Medical Malpractice Laws in Pennsylvania – What You Need to Know

 

If you are considering bringing a medical malpractice claim, it is critical to understand how Pennsylvania law can affect your case. In addition to statutes of limitations on how long you have to file a claim, there are certain procedures and processes that must be followed in medical malpractice cases. Experienced local medical malpractice lawyers can advise you of your options and let you know what to expect when filing a claim.

How Long Do I Have to File a Medical Malpractice Claim in PA?In Pennsylvania, you have two years from the date an injury occurs or is discovered to file a medical malpractice claim. If you fail to bring a claim within this time frame, a court can dismiss your case, and you will not have any other legal recourse to pursue damages. There are extended statutes of limitations in some cases involving birth injuries or injuries to children, but it is always best to contact an attorney as soon as possible if you suspect medical negligence played a part in an injury or illness.

Medical Malpractice Laws in Pennsylvania

A medical malpractice case may be brought by a patient against any licensed healthcare provider, including a physician, nurse, mental healthcare professional, physical therapist, pharmacist, hospital, nursing home, medical practice, and other medical facilities or organizations.

The legal concept of modified comparative negligence is applied in all personal injury cases in Pennsylvania, including medical malpractice claims. This means that if the plaintiff shares any fault for their injury, an award for damages is reduced in proportion to the percentage of fault determined by a judge or jury. If the plaintiff is found to be 51% or more at fault, they are not entitled to recover damages.

In Pennsylvania, the Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error Act (MCARE) requires all healthcare providers and hospitals to carry at least $500,000 in liability insurance coverage. The MCARE Act also resulted in the creation of a special state treasury fund that pays claims in excess of the $500,000 in coverage that healthcare providers and hospitals are already required to carry.

Are There Damage Caps on Medical Malpractice Awards in PA?

There is no limit on compensatory damages that may be awarded in a medical malpractice claim in Pennsylvania. A medical malpractice attorney may be able to help you recover damages such as:

●     Past and future medical bills

●     Past and future wage loss

●     Loss of earning capacity

●     Pain and suffering

●     Loss of enjoyment of life

●     Loss of consortium

In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded. Punitive damages are designed to punish the defendant for egregious conduct and may not exceed 200% of the amount of compensatory damages. In addition, 25% of any award for punitive damages must be paid to the MCARE fund.

Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim

Before filing a medical malpractice claim, you must first give written notice to the healthcare provider within 180 days after the injury occurred. To reduce the incidence of frivolous lawsuits, Pennsylvania law also requires a plaintiff to file a “certificate of merit” with their complaint or within 60 days of filing the complaint. A certificate of merit must state that an appropriately licensed professional provided a written statement that asserts one of the following:

●     There is a "reasonable probability" that the health care provider did not meet the appropriate medical standard of care

●     The defendant was responsible for the person who breached the standard of care

●     Expert testimony is not required to pursue the claim

An “appropriate licensed professional” must have the proper education, training, knowledge, and experience to provide “credible, competent testimony” that the defendant failed to meet the accepted medical standard of care in the case.

Proving a Medical Malpractice Case

The burden of proof rests with the plaintiff in medical malpractice cases. This means that you must demonstrate the standard of care in the medical community for that specific treatment, that the defendant's medical professional did not adhere to that standard, and that their deviation from the standard of care caused your injury. Medical malpractice cases can be notoriously difficult to win, so regardless of the circumstances, you should find the best medical malpractice lawyers in Pennsylvania to evaluate your potential claim.

Our medical malpractice lawyers in Chester County, PA know what it takes to work towards successful outcomes in medical negligence claims.

This blog was originally posted on https://pa4law.com/medical-malpractice-laws-in-pennsylvania-what-you-need-to-know/

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The Role of Insurance Companies in Car Accident Claims: Navigating Coverage and Settlements

If you own a car, it's highly probable that you're regularly settling your monthly car insurance premium. However, the specifics of your policy may not come into sharp focus or seem particularly significant until the moment when you require coverage following a car accident.

