Do I have a case?
There are four major issues that help determine if you have a case.
- 1. Liability. What happened, how did it happen, where did it happen. In other words, who has liability, who is responsible.
- 2. What is your injury, how serious and what are the consequences.
- 3. What is the value of the case.
- 4. How will it be compensated.
How quickly do I have to make a claim?
Don’t rush it. Get proper medical care and follow your doctor’s directions. Usually you have 2 years to file your claim. There are some exceptions. For example, if a public entity is involved, Caltrans for example, you have to file a claim within 6 months. However, you should seek competent legal help right away to ensure that evidence is not lost, such as a vehicle. In car crashes for example there may be multiple causes that contribute to serious injuries, things like driver error, the safety of the vehicles, and the safety of the roadway. Thorough investigation should be done, over and above police reports.
Should I talk to the insurance company?
No. If they contact you do not talk with them, tell them to put all communication in writing. The interpretation of case by an insurance company may be different than our interpretation.
What is my case worth?
There are several ways to determine the amount of money likely.
- 1. What juries have been saying in similar cases.
- 2. The severity of damages, both special damages and general damages, including pain and suffering currently and in the future.
- 3. What is called “the range of reasonableness?” And that is where a good attorney is necessary, to be effective in determining reasonableness and to maximize the value for you.
How do you decide if you’ll take my case?
First and foremost we determine if we can help you. Some claims do not need us, there is no need for a lawyer. So we determine if we can help you, help improve your legal case and maximize the value for you.
How do you work with your clients?
Our policy is to treat our clients as a whole person. In other words, we listen. We are concerned about the well-being of our clients, not only the technical legal components of your injuries.
