When Your Back Is Against The Wall
Greenville Medical Malpractice Lawyers
Medical professionals are expected to provide safe, competent care. When doctors, nurses, or hospitals fail to meet the standard of care, the consequences can be devastating. Medical malpractice can lead to life-changing injuries, permanent disabilities, and even wrongful death. If you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence in Greenville, South Carolina, you have the right to seek compensation.
At Lanier Law Group, we fight for patients who have been harmed by medical mistakes. Our legal team understands the complexities of medical malpractice claims and is prepared to hold negligent healthcare providers accountable. If you believe you have a case, we are here to guide you through the legal process and pursue the financial recovery you deserve.
What Qualifies as Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider’s negligence leads to injury or harm to a patient. However, not every poor medical outcome is considered malpractice. To have a valid claim, the following must be established:
- A doctor-patient relationship existed. This means the provider had a duty to treat the patient.
- The provider acted negligently. Their actions deviated from the accepted standard of medical care.
- The negligence caused harm. There must be a direct link between the provider’s mistake and the patient’s injury.
- The patient suffered damages. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other losses.
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Proving these elements requires extensive evidence, including medical records, expert testimony, and a thorough investigation. An experienced attorney can help build a strong case and fight for the compensation you need.
Common Types of Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice can happen in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings. Some of the most common types of medical negligence include:
Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis
A misdiagnosis can prevent patients from receiving life-saving treatment. Doctors who fail to recognize symptoms, misinterpret test results, or overlook critical conditions can be held accountable if their mistake causes harm. Conditions like cancer, heart attacks, and strokes are frequently misdiagnosed, leading to severe complications or death.
Surgical Errors
Mistakes in the operating room can have catastrophic consequences. Common surgical errors include performing the wrong procedure, operating on the wrong body part, leaving instruments inside a patient, or causing unnecessary damage during surgery. Victims of surgical malpractice may require additional procedures, prolonged recovery, or suffer from permanent injuries.
Medication and Prescription Errors
Doctors, nurses, and pharmacists must ensure patients receive the correct medication and dosage. Administering the wrong drug, prescribing an incorrect dosage, or failing to check for dangerous drug interactions can lead to severe complications, including organ damage, allergic reactions, or even fatal overdoses.
Birth Injuries
Negligence during labor and delivery can result in birth injuries that affect a child for life. Conditions such as cerebral palsy, Erb’s palsy, and brain damage can occur if doctors fail to monitor fetal distress, delay necessary C-sections, or misuse forceps and vacuum extractors.
Anesthesia Errors
Anesthesia mistakes can have deadly consequences. Errors such as administering too much anesthesia, failing to monitor vital signs, or not checking for patient allergies can result in brain damage, heart failure, or death.
Hospital and Nursing Negligence
Hospitals must maintain safe conditions, properly train staff, and follow strict hygiene protocols. Negligence such as understaffing, unsanitary environments, and failure to monitor patients can lead to serious injuries, infections, or preventable complications.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Medical Malpractice?
Determining liability in a medical malpractice case is crucial. While doctors are often the primary defendants, other parties may also share responsibility. Medical malpractice claims can involve multiple layers of liability, and identifying all responsible parties can maximize your compensation.
Doctors and Surgeons
Physicians can be held accountable if their mistakes cause harm. This includes misdiagnoses, surgical errors, or failure to provide proper treatment. In some cases, a doctor may also be liable for prescribing the wrong medication or neglecting to follow up on test results that could have led to early intervention.
Hospitals and Medical Facilities
Hospitals and clinics can be liable if their negligence contributed to a patient’s injury. This includes hiring unqualified staff, failing to maintain equipment, or not enforcing safety protocols. If a hospital knowingly allows an impaired or incompetent doctor to continue practicing, they may be responsible for patient harm.
Nurses, Pharmacists, and Anesthesiologists
Other medical professionals, including nurses who fail to monitor patients, pharmacists who dispense the wrong medication, or anesthesiologists who administer incorrect doses, may also be responsible for malpractice.
Medical Device Manufacturers
If a defective medical device caused injury, the manufacturer or distributor could be held liable under product liability laws. This includes faulty pacemakers, implants, or surgical instruments. In some cases, hospitals or doctors may also share responsibility if they used or implanted a device despite known defects.
Compensation Available in a Medical Malpractice Claim
Victims of medical malpractice may be entitled to financial compensation to address the physical, emotional, and financial impact of medical negligence. The amount awarded depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the long-term consequences, and the degree of negligence involved. Compensation is generally categorized into economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in some cases, punitive damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover the financial losses directly resulting from medical malpractice. These damages include medical expenses such as hospital bills, surgical procedures, rehabilitation costs, and ongoing treatments required for recovery.
If the injury prevents the victim from returning to work, compensation for lost wages and diminished future earning capacity may be awarded. Additionally, some victims require assistive devices, in-home care, or specialized therapies to manage long-term disabilities, and the cost of these services can also be included in an economic damages claim.