When dealing with car accident claims, having good car accident lawyers by your side is crucial. While most car accident claims revolve around the negotiation of a settlement with an insurance company, many accident victims remain unaware of the true value of their claims. Insurance companies, wielding an unfair advantage, often propose swift settlements that offer as little compensation as possible. However, comprehensively assessing the full extent of your injuries can be a time-consuming process, with some injuries only becoming apparent long after the initial accident.

In the event that you are injured in the accident, your personal injury attorney will have a well-defined plan to guide you through the recovery process. Above all else, it's imperative not to miss any scheduled doctor's appointments. These appointments hold immense importance for your case, as they not only contribute to your overall well-being but also ensure that you receive the appropriate treatments for your injuries. Always adhere to your doctor's recommendations.

Why should you consider car insurance?

In Pennsylvania, it's important to think about car insurance for a few key reasons. First, you need to make sure your coverage meets the state's legal requirements. Second, car insurance helps protect your money in case of accidents or car damage. Your personal situation matters too. Pennsylvania offers options like coverage for when the other driver doesn't have insurance or coverage for medical bills after an accident. If you're paying off a car loan, gap insurance can help. You should also think about what you can afford. Lastly, if you have a special kind of car or use it for work, you might need different insurance. Remember to check with your lawyer once in a while to stay updated with Pennsylvania's rules.

Types of car insurance:

Liability insurance: Often mandated in the majority of U.S. states, liability insurance serves as the fundamental form of car insurance. This essential coverage addresses the damages and losses incurred by the other party in the event of an accident for which you are at fault. It's important to note that liability insurance does not extend coverage to your own damages and losses.

Collision Insurance: This insurance is designed to protect your vehicle from damages resulting from collisions with other vehicles or objects. It's crucial to note that while collision insurance is not a legal requirement, it comes highly recommended, particularly for those who own new or valuable vehicles.

Comprehensive Insurance: Comprehensive insurance extends coverage for damages to your vehicle that do not result from collisions with other vehicles or objects. Moreover, it extends coverage to damages caused by theft, fire, vandalism, and natural disasters. Similar to collision insurance, comprehensive insurance is not mandated by law; however, it is strongly advised, especially for those who own new or high-value vehicles.

Personal Injury Protection: Individuals who operate vehicles in Pennsylvania, as well as in sixteen other states, must adhere to state laws mandating the inclusion of PIP insurance (Personal Injury Protection) within their vehicle insurance coverage. The rationale behind this PIP requirement serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it ensures that all individuals involved in an accident promptly receive essential medical care without delay. Secondly, it institutes a "no-fault" system for auto insurance within the state, whereby each person's insurance company is responsible for covering their own injury-related medical costs. PIP provides coverage for passengers' claims, addresses lost wages, and, in the unfortunate event of a fatality, assists with funeral expenses.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to initiate a car insurance claim, follow these steps:

1. Promptly Contact Your Car Insurance Company
2. Document Required Paperwork
3. Utilize Mobile Apps to Upload relevant evidence
4. Stay Mindful of Deadlines
5. Establish an Insurance Claim File

Claim process in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's legal framework allows individuals harmed by negligence or wrongful acts to seek compensation through State Courts, and the guidance of experienced Pennsylvania personal injury lawyers is invaluable in navigating this complex process. While it may initially seem daunting, understanding the nuances of personal injury claims is essential. These laws establish time limits, define claim types, impose caps on potential awards, and specify eligibility for financial compensation. Whether you're dealing with an injury or a loved one's, the process can be challenging due to the intricacies of courts, insurance companies, and legal terminology. To ensure the right steps are taken, including documenting every detail, gathering essential information, and seeking prompt medical attention, contacting an attorney is crucial. These professionals can help draft a demand letter, expertly navigate the claims process, negotiate settlements, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Delays in contacting an experienced personal injury lawyer or attempting to handle a claim independently may lead to unfavorable outcomes, with insurance companies offering settlements that may not fully address your needs.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer is Helpful

A personal injury lawyer can help you with negotiating with insurance companies. Insurance companies are businesses, and as such, their primary goal is to make a profit. They may try to minimize the amount of compensation they offer to accident victims, which can leave victims feeling frustrated and powerless.

