Proving Causation In An Illinois Medical Malpractice Case
Last updated on October 31, 2025
A few key details must be shown in an Illinois medical malpractice case for it to be successful. One is that the doctor committed a negligent mistake. Next, it has to be demonstrated that the doctor had a duty of care to the patient and that their actions directly caused injury, leading to financial harm.
The team of med mal lawyers at Morrissey Legal Group, LLC, can help. They have decades of experience dating back to 1993 and have won over $260 million for their clients. Founding attorney Frank Morrissey can offer the legal guidance you need at this challenging time.
What Is Causation In Medical Malpractice?
Proving causation in a medical malpractice case means establishing the link between the doctor’s actions and the injury itself. This can be difficult to prove, but is a critical element of the case. Even if causation has been established that the doctor made a medical error, you also have to show that the mistake caused you harm.
What Are The Legal Standards For Proving Causation In Illinois?
In medical malpractice cases in Illinois, when considering actual versus proximate cause, the legal standard is a preponderance of evidence. The court can look at all of the available evidence and determine that it is more likely than not that the doctor’s error caused the patient’s injuries.
For instance, perhaps you can demonstrate that a surgeon carried out wrong-site surgery. You also have to demonstrate that the surgery caused you harm and that the damages you are facing – such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering or emotional trauma – are linked to that error.
What Are The Legal Challenges In Proving Causation?
It can be difficult to prove causation, especially because many different physicians or medical professionals may be involved. Proving causation can also be problematic if you had a preexisting condition, as the doctor may argue that their error did not actually cause harm.
How Can An Expert Witness Help In Proving Causation Of A Medical Malpractice Case?
With an affidavit of merit, expert witnesses can be used in a medical malpractice case in different ways. They can testify about the acceptable standard of care, common medical procedures, safety standards and other types of acceptable practices in the industry, showing how your physician violated these standards.
Call For A Consultation
It’s important to understand your options during a malpractice case in Illinois. Having an experienced medical negligence attorney on your side can help. Call Morrissey Legal Group, LLC, at 312-815-5856 or use the online contact form to set up your initial consultation.