Atlanta HIE Lawyer Specializing in Birth Asphyxia Cases

Introduction to HIE

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a specific type of birth injury that occurs when an infant’s brain is deprived of oxygen and blood flow at a critical time—during or around birth. The impact of HIE can be life-altering, often resulting in developmental disabilities, motor impairments, and other long-term challenges for affected children. Understanding the circumstances that led to your child’s diagnosis is essential, as some cases of HIE are preventable with proper medical care. If your child has been diagnosed with encephalopathy, it is important to discuss your situation with a hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy attorney. You may be eligible for compensation if medical negligence played a role in your child’s injury. By seeking legal guidance, you can better understand your rights and options, ensuring your family receives the support needed to address the developmental and physical disabilities that may result from HIE.

Hypoxia occurs when the body is deprived of sufficient oxygen. Babies are at risk of hypoxia during labor and delivery from a number of factors, including umbilical cord compression and placental abruption. Tragically, the consequences of hypoxia may be permanent.

Experienced legal representation can help families achieve a secure future for their child by pursuing compensation and support after a birth injury.

Minor hypoxia may result in temporary complications, but these typically resolve on their own over time. More severe cases of hypoxia may result in permanent damage to the brain. Cerebral palsy, periventricular leukomalacia, and similar disorders may all be a result of hypoxia. So too might fetal acidosis, a potentially fatal condition linked to oxygen deprivation. Complications can arise immediately after a child is born, making prompt monitoring and intervention critical.

Babies who suffer hypoxia during labor and delivery do not deserve the consequences they are forced to live with. Families with children who have developed neurological disorders due to medical negligence do not deserve the consequences they are forced to live with. Chance, Forlines, Carter & King can help. We offer extensive legal expertise and substantial resources, ensuring comprehensive support and justice for affected families. Call our Georgia office today at 404-760-7400 to schedule a complimentary case review and learn how.

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a devastating birth injury that occurs when a newborn’s brain is deprived of oxygen and blood flow during or around the time of birth. This lack of oxygen can cause significant brain damage, leading to lifelong challenges such as developmental disabilities, motor impairments, and seizures. The impact of HIE on a child’s life can be profound, affecting their ability to move, learn, and interact with the world around them. If your child has been diagnosed with HIE, it is crucial to understand the full extent of their injuries and the legal options available to your family. Consulting with a hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy attorney can help you ensure that your child receives the maximum compensation for their birth injury, providing the resources needed for ongoing care and support. By working with experienced legal professionals, you can help secure your child’s future and access the help necessary to address the challenges of encephalopathy and related disabilities.

Understanding Birth Injuries

Birth injuries, such as HIE, can arise from a variety of circumstances during labor and delivery. Some of the most common causes include umbilical cord complications, delays in performing necessary cesarean sections, and the failure to properly monitor a fetus’s oxygen levels. In many cases, these injuries are preventable and result from medical malpractice or errors in judgment. Severe cases of HIE can lead to permanent disabilities, affecting a child’s cognitive abilities, coordination, and overall development. The extent of the injury may not be immediately apparent, making it essential to accurately assess the situation with the help of medical experts. If your child is a birth injury victim, discussing your case with a knowledgeable attorney can help you determine the best course of action and ensure that all factors—such as the severity of the injury, the presence of preventable errors, and the impact on your child’s life—are thoroughly evaluated.

Medical Consequences of HIE

The medical consequences of HIE can be both severe and far-reaching, affecting infants in a variety of ways. In severe cases, HIE can cause permanent brain damage, leading to cognitive and motor impairments, developmental delays, and even wrongful death. Seizures are a common complication, and the extent of the injury may not be immediately apparent, making it crucial to accurately assess your child’s condition with the help of medical experts. Early intervention and specialized care can provide the best chance for improved outcomes, but the costs associated with ongoing treatment and therapies can be significant. A birth injury attorney can help ensure you receive maximum compensation to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and long-term care. By working with professionals who understand the complexities of birth injury cases, you can help your child access the resources they need to manage the developmental and cognitive challenges that may arise from HIE.