If you have been injured or have lost a loved one in an accident, our PI attorneys can help you understand your rights and recover just compensation for your injuries and losses. For legal guidance during this process, contact our lawyers at Perna & Abracht, LLC for a free consultation today. Our team includes some of the best personal injury lawyers in Chester county, PA.

This blog was originally posted on https://pa4law.com/the-role-of-insurance-companies-in-car-accident-claims-navigating-coverage-and-settlements/

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Common Estate Administration Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Although administering an estate can be fairly straightforward in some cases, it is not unusual for challenges to arise. The best way to avoid potential problems is to have an estate planning attorney help you draft a will and create a solid plan long before it is needed. If a loved one has passed away and you are having trouble with estate administration, a probate litigation attorney can help you resolve disputes and make the process run more smoothly.

There is No Will

When someone dies without a will, typically the laws of intestacy are applied when administering an estate. In Pennsylvania, this means that your assets may be distributed to your spouse, children, parents, and/or siblings in a way that may not align with your wishes. This can add to the turmoil your family may be going through at this difficult time. Having a will in place helps to ensure that your assets are distributed to the beneficiaries you choose and allows you to address other issues like guardianship of minor children.

It is also important to note that if you do not have a valid will, a personal representative will be appointed by the court, and may not be someone you would choose as the executor of your estate. If you have been appointed as a personal representative, it is a good idea to seek the advice of local attorneys, such as estate planning lawyers in Chester County, PA.

The Executor or Personal Representative Fails to Perform Their Duties

The personal representative of an estate is responsible for performing many important tasks. Like a trustee, a personal representative is considered a fiduciary, which means that the best interests of the estate must be put before his/her own interets. In addition to initiating probate and administering an estate in a timely manner, a personal representative must put creditors on notice, take a full accounting of assets, and distribute them according to the will, trust, or laws of intestacy. The personal representative must also file and pay taxes for the estate.

In some cases, a personal representative of an estate may fail to follow a decedent’s instructions or mismanage funds and property. When this happens, it is possible to have him/her removed as the personal representative. Top estate planning law firms recommend that families consult a probate litigation attorney who can help them understand their rights and assist with any legal issues.

Will or Trust Contests

The validity of wills and trusts can be contested by interested parties such as the spouse or children of the decedent. Some common grounds for contesting a will include undue influence, incapacity, forgery, or fraud. Multiple versions of a will or conflicting documents can also lead to problems.

Trusts can be challenged as well. To help avoid these issues, it is critical to have an experienced estate planning lawyer help you draft a will and advise you on which types of trusts will best suit your specific circumstances.

Other Common Estate Administration Issues

Some other matters that commonly arise when administering an estate include:

•       . Dealing with a will created in a different state
•         Property owned in other states or countries
•         Creditor claims
•         Tax issues
•           Failing to update a will or estate plan after a divorce, marriage, or birth of a child

If you are facing estate administration challenges or need to bring your estate plan up to date, our attorneys can help.

This blog was originally posted on https://pa4law.com/common-estate-administration-challenges-and-how-to-overcome-them/

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Estate Planning for Blended Families: Navigating Complexities and Ensuring Fair Distribution

Starting the journey of marriage, or remarrying after a divorce, is a complex endeavor filled with emotions - love, happiness, occasional frustration, and the need for compromise. It's the start of a new life together with your spouse.

Unfortunately, in cases where couples bring children from previous relationships into the union, the potential for conflicting objectives and priorities often paves the way for future marital challenges. Properly making arrangements with estate planning and securing the future of your children from both sides becomes complex and challenging.

Experienced family estate planning attorney from Perna & Abracht LLC specializes in helping families protect and manage their assets for future generations and offers guidance for dealing with the complexities of administering an estate.

