What is a certified legal nurse consultant?
A certified legal nurse consultant is a registered nurse who has successfully mastered a rigorous CLNC certification program developed by the company that pioneered the field of legal nurse consulting. A CLNC uses existing expertise as a health care professional plus specialized CLNC training to consult on medical related legal cases.
Additionally, a CLNC bridges the gap between legal and health care knowledge. The CLNC has in-depth knowledge and continuing education necessary to practice in this sophisticated and rapidly changing field.
A CLNC is not a paralegal who works under the supervision of the attorney, but is professionally trained to work independently with the attorney. A CLNC can provide nursing and medical expertise by rendering an opinion about specific health, illness, or injury-related issues. Since the CLNC is a medical insider and knows the inner workings of the health care system, they can unlock the medical issues and complexities of the case.
Why do attorneys need CLNCs?
While an attorney is the expert on legal issues, the CLNC is the expert on nursing, the health care system, and its inner workings. No other professional possesses this level of cost-effective expertise for reviewing medical records and understanding the terminology and intricate workings of the health care system.
When should an attorney call a CLNC?
From the instant a potential case presents itself, the CLNC becomes a valuable asset by identifying the medical issues, screening the case for merit, and providing CLNC services relevant to attorneys’ cases that can save thousands of dollars.
Does an attorney need a CLNC if they already use an MD?
Yes, although an MD could be an excellent expert witness and definitely worth the money when necessary, services provided by the CLNC are far more cost-effective. RNs are the health care providers who consistently critique patient care and medical records. CLNCs utilize a solid base of authoritative sources to educate attorneys on a wide range of medical issues.
Why does an attorney need a CLNC?
To win their next medical-related case quickly and cost effectively. CLNCs are nationally certified and can work in any state nationwide.
What other things can a CLNC do for an attorney?
CLNCs can develop reports and chronologies that explain significant events relevant to the case and have an impact on the overall case. They can also provide research to support the case. CLNCs assist with and develop interrogatories, requests for production, as well as draft questions for deposition (for both direct and cross). Finally, CLNCs can identify causation and identify potential defendants, and are experts in assisting with discovery. Sample reports are available upon request.
