Q: What is the "standard of care"?

A: In Virginia, the "standard of care" is defined by statute. The "standard of care by which the acts or omissions [alleged malpractice] are to be judged shall be that degree of skill and diligence practiced by a reasonably prudent practitioner in the field of practice or specialty in this Commonwealth. . . . " Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-581.20. The specific standard of care at the time the alleged malpractice was committed is established by expert witness testimony.