Effective estate planning safeguards assets for remarried couples and their children. Failing to do so can risk lost inheritances, asset disputes with former spouses, and childcare issues. Updating insurance policies is crucial to ensure the right beneficiaries benefit the blended family. Likewise, revising investment account beneficiaries on retirement funds is essential to prevent unintended payouts to former spouses.

Before the Wedding

Prenuptial Agreements - Before saying “I do,” remember you are not just starting a love relationship but also a contract where you have certain commitments that need to be fulfilled. In the case of a child's existence. A prenuptial agreement becomes a must. In case of a dispute, this agreement can protect your own biological child’s interests should you die or get divorced.

Irrevocable Trusts - This could be an excellent option to hold your assets for your children from divorces and creditors. Forming and funding this trust before your wedding is a great strategy to keep these assets from becoming entangled in your future marriage.

If You Do Nothing

Intestacy or not creating a will, trust, or anything as such, after death, the assets will be passed under the state plan. Also, without a Will, there are no protective trusts. Further, your spouse or your children may receive more than you intend. A Will allows you to craft a meticulous plan that reflects your true wishes.

After the Wedding

Remarried couples should also consider keeping their assets separate. Even though they may share general expenses like mortgages and car payments, their hard-earned money could be at risk should a former spouse make a claim. In addition, debts incurred from the first marriage could come into play and could become a headache even if the client had no part in it. Any separate property brought into a second marriage by each spouse could also be at risk. Having paperwork such as ownership documents, registrations, and titles in order is also recommended.

Living Will and Medical Power of Attorney: Prevent conflicts between your spouse and children by clearly specifying who holds the authority to make medical decisions for you in case of incapacity. Your Living Will and Medical Power of Attorney not only dictate who can visit you during illness but also designate your healthcare provider; choose someone capable of navigating your family dynamics.

Wills And Contracts: The spouses can bind each other through a contract to follow and honor the will put in place. Such as, the first spouse has a right to live in the family home, which then passes to the second spouse’s children. Pennsylvania wills lawyers assist individuals in drafting and managing their wills the way the client wants to ensure their wishes are legally documented and carried out effectively.

If you have any questions about Estate Planning for Blended Families or any other estate planning topics, please contact our office to schedule a free consultation with our experienced estate planning lawyers. We’ve seen it all, and this experience allows us to explain complex estate planning techniques clearly and concisely. We make it easy for you to understand estate planning so you can make the best decisions for yourself and your family.

This blog was originally posted on https://pa4law.com/estate-planning-for-blended-families-navigating-complexities-and-ensuring-fair-distribution/

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Building a Strong Defense Strategies for Defending Against Criminal Charges

 

If you have been charged with a crime, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. Although facing criminal charges is stressful, it is important to remember that under the law, you are presumed innocent unless proven guilty. The best thing you can do to protect your rights is to seek the counsel of a criminal defense attorney who can help you develop a strong defense.

Important Elements of Criminal Defense

In many cases, there are multiple elements that go into creating a solid defense strategy. Good criminal lawyers explain to their clients which components they may consider using and why. Some of the most critical elements of building a strong defense strategy include:

Evidence. Your criminal defense lawyer can use evidence to help prove your innocence, point to a lack of evidence against you, and/or obtain additional evidence to build your defense such as defense witness testimony.

Sufficient time to prepare. Gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, preparing you for court, and developing effective defense strategies take time. If you have been charged with a crime, it is essential to find a good criminal lawyer as soon as possible so they have plenty of time to help you build a solid defense.

Being honest with your lawyer. It is important to be candid with your attorney. Withholding facts or evidence or lying can lead to unwanted surprises in the courtroom. Your lawyer will help you understand the charges that have been brought against you and explain your legal options. Do not talk about your case with anyone but your attorney, and never post about your charges on the internet or social media. Remember that anything you say to anyone except your defense attorney may be used against you later.

Common Defense Strategies

Which strategies your lawyer uses will depend on the specific circumstances and the nature of the charges. However, there are a few defense strategies that attorneys often utilize, including:

Reasonable Doubt

One of the most common and effective criminal defense strategies is to create reasonable doubt. In the U.S., a prosecutor must prove a defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to get a conviction. A criminal defense lawyer looks for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and the evidence presented. There are different ways to successfully create reasonable doubt, including by poking holes in the prosecution’s theory of the alleged crime and questioning the credibility of witnesses and whether their testimony is logical.

