Jacksonville Erb's Palsy Lawyer

Compassionate Legal Representation for Birth Injury Victims in Jacksonville, FL

When a newborn suffers an injury during delivery, the consequences can be life-altering—for both the child and their family. One such birth injury is Erb’s Palsy, which can result from avoidable medical errors. If your child has been diagnosed with Erb’s Palsy due to medical malpractice, you may be entitled to compensation. A qualified Jacksonville Erb's Palsy lawyer at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. can help you understand your legal options and fight for justice.

Call (904) 295-1050 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation with a skilled Jacksonville Erb’s Palsy lawyer.

What is Erb’s Palsy?

Erb’s Palsy is a type of brachial plexus injury that affects the network of nerves near the neck and shoulder responsible for movement and sensation in the arm. It most commonly occurs during childbirth when excessive force is used or when a baby’s shoulder becomes stuck (a condition known as shoulder dystocia).

The condition can vary in severity:

• Mild cases may resolve on their own with physical therapy.
• Moderate to severe cases can result in permanent weakness, limited motion, or even complete paralysis of the arm.

Common symptoms of Erb’s Palsy include:

• Weakness in one arm
• Numbness or lack of sensation in the affected limb
• Limited range of motion
• Arm bent at the elbow and held against the body
• Delayed or absent reflexes in the affected arm

Medical Malpractice Leading to Erb’s Palsy

While not all cases of Erb’s Palsy are preventable, many are the result of medical negligence during delivery. Obstetricians, nurses, or other healthcare providers may fail to follow the standard of care expected in difficult deliveries.

Common medical mistakes that can cause Erb’s Palsy include:

• Applying excessive force during delivery
• Improper use of vacuum extractors or forceps
• Failing to recognize and properly manage shoulder dystocia
• Not opting for a C-section when there are known risk factors
• Inadequate monitoring of fetal distress

At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., our experienced Jacksonville Erb’s Palsy lawyers work with medical experts to determine whether your child’s injury could have been prevented with proper care. If negligence is established, we will pursue a medical malpractice claim on your behalf.

Short- & Long-Term Effects of Erb’s Palsy

Erb’s Palsy can have both immediate and lifelong consequences. The severity of the injury often depends on the extent of nerve damage and whether the nerves were stretched, torn, or completely severed.

Short-Term Effects:

• Weakness or limpness in the affected arm
• Need for physical therapy
• Lack of movement or coordination
• Pain and discomfort

Long-Term Effects:

• Permanent loss of mobility or sensation
• Muscle atrophy in the affected limb
• Delayed physical development
• Need for surgeries or lifelong rehabilitation
• Emotional and psychological impacts on the child and family

Families dealing with a long-term diagnosis must often make significant lifestyle adjustments and may face costly medical bills. A successful legal claim can help secure the financial resources needed to cover these expenses.

Why Choose Edwards & Ragatz, P.A.?

At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we bring compassion, experience, and aggressive advocacy to every case we handle. We know how emotionally difficult it is to deal with a preventable birth injury, and we are here to guide your family through the legal process with sensitivity and skill.

Our firm offers:

• Free initial consultations
• No upfront legal fees—we work on a contingency basis
• In-depth investigation of your child’s medical records
• Access to medical and legal experts
• A track record of success in birth injury and medical malpractice cases

We fight tirelessly to hold negligent healthcare providers accountable and secure compensation for your child’s future.

Erb’s Palsy FAQs

Is Erb’s Palsy always caused by medical malpractice?

No. While some cases are unavoidable, many result from medical negligence during delivery. A qualified Jacksonville Erb’s Palsy lawyer can help determine if malpractice played a role in your child’s injury.

What compensation can I recover in an Erb’s Palsy claim?

Compensation may include:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Future lost earning potential
• Home modifications or assistive devices

How long do I have to file an Erb’s Palsy lawsuit in Florida?

Florida law typically gives you two years from the date you knew or should have known of the malpractice to file a claim. However, there are exceptions, especially in cases involving minors. It’s crucial to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

What if my child needs lifelong care?

If your child suffers from permanent disability, your attorney will work with life care planners and economic experts to calculate long-term financial needs and ensure your settlement or verdict reflects these costs.

Speak to a Jacksonville Erb’s Palsy Lawyer Today

If you suspect your child’s Erb’s Palsy was caused by medical malpractice, you don’t have to face this fight alone. The legal team at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. is ready to advocate for your family and hold negligent healthcare professionals accountable. Let us help you seek the justice—and compensation—your child deserves.

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