---
title: What is medical malpractice and how is it defined under the law?
description: Legal Faqs explains what medical malpractice is and how it is defined under the law. Learn how to protect yourself from medical negligence with our expert guidance.
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 March 22, 2023

# What is medical malpractice and how is it defined under the law?

![Picture of Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/hs-fs/hubfs/battis-mug.jpg?width=50&name=battis-mug.jpg) By  [Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/author/chris-battis)  ·   1 minute read

As a lawyer, I can define medical malpractice as a legal claim against a healthcare professional, including doctors, nurses, and other medical practitioners, for providing substandard treatment that results in harm or injury to a patient. Medical malpractice claims can arise from various acts or omissions, including misdiagnosis, surgical errors, improper medication, or failure to provide appropriate care.

Under the law, medical malpractice is defined by four essential elements that must be present to establish liability. These elements include:

1. **Duty of Care:** Healthcare providers have a legal obligation to provide care that meets the professional standards of their field and takes into account the patient's specific circumstances.
2. **Breach of Duty:** If a healthcare provider fails to meet the duty of care owed to a patient by providing substandard care or deviating from the professional standard of care, they may be liable for medical malpractice.
3. **Causation:** The breach of duty by the healthcare provider must have directly caused harm or injury to the patient.
4. **Damages:** The patient must have suffered actual damages, such as physical or emotional harm, financial losses, or loss of earning capacity.

However, it is important to note that medical malpractice cases can often be complex and require extensive medical knowledge and expert testimony. Additionally, not every bad outcome in medical treatment is due to malpractice. Some outcomes are considered complications and risks that are inherent to medical procedures.

If someone suspects that they have been a victim of medical malpractice, they should contact an experienced attorney immediately. An attorney can help gather medical records, retain experts and determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed. It is important for a plaintiff to proceed as soon as possible because there are often strict time limits for filing a medical malpractice claim.

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