Medical Malpractice Attorney in Metairie, LA
Injured by a healthcare provider's mistake? Our team helps victims of medical negligence across Metairie and surrounding parishes pursue justice and compensation.
No one goes to the hospital expecting to leave worse off. But when doctors, nurses, or hospitals fail to meet the standard of care, the consequences can be devastating. At The Law Office of Bruce C. Betzer, we represent victims of medical malpractice in Metairie, New Orleans, and throughout Jefferson and St. Tammany parishes. We understand how overwhelming these cases can feel—that’s why we provide clear guidance, tough advocacy, and compassionate support from day one.
Where Medical Mistakes Happen Most
01.
Surgical Errors
Operating on the wrong body part, leaving tools inside the patient, or other surgical mistakes can result in lifelong complications or death. We investigate what went wrong and who is responsible.
Tip: Surgical malpractice often requires expert review—we handle that for you.
If a surgical procedure left you worse off, speak with our firm today.
02.
Misdiagnosis & Failure to Diagnose
When a serious condition like cancer or infection is missed or misdiagnosed, patients lose critical time and face avoidable harm. These failures may qualify as malpractice.
Tip: Trust your instincts—if something felt off with your diagnosis, let us take a look.
Don’t let a delayed or wrong diagnosis cost you more. Call now.
03.
Birth Injuries
Mistakes during labor and delivery can lead to cerebral palsy, shoulder dystocia, or long-term disability. These cases require strong medical evidence and experienced representation.
Tip: Birth injury cases often involve both mother and child—you may both be entitled to compensation.
If your child was harmed during birth, we’re ready to help.
Typically Covered Medical malpractice cases can involve:
- Anesthesia errors
- Emergency room negligence
- Premature discharge
- Failure to obtain informed consent
- Pharmacy or medication mistakes
- Treatment planning errors
To meet Louisiana's definition of malpractice, the care must fall below the accepted medical standard and cause real harm. We help determine if your case qualifies.
Who Can Be Held Liable Potentially responsible parties include:
- Physicians & surgeons
- Nurses & nurse practitioners
- ER doctors & radiologists
- Dentists & pharmacists
- Chiropractors & other specialists We help you identify all parties involved and hold each accountable.
What Makes Medical Malpractice Claims Different
Statute of Limitations
Louisiana allows only 1 year from the date of injury or discovery to file a claim. Delays can be costly.
We act fast to protect your rights.
Medical Review Panels
Before suing, most cases must go through a review panel of doctors to determine validity. This panel process pauses the statute of limitations but comes with specific filing rules.
We handle the paperwork, deadlines, and submission requirements so you don’t have to.
Basic Elements of a Valid Claim To prove medical malpractice, we must show:
- You had a provider-patient relationship
- The care fell below the accepted standard
- That breach caused your injury
- You suffered measurable damages (medical bills, pain, etc.) We gather all necessary records and experts to build a strong case.
Damages in Louisiana Medical Malpractice Cases Louisiana law caps total damages at $500,000 per person, with the first $100,000 typically paid by the provider and the rest potentially through the Patient’s Compensation Fund. We pursue compensation for:
- Past & future medical bills
- Pain & suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost wages & reduced earning ability
- Funeral costs (in wrongful death)
- Loss of enjoyment of life
FAQ
How do I know if I have a case?
Not every bad medical outcome qualifies as malpractice. If you believe something went wrong during your care, schedule a consultation. We’ll review records and consult medical experts to assess your claim.
What does the medical review panel do?
The panel, composed of licensed doctors, gives an opinion on whether malpractice likely occurred. Their decision isn’t final, but it influences your case going forward.
What happens if my case involves more than one provider?
We can name multiple parties in your claim—including doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies—if more than one was negligent. Each is evaluated for their role.
Can I still file if it’s been more than a year?
Possibly, if you didn’t know right away that malpractice occurred. The one-year clock starts when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered the injury. We can help determine if an exception applies.
How much does it cost to hire you?
We take medical malpractice cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover money for you.
Get Experienced, Compassionate Help After Medical Malpractice
If you or someone you love was harmed by a preventable medical mistake, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. We’ll explain your rights, investigate your care, and fight to hold negligent providers accountable. Call us now for a free consultation with a Metairie medical malpractice attorney.