Brain Damage and HIE

Brain damage resulting from HIE can affect multiple areas of an infant’s brain, leading to a range of developmental, cognitive, and motor impairments. The impact of this type of encephalopathy can be profound, with some children experiencing delays in reaching milestones, difficulty with movement and coordination, and ongoing seizures. The extent of the damage often determines the level of support and adaptive technology required to help your child thrive. A hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy attorney can help you understand the full scope of your child’s injuries and work to secure compensation for medical care, therapies, and specialized equipment. By accurately assessing your child’s needs and advocating for your family, you can ensure that your child receives the help and resources necessary to address the challenges associated with HIE and its long-term effects on the brain.

ATLANTA FETAL HYPOXIA ATTORNEYS REPRESENTING CLIENTS IN ATLANTA, AUGUSTA, COLUMBUS, MACON, SAVANNAH, GAINESVILLE, LAWRENCEVILLE, DECATUR, JONESBORO & THROUGHOUT GEORGIA

Hypoxia occurs when the body is deprived of sufficient oxygen. Babies are at risk of hypoxia during labor and delivery from a number of factors, including umbilical cord compression and placental abruption. Tragically, the consequences of hypoxia may be permanent.

Experienced legal representation can help families achieve a secure future for their child by pursuing compensation and support after a birth injury.

Minor hypoxia may result in temporary complications, but these typically resolve on their own over time. More severe cases of hypoxia may result in permanent damage to the brain. Cerebral palsy, periventricular leukomalacia, and similar disorders may all be a result of hypoxia. So too might fetal acidosis, a potentially fatal condition linked to oxygen deprivation. Complications can arise immediately after a child is born, making prompt monitoring and intervention critical.

Babies who suffer hypoxia during labor and delivery do not deserve the consequences they are forced to live with. Families with children who have developed neurological disorders due to medical negligence do not deserve the consequences they are forced to live with. Chance, Forlines, Carter & King can help. We offer extensive legal expertise and substantial resources, ensuring comprehensive support and justice for affected families. Call our Georgia office today at  to schedule a complimentary case review and learn how.

CAUSES OF HYPOXIA

Hypoxia is caused by a lack of oxygen. This can happen when a fetus is not properly monitored during labor and delivery, as continuous monitoring allows healthcare providers to detect signs of distress and intervene promptly to prevent hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE).

Healthcare providers should take specific precautions during pregnancy and delivery, such as following established protocols and standards of care, to reduce the risk of hypoxia and related complications.

It may also occur when medical conditions, such as infections, are not dealt with prior to delivery.

Medical experts play a crucial role in identifying and addressing risk factors for hypoxia by reviewing medical records, evaluating standards of care, and providing guidance on best practices.

PLACENTAL ABRUPTION

Placental abruption is a leading cause of hypoxia. Occurring in less than 1% of births, placental abruption may be linked to smoking during pregnancy. It may also be related to preeclampsia, intrauterine infection, chronic high blood pressure and other issues that should be dealt with before delivery.

UMBILICAL CORD COMPRESSION

Umbilical cord compression is another leading cause of hypoxia. Changing the position of the mother or manually readjusting the cord may be required in these cases to prevent oxygen deprivation. Brain damage can occur within minutes if umbilical cord compression is not promptly addressed, making immediate intervention critical.

In addition to placental abruption and umbilical cord compression, common causes of hypoxia include:

• Umbilical cord injuries
• Umbilical cord prolapse
• Cardiovascular collapse
• Shoulder dystocia

In many cases, hypoxia is avoidable, making the damage it does to newborns entirely unnecessary. If your baby was deprived of oxygen during labor or delivery, call our firm today to schedule your free birth injury case review and let us help you determine the best course of action.

WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS OF FETAL HYPOXIA?

An erratic fetal heart rate is the primary sign of fetal hypoxia during labor and delivery. Post-delivery, signs of fetal hypoxia in infants include:

• No cry or feeble cry
• Low heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Seizures

These symptoms can help medical professionals diagnose hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) in newborns, allowing for timely intervention and management.

