In order to file a medical malpractice claim, plaintiffs in New Jersey must submit an affidavit of merit from a board-certified medical professional with expertise in the medical procedure at issue attesting that the care provided by the defendant fell outside acceptable professional standards. The affidavit of merit is designed to limit frivolous claims, and ensure that physicians are being justly accused of wrongdoing.

 

In order to enhance the affidavit of merit statute, NJCJI is supporting Asw. Pinkin’s (D-Edison) recently introduced bill, A3620. This legislation would clarify the circumstances under which the same-specialty requirement can be waived, and require that the affidavit be filed with the complaint.