California Medical Malpractice Lawyers

Trusted Advocates for Victims of Negligent Medical Care

When we seek medical care, we place our trust in healthcare professionals to act with competence, care, and integrity. But when doctors, nurses, or hospitals fail to meet the standard of care, the consequences can be devastating. If you or a loved one has been harmed by a preventable medical error, you may have the right to pursue justice through a medical malpractice claim.

At Van Herk Wetzel, we represent patients and families across California in complex medical negligence cases. With a powerful combination of legal experience and medical insight—including a partner with a background as a registered nurse—our firm has the skills and resources needed to take on hospitals, insurance companies, and large healthcare systems.

What Is Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider deviates from accepted medical standards, resulting in injury or death. Not every bad outcome is malpractice—but when negligence causes harm, patients deserve answers and accountability.

We work with top medical experts to evaluate the quality of care and determine whether your injuries were avoidable with proper treatment.

Common Forms of Medical Malpractice Include:

  • Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis

  • Surgical Errors and Complications

  • Anesthesia Errors

  • Medication and Pharmacy Mistakes

  • Birth Injuries

  • Emergency Room Negligence

  • Failure to Monitor or Follow-Up

  • Negligent Post-Operative Care

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Malpractice Case?

In a medical malpractice case, several parties can be held liable if their negligence leads to patient harm. It's not always just the individual doctor; liability can extend to various healthcare providers and entities.

Potentially liable parties include:

  • Physicians (primary care doctors, specialists, surgeons)

  • Nurses and nurse practitioners

  • Hospitals and surgical centers

  • Radiologists and anesthesiologists

  • Pharmacists and pharmacies

  • Medical device manufacturers (in some cases)

What Makes Medical Malpractice Cases So Complex?

You need a law firm with deep knowledge of both law and medicine—a firm that can anticipate the defense’s strategy, prepare a compelling case, and go to trial if needed.

  • Medical records and expert testimony are essential to prove negligence

  • California’s MICRA laws impose caps on certain damages and set procedural requirements

  • Hospitals and insurers aggressively defend these claims with experienced legal teams

Compensation in Medical Malpractice Cases

Our goal is to secure not just compensation—but long-term stability and justice for your family.

You may be entitled to recover damages for:

  • Medical bills and future care costs

  • Lost income and reduced earning potential

  • Pain and suffering

  • Emotional distress

  • Disability or disfigurement

  • Loss of enjoyment of life

  • Wrongful death (if applicable)

Contact a California Medical Malpractice Lawyer Today

Medical malpractice cases require both urgency and precision. If you believe you or someone you love was harmed by negligent medical care, don’t wait to get the legal guidance you need.

At Van Herk Wetzel, we stand for patients. We stand for accountability. And we’re ready to stand for you.

Call 619-535-1350 or Contact us online today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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