Jonathan Schochor and Kerry Staton have protected Maryland birth-injury victims for more than 35 years. We have recovered over one billion dollars in verdicts and settlements for families facing lifelong medical needs. Our College Park Erb’s Palsy lawyers bring courtroom strength and bedside compassion to every case.
We know that Erb’s palsy, nerve damage in a newborn’s shoulder that can paralyze the arm, shatters expectations for a joyful birth. Parents in Prince George’s County deserve answers and relief, and we offer both through free, no-obligation consultations. Our office is minutes from the Capital Beltway, and our attorneys will meet clients on campus, online, or in-home. Call (410) 234-1000 today. No fee is owed unless we win.
What Is Erb’s Palsy and How Does It Affect Your Child?
Erb’s palsy is a brachial plexus injury suffered during delivery. It leaves a baby’s arm limp, rotated inward in the classic “waiter’s tip” position, and weak in grip. Roughly 1-2 of every 1,000 U.S. births involve this injury, and many require months of physical therapy or surgery.
Early diagnosis improves outcomes. Prompt imaging, occupational therapy, and orthopedic oversight can restore function, but severe tears may leave permanent weakness or disfigurement. Parents often feel guilt and confusion. Our College Park birth injury attorneys provide guidance and legal clarity.
“I had a great experience with Mr. Jim Cardea and his team. They were very knowledgeable of my situation and provided great service to me and my family from beginning to end. I highly recommend them for any medical malpractice lawsuit. Satisfaction guaranteed!” – Kiantay P.
“Great group of attorneys! If I could give 10 stars I would. Their attention to detail, responsiveness and client care is second to none. Highly recommend Schochor, Staton, Goldberg and Cardea for any medical malpractice needs.” – Haley H.
How Can Delivery Complications Cause Erb’s Palsy?
Shoulder Dystocia
Shoulder dystocia traps a baby’s shoulder behind the mother’s pelvis. Excessive traction can stretch or tear the brachial plexus.
Breech or Prolonged Labor
A breech, face-first, or stalled labor places extreme stress on the neck and shoulder nerves.
Forceps or Vacuum Extraction
Improper forceps angles or excessive vacuum pressure can injure fragile nerve fibers.
Additional, less-common scenarios: twin entanglement, umbilical cord knots, emergency C-section delays, maternal diabetes causing fetal macrosomia, and rare transverse fetal positions. Each is preventable when clinicians follow standards of care.
What Risk Factors Should Expectant Mothers Watch For?
Gestational diabetes, maternal obesity, high birth weight, small pelvic outlet, induced labor, and precipitous second-stage pushing all heighten risk. Skilled obstetric teams anticipate these dangers and prepare maneuvers such as McRoberts positioning or planned C-section. University of Maryland Capital Region hospitals and College Park birthing centers must meet these standards. Failure can be malpractice.
How Do I Know If Erb’s Palsy Was Caused by Medical Negligence?
Maryland law requires proof of a doctor-patient relationship, a breach of accepted medical practice, and a direct link between that breach and your child’s injury. Our College Park Erb’s Palsy attorney team works with pediatric neurologists and obstetric experts to study records, fetal heart strips, and operative notes.
The statute of limitations is five years from the injury, or three years from when you learned of it, whichever is earlier. Before filing, state law demands a certificate of merit by an independent physician. We secure that testimony, eliminating technical missteps that can derail claims.
