According to research from Studies in Health Technology and Informatics, medical errors account for up to 251,000 deaths a year in America. This is far higher than the rates seen in Canada, the UK, and other developed nations.
Utah Medical Malpractice Lawyers
Patients have the right to file a medical malpractice lawsuit when a physician, surgeon, or other medical professional fails to administer proper care.
Our lawyers in Salt Lake City work to establish negligence and hold healthcare professionals and institutions accountable for their actions.
The medical malpractice attorneys at Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC can help injured patients throughout Utah obtain compensation for damages. You pay no legal fees unless we win.
Multilingual Legal Services
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Our Salt Lake City, UT, injury law office is staffed by professionals who speak Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese, and Portuguese. We can help underserved and marginalized populations throughout Utah whose primary language is not English.
What Is Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice refers to when a doctor, nurse, surgeon, or other medical provider fails to abide by a reasonable standard of care, resulting in harm to a patient.
You may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim if evidence shows that a healthcare professional or institution acted in a manner that falls short of the standards adhered to by their peers. In such cases, the liable party, as well as his or her employer, may be held accountable for damages related to the financial and non-financial losses of the victim.
A Leading Cause of Death in the U.S.
Statute of Limitations
In the state of Utah, you have two years from the date you discover a medical-related injury to file a legal claim. This two-year period of discovery must fall within four years of the date of the actual injury.
Do I Have a Medical Malpractice Case?
From a legal perspective, patients may have a case if they:
Our Salt Lake City lawyers take on more medical malpractice cases than other law firms in the state of Utah. Our proven attorneys are not afraid to go to trial if needed.
You Can Count on Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC Our Utah Lawyers Focus on Medical Malpractice Litigation
The attorneys at Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC focus on medical malpractice claims, one of the most difficult areas of litigation. Our team works with a network of experts to determine which malpractice claims are worth pursuing in different areas of medicine.
Get Legal Help Without Financial Pressure Contact Our Utah Medical Malpractice Lawyers
Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC fights for families and working people. We want regular people in the state of Utah to have equal legal footing to stand against insurance companies and medical facilities.
Your initial consultation with us is free of charge. If we work on your case, you do not have to pay a retainer or any attorney fees. You only pay us if we can secure a favorable settlement or win damages in a civil trial.
If you or a loved one has suffered because of a doctor or surgeon's error or negligence, contact our Utah patient injury law firm.
(801) 614-7674
Our Utah Malpractice Attorneys Will Stand with You Former Clients Share Their Experiences with Our Firm
Debi Hooker
Salt Lake City, UT
2024
John MacFarlane at Younker Hyde MacFarlane handled my medical malpractice case from 3/2022 - 12/2023. John and his team made the process stress-free for me during a difficult and stressful time. They communicated with me along the way, were always available to answer my questions and negotiated my settlement higher than I expected & in a reasonable amount of time. I highly recommend John and the entire team at YHM!
View on GooglePatricia Trudeau
Salt Lake City, UT
2024
John Macfarlane did a spectacular job handling my lawsuit from the beginning to the final settlement. I was looking for a lawyer to file a medical malpractice lawsuit to find justice for my deceased son. Two of the biggest law firms in Salt Lake City turned me down because “there wasn’t enough time.” Fortunately, I found John Macfarlane who pulled off a miracle! He managed to get an intent to sue filed in court 30 minutes before time ran out... Once the lawsuit was successfully settled I received my check quickly. I was so happy to have justice for my son; and the compensation was more than I expected.
View on GoogleA $5 Million Verdict for Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Medical Care
Our Salt Lake City lawyers secured a $5 million jury award for the surviving children of a 67-year-old woman. While experiencing problems recovering from major surgery, her doctors did not inform her children that she had a positive prognosis, which led to the withdrawal of care. After a nine-day trial, the jury agreed that the doctors did not properly inform her family or advocate for continued care.
A $2.9 Million Verdict in a Fatal Misdiagnosis Case
Our Salt Lake City firm obtained a $2.9 million award in a case involving a man who went to a health clinic on two occasions, a week apart, complaining of heart pain that spread to his abdomen. During both visits, the Physician's Assistant misdiagnosed the condition and failed to order cardiac tests. Four days after his second visit to the clinic, the victim died of aortic dissection.
Our Law Firm Will Look Out for You A Former Client Shares His Story
Gilbert suffered a spinal cord injury while getting a chiropractic adjustment. Watch him recount this terrible experience in his life and how our medical negligence and malpractice attorneys helped him reach a successful outcome and move forward with his life again.