Alibi

A solid alibi can go a long way when it comes to proving someone’s innocence. Since a person cannot be in two places at once, evidence that they were somewhere else when a crime occurred can be quite compelling. Some ways to corroborate or support an alibi are testimony by credible witnesses, GPS data, video footage, and photographs.

Other Defenses

Some other issues that can play a part in building a strong defense include:

●        Mistaken identity

●        Lack of probable cause

●        Chain of evidence problems

●        Illegal search and seizure

●        False confessions

●        Self-defense or defense of others

Each case is unique. If you are facing charges, our criminal lawyers will use all the tools at our disposal to build a solid defense tailored to the specifics of your case.

This blog was originally posted on https://pa4law.com/building-a-strong-defense-strategies-for-defending-against-criminal-charges/

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Types of Alimony in Pennsylvania

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is not an automatic entitlement in divorce proceedings. Instead, it serves as a means to rectify financial imbalances arising from the divorce. When one spouse experiences a financial setback following divorce, and the other possesses the financial capacity to provide assistance, the court may grant alimony to the financially disadvantaged ex-spouse, often requiring the expertise of a divorce lawyer. Typically, spousal support is of a temporary nature, designed to act as a financial bridge. Its purpose is to afford the recipient spouse an opportunity to achieve a more stable financial standing through additional education, vocational training, or work experience.

Questions You Need To Ask When Hiring a Divorce attorney

Types of Alimony in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, there are formally two categories of alimony recognized by the law: pendente lite (pre-divorce) and post-divorce alimony. Nevertheless, two additional forms of financial support between spouses - spousal support and equitable reimbursement - are frequently colloquially referred to as alimony.

Pendente Lite Alimony

Pendente lite alimony, often referred to as temporary alimony, is the financial support one spouse may be required to provide to the other during the divorce proceedings. It's intended to help the lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability throughout the divorce process until a final alimony arrangement is determined. Once the divorce is finalized, this type of alimony typically transitions into a different form of support or ceases altogether.

Post-Divorce Alimony

Post-divorce alimony, also known as permanent alimony or spousal support, is financial assistance one spouse may be required to provide to the other after the divorce is finalized. Its purpose is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a certain standard of living or financial stability following the end of the marriage. The duration and amount of post-divorce alimony are determined by the court based on various factors, and it typically continues until specified conditions are met, such as the recipient spouse's remarriage or cohabitation.

Spousal Support

In Pennsylvania, when one spouse financially supports the other's education or training during the marriage but divorce occurs before the benefit is realized, equitable reimbursement, not alimony, may be awarded by a judge. It compensates the supporting spouse for their investment in the other's education. The judge assesses whether the supporting spouse benefited from the increased earning capacity and may order periodic payments if deemed fair. If you find yourself in such a situation, consulting with an experienced spousal support attorney can provide essential guidance.

Equitable Reimbursement

In Pennsylvania, when one spouse financially supports the other's education or training during the marriage but divorce occurs before the benefit is realized, equitable reimbursement may be awarded by a judge. It's not alimony; instead, it compensates the supporting spouse for their investment in the other's education. The judge assesses whether the supporting spouse benefited from the increased earning capacity and may order periodic payments if deemed fair.

How Alimony is Different from Child Support

Distinguishing between alimony and child support is vital:

Recipients: Alimony aids the lower-earning spouse, while child support benefits children through the custodial parent.

Purpose: Alimony addresses spousal financial disparities; child support ensures children's well-being.

Duration: Alimony varies, but child support typically lasts until children reach adulthood or financial independence.

Taxes: Alimony tax laws have changed; seek professional advice. Child support has no tax implications.

In the event of complications contact us for the best child support lawyer.

