PJWA FAQ’s

When is the best time to bring in an LNC on a case?
The sooner the better. It frequently takes much more work for the LNC when they are brought in late in the case development. If it is well into the case, or just before trial, it may be too late for discovery that the LNC may identify to be advantageous.

What is the difference between a “testifying witness” LNC and an “internal”, or “behind the scenes,” LNC?
An internal or behind the scenes LNC helps the attorney with the architecture of the case; identifying the medical components of the case, the interpretation and significance of the lab and tests results, and identifying witnesses to be deposed or records to be obtained, variations in the standard of care delivered. The LNC will also create a chronology, cast of characters, and case summary. Generally, the behind the scenes LNCs work is protected as attorney work product.

A testifying expert will testify at trial after having reviewed the appropriate records and documentation. Most frequently, the testifying expert will testify to the standard of care versus what care was delivered. Anything the testifying expert LNC writes, reviews and researches is discoverable.

Does PJWA Medical Legal Consulting provide referrals for physician specialties?
Yes

Does PJWA charge for referrals?
No, only for the time, if needed, to locate the specialist.

What is PJWA’s process if the LNC feels the case is weak or does not have merit?
PJWA's LNCs are always prepared to provide the attorney with their honest opinion, as well as the basis for that opinion. If we feel we cannot support the case, we will discuss that immediately with the attorney. It is important to us to be your and your client’s advocate. We appreciate that the attorney may not want to hear that their case is weak. However, we believe that if they must hear it, whether plaintiff or defense, sooner is better than later.

Can PJWA help in preparing questions for deposition?
Preparing questions for deposition and trial is something that we do frequently.

Does PJWA provide defense or plaintiff LNCs?
We provide both plaintiff and defense assistance.

For what types of cases can PJWA provide LNC support?
Basically, all types as we have a full staff of highly experienced LNCs, all of whom must have a minimum of 10 years of clinical practice. Many of our LNCs have more than 20 years of experience. A partial list of the experts' specialties we provide include:

Cardiac Disease
Decubitus
Elder Abuse
Emergency Room
Geriatrics
Home Health
ICU – adult, pediatrics and neonatal
Infectious Disease
Long Term Care
Nephrology, including acute dialysis
Neurology
Nursery
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Operating Room
Orthopedics
Outpatient
Psychiatric
Pulmonary Disease
Sexual Assault
Skilled Nursing Facilities
Transplantation
Wound care

How can PJWA provide experts in all of these fields?
PJWA has a staff of over 200 LNCs with decades of expertise in all different fields. We offer the most experienced nurse in the specialty field of concern. Many of our LNCs are advanced practice nurses as well. This offers the law firm the consistency of one source for all of their cases. PJWA’s familiarity with your firm’s practices ensures our ability to provide value added service.