The process for filing a malpractice lawsuit is detailed and time-consuming. Here are the steps one must take: -Gather medical records. This is particularly important if the injury is the result of a treatment from several years ago that has only recently become apparent. Contact every hospital or medical practice that was involved, including the pharmacy where any prescriptions were filled, to get physical records including but not limited to scans, x-rays, and photos. -Contact an attorney. Provide the above information to the attorney to find out if one has a case, and if so, how to proceed. -Be prepared for a process. Malpractice lawsuits require many pretrial motions and procedures that must be filed. Negotiations can be difficult and time consuming. Getting to a settlement or verdict can often take time. One must be patient and follow the attorney’s advice on what to do.