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Iowa Medical Malpractice Attorneys

Are You in Need of an Iowa Medical Malpractice Attorney?

If you or someone you love has suffered an injury due to a misdiagnosis, surgical mistake, or other form of malpractice, it is essential to speak with an experienced medical malpractice attorney right away. Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. is a premier law firm focused on catastrophic injury cases, and we handle serious medical malpractice cases in Iowa.

Why Choose Us Over Other Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Iowa?

At Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., we have the experience, resources, and courtroom skill necessary to take on even the most complex cases. If you’re looking for a firm that puts clients first and doesn’t back down in the face of powerful hospital systems and insurance companies, we are ready to fight for you.

Here is why clients trust us over local Iowa firms:

Recognized as one of the top law firms in the United States for medical malpractice, with a reputation built on results and client-centered advocacy.
No charge for initial consultations, so you can get the legal guidance you need without financial risk.
Partner Jim Leventhal is a member of The Inner Circle of Advocates – the top 100 trial lawyers in the nation, known for excellence in representing plaintiffs.
Partner Jim Puga secured one of the largest malpractice verdicts in Colorado history ($17.8 million for a child with brain damage), reflecting the firm’s commitment to high-impact litigation.
Listed in Best Lawyers in America, an honor based on peer reviews and professional achievement.
Recognized by Super Lawyers based on peer reviews and independent research.
AV Rated by Martindale-Hubbell for the highest standards of ethical conduct and legal ability.
Decades of experience handling birth injury and brain injury cases across multiple states, giving us the perspective and skill needed for the most complex claims.

Injured by Medical Negligence? Call Today.

We’re ready to investigate and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call (877) 433-3906 to learn more.

Do You Have a Legitimate Iowa Medical Malpractice Case?

Medical malpractice cases are not about unfortunate outcomes or simple errors. To file a legitimate malpractice claim in Iowa, you must be able to prove that a healthcare provider failed to follow the accepted standard of care and that this failure directly caused significant harm.

You may have a case if:

A misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis caused your condition to worsen.
A surgical mistake led to unexpected complications.
A healthcare provider failed to act when clear symptoms were present.
A medication error caused serious injury or death.
Your baby suffered a birth injury due to negligent care during pregnancy or delivery.

Even if you are unsure about the details, we encourage you to reach out. We will evaluate your case at no cost to you.

What Is Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor, nurse, or other medical professional breaches the standard of care owed to a patient, and that breach causes harm. The standard of care refers to the level of treatment a reasonably competent healthcare provider would have delivered under similar circumstances.

Types of Malpractice Cases We Handle

Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. has a proven track record of winning the following types of medical malpractice cases:

