Best Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Orlando
Michael Maher
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Michael Maher formerly served as President of the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, the world’s largest association of trial lawyers with over 64,000 member, and has been in practice since 1965.
During his highly successful career as a lawyer, Mr. Maher has received numerous prestigious awards. He has been recognized from 1987 through the present in a Harvard study published as The Best Lawyers in America and in the Town and Country Magazine study, “The Best Lawyers in the U.S.,” 1985 edition, Florida Trial Lawyer of the Year, 1999 by the American Board of Trial Advocates and Trial Lawyer of the Year, 2000-2001 by the Melvin Belli Society.
He devotes his effectiveness as an attorney both to the representation of clients and to the leadership of lawyers across the nation who dedicate their professional lives to defending and protecting their clients. His representation of clients in cases involving all forms of transportation, medical negligence, and products and premises liability have resulted in precedent setting settlements and verdicts. He has tried personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout the State of Florida.
In 1995 Mr. Maher was appointed as a member of the Peoples’ Trial Advocates (PTA) by Governor Lawton Chiles and Attorney General Robert Butterworth. The Peoples’ Trial Advocates was comprised of II firms that contracted with the State of Florida to maintain an action on behalf of the State of Florida against the tobacco industry for the return of Medicaid benefits which were paid on tobacco related illnesses. Mr. Maher served as chairman of the group, dubbed the “dream team” by the media. In this role, he coordinated the work of 11 firms as they battled to recover in excess of $11 billion dollars.
He was among the lawyers representing the State of Florida in this historic lawsuit against the cigarette industry on behalf of Florida’s taxpayers and children resulting over $11 billion settlement, and among other terms, removal of all billboard advertising and the retirement of Joe Camel and the Marlboro Man in Florida. The settlement agreement not only helps the children of today, but it will go on to prevent addiction and disease for decades to come. It also led to the national tobacco settlement and set the stage for significant changes in Florida’s tobacco control laws.
The knowledge and expertise that Mr. Maher has developed as a trial lawyer are evident in regular lectures and publications. He has written articles on the preparation for trial, voir dire, closing argument, medical witnesses management, evidence, the use of technology in trial, uninsured motorist claims, arbitration, obstetric malpractice, using economic research in damage claims, and the insurance crisis.
Max N. Panoff
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Max N. Panoff is a trial attorney whose practice focuses on tort litigation including wrongful death, medical malpractice, birth injuries, negligent security, nursing home and assisted living facility negligence, premises liability and falls, construction site accidents, motor vehicle, motorcycle, bus, commercial carrier and trucking accidents, pedestrian victim accidents, and other negligence cases.
As a partner at Leighton Law, his courtroom successes include traumatic brain injury and motor vehicle crash cases, and Mr. Panoff has recovered several million dollars in recoveries in sexual assault, medical malpractice, premises liability and trucking cases. Recently he was instrumental in recovering over $1.6 million against a bar which over served a patron who went on to cause a serious crash on Florida’s roadways. Under the very difficult dram shop law in Florida, Mr. Panoff successfully proved that the bar was aware of the driver’s past drinking yet continued to serve his on that night before he got behind the wheel. In another case, Mr. Panoff recovered over $750,000 for a woman who slipped and fell at a retail store.
A fierce courtroom advocate, he and Mr. Leighton recently won a $49.3 million verdict in Miami on behalf of a young woman who was sexually assaulted and raped. This case was instrumental in providing a financial recovery and closure for a client who had been the victim of sexual violence.
Prior to joining Leighton Law, Mr. Panoff represented personal injury victims at a leading plaintiff’s firm in Florida. Mr. Panoff successfully litigated numerous cases from inception through trial, resulting in substantial recoveries for his clients.