A $1.83 Million Verdict for Negligent Care Resulting in Death
Our Salt Lake City attorneys helped the surviving spouse and children of an individual with MS obtain a $1.83 million award. The insurance company for the defense came back to negotiate the verdict, and the case went through the court of appeals where the original ruling was upheld.
Younker Hyde Macfarlane: The Malpractice Lawyers Who Other Utah Personal Injury Attorneys Trust
At Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC, we are proud that we have earned a reputation as some of the most respected medical malpractice attorneys in the state of Utah.
Our legal team is so respected in this area that many personal injury attorneys refer their medical malpractice cases to us for our expertise. In fact, most of our cases are referred to us by other law firms.
If you need to speak with a lawyer about medical malpractice law, we encourage you to share what happened with our respected team of medical injury attorneys. Your consultation is free of charge.
A Trusted Utah Legal Team Request a Consultation With Our Attorneys
Though based in Salt Lake City, Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC can work with clients located throughout the state of Utah.
Our lead attorneys, Ashton J. Hyde and John Macfarlane, have achieved significant victories for victims in need, and are both admitted to the Utah State Bar.
To book a free consultation with our medical malpractice lawyers, contact us online or call us in Salt Lake City, UT, at:
(801) 335-6467
Helping Clients with Dedication and Perseverance We Will Stand with You, No Matter How Long It Takes
"I first visited the firm completely exhausted, emotional, and seeking justice after having been through a mother's worst nightmare. Mr. Younker met with me and reassured me that they will do everything they could to bring about awareness and justice. Although they could not undue what was medically done, he set us up to succeed by putting us in good hands with Mr. MacFarlane. Mr. MacFarlane took the lead, battled it out and WON!!!! The perseverance and dedication shown during those three years will never be forgotten." Nina Patterson
Serving Communities Throughout Utah Malpractice Lawyers Based in Salt Lake County
Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is home to nine major hospitals in Utah, including the Huntsman Cancer Institute, LDS Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital (formerly Salt Lake Regional Medical Center), and the University of Utah Hospital. These nine medical facilities have more than 2,500 beds for patients throughout the area, helping them receive the medical care they need.
While many healthcare professionals at these facilities provide a high standard of care, accidents can happen. Whether a mistake or negligence occurs at a major hospital, a smaller medical facility, or clinic, it's crucial that you reach out to a medical malpractice lawyer to discuss legal options.
West Valley City
The second-largest city in Utah, West Valley City is home to Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley West (formerly Jordan Valley Medical Center - West Valley Campus). Opened in 1964 as Valley West Hospital, Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley West has 102 licensed beds and provides general medical care, surgical services, emergency services, intensive care, cardiology, orthopedics, and maternity services.
Whether you received poor care at Holy Cross Hospital - Jordan Valley West or at a different medical facility in West Valley City, you can count on the medical malpractice lawyers of Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC for help. The team at our personal injury law firm will use our years of insight to build a strong case for you and your loved ones.
Signs That Medical Malpractice Occurred
Our medical malpractice attorneys in Utah understand that it can be difficult for the average patient and their loved ones to know if medical malpractice occurred. We want to make sure that injured patients are prepared to recognize the signs of medical malpractice so they can seek justice and compensation. Sadly, as we see all too often, it often falls upon patients to police the healthcare system and providers. Some signs to look out for include:
Worsening Patient Condition
The patient's condition got worse while receiving medical care.Improper Accounting of Medical History
The physician didn't ask about or consider pre-existing conditions, family medical history, or medications the patient was currently taking.Premature Release From Care
The hospital or doctor authorized the patient's release too early.Delayed Treatment
The medical professional delayed administration of a necessary treatment or treatments.
How to Prepare for a Malpractice Consultation
If you've never met with an attorney about a personal injury or medical malpractice claim, you may not know what to prepare. Here are a few items you should bring to your consultation if they are available:
- Photos or videos of the injury
- Recordings of the medical providers
- A rough timeline of what occurred
- Any medical records or documents
Write Us a Letter About What Happened
In addition to the above items, be sure to write a letter about the impact of the injury on you and your family. Address this letter to your lawyer.
By addressing this letter to your legal counsel, your attorney can decide whether or not the other side of the case will see this document.
Worried You Don't Have the Right Documents? Contact Our Law Firm: We Can Help
Your focus may be elsewhere following an injury caused by a Utah medical facility or healthcare provider. If you need to speak with a medical malpractice attorney, we offer free, no-obligation consultations. We can also go over any available materials you have that would be useful to bring to your consultation.
