Jacksonville Cerebral Palsy Attorney

Trusted Legal Support for Families Affected by Birth Injuries in Jacksonville, FL

If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and you suspect medical malpractice may be the cause, you are not alone. At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we understand the emotional, physical, and financial toll a cerebral palsy diagnosis can take on your family. Our experienced Jacksonville cerebral palsy lawyers are here to investigate your case, identify whether medical malpractice played a role, and help you seek the compensation your child deserves.

Call (904) 295-1050 or complete our online contact form today for a free consultation with our compassionate Jacksonville cerebral palsy attorney.

Overview of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, and posture. It is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain, most commonly before or during birth. The severity of CP varies significantly from person to person—some children may have mild symptoms, while others may require lifelong care.

The condition is categorized into several types:

• Spastic Cerebral Palsy – Characterized by stiff muscles and awkward movements.
• Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy – Involves involuntary movements, including twisting and repetitive motions.
• Ataxic Cerebral Palsy – Affects balance and coordination.
• Mixed Cerebral Palsy – A combination of symptoms from the above types.

Early signs of cerebral palsy may include delays in reaching motor skill milestones, abnormal muscle tone, and difficulty with coordination or balance.

Common Causes of Cerebral Palsy from Medical Malpractice

While some cases of cerebral palsy are unpreventable, others result directly from medical negligence during pregnancy, labor, delivery, or immediately after birth. In Jacksonville and throughout Florida, healthcare providers are expected to uphold a high standard of care. When they fail to do so, and a child suffers brain damage as a result, they may be held liable.

Common medical errors that can cause cerebral palsy include:

• Failure to monitor fetal distress – If signs of oxygen deprivation are ignored, the baby’s brain can suffer lasting damage.
• Improper use of delivery tools – Misuse of forceps or vacuum extractors can cause trauma to the baby's head and brain.
• Delayed cesarean section (C-section) – A failure to perform a timely C-section in the presence of fetal distress can lead to hypoxia (lack of oxygen).
• Failure to treat maternal infections – Untreated infections during pregnancy can increase the risk of brain damage in the unborn child.
• Negligent postnatal care – Delayed treatment for conditions like jaundice or low blood sugar in newborns can also lead to cerebral palsy.

If you believe a medical mistake may have caused your child’s condition, our Jacksonville cerebral palsy attorneys can investigate medical records, consult expert witnesses, and pursue justice on your behalf.

Short- & Long-Term Effects of Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition, and its impact can be extensive, both physically and emotionally. The effects may vary depending on the type and severity of the disorder.

Short-term effects:

• Muscle stiffness or floppiness
• Poor muscle coordination
• Developmental delays
• Feeding or swallowing difficulties
• Seizures

Long-term effects:

• Impaired mobility (some individuals may require a wheelchair)
• Speech and communication challenges
• Learning disabilities or cognitive impairments
• Chronic pain or joint deformities
• Need for lifelong physical and occupational therapy

In severe cases, children may be dependent on caregivers for most or all daily activities. This can lead to a significant financial burden for families, including medical expenses, assistive devices, home modifications, and specialized education.

At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we fight to secure the resources your child needs to live a fulfilling life—now and in the future.

Cerebral Palsy FAQs

How do I know if medical malpractice caused my child’s cerebral palsy?

If your child was deprived of oxygen during birth, suffered a brain injury, or there were complications during delivery that weren’t properly managed, there may be a link to malpractice. An experienced attorney can investigate and determine if you have a case.

Is there a time limit to file a cerebral palsy lawsuit in Florida?

Yes. Florida's statute of limitations for medical malpractice cases is generally two years from when the injury was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. However, birth injury cases can involve exceptions, especially for minors. Contact an attorney promptly to protect your rights.

What compensation can I receive for a cerebral palsy lawsuit?

Damages may include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Therapy and rehabilitation
• Home care costs
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of earning capacity
• Special education and adaptive equipment

How long does a cerebral palsy lawsuit take?

Every case is different, but cerebral palsy claims often take several months to a few years to resolve due to their complexity. We work efficiently while ensuring no corners are cut in the pursuit of full compensation.

Can I afford a cerebral palsy attorney?

Yes. At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.

Speak with a Jacksonville Cerebral Palsy Lawyer Today

A cerebral palsy diagnosis changes your life—but it doesn’t have to define your child’s future. At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we’re committed to helping Jacksonville families hold negligent medical professionals accountable and secure the resources they need to thrive.

Contact us at (904) 295-1050 to schedule a free consultation.