Maine Pathology Error Lawyers
A single mistake by a pathologist can alter the course of your life. Whether it’s a missed cancer diagnosis or a lab error that leads to the wrong treatment, pathology errors can have debilitating consequences for patients and their families.
If you or a loved one suffered harm because a pathologist misdiagnosed your biopsy or lab specimen, you deserve answers and accountability. At Berman & Simmons, we represent people across Maine who have been hurt by medical negligence. We are widely recognized as the state’s leading personal injury and medical malpractice firm, known for taking on the most complex, high-stakes cases and winning.
We offer free consultations with a Maine pathology error attorney to discuss your case. Call (207) 417-4199 or reach us online. Virtual appointments are available.
How Pathology Errors Harm Patients & Families
Pathologists play a critical, behind-the-scenes role in modern medicine. They analyze lab results, biopsy samples, and surgical specimens to identify diseases and guide your treatment plan. When they get it wrong, the results can be catastrophic.
Patients affected by pathology errors may experience:
- Delayed diagnosis of cancer or a serious illness
- Unnecessary or inappropriate treatment, including harmful surgeries or chemotherapy
- Missed opportunity for early intervention, reducing the chance of recovery
- Permanent injury, worsening prognosis, or wrongful death
The emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming for families, especially when the truth only comes to light after significant harm has already been done.
Common Types of Pathology Errors
Pathology errors can occur at any stage of the diagnostic process, from sample preparation to microscopic analysis to reporting results.
Common mistakes include the following:
- Misdiagnosis of cancer or disease - Failure to detect cancer or disease in a biopsy or other tissue specimen
- Falsely diagnosing something that is actually benign - mistaking something that is actually harmless (benign) for something that is malignant or life-threatening.
- Specimen mix-ups - labeling or handling errors that result in a patient receiving someone else’s diagnosis or treatment
- Improper preparation - Failing to perform the correct sample preparations that are necessary to check for life-threatening conditions, or using outdated or insufficient tools or testing chemicals
- Communication errors - The pathologist fails to communicate findings to the treating physician or patient about critical results or the need for further follow-up
- Contamination or degradation of samples - Poor handling or storage leading to compromised specimens and inaccurate results
- Inadequate review or oversight - Rushing through test reviews or failure to seek a second opinion when needed
You have the right to pursue legal action when any of these pathology errors are caused by negligence.
Who May Be Responsible?
Several parties may share legal responsibility for a pathology error:
- The pathologist who misinterpreted or failed to report the results
- Laboratory technicians or staff responsible for sample handling
- The hospital or diagnostic lab that failed to maintain proper safety protocols
- Referring physicians who ignored or failed to act on abnormal results
At Berman & Simmons, we conduct in-depth investigations and consult top national experts to determine precisely where the failure occurred and who is liable.
What Compensation May Be Available in a Pathology Negligence Claim?
A successful claim may provide compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including corrective treatment or surgeries)
- Lost income and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one died due to a delayed or missed diagnosis
We work closely with medical and financial experts to assess the full impact of your injuries and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Why Pathology Malpractice Cases Are Complex
Pathology errors are often difficult to uncover without a skilled legal and medical team. These cases involve:
- Highly technical subject matter, requiring expert testimony
- Extensive medical records and laboratory documentation
- Complex causation issues, especially when disease progression is involved
- Hospitals and labs with powerful legal defense teams
When the Stakes are High, We Deliver Results
Our client reviews showcase the skills, advocacy, compassion, and work ethic we bring to every case to achieve the best results.
-
“So professional, honest and courteous. Expert advice delivered with a clear and consistent voice that let us know Sarah would be with us for all our legal needs.”- Rachel M.
-
“Excellent experience. I was treated very sincerely and professionally. Many thanks to Attorney Kayatta.”- Melissa B.
-
“You are a class act and I appreciate the time, care, and expertise you have always put in each and every piece of advice you’ve provided to me along the way!”- Reichen K.
-
“I had a very positive experience working with Miriam. She was attentive, sympathetic, and kept me informed throughout the process.”- Candice H.
-
“I would recommend Berman & Simmons for sure. Very professional and helpful.”- Leah G.
-
- Danielle D.
Chris and his team were amazing! They listened and were supportive during the most difficult times. I’ll forever be thankful for this team and all they did for me and my daughter!
Meet Our Attorneys
As powerful advocates for civil justice, we fight tirelessly for our clients, winning high-stakes, complex cases, where our team’s expertise and unmatched skills make all the difference.
-
Susan A. Faunce Managing Director, Shareholder -
Travis M. Brennan Attorney, Shareholder
-
Timothy M. Kenlan Attorney, Shareholder
-
Elizabeth A. Kayatta Attorney, Shareholder
-
Charles P. Hehmeyer Attorney, Shareholder
-
Christopher C. Boots Attorney, Shareholder
-
Craig A. Bramley Attorney, Shareholder
-
Miriam A. Johnson Attorney