Non-Economic Damages
Beyond financial losses, medical malpractice often causes significant emotional and psychological distress. Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, accounting for the physical discomfort, chronic pain, and lasting medical complications that affect the victim’s quality of life.
Many individuals also experience emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder, particularly when the malpractice results in permanent injury or disability. When an injury prevents a person from engaging in hobbies, maintaining relationships, or carrying out daily activities as they once did, compensation for loss of enjoyment of life may also be available.
Punitive Damages
In cases where medical malpractice involves extreme negligence or reckless misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are not intended to compensate the victim but rather to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.
While punitive damages are not common in every case, they may be available in situations involving gross negligence, such as a surgeon operating while under the influence of drugs or a hospital deliberately concealing a fatal error. When awarded, punitive damages serve as a strong statement that reckless medical practices will not be tolerated.
Misconceptions About Medical Malpractice Lawsuits
Many people hesitate to pursue a medical malpractice claim because of misinformation about the legal process. These misconceptions can prevent victims from seeking the compensation they deserve. Understanding the truth about medical malpractice lawsuits can help you make informed decisions about your case.
Medical Malpractice Lawsuits Are Frivolous
One of the biggest myths about medical malpractice claims is that they are baseless or filed by patients who are simply unhappy with their treatment. In reality, medical malpractice cases involve serious injuries caused by preventable medical errors. Studies show that medical mistakes are a leading cause of injury and death in the U.S., and lawsuits help hold negligent providers accountable.
You Can File a Lawsuit Anytime
Some people believe they have unlimited time to file a medical malpractice claim. However, South Carolina law imposes a statute of limitations on these cases. Generally, victims have three years from the date of the injury—or from when the injury was discovered—to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in losing the right to seek compensation, so it is important to act quickly.
If You Signed a Consent Form, You Can’t Sue
Signing a consent form does not mean a doctor is immune from liability. While informed consent acknowledges the risks of a procedure, it does not excuse negligence. If a healthcare provider makes an avoidable mistake, such as operating on the wrong body part or failing to diagnose a serious condition, they can still be held accountable regardless of any consent forms signed.
Medical Malpractice Cases Always Go to Trial
Many people assume that filing a lawsuit means they will have to go through a lengthy trial. In reality, most medical malpractice cases settle out of court through negotiations between attorneys and insurance companies. A strong legal strategy can often secure fair compensation without the need for a trial, though having a lawyer prepared to go to court can increase settlement offers.
Only Severe Cases Justify a Lawsuit
Even if an injury does not seem life-threatening, victims may still suffer long-term consequences from medical negligence. Chronic pain, lost wages, and emotional distress can all be valid reasons to pursue a claim. If a medical error has impacted your health and financial well-being, you have the right to seek compensation—no matter the severity of the injury.
Medical malpractice lawsuits play a crucial role in ensuring accountability in the healthcare system. If you suspect you have been harmed by medical negligence, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and legal options.
How a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Can Help
A medical malpractice claim requires extensive investigation, strong legal arguments, and expert testimony. These cases are complex, often involving large hospitals, insurance companies, and defense attorneys who will fight to avoid liability. Having a lawyer on your side is critical to securing the compensation you deserve.
A skilled attorney will gather medical records, accident reports, and witness statements to build a compelling case. They work closely with medical and financial experts to establish liability and accurately calculate damages, ensuring that all current and future losses are accounted for. When dealing with insurance companies, an attorney can negotiate aggressively, preventing them from offering lowball settlements that fail to cover long-term medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If settlement negotiations do not result in fair compensation, a medical malpractice lawyer can file a lawsuit and take the case to trial. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by downplaying injuries or shifting blame onto the victim, but a strong legal advocate will push back against these tactics. By handling the legal complexities, an attorney allows victims to focus on recovery while ensuring their rights are fully protected.
Why Choose Lanier Law Group?
At Lanier Law Group, we understand the devastating impact medical malpractice has on victims and their families. A medical mistake can lead to lifelong consequences, overwhelming medical bills, and emotional trauma. These cases involve complex legal and medical issues, and without experienced representation, victims may struggle to recover the compensation they need. Our firm is committed to fighting for those who have suffered due to medical negligence, ensuring they receive the justice they deserve.
Our legal team is known for aggressive representation against powerful hospitals, insurance companies, and defense lawyers who try to deny or minimize claims. We push back with strong legal arguments, expert testimony, and strategic litigation. Whether negotiating a settlement or taking a case to trial, we fight to hold negligent medical providers accountable and secure maximum compensation for our clients.
Every case is unique, and we believe in providing personalized client advocacy. Our attorneys take the time to understand your specific needs, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process. We know how overwhelming medical malpractice cases can be, and we make sure you are never left in the dark about your case.