Mr. Panoff is a graduate of the University of Miami with a B.S. in Broadcast Journalism and Criminology and with a minor in Political Science. He received his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law, where he was awarded the John F. Evans Memorial Scholarship for excellence in trial. He was also a finalist in the Charles C. Papy Jr. Moot Court Board’s Mock Trial Competition and received High Honors in the law school’s Litigation Skills/Trial Advocacy Program and Mediation course.
Mr. Panoff has authored numerous publications including: “Black Tie Optional: How the NBA Dress Code Violates Title VII (University of Virginia Sports and Entertainment Law Review); and co-authored “Life Expectancy Evidence: Laying the Strong Foundation for Plaintiff’s Favorable Evidence and Debunking the Defense Position on Life Expectancy” (2011 Florida Justice Association Workhorse Seminar) and Vanity Insanity – Trending Malpractice Issues Involving Cosmetic and Related Procedures (2013 Florida Justice Association Workhorse Seminar). He has also contributed to the textbook Litigating Premises Security Cases (West Publishing, 2015 and 2016 updates), which is the most widely used and comprehensive treatise on litigating and trying negligent security cases on behalf of crime victims.
Max been chosen as a member of the National Trial Lawyers Association: “Top 40 Under 40”. He is one of only 40 trial attorneys in Florida to achieve this distinction. The NTLA “Top 40 Under 40” honors America’s top young trial attorneys. Membership is extended solely to the select few of the most qualified attorneys from each state who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature and public profile measured by objective and uniformly applied standards. Selection is based on a thorough multi-phase objective process which includes peer nominations combined with third-party research.
Mr. Panoff has been repeatedly selected by Florida SuperLawyers as a Rising Star lawyer, which includes less than 2.5% of the attorneys in the state. He was also honored by the Dade County Bar Association in January 2018 as a “Rising SuperStar.” The Dade County Bar Association is the largest voluntary bar association in Florida, and this honor was limited to just nine lawyers in the entire state.
In addition to his courtroom success and legal honors, Mr. Panoff gives back to the legal profession. He is a member of the teaching faculty of the National College of Advocacy Depositions College, and serves in a leadership position on the Young Lawyers Council of the National Crime Victim Bar Association.
Mr. Panoff is an active member of the Florida Bar (Trial Lawyers Division, Young Lawyers Division), American Association for Justice, the United States District Court, Southern District of Florida, National Crime Victim Bar Association, American Association for Justice, Florida Justice Association, and the Miami-Dade County Bar Association. He lives in Coral Gables with his wife and two children.
PERCY MARTINEZ
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
I began my career over 20 years ago with the late Attorney General of the United States, Janet Reno. What distinguishes my career is a fervent advocacy for my clients’ rights and a robust success rate. During my career in Public Service and Private Practice, I have successfully argued thousands of cases before many distinguished judges and juries. Due to their high profile nature, many of these cases have been featured in local and national media outlets such as 60 Minutes and Forensic Files. My track record speaks for itself due to my success rate at trial coupled with the ability to connect with victims and support them through this difficult process.
My goal is always to succeed and win your case by leveraging your rights under the law together with my vast experience to achieve a sizeable monetary award through a trial or settlement. I spend most of my waking hours planning, strategizing, and executing a successful plan for every case our office takes on. I have represented clients in complex legal cases nationwide in state and federal courts in Florida, Texas, Nevada, Nebraska, Georgia, New York, and California among others.
WE UNDERSTAND YOU
Victims of negligence and family members that bear the burden of losing a loved one are the most important under the law. Serious injury and death can have a devastating emotional and financial impact. In most cases, going up against a physician, a multinational company or insurance company can be a daunting task with their seemingly unlimited resources and teams of lawyers. This mission drives the lawyers in my firm to fight for your rights every day.
EVERY CASE MATTERS
Unlike many personal injury firms, we do not take on thousands of cases annually. We are selective in choosing the cases that have merit and where we can make a huge difference for the family or victim of accident, negligence or malpractice. If we select to advocate your case, you can rest assured that it will be dealt with the upmost attention to detail and care to maximize the possibility of success.