Doctor malpractice. Doctors are held to high standards of professional conduct. When they fail to meet these standards, it can result in significant harm can involve surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or failure to provide appropriate treatment. This often leads to severe complications or prolonged suffering for patients.
Nursing malpractice. Nurses play a critical role in patient care, and their mistakes can have dire consequences include medication errors, neglecting patient care, or failing to monitor vital signs.
Hospital malpractice. These errors can include negligent hiring, poor sanitation practices, failure to maintain medical equipment, lack of staff training, and inadequate treatment protocols.
Treatment error may involve administering the wrong medication, incorrect dosages, or improper administration methods. Such mistakes can lead to severe patient complications, prolonged hospital stays, or even death.
Medication error include prescribing the wrong drug, incorrect dosages, or failing to consider drug interactions and allergies. These mistakes can lead to adverse reactions and complications that result from ineffective treatment.
Emergency room negligence. In emergency rooms, time is of the essence, and mistakes such as misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, or failure to recognize critical conditions can have catastrophic outcomes.
Surgical error. Surgical errors such as operating on the wrong patient, removing the wrong body part, and leaving foreign objects inside the patient can lead to infections, prolonged recovery, and fatalities.
Robotic surgery error. Lack of proper training is a major cause of errors that occur during robot-assisted treatment and surgery. Defective equipment and lack of proper maintenance also contribute to patient injuries.
Anesthesia error. Anesthesia errors are may occur when an anesthesiologist administers the wrong dosage, fails to monitor the patient properly, or overlooks a patient's medical history. These errors can lead to brain damage, nerve injuries, and other catastrophic injuries.
Pharmacy error may involve mislabeling medications, dispensing the wrong drug, or providing incorrect instructions for use. Such errors can result in adverse drug reactions, worsening of the medical condition, and unnecessary suffering.
Brain damage may be caused by surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or treatment delay. Brain injuries may cause irreversible physical and cognitive injuries that dramatically impact the patient’s quality of life.
Birth injuries result from a breach in the standard of care during prenatal care, labor, or delivery. Common birth injuries include cerebral palsy, brachial plexus injuries, and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), which occurs when a baby's brain is deprived of oxygen. These injuries can lead to lifelong disabilities, requiring extensive medical care and assisted living support.
Shoulder dystocia and brachial plexus. Brachial plexus injuries occur when the network of nerves that sends signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand is damaged. These injuries can result from excessive force during childbirth, particularly in cases of shoulder dystocia.
Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis are significant issues in medical malpractice, often leading to severe consequences for patients. A misdiagnosis occurs when a healthcare provider incorrectly identifies a patient's condition, resulting in inappropriate or harmful treatment. Delayed diagnosis, on the other hand, involves a failure to diagnose a condition in a timely manner, causing the patient's condition to worsen. These errors are commonly seen in cases involving cancer, heart attacks, and infections. The repercussions can include unnecessary surgeries, prolonged suffering, and fatalities.
Foreign objects left behind after surgery is the accidental retention of foreign objects in the patient's body. These objects can include surgical instruments, sponges, or other materials used during the procedure. Retained surgical items can lead to infections, severe pain, and even life-threatening complications.
Chiropractic malpractice and strokes. Chiropractic malpractice occurs when a chiropractor's lack of medical knowledge results in patient injury. One of the most severe outcomes of such malpractice are strokes. During certain chiropractic manipulations, especially those involving the neck, there is a risk of damaging the arteries that supply blood to the brain. This damage can lead to a vertebral artery dissection, which may cause a stroke.
Failure to diagnose cancer. Failure to diagnose cancer in a timely manner can have devastating consequences, as early detection is often crucial for effective treatment. When a healthcare provider overlooks symptoms or fails to conduct appropriate tests, the cancer may progress to a more advanced and less treatable stage. This not only diminishes the patient's chances of survival but also increases their physical and emotional suffering.
LASIK injuries. LASIK surgery is a popular procedure designed to correct vision problems, offering the promise of reduced dependency on glasses or contact lenses. But like any medical procedure, LASIK carries risks. Complications can include vision loss, chronic dry eyes, glare, halos, and even double vision. These adverse outcomes can significantly affect a patient's quality of life.
Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding within or around the brain. It’s essential for patients to receive a timely diagnosis and the correct treatment to help ensure the best medical outcome.
Lock-in syndrome is a devastating condition that can be cause by surgical errors. This rare neurological disorder occurs when a person is conscious and aware but cannot move or communicate due to complete paralysis of nearly all voluntary muscles.
Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders affecting movement and muscle tone. This common birth injury can also result from inadequate oxygen supply to the baby’s brain during birth. Cerebral palsy can lead to lifelong disabilities, requiring extensive medical care and support. Parents of affected children may face emotional and financial burdens as they seek to provide the best possible care for their child.
Meningitis is a serious brain disease that is frequently misdiagnosed because its symptoms resemble the flu. When doctors and emergency room staff fail to take the necessary steps to correctly diagnose meningitis, it can have devastating consequences, including permanent brain damage, hearing loss, and seizures.
Defective medical devices range from implants and prosthetics to surgical instruments and diagnostic equipment. When they are improperly designed, manufactured, or maintained, they can cause significant injuries or complications. Common issues include device malfunctions, breakages, and failures that result in additional surgeries, infections, or even life-threatening conditions.
Federal Tort Claims (FTCA). The FTCA allows patients to seek compensation for negligence committed by federal employees acting within the scope of their employment. To file a claim under the FTCA, you must first submit an administrative claim with the appropriate federal agency, detailing the alleged negligence and the damages sought. If the claim is denied or inadequately resolved, you can then file a lawsuit in federal court.

What’s the Legal Process for a Medical Malpractice Case?

Medical malpractice cases are complex and require careful documentation, investigation, and expert testimony. At Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., we guide clients through every stage of the process.

Initial Consultation

We begin by learning your story. If we believe there’s a viable claim, we’ll gather your medical records and consult with expert witnesses.