We also believe that financial concerns should never stand in the way of justice. That’s why we handle medical malpractice cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case, allowing you to pursue compensation without financial risk. At Lanier Law Group, we are committed to fighting for you every step of the way.
Injured by Medical Negligence? Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you or a loved one has suffered due to medical malpractice in Greenville, you don’t have to fight alone. The legal system can be complex, and going up against hospitals, doctors, and insurance companies without representation can feel overwhelming. Lanier Law Group is in your corner, ready to stand up against negligent healthcare providers and their insurers to demand the compensation you deserve.
We know the tactics used to deny valid claims, and we refuse to let medical providers escape accountability for their mistakes. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation, consult top medical experts, and build a strong case on your behalf. Whether through negotiation or trial, we fight relentlessly to secure the financial recovery you need to move forward.
Call 919-342-1368 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us take on the legal fight while you focus on healing and reclaiming your future.
Your road to recovery starts now. Call 919-342-1368 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us take on the legal battle so you can focus on healing and moving forward.
We Won't Back Down
Lanier Law Group is Here When Results Matter Most
We Fight for Our Clients
*Featured Case Results, Settlements, & Trial Wins From Our Attorneys
$4.8 Million
Settlement
A case with multiple plaintiffs who were potentially exposed to a deadly disease while in the hospital.
$3.1 Million
Birth Injury/Hypoxic Brain Injury
The OB doctor’s negligence caused a delay in the baby’s birth which resulted in the baby suffering of a severe hypoxic brain injury.
$1.375 Million
Medication Overdose/Hospital Negligence
Our client died following an overdose of medication that occurred as a result of the negligence of the nursery staff while they were in the hospital.
$1.2 Million
Birth Injury/Developmental Delay
Our client suffers from a severe developmental delay following a birth injury when there were signs of fetal distress that were not responded to.
$500,000
Botched Gall Bladder Surgery
Our client suffered an injury to their common bile duct during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
$425,000
Surgical Error
A client had their bowel perforated during a ventral hernia repair.
We Never Back Down From a Fight
Featured Reviews, Testimonials & Results
"20 out of 10 stars."
There are times in your life you are so hurt and feel life has a grudge against you. Nothing in your life is going right. I lost the most important person in my life to death, of which I knew mistakes were made because I witnessed it with my own eyes. When you contact a law group you most of the time get all business and a matter of fact conversation. I want all to know that from the first phone call they listened to my lengthy story, sobbing most of the time with so much compassion. They never made any promises but offered assurances that no stone would be unturned. They fulfilled every word they said. They restored faith that I had lost. Until you are in a position like mine you can never know how invaluable Lanier Law Group is. They were wonderful while maintaining their professionalism. They treated me like a family member. They really do care about their clients. But most of all they are the best at what they do. I worked in the court system for years so I knew how attorneys and law firms basically operated. Understanding the law and it’s interpretation is the ultimate key to winning any case. Also know that if an attorney/attorneys study and review your case and know that you don’t have a chance in a court of law and are big enough to tell you that instead of giving you false hope, you then my friend have a group with valuable shared values. I have so much respect for everyone in this Law Group. I recommend Lanier Law Group, P.A. to anyone who needs representation, they are in your corner. 20 out of 10 stars.
- Diane W.
"Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members"
I started working with Lanier Law Group in 2020 on my Social Security Disability case. They from start to finish were awesome. My case manager Janet Hanks and attorney, Ashley Sappenfield were always available to answer all my questions. I did not have to do much but sit back and let them handle whatever was needed. My case took too long (2 years) and if I did not have Janet and Ashley My case would still not be approved. I would recommend Lanier to anyone to get the job done and approved. Do not go to another firm with your case, who promise the world and do not see it to completion and do not think another firms would have worked as hard as they did on my case. Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members to handle any cases of this type and other legal services they provide. They went above and beyond!
- Phillip J.
"So thankful for your expertise and professionalism"
Mrs. Gonzalez did an awesome job of explaining everything in detail and keeping me informed on the status of my case. Despite poor customer service with the insurance company, Mrs. Gonzalez was able to fix what they could not. Mrs. Gonzalez was very helpful with helping me understand things that I was not aware of when dealing with insurance claims. I am so thankful for her expertise and professionalism.
- Mario H.
"Always ready to answer any questions I may have"
The staff kept me well informed in a more than timely manner and was always ready to answer any questions I may have.
- Timothy M.
"The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service!"
The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service! My main contact was Denise.
- Malinda P.
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We Come Prepared
After an injury, every second counts. We are available to meet with you in person, virtually, or at your location to provide the highest quality legal counsel.
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Every case we take on has a team of dedicated professionals assigned to make sure that we're delivering the best possible service and results.
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Regardless of when you contact our firm, we're here to make sure that you get the answers you need. We also offer weekend appointments and consultations.
We Never Back Down
Our attorneys are confident taking cases to trial and will always seek to maximize your compensation.