Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in selecting an attorney?
Before making the decision to hire an attorney, you should find out about the lawyer’s education, training, and experience and ask the lawyer to tell you about how he or she has represented clients in cases similar to yours. Ask the lawyer to go over the fee arrangement in detail with you and be sure you understand what the lawyer plans to do to represent you on your claim. Most importantly, the attorney-client relationship is one of trust. After meeting with this person, do you trust them to handle your case? Do you trust them to work hard for you? Do you trust them to put your interests first and treat you like they would want to be treated?
What do I need to bring with me on my first visit?
At your first visit you should bring all information you have regarding the incident; all medical bills in your possession; a list of all doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers with their addresses; and the last three years of tax returns, if you have lost wages as a result of the incident. You may be asked to bring additional information at the time your appointment is scheduled.
Will I have to pay a retainer fee to get the case started?
No. Our firm handles its cases on a contingent fee arrangement. This means that we do not get paid our costs or attorney’s fees until our client makes a recovery. All details of the fee and cost agreements will be explained to you in detail before we begin representing you or your claim.
Who pays for out-of-pocket expenses while my case is pending?
We do. When you retain our firm on a contingent fee basis, the out of pocket expenses necessary to effectively prosecute the case are only the client’s responsibility if we successfully conclude the case. While the case is pending we advance the expenses incurred in the course of the representation. If and when the case reaches a successful conclusion the costs expended are reimbursed to the firm out of the recovery.
If you take my case can you guarantee I will win?
No. You should be wary of any lawyer that would boast such a claim. Our reputation is based upon our effectiveness and the success the firm has had. The firm gives its best effort on behalf of each and every client that we represent. In spite of past performance, there can be no guaranteed results in a lawsuit or claim. Our clients can depend on the fact that we use our resources, experience, judgment, and dedicated commitment to our client to make sure that your case is thoroughly prepared and ready to prosecute through trial.
How long will it take to resolve my case?
Normally it takes one to three years to bring a case to conclusion. This time varies, however, because of many factors such as the number of parties involved, the complexity of the case, the number of depositions, the extent of the investigation needed, schedules, commitments of experts, the availability of the judge, etc. If the case is tried and a favorable verdict obtained, the defendant has a right to appeal. Appeal from a plaintiff’s verdict, whether in state or federal court, usually prolongs conclusion of the case for an additional 12 to 18 months following the trial results.
Will I have to attend court hearings?
There will be pre-trial court hearings in your case that you normally will not have to attend prior to the trial date. We do anticipate your deposition will be taken at which time you will be asked many questions concerning your background, the events surrounding the occurrence, and details of your injuries or damages by the other side’s attorney. If your presence is needed for any court hearing, you will be notified well in advance. We will also be able to give you at least several weeks’ notice of the trial date.
If a settlement offer is made, how will I know if it is fair and whether or not I should accept it?
Deciding whether to accept or reject an offer of settlement is often a difficult decision. Based on our experience and knowledge of results in similar cases, we can advise you of the advantages and disadvantages of going to trial vs. settling out of court. We do our best to always answer your questions so that you can decide whether a settlement offer is fair. The decision to settle, however, is always ultimately the client's decision.
What if I have questions during the litigation process or there are things I don’t understand?
This firm prides itself on keeping clients informed and we are available to answer client’s questions. We consider the client a part of the team and meaningful communication is important to make sure the claim is presented properly and effectively.

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