Top Berkeley, CA Brachial Plexus Lawyers Near You

What Is a Brachial Plexus Birth Injury?

Brachial plexus injuries are some of the most common nerve damage birth injuries. The brachial plexus is the group of nerves that run from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arms, and hands. Types of brachial plexus injuries include:

• Erb’s palsy
• Klumpke’s palsy
• Shoulder dystocia

Brachial plexus injuries can cause arm muscles to atrophy, weakness in the arms and shoulders, and impaired fine motor function. The risk is increased when a child is too large for the pelvic opening.

What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need a Lawyer for a Brachial Plexus Injury?

Malpractice and negligent delivery practices can cause brachial plexus nerve damage to your newborn. These include the failure to perform a C-section or the improper use of extraction devices. If your newborn child suffered any type of brachial plexus injury during delivery, you should consider speaking to a birth injury lawyer.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me With a Birth Injury?

A birth injury lawyer can investigate the circumstances of the injury, gather evidence, and build the strongest case possible to prove medical negligence. Medical negligence and medical malpractice laws vary greatly from state to state, and they will know the laws and procedures in California and know how to secure compensation for medical expenses, ongoing care, and emotional distress. If necessary, the lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies and represent you in court. They will protect your rights and help your family get the support and justice they deserve. By handling the legal part of it, a birth injury lawyer allows you to focus on your child and your family without worrying about the legal complexities of what’s happening.

What Could Happen if I Don’t Hire a Birth Injury Lawyer?

Not hiring a birth injury lawyer means you must prove medical malpractice or negligence yourself. You could miss critical deadlines, fail to properly analyze all the medical records, and fail to gather essential evidence. Insurance companies might offer low settlements that don’t cover the full extent of your child’s needs. Handling the case alone can be overwhelming and stressful, detracting from your ability to care for your child. Without a lawyer, you risk not getting the financial support necessary for medical treatments, therapies, and long-term care — all of which significantly impact your child’s (and your family’s) quality of life.

What Questions Should I Ask When Trying To Find a Birth Injury Lawyer in Berkeley?

These questions can help you decide if you feel comfortable that a lawyer has the qualifications, experience, and ability to manage your case well. Many lawyers offer free consultations that allow you to understand your options and get specific legal advice before hiring them. Top questions include:

• What is your experience in handling birth injury cases? Have you managed cases like mine?
• What was the outcome of these cases?
• Do you have experience resolving issues like this in California?
• What is your approach to handling birth injury cases?
• What is your record in negotiating favorable settlements?
• How do you communicate with clients about the progress of their cases? What sort of support do you offer?
• How much input will I have about the case strategy?
• What are your fees and billing structure?

Tips for Hiring a Birth Injury Lawyer

Finding a lawyer who is right for you and will represent your best interests is an important first step in protecting your rights. Find a lawyer who understands your case, knows your needs and goals, and has the experience to get the best outcome. Things to do:

• Ask for recommendations
• Research lawyers online
• Schedule consultations
• Review experience and expertise
• Talk about billing and fees
• Trust your instincts