Remember that we're ready to help you from the outset whether we take your case or not. Send our Salt Lake City law firm a message to get the answers you're looking for.
(801) 335-6467
We'll Offer Straightforward Answers and Explanations Lawyers Who Tell Clients What's Happened and Why
Ajazya Barbosa
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
I would highly recommend this firm to anyone. They were extremely helpful from the beginning till the end. We felt well taken care of. My daughter will have better life quality thanks to your help! Thank God.
View on GoogleGilbert Cisneros
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
Younker Hyde Macfarlane made it easier to navigate a difficult time in my life. They were professional and attentive to any questions that I had. McKay Corbett was the attorney that I primarily worked with. He explained things in a way that I could easily understand and was very personable. Younker Hyde Macfarlane made me feel like family and that I was being taken care of.
View on GoogleMost clients who come to us don’t hate the doctor they're suing. Our legal team has tremendous respect for doctors. But just like any other normal human being, they make mistakes. The goal of medical malpractice litigation is to hold doctors accountable and improve medicine in Utah.
Common Types of Medical Malpractice
Failure to Diagnose or Misdiagnosis
Healthcare providers throughout the state of Utah should order the appropriate testing based on the patient's symptoms and family history. If providers fail to order tests or misinterpret the results, this can result in a delay in treatment, treatment of the wrong condition, and other medical care that can result in serious injury or death. Our personal injury law firm in Salt Lake City can help.
Surgical Errors
Any surgical error, regardless of how minor the mistake may seem, can have severe consequences. If a patient has suffered pain and deteriorating health due to a surgical mistake or a loved one has been killed due to the negligent actions of a medical professional, our team of Salt Lake City-based lawyers can help you file a medical malpractice lawsuit.
Medication Errors
If a doctor or nurse in the state of Utah misdiagnoses an illness or fails to diagnose an illness or injury, it may be grounds for a medical malpractice claim. However, to file a claim successfully in the event of an incorrect prescription, incorrect dosage, or other medication errors, it must be shown that a liable party failed to abide by a reasonable standard of care.
Anesthesia Complications
Anesthesia complications may involve administering the wrong dosage or even the wrong type of medication to patients; this can result in patients getting too much medication or not getting enough, the latter of which can result in anesthesia awareness. Anesthesia complications can also involve the failure to properly monitor the patient's vital signs. This type of medical negligence can result in brain damage, allergic reactions, breathing issues, nerve damage, blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and death. Our Utah attorneys can help achieve justice when negligence causes tragedy.
Birth Injury
A birth injury such as cerebral palsy, Erb's palsy, or shoulder dystocia can have a permanent impact on a child's life. Birth injuries related to oxygen deprivation due to fetal distress or a delayed C-section could result in lifelong disability. Our medical malpractice lawyers in Utah can help ensure the victim and family are justly compensated for lifetime care costs, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Nursing Home Abuse
If a family member has suffered an injury in a Utah nursing home and it is suspected that it could have been prevented through diligent care, we encourage you to contact our Salt Lake City personal injury law firm. We can evaluate the case and determine if a medical malpractice claim would be appropriate.
Catastrophic Injuries
Medical malpractice can result in injuries that are life-altering and affect a patient's entire family. Catastrophic injuries refer to permanent conditions and disabilities that often require ongoing medical treatment. In cases of catastrophic injury, our Utah medical malpractice lawyers with more than three decades in practice can help.
Defective Drugs
A dangerous or defective drug can cause severe injury and even death. If a patient has suffered illness or injury due to a dangerous drug, we can evaluate the case and provide the legal counsel needed to make informed decisions. Our Utah medical malpractice attorneys can take on negligent pharmaceutical companies and corporations that put patients and consumers at risk.
Secure Dedicated Medical Malpractice Representation Contact Our Salt Lake City Practice Today
Our lawyers will investigate all aspects of the claim to determine if a single person or party is liable for the injuries. Count on us to handle all of the legal work so the focus can remain on healing and recovery.
To book your free legal consultation with a member of our team, contact Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC online or call us in Salt Lake City, UT:
(801) 335-6467
Putting You First While Navigating Difficult Times Our Lawyers Help Clients Achieve Peace of Mind
"Very helpful and excellent staff and lawyers. Helped us receive peace of mind and helped settle our case with our young son that passed away. Without them we wouldn't have some of the closure that we now have. John was excellent and always answered our questions and was available when we needed him." Kevin Boren
Fatal Injuries from Medical Negligence and Malpractice
Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Tragically, some cases of medical malpractice result in the death of the patient. In these circumstances, close family members of the victim have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Immediate family members such as spouses, life partners, children, adopted children, and any other dependents have priority in wrongful death suits. If no immediate family members or financial dependents exist, extended family such as parents, adult children, and other dependents may be eligible to file suit.
