One of the happiest moments in your life should be bringing a child into the world. However, when something goes wrong during delivery that could have been avoidable, it could leave you feeling heartbroken and confused and searching for answers. If your child has been diagnosed with Erb’s palsy, you are likely feeling overwhelmed by what this means for their future and unsure of where to turn for help.
A New Orleans Erb’s palsy lawyer may be able to help you find the clarity and support that you need. These cases are more than just legal claims—they are about understanding what happened, holding the right people accountable, and making sure your child has what they need to move forward. Working with a dedicated birth injury attorney at Sangisetty Law Firm—focusing on medical malpractice throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama—could help relieve some of this pressure, giving you space to focus on your child’s well-being.
What Does Erb’s Palsy Mean and Why Might It Be a Legal Issue?
Erb’s palsy is a nerve injury that usually affects a baby’s shoulder, arm, or hand. It often happens during delivery, especially when the baby’s shoulder gets stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone, which is a condition called shoulder dystocia. In these situations, doctors and nurses are trained to follow certain steps to safely deliver the baby. However, when those steps are not followed and too much force is used, it could cause serious and sometimes permanent damage.
If your child has Erb’s palsy, you may be asking how this could have been prevented, if there was a missed warning sign, or if a C-section would have been the safer option. An Erb’s palsy lawyer in New Orleans could help you find answers to these hard questions. In Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, healthcare providers have a legal responsibility to deliver safe, competent care. If that duty is breached, families may have a right to seek compensation through a civil lawsuit.
How the Legal Process Works in Birth Injury Cases
Medical malpractice laws vary by state, and the timing is important. In Louisiana, you typically have one year from the date of the injury—or from the date you reasonably should have discovered it—to take legal action. However, in any case, no more than three years may pass from the date the malpractice occurred. Mississippi and Alabama have similar rules, though there are exceptions that could apply when it involves a child.
An Erb’s palsy lawyer in New Orleans could help evaluate your situation and explain what your legal options might look like. These cases often rely on professional medical opinions to show that a healthcare provider did not follow the proper standards of care during delivery. Whether it was failing to act quickly, misusing delivery tools, or not recognizing a risky labor situation, those details matter—and they could form the foundation of a strong case.
If a medical mistake caused your child’s injury, a successful claim may help cover:
- Medical bills, including future treatment or therapy
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Medical equipment or home care needs
- Lost earning potential later in life
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Educational or developmental support services
An experienced birth injury attorney who knows the laws for these states could guide your family through this complex process with care, attention, and compassion.
Contact an Erb’s Palsy Attorney in New Orleans About Your Next Steps
If you believe your child’s Erb’s palsy diagnosis may be linked to a preventable mistake during birth, you may ask questions and seek help. A New Orleans Erb’s palsy lawyer could discuss your legal rights with you and help you understand what options are available, without adding more stress to an already difficult time.
At Sangisetty Law Firm, families throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama could turn to our compassionate legal advocates who understand what is at risk. You do not have to navigate this alone. Reach out today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your child’s future.