Medical malpractice cases are handled differently in every state. In Connecticut, state lawmakers introduced a critical procedural step on the path to financial compensation. Under Connecticut law, before a plaintiff can file a medical malpractice lawsuit, they or their attorney must file a certificate with the court.
This certificate must make two key statements. First, it must state that a “reasonable inquiry” has been made by the patient or their legal representative to determine that there is a reason to believe the defendant has provided negligent healthcare. Second, it must proclaim that said inquiry gave rise to a reasonable belief that grounds exist to file a legal action against the named defendant.
In addition, as part of the “reasonable inquiry,” the plaintiff or their lawyer must obtain an opinion from a qualified expert, both written and signed, that includes the following:
The medical expert’s opinion that medical malpractice harmed the plaintiff
Details supporting their expert opinion.
The reasonable inquiry certificate must be filed in court along with the plaintiff’s complaint. Failure to file the certificate could result in dismissal of the medical malpractice lawsuit altogether.
Your Stamford lawyer for medical malpractice is well-versed in this procedure. They have the skills necessary to complete the required tasks to ensure that your case proceeds as it should.