The Extraordinarily High Costs Of Raising a Seriously Ill Child
Some of the conditions that are at the heart of wrongful birth cases include the following:
- Down syndrome;
- Cystic fibrosis;
- Tay-Sachs disease
- Spina bifida;
- Other serious genetic abnormalities.
Raising a child with a severe congenital medical condition can be extraordinarily costly. The associated disabilities of such children can cause them to require complex medical equipment, medical procedures, and constant care. For example, a child may require the following:
- Corrective surgeries;
- Extensive hospital stays;
- Wheelchairs;
- Communication devices;
- Accessible home and vehicle; and/or
- Daily caretakers.
The costs of these necessities can easily rise into the millions of dollars over the course of the child’s life and the parents will be left with the financial burden of such.
When Can You Bring A Wrongful Birth Claim?
In a valid wrongful birth claim, you must prove the following:
- You had an established doctor-patient relationship;
- The doctor negligently failed to diagnose your child’s serious medical condition or failed to properly warn you of the risk of having a child with this medical condition;
- You were therefore unable to make an informed decision regarding the possible termination of the pregnancy due to the medical condition; and
- You suffered harm as a result.
If you successfully prove the above elements, you are entitled to compensation for the extraordinary costs of raising your child with their particular medical issue.
The evidence required to prove medical negligence can be extensive and complicated and often involves the analysis and testimony of medical experts. In addition, doctors and their malpractice insurance companies will often work hard to call your evidence into doubt in order to avoid liability whenever possible. For these reasons, it is imperative to have a Portland attorney handling your case with the skill and resources needed to successfully handle a wrongful birth case.
How We Can Help
Wrongful birth cases can be extremely personal and emotionally charged, as they directly involve your role as a parent to a child who suffers from serious medical issues and impairments. It is important to have a wrongful birth lawyer who knows how to handle this type of claim with the commitment and attention that you and your child deserve. At the Johnston Law Firm, we have represented the rights of many Portland families in many types of injury cases, including wrongful birth. Call for a free consultation at (503) 546-3167.
Don’t miss out on these common personal injury mistakes.
Get the legal counsel you need to guide you through the process of filing an injury claim.
Free Confidential Case Evaluation
Contact us today at
503-546-3167
to get a FREE, confidential case evaluation
We’re conveniently located in downtown Portland, and we offer flexible hours by appointment.