Michigan Attorneys for Catastrophic Spine & Paralysis Injuries
A spinal cord injury is one of the most devastating injuries a person can suffer. In an instant, negligence can permanently change how someone moves, works, breathes, or lives independently. When a spinal cord injury is caused by medical malpractice, unsafe conditions, or another preventable act, victims and their families deserve answers — and accountability.
At Hoffer & Sheremet, our Grand Rapids spinal cord injury lawyers represent individuals throughout Kent County and West Michigan who have suffered catastrophic spinal injuries due to negligence. We focus on serious, life-altering injury cases and fight for the full compensation our clients will need for a lifetime of care.
Click here, or call today, to start your free, confidential consultation.
What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
The Mayo Clinic describes a spinal cord injury as damage to a part of the spinal cord. More specifically, a spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when trauma, compression, or lack of oxygen damages the spinal cord or its nerve pathways. Because the spinal cord controls movement, sensation, and organ function, injuries can cause permanent disability below the level of injury.
Spinal cord injuries are often classified as:
-
Complete injuries – total loss of motor and sensory function below the injury
-
Incomplete injuries – partial preservation of movement or sensation
-
Paraplegia – paralysis of the lower body
-
Quadriplegia (tetraplegia) – paralysis of all four limbs and torso
Even so-called “minor” spinal injuries can worsen over time if not properly diagnosed and treated.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Michigan
Our firm handles spinal cord injury cases arising from many forms of negligence, including:
Medical Negligence
-
Delayed diagnosis of spinal cord compression
-
Surgical errors during spine or neck surgery
-
Failure to immobilize the spine after trauma
-
Missed epidural abscesses, hematomas, or infections
-
Improper anesthesia positioning or intubation injuries
Birth & Neonatal Injuries
-
Traumatic delivery causing cervical spine injury
-
Oxygen deprivation affecting the spinal cord
-
Improper use of delivery instruments
If negligence played a role you may have a valid spinal cord injury claim under Michigan law.
Signs and Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries are medical emergencies. Warning signs include:
-
Sudden paralysis or weakness
-
Loss of sensation or numbness
-
Severe neck or back pain
-
Difficulty breathing
-
Loss of bowel or bladder control
-
Abnormal reflexes or muscle spasticity
Delayed diagnosis or treatment can dramatically worsen outcomes, which is why many SCI cases involve medical malpractice.
Compensation Available in a Michigan Spinal Cord Injury Case
Spinal cord injury cases often involve substantial damages because the effects are permanent and life-long. Compensation may include:
-
Past and future medical expenses
-
Rehabilitation and therapy
-
In-home nursing and attendant care
-
Wheelchairs, adaptive equipment, and home modifications
-
Lost income and future earning capacity
-
Pain and suffering
-
Loss of independence and enjoyment of life
-
Wrongful death damages (when applicable)
Michigan law limits certain damages in medical malpractice cases — but economic damages are not capped, and proper case development is critical.
Why Spinal Cord Injury Cases Require Experienced Trial Lawyers
Spinal cord injury cases are complex, expensive, and aggressively defended. Hospitals, insurance companies, and corporate defendants fight hard to limit exposure.
At Hoffer & Sheremet, we:
-
Focus on catastrophic injury and medical malpractice cases
-
Work with top medical experts and life-care planners
-
Understand Michigan damage caps and procedural requirements
-
Prepare every case as if it will go to trial
We do not handle high-volume cases. We take cases where the injuries are severe and the stakes are high — because that’s where experience matters most.
Michigan Statute of Limitations for Spinal Cord Injury Cases
Strict deadlines apply in Michigan:
-
Medical malpractice cases generally must be filed within 2 years
-
Notice of Intent (NOI) requirements apply before filing suit
-
Other injury claims may have different limitation periods
Failing to act on time can permanently bar your claim. Speaking with a Grand Rapids spinal cord injury lawyer early protects your rights and preserves evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Cord Injury Claims
How much is a spinal cord injury case worth?
It depends on the severity of the injury, future care needs, and how the injury occurred.
Can I sue if the injury happened in a hospital?
Yes. If doctors, nurses, or staff failed to properly diagnose, treat, or protect the spine, you may have a medical malpractice claim.
What if the injury worsened because of delayed treatment?
Delayed diagnosis and failure to intervene are common grounds for spinal cord injury lawsuits and can significantly increase liability.
How much does it cost to hire Hoffer & Sheremet?
Nothing up front. We handle spinal cord injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Speak With a Grand Rapids Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one suffered a spinal cord injury in Grand Rapids or anywhere in West Michigan, and you believe negligence played a role, we can help you understand your legal options.
Contact Hoffer & Sheremet today for a free, confidential consultation.
There is no obligation — just answers.