Superior Court Chief Justice Robert Lynn is seeking help to revamp the medical malpractice screening process. His recent report on the implementation of the screening panel process for medical malpractice cases created by RSA 519-B, enumerates ways that the law is falling short of its goal two years after its enactment. His report provides figures on the number of cases filed and dispositions, but does not provide any written comment.

Comparing fiscal years 2008 to 2007, Lynn’s figures show the amount of time from the filing until disposition by a panel or by settlement is rising, and the number of cases awaiting hearings also is growing due to the lengthiness of the process.

Chief Justice Lynn is inviting attorneys involved in medical malpractice cases and retired judges who serve as chairs of screening panels to an informal meeting on Jan. 8, 2009 to explore changes in procedure to improve the process.

Committee May Be Formed to Look at Med Mal Screening Rules by Hon. Robert J. Lynn

Malpractice Screening Panel Data Confirms Opponents’ Fears by Kevin F. Dugan