A diagnosis of SJS is not just a medical issue; it is a matter of justice. Holding a powerful pharmaceutical company responsible for the harm their product caused is a critical step toward finding closure and securing your future. An Oklahoma Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer has the knowledge and determination to challenge these corporations on your behalf. At Greg Jones Law, we focus on holding negligent parties accountable for the injuries they cause. Contact us today to discuss your case during a free case consultation. Drug manufacturers have a profound responsibility to ensure their products are safe and to be transparent about all potential risks. When this duty is neglected, the results can be catastrophic, leading to severe conditions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS).
Key Takeaways about Oklahoma Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Cases
- Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes, often caused by a reaction to medication.
- Parties like pharmaceutical manufacturers can potentially be held liable for failing to adequately warn patients and doctors about the risks associated with their drugs.
- Individuals affected by SJS may be able to pursue financial compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Product liability laws in Oklahoma provide a framework for legal action when a defective or dangerous product causes harm.
- Securing legal representation can assist an individual in understanding their options and pursuing a claim for damages.
Why Choose Greg Jones Law for Your Oklahoma SJS Claim?
When you are faced with a life-altering condition like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, the legal process can feel like a steep climb up Quartz Mountain. You need a legal team that is ready for the challenge and deeply committed to your cause.
At Greg Jones Law, our results reflect years of standing up to large corporations and pharmaceutical companies on behalf of injured clients across the nation. We bring a dedicated approach to every case, combining extensive legal knowledge with genuine compassion for the people we represent.
We believe that personalized attention is key to building a strong case. We take the time to listen to your story, understand the full scope of your injuries, and learn how this condition has impacted your life in Oklahoma.
- Nationwide Reach, Personalized Care: We serve clients across the country, including Oklahoma, providing the resources of a national firm with the dedicated attention you deserve.
- Focus on Accountability: Our goal is to hold negligent parties responsible for the harm they cause, seeking justice for you and your family.
- No Upfront Costs: We operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Our team will work tirelessly to build a case that reflects the true cost of your injuries, fighting for a resolution that supports your recovery and future well-being.
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What is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, often abbreviated as SJS, is a severe and unpredictable adverse drug reaction. It affects the skin and mucous membranes, which are the moist linings of certain parts of the body like the mouth, nose, and eyes. The condition often begins with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful red or purplish rash that spreads and blisters. Eventually, the top layer of the affected skin dies and sheds.
A more severe form of the condition is called Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). The main difference is the amount of the body’s surface area that is affected. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), SJS and TEN are considered a disease continuum, with SJS being the less severe end of the spectrum. The recovery period can be long, and many people who experience SJS require hospitalization, often in a burn unit, for intensive care.
Common Causes of SJS in Oklahoma
The leading cause of SJS is a reaction to certain medications. While it can happen to anyone at any age, the reaction is not an allergic one in the typical sense. Instead, it’s a complex immune response that is not fully understood. It is critical to identify the medication that may have triggered the reaction.
Some of the medications that have been associated with an increased risk of developing SJS include:
- Antibiotics, particularly sulfa-based drugs.
- Allopurinol, a medication used to treat gout and kidney stones.
- Anti-seizure medications, also called anticonvulsants.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as certain pain relievers.
Identifying the specific medication responsible is a crucial first step in determining if you have a potential legal claim.
Specialized Medical Facilities in Oklahoma for SJS
Oklahoma offers several specialized facilities with expertise in treating severe skin conditions like SJS:
- The Burn Center at Hillcrest Medical Center in Tulsa (918-579-6200): Renowned for its comprehensive burn care services, this center offers specialized treatment for SJS patients, including emergency care and long-term management.
- Oklahoma University Medical Center in Oklahoma City (405-271-4700): With state-of-the-art facilities and specialized care units, this medical center provides comprehensive services for SJS patients, addressing both acute and long-term needs.
These institutions are equipped to deliver the specialized care required to manage SJS effectively, from initial diagnosis to ongoing recovery.
