Undergoing surgery requires trust. You put your health, future, and sometimes life in the hands of skilled professionals. But what happens when that trust is broken? What if a preventable error turns your life upside down? If you or a loved one has experienced a surgical mistake, you’re not alone, and you do have legal options.
At Poulos & Coates, you will work with an Alamogordo surgery malpractice lawyer who understands the pain and uncertainty that follow a botched procedure. We are the only New Mexico firm specializing in medical malpractice law. With over 100 years of combined experience—and a doctor and two nurses on staff—we bring unmatched insight and expertise to every case. If a surgery went wrong, we’re here to make it right.
When Surgery Leaves You Worse Off
Surgery, by its nature, comes with risk. But there’s a world of difference between an unavoidable complication and a preventable medical mistake.
When a surgeon, nurse, or hospital staff member fails to follow established standards of care, and you suffer as a result, that’s not just unfortunate. That’s surgical malpractice.
You might be wondering: What constitutes a botched surgery? Common surgical errors that could lead to a malpractice claim include:
- Operating on the wrong body part or wrong patient,
- Leaving surgical instruments or sponges inside the body,
- Performing unnecessary surgery,
- Damaging internal organs or structures,
- Anesthesia mistakes or improper monitoring,
- Failure to prevent or treat post-op infections, and
- Delayed or improper post-surgical care.
These errors can result in severe injury, long-term disability, or even death. And they’re almost always preventable.
You expected healing—not complications and confusion. If your surgery went wrong, you deserve answers. Fill out the form below and speak with a team who truly understands.
The Question You’re Asking: Can You Sue for a Messed-Up Surgery?
Yes, you can. If a healthcare provider’s negligence caused you harm, you have the legal right to pursue compensation under New Mexico law. According to the New Mexico Medical Malpractice Act, patients can seek damages when medical providers breach the standard of care and cause injury.
To file a malpractice claim, your Alamogordo surgery malpractice lawyer must prove:
- A provider-patient relationship existed;
- The medical provider failed to meet the standard of care;
- That failure directly caused injury or harm; and
- The injury resulted in damages for the victim.
These cases are complex. They require expert testimony, medical reviews, and thorough investigation. At Poulos & Coates, we’re ready for it all.
The Stakes Are High: Physical, Financial, and Emotional Costs
Surgical errors don’t just affect your body. They affect your job, your family, and your future. You may be facing new surgeries, long-term rehabilitation, or even permanent disability. Your income may be affected, and medical bills can pile up. On top of it all, you may be left with trauma and trust issues that affect your quality of life.
These are real damages, and you deserve real compensation.
Why You Need an Alamogordo Surgery Malpractice Lawyer
Medical malpractice law isn’t like other areas of personal injury. It demands specialized knowledge of both legal standards and complex medical issues. That’s why so many people turn to Poulos & Coates.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- 100+ years of combined experience in medical malpractice litigation;
- Doctor and two nurses on staff for immediate medical insight;
- Exclusive focus on medical malpractice;
- Over $500 million recovered for our clients through verdicts and settlements;
- Trial-tested attorneys in the courtroom almost every day; and
- Compassionate, client-first approach to help you and your family move forward.
We don’t treat you like a case number. We treat you like family and fight for you like we would our own.
Understanding the Average Settlement for Surgery Malpractice
One of the most common questions we hear is: “What is the average settlement for surgery malpractice?”
Every case is unique, so the average medical malpractice settlement in the U.S. can vary greatly. The amount you may recover depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injuries,
- The cost of medical treatment (past and future),
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity,
- Dolor y sufrimiento,
- Impact on your quality of life, and
- Whether the mistake involved gross negligence.
New Mexico law caps noneconomic damages in medical malpractice claims at $750,000 as of 2022, excluding medical expenses and punitive damages. However, depending on how they’re classified under the law, this cap may not apply to hospitals or certain healthcare facilities.
Your Alamogordo surgery malpractice lawyer will help you understand what your case is worth and what limits may apply.
How We Build Your Case
Medical malpractice cases are not easy to win. That’s why you need a legal team with deep experience and access to trusted medical experts.
Here’s how we approach your case:
- We listen to your story and assess your case during a free consultation;
- We conduct a medical review with our in-house doctor and nurses;
- We gather and analyze medical records and identify violations in the standard of care;
- We consult with outside experts who can testify on your behalf;
- We handle all communication with insurance companies and hospitals; and
- We take your case to trial if the settlement isn’t fair.
This process can be long, but we’re with you at every step. And we don’t get paid unless you win.
Can You Sue for a Messed-Up Surgery? Yes, and Here’s Why You Should
You have a right to expect safe, professional, and competent care. When that doesn’t happen, you’re entitled to justice. Filing a claim not only helps you get the compensation you deserve, but can also prevent others from suffering the same fate.
Surgical malpractice cases can also lead to system-wide changes within hospitals and surgical departments. By taking action, you’re standing up not just for yourself, but for other patients, too.
Dé el primer paso hacia la justicia
If your surgery didn’t go as planned and you believe negligence played a role, don’t wait. Under New Mexico law, you generally have three years from the date of injury to file a claim, but that time can vary depending on the circumstances.
The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights, preserving evidence, and building a powerful case.
Call an Alamogordo Surgery Malpractice Lawyer Today
At Poulos & Coates, we know how devastating surgical mistakes can be. We’ve seen firsthand how they impact families, and we’ve dedicated our practice to helping victims fight back. If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to listen, advise, and act.
Reach out to us by calling 575-523-4444 or by filling out our secure contact form today. We’ll make a plan to put all of this behind you once and for all.