New Orleans Fertility, Embryo & IVF Misconduct Lawyers
Embryo Destruction, Misuse & Mishandling
At Samuels & Thornton, our personal injury lawyers understand the profound impact of fertility clinic negligence. We’re dedicated to helping individuals and couples in New Orleans who have suffered the loss of embryos due to negligence seek justice and accountability.
The Emotional and Legal Impact
The loss of embryos is not just a physical loss; it’s a deeply personal and emotional one. Individuals and couples invest significant time, money, and emotional energy into the IVF process, and the destruction of embryos essentially is the loss of a potential child.
Legally, those who suffer this loss may have grounds to pursue compensation for:
- Emotional Distress: The emotional trauma and grief associated with losing embryos.
- Loss of Consortium: The loss of the opportunity to have a biological child together.
- Medical Expenses: Costs associated with expensive IVF treatments and attempts to recover from the loss through mental health treatment.
- Other Damages: Depending on the circumstances, additional damages may be pursued, such as punitive damages in cases of gross negligence.
Understanding the Risks: How Embryo Loss Can Occur
Embryo loss can occur due to various forms of negligence, including:
- Storage Tank Failures: Failures in cryogenic storage tanks, where embryos are frozen and preserved, can lead to the destruction of embryos. These failures can be caused by equipment malfunctions, power outages, or inadequate maintenance.
- Human Error: Mishandling or mislabeling of embryos during transfer, thawing, or other procedures can result in damage, loss, or destruction. This can include mislabeling, dropping, exposing, or losing embryos to improper temperatures.
- Misuse of Embryos: In some cases, embryos may be used without the consent of the intended parents, implanted in the wrong patient, or used for research purposes without authorization.
How Our Fertility Misconduct Lawyers at Samuels & Thornton Can Help
Navigating the legal complexities of embryo loss cases requires experienced and compassionate representation. Here’s how we can help:
- Thorough Investigation: We’ll conduct a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the embryo loss and identify all responsible parties. This involves reviewing medical records, storage facility protocols, and consulting with expert witnesses.
- Compassionate Advocacy: We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and will provide compassionate support throughout the legal process. We’ll handle communication with all parties involved and protect your privacy.
- Strong Legal Strategy: We’ll develop a strong legal strategy tailored to your specific circumstances and fight tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for you.
If you’ve suffered the devastating loss of embryos due to negligence, contact Samuels & Thornton today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can be held liable for embryo destruction or mishandling?
Potential liable parties may include fertility clinics, embryologists, reproductive endocrinologists, storage facilities, medical professionals, and equipment manufacturers, depending on the circumstances of the loss.
What evidence is needed to prove negligence in an embryo loss case?
Evidence may include medical records, storage facility logs, witness statements, expert testimony, and documentation of the IVF process.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after embryo loss?
Louisiana has a statute of limitations that limits the time you have to file a claim. It’s crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights.
How much compensation can I expect to receive?
The amount of compensation varies depending on the specific circumstances of your case, the extent of your damages, and the degree of negligence involved. We’ll work diligently to secure the maximum compensation possible.
Get Started on Your Journey to Justice: Contact Samuels & Thornton Today
If you’ve gone through this heartbreak, we’re here to help you take the first step towards healing and accountability. Contact Samuels & Thornton today to talk with our team. We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and help you explore your legal options.