Atlanta HIE Lawyer

Let Our Firm Hold the Healthcare Providers Accountable for Your Child's Injury

If your newborn has been diagnosed with Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE), your world may have changed in an instant. HIE is a serious birth injury that can cause long-term disabilities and emotional distress for families. At DGL Attorneys At Law, our experienced Atlanta HIE attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation your child deserves.

We understand that no amount of money can undo the trauma of birth complications. However, a successful claim can provide the financial resources needed for ongoing medical care, therapy, special education, and quality of life improvements. Our legal team will work diligently to hold negligent healthcare providers accountable and secure justice for your family.

Contact us at (770) 404-8239 to schedule a free consultation with our Atlanta HIE attorneys.

What is Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy?

Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) is a type of brain damage that occurs when an infant’s brain is deprived of oxygen (hypoxia) and blood flow (ischemia) before, during, or shortly after birth. This deprivation can result in permanent injury to the brain, impacting a child's motor functions, cognitive abilities, and overall development.

There are varying degrees of HIE:

• Mild HIE may resolve with minimal intervention.
• Moderate to Severe HIE often requires intensive medical treatment, including therapeutic hypothermia (cooling therapy), and may lead to life-long disabilities.

Early diagnosis and treatment are critical. Unfortunately, medical negligence or errors during labor and delivery can delay essential interventions, worsening the effects of HIE.

Common Causes of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

Many cases of HIE are preventable and occur due to improper medical care before, during, or after childbirth. At DGL Attorneys At Law, our Atlanta HIE attorneys investigate whether a healthcare provider's actions—or inactions—led to your child’s injury.

Common causes of HIE include:

• Delayed Cesarean Section: Failure to perform an emergency C-section when fetal distress is evident.
• Umbilical Cord Complications: Prolapsed cord, cord compression, or a nuchal cord can cut off oxygen supply.
• Placental Abruption: When the placenta detaches from the uterine wall prematurely, reducing oxygen delivery.
• Uterine Rupture: A rare but severe complication often associated with a prior C-section scar.
• Improper Monitoring: Failure to monitor fetal heart rate or maternal vitals can lead to missed signs of distress.
• Infections During Pregnancy: Untreated maternal infections such as chorioamnionitis may contribute to HIE.
• Delayed Resuscitation: Lack of immediate intervention after birth can exacerbate brain injury.

When these errors are linked to medical negligence, you may have grounds for a birth injury claim.

Long-Term Effects of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

The consequences of HIE can be profound and lifelong. The severity of outcomes largely depends on how long the infant’s brain was deprived of oxygen and how quickly treatment was administered.

Potential long-term effects of HIE include:

• Cerebral Palsy: Motor dysfunction due to abnormal brain development.
• Epilepsy: Recurring seizures resulting from brain injury.
• Developmental Delays: Delayed speech, mobility, or cognitive milestones.
• Learning Disabilities: Difficulty with memory, problem-solving, or language.
• Vision and Hearing Impairments: HIE can affect sensory processing.
• Feeding and Breathing Difficulties: Some children may require feeding tubes or ventilators.

Caring for a child with HIE often involves physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, adaptive equipment, and specialized schooling. These services can place significant financial and emotional strain on families.

FAQs About HIE Claims in Atlanta, GA

How do I know if medical negligence caused my child’s HIE?

If there were complications during labor and delivery or signs of fetal distress that went unaddressed, medical malpractice may be a factor. Our Atlanta HIE attorneys can review medical records and consult experts to determine liability.

What types of compensation are available for HIE claims?

You may be eligible to recover damages for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• In-home care and rehabilitation
• Special education costs
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of future earning capacity

Is there a time limit to file a birth injury claim in Georgia?

Yes. Georgia typically has a two-year statute of limitations for medical malpractice, but when it involves a child, that period may be extended. However, waiting too long can make it harder to collect evidence, so contacting a lawyer as soon as possible is advised.

How can an Atlanta HIE attorney help me?

A skilled HIE lawyer will gather medical records, work with medical experts, calculate damages, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. At DGL Attorneys At Law, we take care of the legal burden so you can focus on your child’s care.

Do I have to pay upfront for legal services?

No. At DGL Attorneys At Law, we operate on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact an Experienced Atlanta HIE Attorney Today

If your child has been diagnosed with Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy due to possible medical negligence, don’t face the future alone. DGL Attorneys At Law is here to stand by your side and fight for your family's rights. Our Atlanta HIE attorneys have the knowledge, experience, and compassion needed to pursue the justice you deserve.

Call (770) 404-8239 or contact us online today to schedule a free initial consultation.