How to Define a Legal Nurse Consultant

Attorneys consult with Legal Nurse Consultants on medical-related legal matters.

According to the American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants (AALNC), a Legal Nurse Consultant practices a specialty in the nursing profession. Attorneys and legal professionals consult with Legal Nurse Consultants for their proficiency and experience in health care and nursing. Legal Nurse Consultants evaluate, analyze and give their opinion on how health care is being delivered and the results rendered. Legal Nurse Consultants work along with attorneys on medical-related cases and claims.

Instructions

Definition of a Legal Nurse Consultant

1. In terms of health care legal matters, the Legal Nurse Consultant will strategize with a legal professional to find a resolution for the involved parties. The Legal Nurse Consultant educates whoever is involved in a legal issue on health care facts. In terms of a legal case or claim, the Legal Nurse Consultant researches medical literature for information on health care guidelines, regulations and standards. He also contacts vendors to find out the cost of medical services, supplies and equipment. The Legal Nurse Consultant will analyze and summarize the medical records, health care documents and legal documents in an effort to relate them to the allegations. He will assess occurrences of damages in relation to legal liability. Legal Nurse Consultants, along with a legal professional, must evaluate and interview witnesses. The Legal Nurse Consultant and legal professionals will collaborate on case strategies. Under the eye of an attorney, the Legal Nurse Consultant drafts medical-related legal documents. He is also expected to testify at hearings as an expert health care witness.

2. Legal Nurse Consultants work as independent consultants, or for law firms or insurance companies. They may also be employed by other companies where a Legal Nurse Consultant is appropriate. At times, particularly in smaller companies, Legal Nurse Consultants may be expected to perform some of the same duties as a legal assistant or paralegal would. This happens if the Legal Nurse Consultant is the only staff member available to help the attorneys.

3. Legal Nurse Consultants hold a bachelor degree or an advanced degree in a health-related field. Legal Nurse Consultants don't need to have a legal background or legal education. Legal Nurse Consultants gain legal knowledge over time, by meeting with attorneys and attending seminars. Even though Legal Nurse Consultants are considered in the same realm as paralegals and legal assistants, their differences are defined by job responsibilities. While they can certainly take legal education courses to expand their knowledge, it is not necessary to the profession.

References

• American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants: Statement of Role