How Child Custody Affects Alimony

Child custody arrangements can significantly influence alimony payments during divorce or separation. The financial responsibilities tied to caring for children may lead to adjustments in alimony amounts. When a mother has primary custody but possesses a lower net income, she will receive both alimony and child support. However, if the mother maintains primary custody and has a higher net income, the dynamic shifts, with her paying alimony to the father while also receiving child support from him. Good child custody lawyers will advise you on the intricacies so you can make informed decisions.

Modifying an Alimony Agreement in Pennsylvania

Courts typically grant alimony modifications in situations that are either long-term or permanent. While either party can request changes to a court-ordered alimony agreement, they must demonstrate significant changes in specific circumstances. For instance, if the spouse receiving alimony cohabitates or remarries, the paying spouse can seek termination of alimony payments. Conversely, the paying spouse may request a modification if their financial situation substantially changes due to job loss or illness.

Additionally, if the contributing spouse experiences a significant increase in income, the alimony recipient may seek a modification to raise the support payments. If you're contemplating a modification for any of these reasons, consulting with your alimony lawyer is essential to explore available options.

Divorce and separation matters can often be emotionally charged, particularly when spousal support or alimony becomes a point of contention. At Perna & Abracht, LLC, our team of family law attorneys specializes in offering skilled legal counsel to navigate these issues. Whether through effective negotiation or litigation, our alimony lawyers are committed to safeguarding our clients' best interests, including those of their children. We're here to provide clarity on the factors influencing spousal support and alimony decisions, as well as to explore all available options tailored to your unique situation.

This blog was originally posted on https://pa4law.com/types-of-alimony-in-pennsylvania/

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How to Help Someone Who is a Victim of Domestic Violence

According to National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCAD), 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will be victims of serious physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. If you suspect or know someone is being abused, you may be unsure about how to help. Letting the person know you care can help them feel less alone and afraid. A domestic violence lawyer offers advice on some other steps you can take to help.

Listen Without Judgment

Many victims feel ashamed or embarrassed about revealing that they are being abused. Listen without judgment and allow your loved one to talk about what is happening without offering advice. Let them know that you believe them, that they are not alone, and that they do not deserve to be abused. Also, make it clear you are willing to help if they want you to. Just knowing that another person is listening can empower a domestic violence victim to take action.

Help Them Find Resources

You can help an abused victim find support and resources by giving them phone numbers and websites for local support groups, shelters, counselors, social services, and domestic abuse lawyers. It is also helpful to obtain information about domestic violence and child custody laws, and about how to get a Protection from Abuse order (PFA). Calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 can help you find local resources for a loved one.

Help Them Create a Safety Plan

Domestic violence victims who leave their abusive partners are at a greater risk of being killed than those who stay. It is critical to help them put a safety plan in place should a crisis occur or they decide to leave. Discuss each element of the safety plan, and discuss ways to reduce the risks in specific situations. A domestic violence safety plan should include the following:

1.    A safe place to go if there is an emergency or if they leave their abuser
2.   A list of emergency contacts, which may include the numbers for the domestic violence hotline, trusted friends and family members, and local shelters and social services
3. A code word to alert friends and family that help is needed
4. An "escape bag", which should include cash, important documents such as birth certificates and social security cards, copies of house and car keys, clothes, and toiletries. If the victim has children, they may want to include a favorite toy as well.
5. Most domestic violence victims do not want to leave their pets behind. Making arrangements for a trusted person to care for their pets if needed can help assuage some of their fears.

When to Call the Police

If you hear or see someone being abused, call 911. Although an abused person may not want to get the police involved, it is the most effective way to keep the victim and their children from being harmed. Children should never have to stay in a violent situation. Even if it goes against the wishes of the victim or the abuser, do whatever it takes to ensure the children’s safety, including calling the police and child protective services.

Whether you are a victim of abuse, want to help someone you care about, or need a domestic violence defense lawyer because you have been wrongly accused, our dedicated and compassionate legal team is here for you.

This blog was originally posted on https://pa4law.com/how-to-help-someone-who-is-a-victim-of-domestic-violence/

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