Your Legal Rights and Holding Drug Companies Accountable
When a pharmaceutical company creates a drug, they have a legal duty to ensure it is reasonably safe for consumers. This includes providing adequate warnings about potential side effects and serious risks. When they fail to do so, and a person is harmed as a result, they may be held responsible through a product liability claim.
Product liability is an area of law that deals with holding manufacturers, distributors, or sellers responsible for putting a dangerous or defective product into the hands of a consumer. In the context of SJS, a claim could be based on the argument that the drug manufacturer was negligent. Negligence is a legal term that means someone failed to exercise a reasonable level of care, and that failure led to another person’s injury.
An Oklahoma SJS lawyer can review the details of your situation to determine if a drug company:
- Failed to conduct adequate safety testing before marketing the drug.
- Knew or should have known about the risk of SJS but did not include a sufficient warning on the product’s label.
- Marketed the drug in a way that downplayed its serious risks.
These cases require a detailed investigation into the drug’s history, the company’s internal documents, and the medical facts of your diagnosis.
Pursuing Compensation for Your SJS-Related Losses
The physical, emotional, and financial toll of SJS can be immense. For many Oklahomans, from the bustling streets of Oklahoma City to the quiet communities near the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, a diagnosis means a long and difficult road to recovery. A successful legal claim can provide financial compensation to help ease these burdens.
An experienced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer can help you pursue compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: This covers everything from your initial hospitalization and burn unit care to future treatments, reconstructive surgeries, and ongoing therapy.
- Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity: If you were unable to work during your recovery or if the long-term effects of SJS prevent you from returning to your previous job, you can seek compensation for that lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: This compensates you for the significant physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life caused by SJS.
This financial support can be vital for rebuilding your life and securing the care you need for the future.
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Oklahoma SJS FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about SJS legal claims.
What is the first step I should take if I suspect my SJS was caused by a medication?
The most important first step is to seek immediate medical care. After your health is stable, you can consider speaking with a legal professional. It is helpful to gather any medical records related to your diagnosis and treatment, as well as a list of all medications you were taking before the symptoms began.
How long do I have to file a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawsuit in Oklahoma?
Every state has a time limit for filing personal injury claims, known as the statute of limitations. In Oklahoma, under Oklahoma Statutes Title 12 § 95, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. It is important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss this critical deadline.
Can I file a claim if the medication that caused SJS was a generic brand?
Yes, it is often possible to file a claim regardless of whether the medication was a brand-name or generic version. The legal arguments may differ slightly, but manufacturers of both types of drugs have a responsibility to ensure their products are safe and properly labeled.
What if I don't know which medication caused my SJS reaction?
It is very common not to know which specific drug was the trigger, especially if you were taking multiple medications. An experienced legal team can work with medical professionals to review your records and help pinpoint the most likely cause of your condition.
How much does it cost to hire an Oklahoma Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer?
Most personal injury law firms, including Greg Jones Law, handle SJS cases on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront fees to hire the lawyer. The firm’s legal fees are paid as a percentage of the total compensation that is recovered on your behalf. If you do not receive a settlement or award, you do not owe any attorney fees.
our resources on Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
Contact Greg Jones Law for a Free Consultation
Dealing with the effects of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a difficult journey, but you do not have to seek justice on your own. At Greg Jones Law, our SJS lawyers are here to provide the support and legal advocacy you need to hold negligent pharmaceutical companies accountable. We understand the complexities of these cases and are prepared to stand up for your rights.
If you or a family member in Oklahoma has been diagnosed with SJS or TEN after taking medication, please reach out to our team. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explain your legal options. Let us help you pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call Greg Jones Law today at (910) 251-2240 or through our online form to get started.
Greg Jones
Founder
Greg Jones is the founder of Greg Jones Law, P.A. and is licensed to practice law in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Texas. He has offices in both North Carolina and Puerto Rico often associating with other top trial lawyers across the nation in order to get his clients the best representation possible.
He focuses his practice on plaintiff personal injury litigation involving product liability claims against pharmaceuticals and medical device manufacturers. He is an active member in a number of local, state and national trial lawyers associations and frequently travels to conferences and lectures, where he consults with other attorneys regarding personal injury representation.
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