NATIONWIDE VA MEDICAL MALPRACTICE ATTORNEYS

How Do I Sue the VA?

You may be able to sue the Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital if you have been the victim of medical malpractice. If you or a family member have suffered serious personal injuries as a result of the negligence of a federal employee, you may be able to bring a claim against the Department of Veterans Affairs. 

If the negligent health care provider in your case committed malpractice at a VA hospital, the case may be governed by the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA).  The FTCA is a federal law that allows plaintiffs injured by the negligent acts of federal employees to file claims against the United States for damages.

Guide to Sue the VA

Before you can sue the VA, you must present an administrative claim within 2 years of the date of negligence to the appropriate federal agency before filing suit. The VA must be given at least six months to conduct an investigation before suit can be filed in federal court. If the claim is denied, a claimant must either request reconsideration or file a lawsuit in federal court within six months of the date of denial or the claim is forever barred. In addition, some state law pre-suit requirements may apply to your case, depending on the jurisdiction. Talk to your lawyer about what conditions must be satisfied before bringing a lawsuit against the VA in your case. If you are unable to resolve the case administratively, then suit must be timely filed in federal court to recover against the government.

  • File a Standard Form 95.
  • Fill out the Standard Form 95 correctly, including correctly identifying your damages, the amount of compensation you’re seeking, and a description of the injuries.
  • Attach any supporting documentation, if you think it would be helpful. A lawyer can assist you in determining what supporting documentation would be helpful in resolving your case quickly.
  • File the Standard Form 95 with the correct administrative office. If you do not know what office to file your SF95, seek legal counsel. If you incorrectly file your SF95, you may not be able to recover compensation for your injuries.

Commonly Asked Questions

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Against the VA for Medical Malpractice?

You have a two-year window from the date of the alleged negligence or the date you discovered the negligence to file an administrative claim against the VA for medical malpractice. Once you've submitted your claim, the VA has six months to respond. If your claim is denied, you then have six months from the date of denial to either request reconsideration or file a lawsuit in federal court. It's important to adhere to these timelines strictly, as missing them can bar you from recovering compensation. 

 

What Happens If I File My Standard Form 95 with the Wrong Administrative Office?

Filing your Standard Form 95 with the wrong administrative office can lead to significant delays and may jeopardize your ability to recover compensation for your injuries. It's essential to identify and file your claim with the correct office. If you're unsure where to file, it's advisable to seek legal counsel. Our team at National Trial Law can help you file your claim correctly and can provide guidance throughout the process to avoid any missteps.

record-setting case results
  • $2,800,000 Settlement VA Medical Malpractice
  • $2,700,000.00 Amputation of Leg
  • $1,800,000 Settlement VA Medical Malpractice
  • $1,560,000 Settlement VA Medical Malpractice
  • $575,000 Settlement VA Hospital Wrongful Death
  • $500,000 Settlement VA Medical Malpractice

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  • Super Lawyers 2023
  • Austin Monthly’s Top Attorneys of 2022
  • Outstanding 50 Year Lawyer Award 2022 – Texas Bar Foundation Awards
  • Expertise.com – “Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Austin 2022”

Should I File an Administrative Claim Myself?

You need to file a Standard Form 95.

  • It must be filed with the correct Veterans Affairs office.
  • It must state the nature of your claim and a “sum certain.”
  • The Standard Form 95 must be filed within 2 years of accrual of the negligence.

Once the Standard Form 95 has been filed with the appropriate federal agency, then you must work with the agency to resolve your claim. There are a lot of pitfalls if you do not know what you are doing. If you cannot successfully resolve the claim administratively, you have the option of filing suit so long as you file within the appropriate limitations period.

Our attorneys have decades of trial experience and are able to assist you in this process. Please contact us if you need a free evaluation of your claim.

Once you have filed your Standard Form 95, you must wait at least 6 months (maybe more depending on the course of your administrative claim) before you can file a federal lawsuit.

If you believe you are a victim of medical malpractice at an VA hospital, call us now—if you wait too long, it may be too late.

Contact Our Attorneys

It is extremely time-consuming and expensive to pursue a complex military case, but our firm can skillfully guide you through the litigation process. Contact our attorneys today to schedule a consultation.

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    “Words cannot fully express our gratitude for National Trial Law. Starting the legal process was daunting, but they instantly put us at ease with their warm demeanor, talent, and professionalism. Their commitment to our case was incredible.”

  • Professional and supportive team

    “National Trial Law and the entire team were amazing! They were always there to answer questions and provide support. During tough times, they were nothing but professional and comforting. Thank you!”

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    “We are truly grateful for National Trial Law and the dedication they put towards our son's case. The trusts they set up help him immensely. Always easy to communicate with, we highly recommend them.”

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