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How to Find the Right Medical Malpractice Lawyer for Your Claim

July 21, 2025

A medical malpractice lawyer can tell you that, every year, millions of Americans are seriously harmed by preventable medical errors. Thousands more suffer fatal injury through medical malpractice, with some studies finding medical errors to be the third leading cause of death in the U.S., just behind heart disease and cancer.

Medical malpractice cases are notoriously complex. Doctors and the healthcare systems that employ them are well protected through insurance policies and aggressive legal teams. They will do everything possible to defend against these claims, even when the source of harm is clear. And they are very effective at what they do.

Data from the National Institutes of Health indicate that only about 27% of medical malpractice lawsuits result in a payout to the plaintiff, often due to a lack of expert testimony and other legal shortcomings. This is why it’s absolutely essential to have a qualified, experienced, and dedicated legal team with a proven track record in medical malpractice litigation. The right attorney will help you navigate your claim with confidence and fight for the fair and full compensation you deserve.

Talk to One of Our Johnson City Medical Malpractice Lawyers for FREE

If you or someone you love has suffered harm because of a medical mistake, The Haynes Firm is here to help. Through your FREE, no-obligation consultation, we can review your case, explain your options, and help you choose the best path forward.

Call The Haynes Firm at 423-928-0165 to speak with a Johnson City medical malpractice lawyer who’s ready to fight for the justice you deserve.

What to Look for in a Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Finding the right medical malpractice lawyer will likely require more than an internet search. Not all lawyers (or law firms) are equally qualified to handle these cases. Because medical malpractice is one of the most specialized and high-stakes areas of personal injury law, it’s very important that you take time in selecting an attorney with the background, resources, and ability to win these cases.

When interviewing potential medical malpractice lawyers, be sure to look for:

Experience in Handling Medical Malpractice Cases

Medical malpractice cases require a deep understanding of both the law and medicine. Choose a lawyer who has extensive legal experience handling complex medical malpractice claims, not just general personal injury cases. Ask how many cases they’ve handled and what outcomes they’ve achieved.

Willingness to Go to Trial

Many medical malpractice cases settle before trial. However, these claims are aggressively defended by hospitals, lawyers, and insurance companies, which can make a settlement impossible. A good medical malpractice lawyer is always ready to take claims to trial.

Access to Medical Experts

Expert medical testimony is required in nearly every malpractice case. The best medical malpractice lawyers have strong relationships with qualified medical experts who can review records, provide opinions, and testify in court when needed.

Local Knowledge

Medical malpractice laws vary from state to state. A Johnson City medical malpractice lawyer will be familiar with Tennessee-specific rules and deadlines, including how to file a Certificate of Good Faith, navigate Tennessee’s medical malpractice damage caps, and ensure your claim is filed within the statute of limitations.

Transparent Fee Structure

By and large, medical malpractice lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing unless they recover money for you. However, not all contingency fee agreements are the same. Some include interest payments, extra fees, and hidden charges that can eat away at your recovery. Before you hire an attorney, have a full understanding of what fees you will be expected to pay.

Positive Reviews and Client Testimonials

Check the firm’s online reviews through Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and Google. Look also for testimonials from past clients. A lawyer’s reputation in the community can speak volumes about how they handle cases and treat their clients.

Compassion and Communication

You deserve a medical malpractice lawyer who listens and truly cares. The best medical malpractice attorneys will take what you say seriously, stand by your side, and protect you against tactics defense teams may employ to force you to accept less than you are due.

Ten Questions to Ask Your Potential Medical Malpractice Lawyer

The first visit with a potential medical malpractice lawyer can be intimidating. It’s important to bear in mind that this consultation should be absolutely free of both cost and obligation. You should meet with as many attorneys as necessary to find the one that you feel is best for your needs.

Questions that can help you find the right medical malpractice lawyer include:

  1. How many medical malpractice cases have you handled, and what were the outcomes?

Look for a proven track record, not just in filing claims, but in winning them.

  1. Do you specialize in medical malpractice, or is it just one of many practice areas?

You want a lawyer who focuses heavily on medical malpractice, not one who simply dabbles.

  1. Have you handled cases similar to mine?

Medical malpractice covers a wide range of issues, including surgical error, misdiagnosis, birth injury, and more. Relevant experience matters.

  1. How do you approach settlement vs. trial?

When a settlement isn’t possible, you need an attorney with proven trial experience.

  1. Who in your firm will actually be handling my case?

Some lawyers hand cases off or even outsource to other firms. Choose one who will be your lawyer the entire time, not just your intake attorney.

  1. How many cases does your firm work on at once?

Some firms have multiple offices in several states with dozens of attorneys handling hundreds of cases. Choose a firm that’s not overloaded, so you know they can focus on you.

  1. What medical experts do you work with?

Medical experts and specialists can make or break a case. A solid network means your lawyer is prepared to support you fully.

  1. How are fees and costs handled?

Contingency fee structures vary. Make sure you have a full understanding of the percentage of your recovery that your attorney will take, any additional fees they may impose, and case expenses you will be expected to pay for.

  1. How will you keep me updated on my case?

Serious injury deserves serious attention. Ask how often you’ll hear from your lawyer, who will be your point of contact, and how you can get in touch after hours.

  1. Do you foresee any challenges with my case?

There are pros and cons to every case. An honest medical malpractice lawyer will be upfront about these things, not just offer you a sales pitch.

It can be helpful to write down your medical malpractice questions as they arise and bring a list to your consultation. And remember, a consultation is not a commitment. You don’t have to work with an attorney just because they met with you. Medical malpractice claims can take months or even years to resolve. Choosing an attorney you are confident in and comfortable with will make a world of difference.

Victims of Medical Malpractice in Johnson City Trust The Haynes Firm to Help

The Haynes Firm has helped clients hold negligent healthcare providers accountable for decades. With more than 70 years of combined legal experience, our team has taken on some of the most difficult medical malpractice cases, including specialty cases focusing on cauda equina, pediatric malpractice, and VA negligence, helping our clients secure significant settlements and verdicts. We handle these cases with compassion, dedication, and an endless commitment to justice.

Our lawyers take on a limited number of cases so we can give each one the focus and resources it deserves. We know how to dig into medical records, work with leading experts, and build strong cases that can withstand tough opposition in court. We also know how important it is that you stay informed. We will stay by your side, keeping you updated and answering your questions whenever they arise, to make sure you are never left in the dark.

Reach Out for a FREE Case Review With an Experienced Medical Malpractice Lawyer

If you’re ready to talk to an attorney who will take your case seriously, treat you with respect, and provide honest answers to your questions, contact The Haynes Firm online or call our Johnson City office today. With us, your consultation is always FREE of cost, obligation, and pressure. It’s also 100% confidential. You’ve already been through enough. Let us help you move forward.

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