Someone will always be available to speak to you about your case and any concerns you may have. We have successfully represented clients of negligence and malpractice with multi-million dollar monetary awards and will utilize all our combined experience on your behalf.
Tina Willis
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
I graduated from Florida State University College of Law, back in 1995, 2nd in my law school class. Then, I worked as a big firm defense attorney, very often on cases valued more than one or several million dollars. I also worked as a law professor at Barry University, and have since won many awards.
After law school, I worked in two large corporate defense firms, practicing insurance and employment law defense. I also had a low case load at those firms, which is why I know that approach leads to the best client outcomes.
Memberships
I have been a member in good standing of the Georgia Bar Association since 1997, and a member of the Florida Bar Association since 2012. I am also a member of the Florida Justice Association, which is the premier Florida trial lawyer association, and the American Association of Justice, which is the leading nationwide group of attorneys advocating for change in laws helping injured victims across the country.
Orlando Personal Injury Attorney With Many Outstanding Awards
I have been a member of the Georgia Bar since 1997 and the Florida Bar since 2012. I have received the following awards:
- selected as the “Best of the Best” Personal Injury Lawyers (an award which goes to only .05% of the 1.3 million lawyers nationwide);
- selected as a “Top Rated Lawyer in Florida” by Lawyers of Distinction;
- selected a “Ten Best Female Lawyers” in Florida, by the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys;
- selected as one of the “10 Best Florida Lawyers,” by the American Institute of Legal Counsel;
- selected as a National Trial Lawyers as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer;
- selected as a “10 Best” Client Satisfaction Award, from the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys;
- member of the Million Dollar Advocates Club (fewer than 1% of attorneys nationwide are members);
- member of The Top Trial Lawyers in America®.
- selected by Expertise.com as one of the 20 best Orlando medical malpractice lawyers;
- selected as a Number One Personal Injury, Car Accident & Wrongful Death Attorney By Orlando Style Magazine, based on client and other attorney ratings;
- selected as one of the “Three Best Rated” Orlando Accident Attorneys based on handpicked selection;
- achieved a “superb” perfect “10.0” AVVO rating as an auto accident attorney.
- named one of Orlando’s “Ten Best” personal injury attorneys by Thumbtack rating system.
- Accredited by the Central Florida Better Business Bureau.
Vanessa L Brice
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Vanessa Brice was born and raised in Zimbabwe, Africa. She married her husband Autley Brice, a U.S. Marine as assigned to the US Embassy in Harare. Ms. Brice later emigrated to the United States after her husband received new orders. Ms. Brice and her husband have a daughter, Nyasha, a piano performance major at the University of West Florida.
Ms. Brice and her family were first stationed at Camp LeJeune, North Carolina and later at Parris Island, South Carolina, where her husband was a drill instructor. She worked as a paralegal in personal injury law firms in both North and South Carolina and later in Orlando, Florida, each move because of her husband’s military orders.
EDUCATION
As the law firm’s main link to the clients and their families, Ms. Brice came into contact with so many families who were touched by injury or medical malpractice. Knowing she could do more to help those families, Ms. Brice attended undergraduate school at night, graduating in 2006 with a bachelor of science degree in business management and marketing (with honors).
In August 2006, Ms. Brice entered Florida A&M University Law School. She joined the firm as a summer clerk/intern in 2007 and continued to work with the firm throughout the rest of her time at law school. Ms. Brice graduated in May of 2009 and officially joined the firm as an attorney in August, 2009.
EXPERIENCE
Before receiving her law degree, Ms. Brice worked as a personal injury paralegal for over 15 years where she specialized in litigation and trial support. With this wealth of experience, she brings a unique perspective to her position as an attorney. As the spouse of a veteran, she has a special interest in helping veterans.
Ms. Brice has a keen interest in technology. With her background in computers, Ms. Brice has often been asked to lecture and demonstrate new trends in the use of technology in the courtroom and in mediation including how to conduct a paperless trial.
