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Before a patient can receive crucial treatment for an illness or injury, the medical provider must first make a prompt, accurate diagnosis of the patient’s condition. Sadly, a study of critically ill patients from medical facilities across the country revealed that nearly 25% of respondents experienced a delay in the diagnosis of their illness. Three-quarters…

When we consider medical care, we think of procedures, bandages, medical tools, and injections. A less obvious but tremendously important aspect of patient care is medical record-keeping. While record-keeping occurs behind the scenes, it’s crucial to ensure safe and effective patient care. A medical record error, oversight, or omission can result in significant harm to…

CHICAGO – Smith LaCien LLP, a personal injury law firm, has once again been ranked by Best Lawyers in America® as a Best Law Firm® in 2026. Smith LaCien was recognized regionally as a Tier 1 firm in Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs; Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs; Aviation – Plaintiffs, Mass Tort Litigation/ Class…

Illinois is one of only 22 states that require uninsured motorist coverage (UM) as part of the standard minimum auto insurance package carried by all licensed drivers. This coverage offers many benefits that protect drivers after an accident in fault-based insurance states, such as Illinois. The state’s modified comparative negligence system under Illinois 735 ILCS…

Smith LaCien – Trial Lawyers LLP has been recognized in Jury Verdict Reporter’s annual Settlements Report as one of the Top 5 plaintiff’s injury law firms in 2025 with settlements of $96.5 million. Its largest settlement was for $30.5 million, awarded to the family of a construction worker who died from injuries sustained on the job….

A car accident is a frightening and traumatic experience, especially when it causes injuries as well as property damage to a vehicle. Once a car accident victim has recovered from their injuries, they usually want to put the accident behind them as soon as possible and move forward. Unfortunately, car accidents have legal consequences as…

CHICAGO, October 30, 2025 – Todd A. Smith, founding partner of Smith LaCien LLP, received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Jury Verdict Reporter and Law Bulletin Media at the organization’s annual awards ceremony and reception at the RPM Events space here on October 29. Law Bulletin Media, a Chicagoland publication, has documented jury verdicts for…

Sepsis was once known as “blood poisoning,” believed to be the result of infection spreading to the bloodstream and causing organ failure. Now, medical professionals have a better understanding of the body’s dynamics and the cause and stages of sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency.  According to the CDC, about 1.7 million people develop…