Babies who have suffered hypoxia during labor and delivery may also experience muscle weakness and poor reflexes, though these symptoms may not be present for several weeks or months. In cases where cerebral palsy develops, the condition can affect muscles by causing stiffness (spasticity), floppiness (hypotonia), poor coordination, and involuntary movements, further impacting muscle control and function.

Developmental delays, including speech, language, cognitive, and motor delays, can also be a consequence of hypoxia in infants.

COULD MY DOCTOR BE RESPONSIBLE FOR FETAL HYPOXIA?

Yes. Doctors, nurses, midwives, and anyone else involved in the delivery process can be held liable for injuries suffered by a baby. Legal action can hold negligent parties accountable for injuries resulting from medical malpractice. So too can GPs, OBGYNs, and NPs who perform prenatal care.

Some of the risk factors for hypoxia can be diagnosed earlier in pregnancy. Timely and accurate diagnosis of these risk factors, such as maternal infection, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and preeclampsia, is crucial to prevent complications. Others, such as umbilical cord compression and fetal distress, must be identified during labor and delivery and dealt with immediately to prevent injury to the baby. Each case is evaluated based on its unique circumstances, including the severity of the injuries, the presence of medical negligence, and the specific situation of the family, to determine legal options and potential compensation.

IS FETAL HYPOXIA PREVENTABLE?

Fetal hypoxia may be preventable through proper screening during prenatal visits and attentive care during labor and delivery. Failure to follow medical malpractice law and established standards of care can result in preventable hypoxia and serious injury. Families affected by hypoxia may have grounds for medical malpractice cases and should consider consulting legal experts to understand their options.

WHEN SHOULD I SEEK AN ATTORNEY FOR FETAL HYPOXIA?

If you suspect your child’s injuries resulted from medical malpractice, including general inattention or negligence, you should talk to an injury attorney about your options. It is important to start the legal process as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure you do not miss any deadlines. A hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy attorney can represent your family, advocating for your rights and guiding you through the complexities of HIE-related claims. Consulting with a specialized attorney offers the benefit of experience in birth injury cases and can help determine if you are eligible to file a claim for compensation. Fetal hypoxia may only produce short-term complications, but can also result in complex conditions that will require special care for life. If your child’s injury will result in a lifetime of challenges, talking to a lawyer will help you understand the best way to pursue the compensation you need to help your child live their best life.

AM I ENTITLED TO COMPENSATION FOR MEDICAL COSTS AND LONG-TERM CARE FOR FETAL HYPOXIA?

If your child’s fetal hypoxia was the result of negligence, you are entitled to seek compensation for:

• All medical and rehabilitation services
• Ongoing therapeutic services
• Special schooling
• Assistive technologies
• Support and supervision
• And more

It is crucial to seek maximum compensation to cover all current and future needs, especially considering the potential lifelong disabilities and challenges your child may face. The extent of the injury and the impact on your child’s daily life will directly influence the amount of compensation awarded. To ensure your claim reflects your child’s needs, it is important to accurately assess the injuries and the long-term support required.

The best way to learn what your child may be owed is through a one-on-one consultation with a qualified birth injury lawyer.

Chance, Forlines, Carter & King has decades of experience helping families in the Atlanta area get justice. We are here to listen to your case and provide detailed information about your options. We can also help you find local resources and support systems for families.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS WITH PURSUING COMPENSATION FOR FETAL HYPOXIA?

When you pursue legal action, such as filing an HIE lawsuit, you seek a verdict or settlement larger than the initial offering from insurance. Pursuing an HIE lawsuit can increase the chances of a favorable settlement or higher compensation, especially with experienced legal representation. In fact, some HIE settlements have resulted in significant compensation for families, as shown by previous case payouts and reported settlements. Most of these cases resolve long before they go to trial, but some are heard in front of a jury.

There is always the risk of losing your case or it being dismissed if it goes to trial.

It is essential to carefully consider the risks and benefits of legal action, particularly as they relate to your family’s specific case. During your free case review, we can discuss your claim’s viability and possible outcomes to help you choose the best path forward.

