With a huge rise in medical malpractice suits today, there is a growing need for experienced nurses who can work with attorneys, insurance companies and other organizations. Legal nurse consultants combine their nurse’s knowledge and skills with legal knowledge to offer advice in a myriad of areas.

Legal nurse consultants often work directly for law firms, insurance companies and government agencies because of the high volume of these types of cases that are often in progress at any one time. Many others work independently as contractors on individual cases and can demand fees of $100 to $100 per hour for testifying as an expert witness or for consulting fees.

To become a legal nurse consultant you must already have experience as a registered nurse which gives you the basis for your knowledge. You would then complete a program in legal nurse consulting that will provide you with the certification needed. It is offered at many colleges, universities and other community colleges.

What does a Legal Nurse Consultant do?

You will work with attorneys, workers’ compensation companies, HMOs, hospital risk management departments and others advising them on healthcare related cases. A legal nurse consultant interviews clients and reviews and analyzes medical records to see if there is evidence of record tampering. Your role is to assist with evaluating the amount of damages or liabilities in a case.

You will assist with preparation of exhibits for trial and with depositions of witnesses and generally give advice with an informed opinion about how well the healthcare was delivered to the patient and assist with the types of witnesses that might be needed during a trial. Legal nurse consultants also serve as an expert witness regarding the standards of care that should be provided in the case at hand.

Legal Nurse Certification Information
Legal Nurse Consultant Job Postings