Leemon + Royer, PLLC Leemon + Royer, PLLC 2026-03-18T11:36:34Z https://www.leeroylaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1303475/2023/06/cropped-favicon-leemon-1-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[What factors could affect the compensation in birth injury cases?]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47709 2023-05-30T18:59:16Z 2023-05-31T03:52:55Z file medical malpractice claims for these injuries if negligence caused them. Doing so could help victims recover damages, including medication, therapy and other expensive surgeries based on the circumstances. The following factors could also impact the compensation amount for birth injury claims:
  • Lost income caused by caretaking requirements
  • The child's care-related expenses
  • Present and future medical treatments and procedures
  • The birth injury's severity
Birth injuries could also be fatal, leading to wrongful death claims. Additionally, specific states have settlement caps on medical malpractice cases. They could apply to nondocumented damages, such as pain and suffering. (Washington has no such caps.)

What is the average compensation amount?

Birth injuries do not automatically result in high compensation amounts. The computation could vary from case to case. Receiving legal counsel could help determine valid damages and mistakes committed, including improper use of medical equipment, inadequate monitoring of the fetus and delaying urgent treatments.

The delivery room should have no space for medical errors

Giving birth could have unpredictable complications, requiring a strict standard of care. Parents could find difficulty dealing with these birth injuries when they were preventable. Filing a claim compensates victims and brings justice to medical practitioners who failed to fulfill their duties to their patients.]]> On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[Supporting a loved one who is a victim of a crime]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47699 2023-05-09T12:23:06Z 2023-05-12T12:22:02Z Listening intently and empathetically Being there to listen and being as empathetic as possible is an effective way to hold space for a loved one. It may be hard to fathom how tough things are for them internally, but listening to them if they need to vent can go a long way. When they vent, try not to probe further about the events. Allow them to share information that they are comfortable sharing. Most of all, avoid giving unsolicited advice or remarks that can be misconstrued as victim blaming. Your best bet is to just listen to them and be present.

Giving them reassurance

While giving unsolicited advice is not a good move, reassuring and affirming words can help. Some of the reassuring remarks you can say may include:
  • “I hear you, and I am here for you.”
  • “You are not alone in this. We are in this together.”
  • “We can process this together.”
  • “I am proud of you for staying strong. It is okay to not be okay.”
  • “Your feelings are valid.”
When spoken sincerely, these words can go a long way. While being mindful of the trauma they experienced, you can also offer a consensual hug or a reassuring grip on their hands if they are comfortable.

Offering to help with errands

Trauma from experiencing a crime can debilitate a victim. This can make them unable to do even simple errands. Some of the help you can offer can include:
  • Scheduling medical appointments for them and accompanying them
  • Driving for them
  • Cleaning their house
  • Washing the dishes
  • Cooking a warm meal
  • Getting groceries
  • Walking their dog
If they feel ashamed to get help, reassure them that it is okay and that you sincerely want to be there for them. Doing these tasks may also help them see that they are not alone.

Keeping them company

Sometimes, your mere presence is enough for them not to feel alone. Difficult emotions can sometimes make people want to stay silent and still. If they need space and silence to process their thoughts and feelings, it is okay to let them be. Reassure them that they do not need to go through it alone. Even if they cannot articulate themselves, remind them you are there to help to the best of your abilities.]]> On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[What to expect at a criminal trial for rape]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47697 2023-04-28T18:40:26Z 2023-05-03T18:39:43Z submit a victim impact statement, which allows them to describe how the incident has affected their lives. Taking the stand It can be challenging to answer sensitive and complex questions. If the survivor has any concerns about testifying, it could help to discuss them with the prosecutor or a victim advocate. During the trial, the survivor may ask the attorney to repeat or restate the question if it is not understood. Survivors may also request anonymity from the court if they do not want their identities revealed to the public. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for the public to crucify or demonize survivors for speaking out. After the trial The court may find the alleged perpetrator guilty or not guilty. Anyone found guilty of rape may face several penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and registration as a sex offender. The complex nature of the criminal justice system may leave survivors feeling helpless. However, they are free to take legal action if they so choose. Before filing a lawsuit, it may be beneficial to hire a lawyer familiar with the unique requirements of such cases.]]> On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[Suing for emotional distress]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47695 2023-04-26T06:52:03Z 2023-05-01T06:49:54Z psychological injuries resulting from the crime are often overlooked. In Seattle, victims of crime can pursue emotional distress claims as part of a larger personal injury or crime victim litigation case. These may be based on intentional or negligent conduct that causes severe emotional harm to the victim.

