Las Vegas Children & Minors Injury Attorneys

In legal terms, a minor injury refers to any physical, emotional, or psychological harm suffered by an individual under the age of 18. It can arise from various situations such as car accidents, school incidents, medical malpractice, or abuse.

Claims for minors are unique: for a child’s own injury claim the time before the child turns 18 does not count toward the deadline (NRS 11.250), a settlement of the child’s disputed money claim needs court approval, and a guardian must represent the minor’s interests. Different deadlines and exceptions can apply, so confirm the date that governs your child’s claim rather than assuming the longer window is available. Additionally, the long-term developmental impact and future care needs are heavily considered in minor claims.

Common institutions held liable include schools, daycare centers, medical facilities, or any other entity responsible for the child’s safety at the time of the incident. Where the institution is a public school or another arm of the State or a local government, the claim is limited by statute: no action may be based on a failure to inspect a building or other public work, facility or improvement for hazards, whether or not there is a duty to inspect, or on a failure to discover a hazard, whether or not an inspection is made (NRS 41.033), or on the exercise or failure to exercise a discretionary function, whether or not the discretion is abused (NRS 41.032), and an award is capped at $200,000 per claimant with no punitive damages (NRS 41.035).

Settlements in minor injury cases are often structured to provide long-term financial support, with funds placed in trust or structured settlements to ensure they are used for the child’s benefit.

A guardian acts on behalf of the minor, ensuring their rights are protected, and pursuing a claim to secure their future needs. They are responsible for making legal decisions and managing the settlement funds to the minor’s benefit.

Courts ensure minors’ interests are protected by reviewing and approving settlement agreements, overseeing the management of settlement funds, and ensuring guardians or representatives act in the minor’s best interest.

With a wealth of experience in minor injury cases and a strong community involvement, we are committed to fighting for the long-term well-being of your child, and we will investigate the claim and pursue any compensation that may be available under the facts and the law.

It’s advisable to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the incident. Early legal intervention can ensure evidence is preserved, and the claim is properly initiated, providing a stronger foundation for the case.

Our team engages medical and educational experts to evaluate and document the long-term needs of your child, and we advocate for those needs in the claim. Before anything is agreed, we will explain the options for how any compensation would be held and used for your child.

We prioritize clear communication, providing step-by-step guidance throughout the legal process. Our team takes on the legal burden, allowing families to focus on their child’s recovery and well-being.