When we seek medical care, we place immense trust in doctors, nurses, and healthcare providers. Most of the time, that trust is well-placed—but when mistakes happen, the consequences can be devastating. In Hawaii medical malpractice lawyer, victims of medical malpractice have legal rights, but pursuing a claim can feel overwhelming without the right guidance.
As an experienced Hawaiʻi medical malpractice lawyer, I want to shed light on what medical malpractice is, how it’s handled in our state, and why having a skilled attorney by your side makes all the difference.
What Is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider’s negligence causes harm to a patient. This negligence might include:
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Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis – failing to identify a serious condition in time.
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Surgical errors – operating on the wrong body part, leaving surgical instruments inside, or causing avoidable complications.
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Medication mistakes – prescribing the wrong drug or incorrect dosage.
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Birth injuries – harm to a newborn or mother during delivery due to improper medical care.
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Failure to obtain informed consent – performing procedures without properly explaining risks.
In short, malpractice happens when medical professionals fail to meet the standard of care expected in their field.
Hawaiʻi’s Unique Legal Process for Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice claims in Hawaiʻi are subject to specific rules that differ from other states:
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Medical Inquiry and Conciliation Panel (MICP):
Before filing a lawsuit, patients must bring their claim before this panel. The goal is to encourage early resolution and reduce unnecessary litigation. -
Statute of Limitations:
In most cases, you have two years from the date of injury (or discovery of the injury) to file a claim. There are exceptions, especially involving minors or cases where the negligence wasn’t immediately obvious. -
Expert Testimony:
To prove malpractice, expert medical witnesses are often required to establish that the standard of care was not met.
Understanding these rules is critical—missing deadlines or failing to follow procedure could mean losing your right to compensation.
Why You Need a Hawaiʻi Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Medical malpractice cases are among the most complex areas of personal injury law. Insurance companies and hospitals often have aggressive defense teams. A skilled attorney can:
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Investigate your case thoroughly by working with medical experts.
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Navigate Hawaiʻi’s MICP process and court procedures.
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Pursue fair compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
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Protect your rights against powerful healthcare institutions.
Without legal representation, patients and families risk being left with mounting medical bills and unanswered questions.
Taking the First Step
If you or a loved one has been harmed due to medical negligence in Hawaiʻi, you don’t have to face this journey alone. The first step is speaking with an experienced medical malpractice lawyer who understands both the legal system and the cultural values that shape our islands.