Experienced Legal Help for Families Dealing with Cerebral Palsy in Pennsylvania
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a life-altering condition that affects a child’s ability to control movement, posture, and muscle coordination. This condition is often caused by damage to the developing brain, which may occur before, during, or shortly after birth. In many cases, cerebral palsy is the result of medical negligence or avoidable complications during childbirth.
At Latona Law, we understand the profound emotional and financial impact cerebral palsy can have on a family. With over 30 years of experience helping families in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton area, we are dedicated to ensuring you receive the answers, support, and compensation you deserve. If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy due to a preventable birth injury, we are here to help. Contact us at (570) 825-9000 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Understanding Cerebral Palsy and Its Causes
Cerebral palsy can occur when a baby experiences oxygen deprivation or trauma to the brain during childbirth. Common causes include:
- Delayed or mishandled emergency C-sections
- Failure to recognize or respond to fetal distress
- Prolonged labor or failure to progress
- Improper use of delivery tools, such as forceps or vacuum extractors
- Placental abruption or other placental complications
- Untreated infections during pregnancy or labor
When medical professionals fail to act quickly and effectively in these situations, the infant’s brain may suffer damage that leads to cerebral palsy.
Cerebral Palsy and Medical Negligence
Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare provider fails to provide the appropriate standard of care, and as a result, a preventable injury occurs. In cases of cerebral palsy, this negligence may include:
- Delays in performing a necessary C-section despite signs of fetal distress
- Failure to monitor the baby’s oxygen levels during labor and delivery
- Inadequate treatment for maternal infections that can affect the baby’s brain development
- Mismanagement of labor and delivery, resulting in traumatic injury to the baby
If you suspect that medical errors contributed to your child’s diagnosis of cerebral palsy, you may be entitled to compensation for the lifelong care and support your child will need.
Caring for a Child with Cerebral Palsy
A diagnosis of cerebral palsy often means that a child will face lifelong challenges that require significant medical care, therapy, and support. Families may incur substantial expenses related to:
- Physical and occupational therapy to improve movement and coordination
- Speech therapy to assist with communication challenges
- Specialized medical equipment, such as wheelchairs or braces
- Surgeries to correct muscle and joint issues
- Ongoing medical care and rehabilitation
These expenses can add up quickly, placing a heavy burden on families. That’s why it’s crucial to pursue compensation if medical negligence played a role in your child’s condition.
How Latona Law Can Help Your Family
At Latona Law, we understand the emotional and financial toll cerebral palsy can take on families, especially when it could have been prevented. We are committed to helping families in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton area seek justice and secure the compensation necessary to care for a child with cerebral palsy. Our experienced team of birth injury attorneys will:
- Thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your child’s birth to determine if medical negligence contributed to the cerebral palsy diagnosis.
- Consult with medical experts to establish the standard of care and identify where errors occurred.
- Pursue compensation for past and future medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and the pain and suffering your family has endured.
We offer compassionate and personalized legal support, and we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Signs of Cerebral Palsy in Infants and Toddlers
Early signs of cerebral palsy may not be immediately obvious after birth, but there are key symptoms to watch for in infants and toddlers. These may include:
- Delayed developmental milestones, such as rolling over, sitting up, or walking
- Stiff or floppy muscles (hypertonia or hypotonia)
- Uncontrolled movements or involuntary muscle contractions
- Difficulty with coordination and balance
- Seizures
- Speech or swallowing difficulties
- Abnormal posture or favoring one side of the body
If you notice any of these signs in your child and suspect cerebral palsy, it is important to consult a medical professional for an evaluation. If cerebral palsy is confirmed, and you believe medical negligence may be the cause, contact Latona Law for guidance.
Your Rights as a Parent
As a parent of a child with cerebral palsy, you have the right to hold healthcare providers accountable if their negligence led to your child’s injury. Compensation can help cover the extensive costs of care your child will need throughout their life. This may include:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Costs for specialized care, equipment, and therapies
- Home modifications to accommodate your child’s needs
- Pain and suffering for both your child and your family
- Loss of earning potential if you or your spouse must leave the workforce to care for your child
At Latona Law, we have helped families across Pennsylvania recover millions in compensation for birth injuries, and we are here to fight for your family as well.
Why Choose Latona Law?
- Over 30 years of experience in birth injury and medical malpractice cases
- Extensive knowledge in handling cases involving cerebral palsy and other birth injuries
- A dedicated team of legal professionals committed to fighting for justice and fair compensation
- Compassionate and personalized service, tailored to meet the unique needs of your family
- No upfront fees – we work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case
Contact Latona Law Today for a Free Consultation
If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and you suspect medical negligence played a role, it’s crucial to act quickly. Latona Law is here to support you every step of the way, helping you navigate the complexities of your case and pursue the justice your family deserves.
Call us today at (570) 825-9000 for a free consultation. Let us help you secure the financial resources your child will need for a better future.