Role of Birth Injury Attorneys

Birth injury attorneys play a pivotal role in representing families affected by birth injuries such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Their primary mission is to ensure that families receive the maximum compensation they are eligible for, taking into account the full extent and impact of the injury on the child’s life. By collaborating with medical experts, these attorneys can accurately assess the circumstances surrounding the birth injury, including the specific type of encephalopathy and the degree of harm suffered. This thorough evaluation allows them to build a compelling case and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions or negligence. In complex cases, including those involving wrongful death, birth injury attorneys guide families through the legal process, helping them secure justice and the resources needed for ongoing care. Their expertise not only helps affected families navigate the intricacies of medical malpractice law but also provides the support necessary to move forward after a devastating birth injury.

Finding a Skilled Birth Injury Lawyer

Finding a skilled birth injury lawyer is a crucial step for families affected by birth injuries. The right attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options, ensuring you are fully informed before making any decisions. When searching for a lawyer, prioritize those with extensive experience in medical malpractice cases, especially those involving HIE and other birth injuries. Look for attorneys who offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, so you do not have to bear any upfront costs. This approach ensures that families can access legal help regardless of their financial situation. A knowledgeable lawyer will work tirelessly to increase your chances of securing maximum compensation, helping you build a strong case and ensuring a secure future for your child. By choosing an attorney who understands the complexities of birth injury cases, you can feel confident that your family’s needs will be prioritized and that you will receive the help and support you deserve.

Navigating the Legal System

Navigating the legal system after a birth injury can be a complex and overwhelming process, especially when dealing with the intricacies of medical malpractice law. It is essential to work with a birth injury attorney who understands the unique challenges of HIE cases and can help you build a strong claim. An experienced injury attorney will gather crucial evidence, consult with medical experts, and ensure that every aspect of your case is thoroughly investigated. By building a comprehensive case, your attorney can help you pursue fair compensation for your child’s injuries, whether through negotiation or litigation. Understanding your rights and legal options is critical, and having a knowledgeable advocate on your side can make all the difference in achieving a successful outcome for your family.

What to Expect from a Birth Injury Case

A birth injury case can be a complex and lengthy process, but with the right injury attorney by your side, you can navigate each stage with confidence. From the initial consultation, your attorney will take the time to understand the circumstances of your child’s birth injury, including common causes such as hypoxia or umbilical cord complications. They will gather medical records, consult with experts, and build a comprehensive case to demonstrate that medical malpractice occurred. Throughout the process, your attorney will provide regular updates, answer your questions, and ensure you are informed about every development. Whether your case is resolved through negotiation or goes to trial, your lawyer’s goal is to provide the compensation your family needs to address the impact of the birth injury. By working with a dedicated attorney, you can be assured that every effort will be made to secure a positive outcome for your child and your family.

Working with a Skilled Lawyer

Working with a skilled lawyer can make a significant difference for birth injury victims and their families. A knowledgeable attorney will invest the time to understand the unique circumstances of your case, including the extent and impact of the injury—whether it involves motor impairments, cognitive disabilities, or severe brain injury with seizures. By collaborating with medical experts, your lawyer can accurately assess the injuries and determine the level of care and support your child will require. Throughout this complex process, your attorney will provide expert guidance, helping you build a strong case and ensuring you are eligible for the maximum compensation available. Their commitment to providing compassionate support and clear communication helps families understand their options and make informed decisions. With a skilled lawyer on your side, you can focus on your child’s well-being while your legal team works to secure the resources and justice your family deserves.

Resources for Families

When a child is diagnosed with HIE, families often face a complex and overwhelming journey. Fortunately, there are resources available to help you navigate this challenging time. A hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy attorney can provide critical guidance in filing an HIE lawsuit, helping you understand your rights and options for compensation. In addition to legal support, families can reach out to medical experts, advocacy organizations, and local support groups for assistance and information. These resources can provide valuable advice, emotional support, and connections to adaptive technology and therapies that may benefit your child. Many law firms offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, ensuring that you do not have to bear the financial burden of legal fees upfront. By taking advantage of these resources, you can ensure your child receives the care they need and increase your ability to secure a brighter future for your family.

