Hawkes Law Firm, in Shoreline, Washington, has a special focus on medical malpractice. Very few people realize the tremendous losses caused in this country by medical negligence In 2000 a government-funded study concluded that approximately 98,000 patients die annually in this country caused by medical errors in hospitals Our malpractice attorneys are fierce advocates for people who have suffered as a result of medical malpractice. We also work to educate everyone about the need to be vigilant and insist on highly quality medical care and to have a knowledgeable advocate paying attention to anyone who is hospitalized.
Advice From Our Founder
We urge people entering the hospital to have a friend or loved one pay attention to the treatment, medications and care provided by the institution’s physicians, nurses and others. The job of this advocate is to ask questions and to remain alert for inconsistencies that might be symptomatic of a bigger problem.
Why We Fight
Our law firm has helped people who suffered injuries or the families of those who died a wrongful death as a result of misdiagnosis or other negligence. We believe that pursuing claims of medical malpractice is an important way to reduce the number of people who die or are seriously injured each year because of preventable errors in hospitals, clinics and emergency rooms.
An Important Example of Medical Malpractice
Our law firm represented the family of a 19 year old girl who consulted her long-time pediatrician about her fainting episodes. Because the physician suspected heart issues, he ordered several tests, including multiple EKGs. The test results indicated that our client had Long QT Syndrome, a treatable irregularity of the heart’s rhythm that if left untreated can cause seizures and sudden death. Unfortunately, the physician neglected to review the EKG results, and no treatment was begun. Our client died a short time later in her mother’s arms.
What Lies Ahead
In recent years, medical providers have instituted systems of checks, reviews and note-taking protocols that have reduced instances of malpractice. However, there is still a long way to go before correcting the situation reported in a 2000 Institute of Medicine publication, To Err is Human. Aggressive advocacy is an important part of the campaign for improved treatment.
We offer free initial consultations to medical malpractice clients and in most cases charge no attorney’s fee until we recover compensation. Contact Hawkes Law Firm to learn how we can help you after any type of malpractice. Call us at 206-367-5000.
