Profile
Samantha Shatz guides clients through medical malpractice cases with compassion and care
She helps clients navigate the overwhelming world of medical malpractice litigation
Samantha Shatz is a partner in the medical malpractice group at Howie, Sacks & Henry LLP. She acts for victims and their families who have suffered as a result of medical and hospital negligence. A large part of her practice involves obstetrical negligence, where she works with young children who have been severely injured at birth. Her attention to detail and responsiveness to clients have made her a formidable advocate in complex cases.
What can a client expect when they hire you?
Medical malpractice cases are inherently complex, involving lengthy and detailed medical records, expert opinions and lengthy timelines. My job is to shoulder that complexity, so my clients don’t have to. I keep them informed and prepare them for what lies ahead. While I cannot take away what they have been through, I can provide clarity, guidance and strong advocacy.
What sets you apart from other lawyers?
I think it’s a combination of empathy and practicality. In my view, clients need a lawyer who can distill the complexities of litigation and help them make informed decisions with confidence.
I also pride myself on being accessible and responsive. I do not believe clients should feel intimidated by their lawyer or left wondering what is happening with their case. I approach every file knowing there is a person and a family behind it. I treat each client with the compassion, honesty and respect that I would want for my own loved ones.
What is the biggest misconception about your work?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that medical malpractice cases are about blaming doctors, nurses or other healthcare providers for bad outcomes. The reality is that medicine is nuanced, and not every complication or unexpected result is due to negligence.
Medical malpractice cases pursue accountability when the accepted standard of care has not been met, and a patient has been harmed as a result. Before a case can proceed, it requires a careful review of medical records and independent expert opinions to first determine whether that standard was breached.
What advice would you give to a new lawyer at the start of a legal career?
To always remember that the practice of personal injury litigation is ultimately about people who have often experienced immeasurable hardship. Develop an ability to communicate clearly and compassionately. Clients need someone who can manage expectations honestly and make them feel heard.
What is your favourite article of clothing?
My Western Law School sweater! Even after 10 years, it is still one of my favourite items to lounge in.
Samantha Shatz is available to meet with potential clients or discuss referrals in cases that may involve a medical malpractice claim.
Contact her today
Howie, Sacks & Henry
At Howie, Sacks & Henry we only practise personal injury law. And it shows. With more than 40 years experience, our dedication to handle serious personal injury cases with compassion, professionalism, and expertise has made us one of Canada’s top personal injury law firms, as ranked by our peers in Canadian Lawyer Magazine. We are one of the very few firms which has appeared on every list. Know the name you can trust: many of our clients come to us from other lawyers who trust our experience.