When someone alleges medical malpractice, proving what happened can be challenging. Also, testimony from non-doctors may not be allowed since they don’t have the expertise to speak on these matters.
Because of this, a qualified medical expert may be used to provide testimony about how negligence occurred during a medical malpractice claim. Their testimony will also be used to describe how the negligence led to an injury.
Who is considered a medical expert?
For someone to be considered an expert witness for a medical malpractice case, they must be a surgeon, nurse, physician or another licensed practitioner with the experience and skills to testify on a certain situation or topic. It is best to find an expert witness who has a similar background to the defendant in the case.
Why is medical expert testimony beneficial?
Sometimes expert witness testimony is scrutinized more than testimony from others; however, it can still be beneficial in a medical malpractice case. They can add credibility to the injured party’s claim since they are considered an expert in the field. They may also help a case avoid going to trial because both sides will better understand the strength of the plaintiff’s case, which may encourage a settlement offer. This is not always the case, but it is something that can happen with testimony from an expert witness.
Understanding the impact of a medical expert
Medical malpractice cases can be complex. Due to what must be proven, having testimony from an expert witness can be invaluable. While testimony from these individuals comes at an extra cost, it is usually worth it because of the benefits their testimony can have on any case. It’s best to explore this legal option if you pursue a medical malpractice claim.