When we place our trust in doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, we expect competent and compassionate care. Unfortunately, mistakes happen—and when they do, the consequences can be devastating. In Hawaii medical malpractice lawyer, patients who suffer harm due to medical negligence have legal rights, but navigating a malpractice claim can feel overwhelming without the right guidance.
As a Hawaii medical malpractice lawyer, I help patients and their families understand their options, pursue justice, and secure compensation for the harm they’ve endured.
What Is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the accepted standard of care, resulting in injury or harm to a patient. Examples include:
Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
Surgical errors
Medication or anesthesia mistakes
Birth injuries
Failure to monitor or treat complications
Not every bad outcome qualifies as malpractice. The key factor is whether the provider’s actions—or inaction—fell below the professional standard of care expected in Hawaii.
Hawaii’s Unique Legal Landscape
Every state has its own rules regarding medical malpractice, and Hawaii is no exception. Here are a few important things to know:
Statute of Limitations: In Hawaii, most malpractice claims must be filed within two years of when the injury was discovered (or reasonably should have been discovered). However, no claim can be filed more than six years after the negligent act, except in cases involving fraud.
Mandatory Pre-Litigation Screening: Before filing a lawsuit, Hawaii requires claims to go through a Medical Inquiry and Conciliation Panel (MICP). This panel reviews the case and may help the parties reach an early resolution.
Damage Caps: While economic damages like medical bills and lost wages are not capped, Hawaii limits non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering) to $375,000 in most cases.
These rules make it crucial to work with a lawyer who understands Hawaii’s medical malpractice system inside and out.
Why You Need an Experienced Medical Malpractice Attorney
Hospitals and insurance companies often have vast resources to defend malpractice claims. Without legal representation, patients can feel powerless. An experienced Hawaii malpractice lawyer can:
Investigate the medical records and gather expert testimony
Guide you through the MICP process
Calculate both economic and non-economic damages
Negotiate with insurance companies
Take your case to trial if necessary
Having an advocate on your side ensures your story is heard—and that you have the best chance at justice.
Taking the Next Step
If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to medical negligence in Hawaii, you don’t have to face the process alone. The law provides a path to accountability, but time limits and procedural requirements make it critical to act quickly.