How long does a medical malpractice lawsuit take?
The length of a medical malpractice lawsuit in Washington depends on several factors. A lawsuit may be resolved in as little as a few months, or it may take multiple years to reach a resolution. The duration of the lawsuit is based on the complexity of the case and the availability of evidence. Additionally, the number of defendants involved in the lawsuit and the availability of legal resources can extend the duration of the lawsuit. Furthermore, court delays can also add to the length of the proceedings. Two timelines are involved in malpractice lawsuits—pre-trial and trial. Pre-trial proceedings include discovery and motion practice, which can last several months. Discovery is the process of exchanging relevant evidence and information among the parties. Motion practice is the filing of various requests or motions to the court. Trial proceedings take place after the pre-trial phase. During the trial, witnesses are called to testify, evidence is presented, and the court makes a ruling. Depending on the case, a trial may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Once the court makes a ruling, parties may appeal the decision. This can add to the timeline of a malpractice lawsuit, and may prolong the length of the proceedings. An experienced attorney is essential to ensure the success of a malpractice lawsuit. A knowledgeable attorney can navigate the legal process more efficiently and effectively and can help reduce the length of the lawsuit.
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