Expert Review

Iowa law requires a Certificate of Merit, where a qualified expert states that the defendant’s actions likely breached the standard of care. We handle the process of securing and working with the appropriate experts.

Filing the Lawsuit

Once the case is properly prepared, we file a formal complaint in the appropriate Iowa court.

Discovery

Both sides exchange documents, take depositions, and examine the medical evidence. This stage is vital to building a strong case.

Settlement Negotiations or Trial

Some cases resolve through settlement, but we prepare every case for trial. If a fair resolution isn’t offered, we will present your case to a jury.

What Is the Statute of Limitations in Iowa?

In Iowa, the statute of limitations for most medical malpractice cases is two years from the date the injured party knew or should have known that the injury was caused by medical negligence. However, there is also an overall cap known as the statute of repose, which prevents any case from being filed more than six years after the act of malpractice, regardless of when it was discovered.

There are exceptions:

For minors, the statute does not begin until the child turns 8, but in no case can a lawsuit be filed after the child turns 10.
If a foreign object is left in the body, the two-year period begins upon discovery.

Given these strict deadlines, it’s critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve your right to file a claim.

Request a No-Cost Medical Malpractice Case Review

Our experienced medical malpractice legal team is ready to evaluate your case and explain your legal options. There are no fees unless we win: (877) 433-3906

How an Iowa Medical Malpractice Lawyer Can Help

Medical malpractice cases are highly technical and expensive to pursue. Hospitals and insurance companies have vast resources and legal teams that focus on discrediting claims. Trying to take them on without an experienced attorney is a serious disadvantage.

Here’s how a firm like Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. can help:

Case Evaluation: We identify whether the provider violated the standard of care.
Expert Coordination: We work with board-certified medical professionals to build the case.
Evidence Gathering: We subpoena records, interview witnesses, and analyze data.
Litigation Strategy: We build a compelling argument for liability and damages.
Trial Representation: We are known for our courtroom skill and do not hesitate to bring cases before juries.

We don’t take every case. But when we do, we commit every resource necessary to pursue justice for our clients.

What Types of Damages Are Available in a Medical Malpractice Case?

The goal of a medical malpractice claim is to recover damages for the harm you or your loved one has suffered. Iowa law allows recovery for both economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages:

Medical bills (past and future)
In-home care costs
Lost wages and future earning capacity
Rehabilitation and therapy expenses
Assistive equipment and home modifications

Non-Economic Damages:

Pain and suffering
Loss of enjoyment of life
Emotional distress
Loss of companionship or consortium

Other Locations We Serve

Case Results

Olympic Snowboarding Coach Receives $6.5 Million Verdict After Being Disabled by Colorado Medical Center

In March 2013, Jody Blatchley, a New Zealand Women’s Snowboard Slopestyle coach, suffered serious injuries while training in Colorado, leading to emergency surgery at St. Anthony Summit Medical Center. Due to negligent aftercare, he developed compartment syndrome, which went undiagnosed for three days, resulting in severe complications and permanent disability. The attorneys from Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. represented Mr. Blatchley in a medical malpractice lawsuit, and in April 2018, the jury awarded him a $6.5 million verdict against the medical center to cover his lifelong care needs.

LPB Attorneys Win Over $8 Million for Birth Injury Victim

A team of attorneys at Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., including James E. Puga, Molly L. Greenblatt, Alex Wilschke, and Nathaniel E. Deakins, secured a verdict for their client, Aron Roudybush, represented by his conservators, Nora and Randall Roudybush. Aron suffered neurological injuries during delivery due to the improper use of a vacuum device, which was applied without adequate training for the nurses. Expert testimony highlighted the hospital's responsibility to educate staff on such devices, and the jury found Penrose negligent for failing to provide proper training on operative vaginal delivery, awarding $8,030,003 to the plaintiffs.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

Understanding, compassion, and professionalism - Eugenia Brady (5-Star Google Review)

Words cannot express my gratitude to Jim Leventhal and his great professional team for representing me in a case that was extremely hard for me personally and emotionally. Their understanding, compassion, and professionalism make a perfect mix to deal with cases that are attached to trauma. From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much again for representing me for one of the hardest things I had to face in my life and making sure that every outcome will be in the best interest of me and my family! I can't recommend them enough. God bless you!

I would recommend him to anyone! - Sarah Raisch (5-Star Google Review)

Brian Aleinikoff is diligent, responsive, and committed to thorough representation. He is an excellent attorney; I would recommend him to anyone!