Intentional infliction of emotional distress (IIED)

IIED is a tort or civil wrong that occurs when someone intentionally causes severe emotional distress to another person. Victims of violent crimes, such as assault, battery, rape and murder are particularly vulnerable to IIED. To prove IIED, the victim must demonstrate that the defendant engaged in life-threatening contemptible behavior that caused the victim to suffer severe emotional distress. Examples may include threats, harassment or other intentional psychological abuse. Victims of IIED may be entitled to damages, including compensation for medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Negligent infliction of emotional distress (NIED)

Meanwhile, NIED is a legal concept that allows individuals to recover damages when they suffer emotional harm because of someone else's negligent conduct. This is based on a defendant's failure to exercise reasonable care. Claims here can arise in various situations. Examples include car accidents, medical malpractice and other forms of negligence. To establish a claim for NIED, a plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant's negligent conduct caused severe emotional distress. In some cases, a plaintiff may recover damages for NIED even if they did not suffer physical injuries. Note that the rules governing NIED claims vary from state to state. In some states, plaintiffs may need to meet specific legal requirements to be successful in their claims. Pursuing an emotional distress claim in Seattle requires proper documentation and evidence of your emotional distress. It would help if you considered seeking medical attention immediately, as these records can be used as evidence to support your emotional distress claim.]]> On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[The dangers of failing to monitor a baby]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47694 2023-04-26T05:03:24Z 2023-05-01T05:03:01Z
  • Does not interpret the strip correctly
  • Fails to monitor the baby as frequently as needed
  • Proceeds with labor even though the baby's heart rate has changed
  • Interprets the strip correctly but fails to act quickly or appropriately
    • When the baby’s heart rate changes and there is no proper action, the newborn may suffer from oxygen deprivation. The effects of oxygen deprivation in babies may vary, but the results can be devastating. Doctors believe 10 minutes of oxygen deprivation in babies may cause brain damage, and 25 minutes can be fatal. Other complications may include asphyxia, paralysis, nerve damage, cerebral palsy, or stillbirth. After hours of labor, the last thing any parent wants to see is their baby in pain. Parents only want what is best for their kids, including ensuring a long, healthy life. Proving medical malpractice is complicated, but a birth injury lawyer may help parents fight for the compensation their child deserves.]]>         On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[2 ways that doctors can cause preventable birth injuries]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47692 2023-04-14T12:42:59Z 2023-04-17T09:40:23Z 1. They take unnecessary action Labor is a natural process that most women's bodies can manage without medical support. Given enough time and encouragement, they will usually eventually give birth to a healthy child. There are certainly cases in which intervention is necessary, but some healthcare professionals decide to try to speed up or finish labor due to considerations other than the best interest of the mother and her unborn child. They might also recommend interventions that are inappropriate or even dangerous, like the off-label administration of drugs with warnings against using them during pregnancy. When doctors perform unnecessary interventions, make mistakes while intervening or make the wrong recommendation, the patient could suffer catastrophic consequences.

    2. They don't take action when they should

    Hospitals typically monitor the heart rate of the mother and her unborn child during the labor process so that they can intervene quickly if the infant displays signs of distress. Improper monitoring or failing to take action despite noticeable signs of distress, like dark meconium in the waters after rupturing the amniotic sac, might lead to tragic and ultimately preventable birth injuries. Those who provide support for pregnant women should do their best to monitor the progress of labor and recognize when interventions are necessary for the safety of the mother or child. They should also adhere to best practices for the profession, including using the recommended procedures and medications to facilitate a safe birth. Recognizing when healthcare providers may have contributed to or caused birth injuries can help new parents take appropriate legal action with the assistance of a legal professional after a medical tragedy.]]>         On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[Are you a victim of a violent crime?]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47691 2023-03-09T13:16:21Z 2023-03-14T12:15:44Z What are your rights as a victim of crime? Victims are afraid to put a face to the crime for fear that they will suffer more damages by just being in the public eye. Your fear is not irrational, especially if the accused has yet to face conviction. As a victim, the Crime Victims' Rights Act (CVRA) entitles you to these rights:
    • You have the right to reasonable protection from the accused person
    • You have the right to be well-informed of any public court proceeding or parole proceeding concerning the crime or the release of the accused
    • You have the right against exclusion from public court proceedings concerning the crime
    • You have the right to testify at any public court proceeding or parole proceeding
    • You have the right to your privacy
    • You have the right to be treated with dignity
    • You have the right to any and all information concerning your case or the accused before and after the accused was sentenced
    If you do not know your rights, someone can take advantage of you during the court proceedings.

