How to Send a Letter of Intent to Sue for Medical Negligence in Florida
If you have been injured by the negligent actions of a Florida doctor or hospital, you may wish to sue for compensation for medical negligence. Before you can initiate the process of filing a lawsuit, you will need to send a letter of intent to sue for medical negligence. This letter will clarify your intentions to the doctor or hospital that you plan to sue, and begin a series of deadlines that you must pay close attention to. It is a good idea to speak with an experienced medical malpractice attorney prior to sending a letter of intent to sue to your adversary.
Instructions
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Verify the correct name and contact information for the doctor or hospital that you plan to file suit against. You can find this information out by calling the doctor's office or hospital. This information may also be in your medical records, if you have access to them.
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Check to make sure that you will be within the statute of limitations before sending any type of legal correspondence. While the statute of limitations to initiate a suit for medical negligence in Florida is generally two years, there are many factors that can influence the actual date that begins the statute of limitations. It is imperative that you consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney to determine which statute of limitations applies to your specific case.
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Write your letter of intent to sue for medical negligence in Florida. In your letter, you will need to include the reason why you have chosen to initiate legal action and what you feel the doctor or hospital did that was negligent or wrong. You should prepare this letter under the supervision of a medical malpractice attorney to ensure that you don't write anything that may damage your case.
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Send the letter to the doctor or hospital by registered mail so that you have proof that it has been sent. Check with an attorney to see if there are any additional stipulations that are necessary in your local district that pertain to correct service of a letter of intent to sue.
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Wait for a response or other correspondence from the doctor, hospital or attorney that represents your adversary. In Florida, the doctor or hospital generally has 90 days to respond to a letter of intent to sue. Once you have received a response, you can proceed accordingly.
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Tips & Warnings
Request a copy of your medical records prior to sending a letter of intent, if possible.
Consult an experienced medical malpractice attorney prior to sending anything to a doctor or hospital that may have caused you injury.
References
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