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A serious injury involving a child can significantly disrupt daily life faster than most families expect. Medical visits increase, school routines change, and families need to make decisions while emotions are still intense. If you are trying to understand what options exist, speaking with a Richmond child injury lawyer could help you better understand your situation and avoid mistakes that may be difficult to correct later.
A personal injury attorney from our firm could review how the injury happened, identify who may be legally responsible, and handle communications with insurance companies and opposing parties. Working with us also provides you with support for evidence-gathering, medical documentation, and long-term planning, while recognizing that the law does not guarantee an outcome and that every case depends on the specific circumstances.
In Virginia, children cannot bring injury claims on their own. These cases are usually filed by a parent or guardian acting on the child’s behalf. The law also adds extra safeguards. Certain settlements involving minors require court approval under Virginia Code § 8.01-424 to ensure the agreement truly serves the child’s interests.
Legal deadlines are another area where families can feel uncertain. State law generally allows two years to file a personal injury lawsuit under Virginia Code § 8.01-243(A). For minors, the law often pauses or tolls parts of that deadline during childhood under Virginia Code § 8.01-229(A)(1). Even so, delays can make a case harder to prove. Records disappear, witnesses move, and physical evidence changes. A child injury attorney in Richmond could explain how these time limits apply and why early action often matters.
Damages in child injury cases also differ from adult claims. Some losses relate directly to the child’s pain, treatment, or future limitations. Others involve expenses paid by parents or guardians. Managing these details early could help prevent confusion later in the process.
Child injuries often happen in places families trust, such as:
Attorneys handling these matters usually start with basic negligence principles, but state law adds important layers.
The state follows a strict contributory negligence standard. In adult cases, even minimal fault can bar recovery. In cases involving children, courts evaluate responsibility differently based on age and development. The legal system often presumes that very young children are incapable of negligence, while older children are judged by what is reasonable for someone of similar age and maturity. A Richmond attorney with experience in cases involving harm to minors could help you understand how courts apply these rules and identify potential defenses.
Early investigation often focuses on building a clear factual record, which could include:
Once this groundwork is in place, it becomes easier to assess potential damages and consider whether negotiation or litigation is the best option.
If you are facing questions after your child has been hurt, a Richmond child injury lawyer could provide clarity without pressure or unrealistic promises. Legal guidance could help you understand deadlines, evidence requirements, and what a reasonable resolution might look like under state law.
Our team at Latham & Martin could review the facts of your situation, explain available options, and help you decide what comes next. Unlike other firms that treat clients like a number, we provide personalized attention and provide case updates every month to ensure you are well-informed at every step. Call us today, and take a step toward protecting your child’s interests and restoring a sense of stability for your family.