Speak With a Trusted Iowa Medical Malpractice Attorney Today

Medical professionals must be held accountable for the people they hurt. You shouldn’t have to pay for their mistakes. You deserve to have excellent legal representation, especially if you’re going up against a large medical group and their high-priced law firm. To win a malpractice case, your attorney must explain complex medical issues to a jury made up of regular people. All right evidence must be presented in a clear and coherent manner.

Our experienced Iowa medical malpractice attorneys at have won historic verdicts across the United States. At Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., you’ll receive the highest level of legal representation. Call (877) 433-3906 to speak with one of our experienced litigators.

Medical Malpractice FAQs

What qualifies as medical malpractice?

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the accepted standard of care, resulting in harm to a patient. This could involve misdiagnosis, surgical error, failure to treat, birth injury, medication mistakes, or delayed diagnosis.

How do I know if I have a valid medical malpractice case?

To bring a malpractice claim, you must be able to show that the provider breached the standard of care, that the breach caused your injury, and that you suffered measurable harm. Our firm reviews your records with medical experts to determine if your case meets these criteria.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

We offer no charge for initial consultations, and we handle cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

How long does a medical malpractice case take?

These cases often take 18–36 months to resolve, depending on the complexity of the facts, the number of defendants, and whether the case proceeds to trial. We prepare every case for trial from day one to ensure the best possible outcome.

What compensation can I recover in a malpractice claim?

You may be eligible to recover medical costs, future care expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. In some states, non-economic damages are capped unless reckless or intentional conduct is proven.

Who can be held responsible in a medical malpractice case?

Hospitals, doctors, nurses, anesthesiologists, midwives, and other licensed healthcare professionals may be held liable if their negligence causes harm. We identify every party that may share responsibility.

Meet Our Attorneys

Jim Leventhal

Jim Leventhal is one of the nation’s most respected trial attorneys in the field of medical malpractice. As founding partner of Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., Jim has spent more than four decades representing individuals and families whose lives were forever changed by catastrophic medical negligence.

Jim is a trusted advocate for children with birth injuries, patients harmed by surgical errors, and families navigating the aftermath of preventable brain damage, stroke, or wrongful death. Jim is a member of the Inner Circle of Advocates, an invitation-only group of the top 100 plaintiff trial lawyers in the country.

Jim Puga

Jim Puga is a seasoned trial lawyer known for his commanding courtroom presence, sharp legal strategy, and unwavering commitment to families affected by catastrophic medical harm. A partner at Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., Jim has built his career advocating for children and adults who have suffered life-altering injuries due to medical negligence.

Jim secured one of the largest medical malpractice jury verdicts in Colorado history: $17.8 million on behalf of a child with severe brain damage. He regularly leads complex litigation involving obstetric errors, surgical mistakes, and delayed diagnosis of strokes and infections, as well as other failures in the healthcare system that result in permanent disability or death.

Bruce Braley

Bruce Braley brings a rare combination of legal acumen, public leadership, and trial experience to his role as a partner at Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. Before joining the firm, Bruce served four terms in the United States House of Representatives, representing Iowa’s First Congressional District. During his time in Congress, he was a strong voice for patient safety, veterans' rights, and access to civil justice.

A trial lawyer at heart, Bruce returned to private practice with a focus on high-stakes litigation involving birth injury, brain injury, wrongful death, and medical negligence. His presence strengthens the firm’s reach in Iowa and beyond, and reflects its core values: preparation, integrity, and putting clients first.

Elizabeth Bonnett

Elizabeth Bonnett brings compassion, diligence, and fierce advocacy to every case she handles, ensuring her clients receive the strongest possible representation and the justice they deserve. Elizabeth joined Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. after a law school clerkship with Roxanne Conlin, one of Iowa’s most respected civil rights and plaintiff attorneys. Her early experience at a leading civil rights law firm laid the foundation for her commitment to helping those harmed by negligence, discrimination, and corporate misconduct.

Since joining Leventhal Puga Braley, Elizabeth has continued to distinguish herself through her tireless work ethic and her ability to connect deeply with clients navigating life-altering injuries. Elizabeth is licensed to practice law in Colorado, Arizona, and Iowa. Her clients appreciate her thoughtful approach, her clear communication, and her unwavering commitment to achieving meaningful results.