Ep102: Getting Sued as a Doctor: Malpractice Lawsuits, Legal Strategy & Expert witness work with Dr. Stephen Cohen

Welcome back to the Finding Financial Freedom Podcast with Dr. Disha Spath. Today’s episode features a powerful and insightful conversation with Dr. Stephen Cohen—a seasoned physician and educator who’s been through the highs and lows of a medical career, including facing legal challenges head-on.

In this episode, we go deep into what it really means to be a doctor under legal fire. Dr. Cohen shares hard-earned wisdom on handling lawsuits, building emotional resilience, and maintaining clarity under pressure. This conversation is both grounding and empowering for every physician who fears or is currently facing litigation.

Key Topics Covered:

1. How to Emotionally Navigate a Lawsuit

• The emotional toll of being sued—and why it mirrors the five stages of grief.
• How to move from panic and shame to growth and acceptance.

2. Practical Tips for Physicians Facing Legal Action

• The power of community, mentorship, and legal education.
• What to do first when you’re served with a lawsuit.

3. Supervision and Liability

• What physicians in leadership roles need to know about autonomy and responsibility.
• How to protect yourself legally when overseeing others.

4. Becoming a Resilient Physician

• How to stay grounded when your identity feels shaken by legal or professional setbacks.

Listener Takeaways:

• How to reframe lawsuits as part of the medical journey—not a personal failure.
• Why it’s crucial to separate your worth from your wins and losses in court.
• How to build legal literacy and emotional resilience early in your career.

Connect with Us:

Host: Dr. Disha Spath, The Frugal Physician
Guest: Stephen M. Cohen, MD, MBA

 

If you're a physician striving for more than just financial security—if you're seeking joy, alignment, and meaning—this episode is your roadmap.