A nurse legal consultant is a nurse who has been trained in basic legal matters. Sometimes they are hired by the government and attorneys' offices. However, a large number of consultants can be hired out individually based on the case. Not only are they able to provide expert medical advice to their employers and clients, but they understand how the right information can affect corresponding legal matters. As an everyday citizen, it may seem like a rare occasion that you would ever need to contact such an individual. However, a consultant's job and assistance is more common than you may realize. Here are just a few signs that indicate you may need a consultant's help.

1. If you are the victim of medical malpractice, a consultant will help you to determine whether or not a claim holds merit. He or she can help you gather the necessary information to help your case and can evaluate the damage caused by the malpractice. You may also call on a legal nurse consultant to testify as an expert witness on your behalf. His or her assistance will also be used to determine a monetary settlement amount based on medical expertise.
2. If you are filing for workers' compensation, you need to contact a consultant. If you have been injured on the job, you or your employer might find it necessary to hire a legal nurse consultant. He or she can help to determine the extent of the injury and any negligence that may have caused it. Consultants may attend routine medical exams to receive information directly from health-care professionals and then record them in the file records.
3. If you have suffered personal injury, a consultant can help. Whether you have taken a drug that has caused medical issue or been in a car accident, a nurse legal consultant will be crucial in establishing your case. He or she will work as a liaison between you and your attorney. He or she will be able to prepare documents and timelines based on medical research. Consultants can also help to identify strengths and weaknesses in the case that your attorneys might not be familiar with.
4. If you are an attorney's office looking to file a group medical suit, don't attempt to handle the suit on your own. A consultant will be an asset to your case. A consultant will be able to analyze and organize medical information and conduct client interviews to find those whose claims actually hold merit. Once your case has been put together, a consultant will also be able to review and screen expert witnesses. In some instances, he or she might even be a good choice to testify on behalf of your clients.
5. If you are already in the midst of a medically related lawsuit and have not already spoken with a consultant, do it now. Legal nurse consultants are experts on all things medical. They could be the difference between you winning the suit and losing it.
6. If you have been injured by a product, you need the aid of a legal nurse consultant. He or she can help you determine the negligence of the manufacturer and help establish a claim. Because of their medical knowledge, he or she will be able to estimate costs of the care needed to restore you back to normal health. Or if the injury has been debilitating, he or she can help to establish the monetary amount needed to provide care.

In the end, a nurse legal consultant is an important person to keep in mind anytime you have suffered an injury. Whether on the job or while being treated by a physician, a consultant can help you to establish unfair treatment and help you through the legal process if needed.