Fetal Distress Lawyer For Birth Injury Litigation In Chicago
Last updated on May 29, 2026
When a newborn shows signs of a declining condition before, during or after labor, they may experience fetal distress. This condition can be detected throughout the process with ultrasound or heart monitoring, and it can result in a lifetime of consequences. When a child suffers from unnecessary distress, the liable party needs to be held accountable for their actions.
Frank Morrissey is a Chicago attorney who is committed to helping victims of medical malpractice and birth injuries through their injury claims. He uses his experience defending hospitals and medical providers to anticipate defense strategies and build strong claims for injured children. At Morrissey Legal Group, LLC, you can find the representation you need to seek justice for what your child suffered, no matter what caused the incident.
Signs Of Fetal Distress During Labor And Delivery
Medical providers are expected to monitor mother and child carefully during labor; failure to do so can cause avoidable harm to the mother or the infant. Common signs of fetal distress include:
- Abnormal fetal heart tracings
- Reduced oxygen levels
- Meconium in the amniotic fluid
- Umbilical cord complications
- Sudden decreases in fetal movement
When providers ignore warning signs or delay emergency intervention, serious injuries may follow. In addition to failing to monitor the above issues, medical staff may be negligent in their duties during labor and delivery if they:
- Misuse epidurals or forceps
- Delay the delivery for too long
- Fail to check the vitals of the mother
These and other actions can result in injuries during the birth process, including cerebral palsy, brain injuries and stillbirth.
Frank Morrissey is a fetal distress lawyer who is committed to exploring all available avenues of seeking justice for these injuries through negotiation and litigation. He previously obtained a $9.4 million recovery for a child who suffered severe brain injuries and cerebral palsy after medical providers failed to address fetal distress that appeared on fetal heart tracings during the delivery. He is prepared to build the strongest case he can to help his clients through such a difficult time.
Is Fetal Distress Always Medical Malpractice?
No. Some birth complications happen even when providers act appropriately. However, malpractice may occur when hospitals, doctors or nurses fail to recognize warning signs or delay necessary treatment.
As a fetal distress attorney, Frank carefully reviews monitoring records, delivery timelines and medical decisions to determine whether negligence contributed to the injury.
Can Families Still Pursue A Case Years Later?
Possibly. Some birth injuries are not fully diagnosed until months or years after delivery. Illinois law may still allow families to pursue compensation depending on when the injury became apparent. Frank Morrissey helps Chicago families pursue compensation for medical treatment, therapy and long-term care after preventable birth injuries.
Hold Medical Professionals Accountable In Illinois
Do not make the mistake of believing statements from the hospital like “these things happen” or “there was no avoiding this.” While you are focusing on your child’s health, let a skilled fetal distress attorney review the details of your case to determine what course of action is necessary to protect your best interests.
Call 312-815-5856 or reach out online to schedule your free initial consultation today. The sooner you contact an attorney about your case, the sooner you can start working to reach the outcome you deserve.