File a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit in Salt Lake City

Before a malpractice lawsuit in Salt Lake City can be filed, a series of procedural tasks must be completed. Once it is determined that you have a case, a panel reviews your claim in pre-litigation and issues an informal decision. At this point a settlement agreement may be discussed. If no settlement is agreed to, then a formal lawsuit is filed.

• Burden of proof.  In a Salt Lake City malpractice lawsuit, the plaintiff must prove the following:
  • Breach of duty. This means the actions of the healthcare provider are not in line with those of a reasonably prudent provider under the same circumstances.
  • The negligent behavior caused injury or damage that is in no way related to any other source or cause. 
  • It is reasonable to hold the defendant liable for damages for the harm caused.

• Discovery.  After the suit is filed, the plaintiff and defendant go through the discovery process. Both sides address questions related to the case, file depositions, and request further documentation. If no mutual understanding or settlement can be reached, the case proceeds to trial. 

• Trial.  A medical malpractice trial is similar to other types of trials. A judge presides over the trial and a jury decides the outcome. Expert witnesses testify and help prove whether the medical professional violated medical standards.

Salt Lake City medical malpractice lawsuit

Malpractice lawsuits in Salt Lake City can be very long, difficult, and emotional. Be prepared to answer very personal questions and spend a great deal of time working with your attorney on the case. It may take months or years before your case is resolved.

Damages

Utah limits the amount of money you can receive for damages in a medical malpractice claim. As of July 2009, compensation for non-economic pain and suffering is limited to $480,000. However, full compensation may be awarded for damages directly related to the injury including medical costs, physical, occupational, or behavioral therapy, and current and future lost wages.

Contact us

Filing a Salt Lake City medical malpractice lawsuit can be arduous and complex. Contact the experienced Utah medical malpractice attorneys at Robert B. Sykes & Associates, P.C. by e-mail, or call us at (801) 990-5759 for a free consultation.