    You have a right to fight

    You can pursue civil litigation and seek compensation for the damages you suffered. However, it is possible that the perpetrator in your case may not have enough resources to make the case worth pursuing. Yet it is equally possible that, the crime could have been preventable if other parties had been less negligent. This is a complex matter. An attorney with experience in crime victim litigation will know how best to approach your case. One of your most precious rights is the right to stand up in court and fight for the justice you deserve.]]>         On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[Rebuilding your self-esteem as a victim of crime ]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47688 2023-02-13T07:19:26Z 2023-02-16T07:17:55Z Criminal offenses can have serious short-term effects on victims. For example, someone who has been assaulted may suffer from injuries that take weeks or months to heal. A person who has been deprived of their finances or property may struggle financially.  The long-term impacts of criminal offenses are often overlooked. Being subjected to criminal behavior can impact your emotional well-being and self-esteem. You may no longer feel like you can go outside of your home in safety. You may have issues trusting those who are close to you.  Rebuilding your self-esteem as a victim of crime can be difficult, but hopefully, the following tips should help. 

    Don’t blame yourself 

    You may wonder why it happened to you, going over the incident over and over in your head. Is there something you could have done differently? Were you careless in your actions? Sadly, victims of crime who suffer from low self-esteem afterward can blame themselves for the incident. It’s important to remember that you are absolutely not to blame for the conduct of a criminal. 

    Lean on your support system

    While it can take time to regroup after a traumatic event, it’s important that you try to remember all of the positive things you have going for you. You have a lot to offer the world, and there are people behind you who can offer support. Don’t be afraid to lean on family members or even neutral third parties who have experience helping victims of crime.  The criminal act that impacted your life cannot be undone, but you may be entitled to compensation that can help while you get back on your feet. If you have been injured either physically or emotionally, seek some legal guidance to find out more about your options. ]]>         On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[Should you follow a hit-and-run driver? ]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47686 2023-01-31T11:58:42Z 2023-02-03T11:58:23Z It can be highly frustrating to be involved in a hit-and-run. Not only has the other driver made a mistake and injured you, while damaging your car, but they are now breaking the law and refusing to take responsibility for their actions. You may also understand that they are responsible for the medical bills and other costs that you’re now going to be facing, and allowing them to leave the scene could cause them to shirk those costs. For this reason, people sometimes are tempted to follow a hit-and-run driver. But insurance experts note that this is not a good idea.  It could be illegal if you drive recklessly or break the speed limit, it could cause another accident and it also means that you are leaving the scene of the first crash. This could cause you to delay the medical care that you actually need for your injuries, and it may be illegal.

    So, what should you do?

    With a hit-and-run, it’s often wise to simply take notes about exactly what happened so that you can preserve your memories and offer that information to the authorities. Things to consider include the make and model of the car, the color of the vehicle, anything that you remember from the license plate, any distinctive features – such as a bumper sticker – and the general description of where the vehicle was going. If you saw the person who was driving, you can try to describe them to the authorities, as well. But the thing to remember is that you have been injured during the commission of a crime. Your goal should be to get the medical care that you need for your injuries, while the police will deal with finding the person who committed the crime. Then you can look into the legal steps needed to get the compensation you deserve.]]>         On Behalf of Leemon + Royer, PLLC <![CDATA[Is your brain injury ever going to heal?]]> https://www.leeroylaw.com/?p=47683 2023-01-13T06:39:30Z 2023-01-18T06:36:52Z As someone else committed a criminal act, their actions cause you to suffer from a traumatic brain injury. For example, maybe you were simply in a gas station when someone tried to rob it, they pushed you over, and you struck your head on the tile floor. Or perhaps you were assaulted by an intoxicated individual outside of a bar because they didn’t like the way that you looked at them.  There are countless ways in which you could be injured by someone who is being reckless and acting in a criminal manner. But as you move past the event itself, you may start wondering why the symptoms of your brain injury have not entirely gone away. Is it going to heal?

    Some injuries can never heal completely

    It depends on the extent of your injury, for one thing. Some injuries are considered more minor, such as concussions, and they may heal in time. But there are other situations in which concussion symptoms can last for months, so don’t assume that these aren’t dangerous. Plus, if there has been severe damage to the point that brain cells have been damaged or even killed, then your brain needs to find new neural pathways so that you don’t lose specific skills. It can sometimes do this, but it doesn’t always identify the correct pathway, or they may not exist. Since your brain also can’t regenerate the cells that died, it has no other option to repair the brain in the same way that it would repair a bone or a layer of skin. These types of injuries can be very expensive, so be sure you know exactly what steps to take.]]>