Securing Justice for Birth Injury Victims

Securing justice for birth injury victims is at the heart of what dedicated birth injury attorneys do. By holding responsible parties accountable for preventable birth injuries, attorneys help families obtain the compensation needed to provide for their child’s future. In cases where delays in treatment, failure to monitor the fetus, or other forms of negligence led to injury, your attorney will work to prove that the harm was preventable and that your family deserves support. Through expert representation, attorneys ensure that victims receive access to adaptive technology, specialized medical care, and ongoing support services. Their goal is to provide families with the resources they need to help their child thrive, free from the financial burden that often accompanies birth injuries. With the right legal team, families can reach a successful resolution, ensuring their child’s needs are met and justice is served.

Fetal Hypoxia and Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy FAQS

What is the connection between fetal hypoxia and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and when does it become medical malpractice?

Fetal hypoxia is a condition where a baby’s brain and other organs are not receiving enough oxygen, often due to issues during pregnancy, labor, or delivery. When this oxygen deprivation is severe or prolonged, it can lead to permanent brain damage known as hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, or HIE. While some cases of HIE are unavoidable, it can be a sign of medical malpractice if a healthcare provider’s negligence caused or failed to prevent the condition. For instance, if an Atlanta HIE lawyer can prove that a doctor failed to properly monitor the fetal heart rate, delayed a necessary C-section, or misused delivery tools, it may be grounds for a medical malpractice claim.

What signs might indicate that a child’s hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) was caused by medical negligence?

Determining whether your child’s HIE was a result of medical negligence requires a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the birth. Signs that may suggest a medical malpractice claim include a baby with a low Apgar score, a need for resuscitation at birth, seizures shortly after delivery, or documented evidence of fetal distress that was not acted upon. An experienced Atlanta HIE lawyer will review medical records, fetal monitor strips, and other evidence to identify potential lapses in the standard of care. These could include a failure to recognize signs of fetal hypoxia, mismanaging a high-risk pregnancy, or neglecting to treat an infection that led to the condition.

What kind of compensation can an Atlanta HIE lawyer help families seek in a medical malpractice lawsuit?

If it is determined that your child’s hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy was caused by medical negligence, an Atlanta HIE lawyer can help your family pursue a medical malpractice lawsuit to secure compensation. The damages sought in these cases are designed to cover the extensive costs associated with HIE, which often requires a lifetime of care. This can include compensation for past, present, and future medical expenses, such as hospital stays, therapy, and assistive devices. A claim may also seek damages for non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering, as well as the emotional toll on the family. The goal is to provide the financial resources necessary to ensure the child has the best possible quality of life.

HOW Chance, Forlines, Carter & King CAN HELP

Our team of birth injury lawyers has the experience and resources necessary to successfully litigate these complex HIE cases. We build strong cases by gathering crucial evidence, working closely with medical experts to review records, and exhaustively analyzing every detail of your labor and delivery to identify any and all instances of medical negligence. Our firm handles a wide range of brain injury and encephalopathy cases, including hypoxic brain injury in newborns and infants, as well as wrongful death claims related to HIE. We are committed to providing support and resources to families affected by HIE, including those facing motor impairments, coordination issues, muscle problems, cognitive delays, and other disabilities resulting from oxygen deprivation.

We understand the emotional and financial burdens families bear when their child is a victim of HIE or related birth injuries. Our team helps victims and their families seek justice and compensation, with some HIE cases resulting in millions of dollars awarded to affected families. It is crucial to pursue claims in the correct state, as legal deadlines and requirements vary. Our expertise increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome, and we offer a free consultation to help you understand your options. We encourage families to reach out for help—our team truly understands the needs of those affected and is dedicated to providing the guidance and support you need.

Our birth injury team has previous work building defenses against birth injury claims. Having this experience allows us to better understand the arguments, tactics, and data used by birth injury defense lawyers – and gives us the powerful ability to deconstruct those arguments with great precision.

The birth injury attorneys at Chance, Forlines, Carter & King are here to help your family get justice. Call us at 404-760-7400 to schedule your consultation and learn more. We have offices in Atlanta and Augusta. We serve families living in all areas of Georgia. Call us today!