Ms. Brice has successfully pursued some unique claims including claims for vaccine-related injuries, claims for radiation exposure in deceased World War II Veterans, as well as a myriad of claims for service-connected disability in Veterans. She serves on the Florida Bar Military Affairs Committee as she joins the fight to keep Veterans issues in the spotlight.
JOHN K. OVERCHUCK
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
When you choose me as your lawyer, you do just that, you get me as your lawyer. I will take your calls and be available whenever you need me, even on the weekends. You will have my personal e-mail that forwards to my cell phone so you will receive a response the same day. I have never had a client say, “I could not reach my lawyer when needed.” My office does not have an answering service. What does that mean? After hours, our calls are forwarded to our cell phones so no stranger will be taking your calls. I am the kind of lawyer that REALLY cares about his clients. I am a kind, good-natured person who will treat you with the respect you deserve. I am married to my beautiful wife, Natacha, who is a self-made woman herself. When I am not spending time with my family, I will be in my office working on YOUR CASE. You are my client but you are also my employer – I WORK FOR YOU. My goal is for you to be so pleased with me as your lawyer that you refer everyone you know that may need representation. I will do everything I can to make sure I will be the lawyer you turn to for the rest of your life.
As to my background, I earned my juris doctorate law degree in 2002 and passed the Florida Bar Exam on my first attempt. I have extensive experience in all aspects of personal injury cases. I handled over 1000 personal injury and wrongful death cases from start to finish recovering over 75 million for my clients. I have obtained successful outcomes for my clients because I am relentless in obtaining justice on their behalf. My first job at the age of sixteen was working in a personal injury law firm. I started at the bottom and worked my way up – literally working in every position in that firm. That hard work built the character necessary to run a successful law firm. Today, there is no job beneath me or that I won’t do and I expect that same mentality with each and every person that works here. Simply put, we are a team – Team Overchuck. And that team is here to serve YOU.
In addition to being a full-service personal injury firm, we are a trusted referral source for any legal matter you may need. If we don’t do it, we will find you the best attorney that does.
LOU PENDAS
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Education:
- University of Central Florida (B.S.B.A., 1988)
- St. Thomas University (J.D., 1996).
- Phi Alpha Delta (Vice Justice).
Admitted:
- 1997, Florida
Member:
- The Florida Bar
- Federal Court Middle District of Florida
- Orange County Bar Association
- American Bar Association
- Hispanic Bar Association of Central Florida
- The Association of Trial Lawyers of America.
Lou Pendas was raised and educated here in Central Florida. He attended to University of Central Florida (Class of 1988) B.S.B.A. and later to the St. Thomas University (Class of 1996) J.D. He was admitted in 1997 on the Florida Bar. He belongs to the Orange County and American Bar Associations and The Association of Trial Lawyers of America. Lou Pendas has always sought to insure that his clients are cared for throughout the legal process. He believes that the foundation of client satisfaction is communication. It was his devotion to this principle early on that insured his firm’s success. Also, He has devoted a tremendous amount of his time and treasure to helping the most needy in the community.
He became an lawyer once he realized there was a need to better serve those who are disadvantaged and have become victims of accidents. He personally witnessed many accident victims poorly represented which resulted in an inability to fully recover from the consequences of the accident. Often times their lives spiraling out of control because of the financial hardship suffered due to their inability to work. Many live check by check to pay and once they miss one paycheck everything falls apart. He felt he could help those victims get back on their feet and help them return to a prosperous life.
Recognizing the needs of the clients and understanding what they are going through helped him to be a better lawyer. Also having represented insurance companies for many years and understanding the internal workings of those companies allows him the unique opportunity to obtain better results for my clients. And of course the experience that he received having practiced law for nearly 20 years is priceless in his efforts to better serve all his clients.
