Research library

Medical Malpractice Evidence Guides

Learn what different records can show, what to cross-check, and how to preserve the source file.

Updated: August 11, 2026

Core medical records

Charts, billing, pharmacy, calls, discharge material, and witness information.

Medical Records ChecklistCharts, notes, orders, medication records, imaging, and billing.Billing RecordsCharges, procedures, dates, and care providers.Pharmacy RecordsDispensing history and medication labels.Call Logs And MessagesPortal messages, nurse lines, and scheduling.Discharge InstructionsReturn precautions, follow-up, and medication orders.Witness NotesFamily observations, names, and time-stamped details.Photos And VideosInjury photos, wound progression, and device images.

Procedure and monitoring records

Operative, anesthesia, medication, fetal monitoring, device, and care-plan records.

Operative ReportProcedure details, complications, and post-op plan.Anesthesia RecordAirway, medications, vitals, and recovery notes.Medication Administration RecordMar review for timing, dose, and administration.Fetal Monitoring StripHeart rate patterns and delivery timing.Device LogsPump, monitor, implant, and equipment records.Care PlanFall risk, pressure injury prevention, and monitoring.

Testing, findings, and later review

Radiology, lab results, second opinions, and expert-review organization.

Radiology ReportFindings, report summary, addenda, and follow-up.Lab Result TimelineAbnormal values, result timing, and provider notice.Second OpinionMedical review and treatment path questions.Expert Review PackageWhat to organize before attorney review.

Death and internal-event records

Autopsy, death certificate, and incident-report questions.

Autopsy ReportWrongful death review and cause questions.Death CertificateCause, timing, and supporting records.Incident ReportInternal hospital reports and discovery questions.