Medical Malpractice Glossary

Medical malpractice cases involve a mix of legal and medical terminology that can be confusing. This glossary explains key terms in plain English so you can better understand the process, your medical records, and conversations with attorneys or healthcare providers.

C I P S

C

Contingency Fee

A fee arrangement where the attorney is paid a percentage of the recovery only if the case is successful.

I

Informed Consent

A patient's right to understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives before agreeing to medical treatment or a procedure.

P

Proximate Cause

The legal requirement to prove that a healthcare provider's negligence directly caused the patient's injury.

S

Standard of Care

The level of treatment a competent healthcare provider in the same specialty would deliver under similar circumstances.

Statute of Limitations

The legal deadline for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit, which varies by state and may be extended under certain exceptions.

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