The Sunshine State’s Shield: Why You Deserve a Top-Tier Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Orlando
Orlando, Florida, a vibrant tapestry of theme parks, dazzling beaches, and cutting-edge medical facilities, attracts millions seeking entertainment and healthcare excellence. Yet, even in this world of wonder, medical errors can occur. When a healthcare professional’s negligence leaves you injured and facing a mountain of medical bills, the path to recovery can feel like navigating a dark maze. Here’s where a top-tier medical malpractice lawyer in Orlando steps in, becoming your beacon of hope and fierce advocate throughout the legal process. This comprehensive guide explores the immense benefits of retaining a skilled medical malpractice attorney who will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve while healing from the physical and emotional trauma caused by medical negligence.
Understanding Medical Malpractice and Your Rights in Florida
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider, such as a doctor, nurse, or hospital, deviates from the accepted standard of care and causes harm to a patient. Florida law recognizes your right to seek compensation for damages arising from medical negligence. A knowledgeable Orlando medical malpractice attorney can help you with the following:
- Know Your Rights and Recoverable Damages: Florida statutes allow you to recover compensation for a variety of damages caused by medical malpractice, including:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental and emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death (if a loved one passed away due to medical negligence)
- Gathering Evidence to Build a Strong Case: Building a compelling medical malpractice case hinges on meticulous evidence gathering. Your lawyer will assist you in collecting medical records, doctor reports, hospital bills, witness testimonies (including medical experts), and other relevant documentation that showcases the medical error, its impact on your health, and the deviation from the standard of care.
- Leveling the Playing Field with Insurance Companies: Healthcare providers and their insurance companies often have vast resources at their disposal and may attempt to settle medical malpractice claims for a fraction of their true value. A seasoned Orlando medical malpractice lawyer negotiates aggressively on your behalf, ensuring you receive a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.
- Demystifying Medical Jargon: Medical records and legal documents can be filled with technical jargon that can be difficult to understand. Your attorney will translate this complex language into clear terms and guide you through the intricacies of the legal process.
- Securing Reputable Expert Witness Testimony: Medical malpractice cases often require expert witness testimony from qualified medical professionals who can confirm the deviation from the standard of care and the resulting harm you suffered. Your lawyer will secure these expert witnesses to strengthen your case and present a compelling argument in court.
- Understanding Florida’s Statute of Limitations: Florida imposes a time limit for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit, typically four years from the date you discovered the injury. Your lawyer ensures you meet all deadlines and file your claim within the designated timeframe.
Beyond Legal Expertise: The Qualities of a Top-Tier Medical Malpractice Lawyer in Orlando
Not all medical malpractice attorneys are created equal. Here’s what sets the best Orlando medical malpractice lawyers apart:
- Extensive Experience in Florida Medical Malpractice Law: In-depth knowledge of Florida’s specific medical malpractice laws, precedents, and the intricacies of the healthcare system in Orlando is crucial. Look for an attorney with a proven track record of success handling cases similar to yours in Florida.
- Focus on Medical Malpractice: Seek an attorney who specializes in medical malpractice law. This specialization ensures they possess the specific expertise and resources needed to effectively manage your complex case and navigate the legal system specific to Florida.
- Understanding of Medical Specialties: Medical malpractice cases can involve a wide range of medical specialties. Your lawyer should have a strong understanding of your specific medical situation, the standard of care expected from the healthcare provider involved, and the potential long-term impact of the medical error on your health.
- Compassion and Understanding: Coping with the aftermath of a medical error can be physically, emotionally, and financially devastating. Your lawyer should approach your case with empathy, providing emotional support and guidance throughout the process.
- Clear Communication and Accessibility: Clear and consistent communication is vital. A top-tier attorney keeps you informed on case developments, answers your questions promptly, and addresses your concerns openly and honestly.
- Competitive Fees and Flexible Payment Structures: Many medical malpractice attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case and secure compensation for you. Discuss fee structures upfront to ensure transparency and explore options that fit your financial circumstances.