Utah state law requires eligible family members to file suit within two years of the date of death.
Legal Support in the Face of Tragedy A Former Client Shares His Story
Matt's wife passed away because her doctor prescribed her medicine she should not have been taking. The Salt Lake City attorney Matt initially spoke to recommended he seek the counsel of Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC. Watch as he describes his experience working with our law firm.
Speak with Our Lawyers About Your Medical Malpractice Case Our Law Firm Is Here to Help and Support You
The team at Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC is committed to obtaining the best possible settlements and verdicts for our clients. We've spent decades looking out and fighting for working Utah families trying to move forward after a serious injury.
By offering free consultations and contingency representation, we hope to even the odds when facing insurance companies and the legal representatives of major medical facilities.
To find out if you have a case worth pursing and what steps to take next, contact us online or call us in Salt Lake City:
(801) 335-6467
A History of Compassionate Legal Representation Our Attorneys Will Support You Every Step of the Way
"These men were very respectful and empathetic to my family after the loss of my 15 year old daughter. Younker, Hyde and Macfarlane helped bring closure for my family. Thank you for their dedication and tenacity." Shawn Troumbley
Medical Malpractice FAQs
Should I file a medical malpractice lawsuit if I've never tried to before?
Yes. Many people who come to our Salt Lake City law office are people who are pursuing legal action for the first time. It can be complicated, which is why it's helpful to speak with an attorney to get all the information you need while filing a claim.Will filing a malpractice lawsuit affect healthcare costs?
People might think there is a crisis of medical malpractice lawsuits that are driving up the cost of healthcare. That is a myth. In fact, there should be more malpractice claims filed. There's no "doctor police" to address negligence in the medical field. The best way to ensure accountability and to seek potential reform is to speak with a lawyer about legal options.
Why should I file a medical malpractice lawsuit?
In addition to achieving compensation for the loss or injury suffered by patients and their family members, pursuing medical malpractice lawsuits can help prevent careless mistakes in the future. In fact, 85% of our clients tell us that their case isn't all about the money. They say that the lawsuit can make sure what happened to them does not happen to someone else.
How long does a medical malpractice case usually take?
Medical malpractice litigation can take years. Just conducting a thorough investigation into a claim can take up to six months. That's why it's important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to get the process started when the incident is still recent.
Are medical malpractice lawsuits expensive?
Yes, they can be. The time and the resources put into a case are immense. That's why free consultations and contingency fee representation are so important to working people all over Utah. You don't have to worry about hourly rates and paying legal bills every month for years. We only get paid if we can win.
How important are medical records in a medical malpractice case?
Very important. Whatever is in a medical record really rules the day. If a doctor said you should go to the ER in the medical record but you do not recall them saying that, you may not have a case unless there was a witness present who can corroborate your story. This is something we consider when reviewing documents during a consultation.
Have Other Medical Malpractice Questions?
If you have additional questions about your legal options after a terrible medical mistake, our team can help. To speak with an attorney and get the answers you're looking for, contact our Salt Lake City law office today.
We Listen Closely Because We Care About What's at Stake You Can Depend on Our Salt Lake City Medical Malpractice Attorneys
Joani Taylor
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
Wrongful death left me navigating the most difficult time of life I will likely experience. Yonker, Hyde, Macfarlane made it bearable. The process of holding doctors accountable can be a lengthy and painful process. It requires you to stay in a pattern of grief until it's over. The people at YHF were compassionate, thorough and timely. John MacFarlane was my attorney. He was honest, caring and easy to talk to, listened well and went the extra mile. By the time it was over I felt like I had not only gained the accountability I was deserved, I also felt like my team at YHM was family.
View on GoogleCathy Kelly
Salt Lake City, UT
2023
Our experience with Younker Hyde Macfarlane, PLLC was easy & stress-free. We filed a Wrongful Death suit in late 2020 & was settled out of court in late 2022. The people we worked with, Brittney Bohne, McKay Corbett, & John MacFarlane were very professional & explained everything from start to finish. This team did an outstanding job of representing our interests. I would not hesitate to recommend this law firm to handle any legal problems, questions, lawsuits, etc. John MacFarlane was very good at obtaining a fair & equitable settlement on our behalf.
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