve damage, or brain injury due to oxygen deprivation.
A successful medical malpractice lawsuit can provide compensation for past and future medical expenses, rehabilitation, special education services, loss of earning potential, and pain and suffering.
Start Your Legal Journey Today
Birth injuries like those caused by shoulder dystocia don’t just affect the delivery room – they can impact every aspect of your child’s future. If you suspect that medical negligence played a role in your child’s injuries, don’t wait. These cases are time-sensitive and require detailed investigation.
Call The Law Office of Dr. Bruce G. Fagel & Associates at (800) 541-9376 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation today. Let us fight for the justice your child deserves.