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06 Sep, 2024 by Chase
For more than 20 years, I’ve been a criminal defense trial lawyer. For over 15 years I’ve known Scott and I regularly refer personal injury cases to him. As a lawyer, referring clients to another lawyer is a big deal. In essence, you are placing your reputation on the line when you send a client to another lawyer. Scott always delivers great results for his clients. Scott is honestly the most organized and efficient attorney I’ve ever met. In addition, he is relentless in his dedication to obtain the best result for his clients. Frankly, he is magician with insurance adjusters. He seems to have some kind of instinct that tells him what the insurance companies need in order to pay large settlements. If you want someone that is going to get the most money for you, call Scott. If you want a lawyer that will keep you informed about the status of your case without you having to ask him, call Scott. If you want a lawyer that has integrity and that his word means something, call Scott. I’ll end with this…I honestly can not count how many people I’ve referred to Scott over the years. I’m certain it’s more than 20 people. In every matter, my clients called me after Scott completed their case to tell me “thank you” for referring them to Scott. You will not find anyone better to handle your personal injury case.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Julia
Scott was an incredible attorney who guided me through every step of my car accident and insurance claim. His expertise and dedication made the entire process smooth and stress-free. If you're dealing with an accident, don't try to handle it yourself—let Scott take the reins. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain with him on your side! Thank you, Scott!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jeff
Attorney Scott Soutullo did a great job on my personal injury case. Communication was good. He was professional and courteous. He was timely. Very knowledgeable. He was able to secure us a settlement triple what I had anticipated. I would definitely use him again and recommend him to others.
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13 Mar, 2019 by Sheryl
David listened to me, understood my situation and advised me what was best for me. Didn't sugar coat but had my best interest. He is an experienced, knowledgeable lawyer who takes his time talking to you to get all the facts. Christi is amazing too. I highly recommend!
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15 Jan, 2019 by Bruce
David Vaughn is by far a gem in the rough. He actually listens to you, is interested in doing what is best for you and tells you how it is. He doesnt waste your time, if he cant help with something he knows someone who can, but in my case he has always been able to assist me. I use David for everything!
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14 Mar, 2015 by Douglas
I have known David Vaughn for 15 years and have consulted with him on a number of consumer related matters. While my clients issues generally concern mortgage and real estate matters, many have sought his assistance on Wills, Trusts and Estate issues, a wide range of consumer related issues as well as personal injury. David is also an expert on personal and business related bankruptcy. His 36 years of practice and trial experience, his easy going personal manner and command of the law, makes him an excellent choice as anyone's family lawyer! You won't see David on any high pressure television ad, on the top of an 18 wheeler or on the back page ad on the phone book, because he simply doesn't advertise in that manner. His best source of advertising is referrals from clients and colleagues as evidenced by his many years of successful practice. So, when it comes to any legal matter, trust not only an attorney's knowledge of the law, but practical experience because in the end experience matters!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Julie achimon
Ms. Simmons represented an employee of ours on a fraudulent Worker's Comp claim. The employee was found on the floor at his house in the middle of the night, drunk and high, with a ruptured spleen. He was taken to the hospital where he told the Dr that he didn't know what happened. The employee had previously been very sick, throwing up a lot at work, and was an alcoholic and chronic drug user (all things that can cause an enlarged or ruptured spleen). He had complications with recovery and additional surgeries were required. He was seen at multiple hospitals with no health insurance. We remained in contact with him for about 6 mos, checking on him weekly. He begged us for financial help during that time, telling us that he was trying to get back to work as soon as possible. We try to help those around us in need, and continued to give him hundreds of dollars a week out of our personal pockets to buy groceries, and we paid him unearned vacation time through the business (thousands in total). As his medical bills started to pile up and he couldn't get back to work, he concocted a story about a workplace injury, which was never reported to us. The first we heard about any claim of a supposed workplace injury was when Ms. Simmons filed a lawsuit against us. When we first met this employee years ago, he had a criminal history and we bailed him out of jail on multiple occasions. His good friend, who has been our best employee for over 15 years, asked us to please give him a chance at a job, as we were all trying to get him on the right path. After we caught him lying about his hours worked, we fired him. He filed a fraudulent unemployment claim, lying about why he was out of work. The claim was denied after an investigation. A couple of years later, he came back begging us again for a job. Against our better judgement, we forgave him and offered him a second chance at a job. Here we are now. After his medical bills were piling up and he couldn't get back to work and hospitals started to refuse to see him, he concocted a story about getting hit in the abdomen at work, even though he worked the whole day of the supposed incident normally (and the next day) and didn't report anything to his boss. It's my understanding that if you do have an injury to your spleen, it is an emergency situation that requires an immediate response. He wouldn't have been able to finish working the day normally and not have a problem until a day or 2 later. We advised Ms. Simmons and one of her colleagues about the suspicious facts surrounding this case, but really all that she was concerned about was getting herself a paycheck. We have had a couple of legitimate workplace injuries over the years and we have always helped our employees through those situations, working closely with our Worker's Comp carrier through the proper processes, the first of which is to report the incident to us at the time it happens. Due to Ms. Simmons bullying behavior and the fact that our WC company did not want to have to pay an attorney to defend this case, they agreed to settle for $50,000. Of course, Ms. Simmons got a chunk of that. And now our monthly WC premiums are higher. But guess who didn't get paid anything? That's right- the hospital and the Dr who saved her client's life in the middle of the night and continued to see him for month's afterwards. Her client has already squandered all the money he was given and has started contacting us again, begging us to help him out more. We tried to do some good deeds and get him straightened out, but Ms. Simmons made sure that our good deeds did not go unpunished. My family has had 3 generations of lawyers and judges in Baldwin County, and I am so proud of their reputation. Unfortunately, Ms. Simmons gives the profession a bad name. We plan to file an ethics complaint with the Alabama Bar Association due to her complicit behavior in assisting a person with a history of filing fraudulent claims commit insurance fraud, which is a crime.
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07 Dec, 2021 by Stephen
Mrs Simmons is very confident and helpful with every aspect of my case. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to represent me in my workman’s comp case
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01 Dec, 2021 by Theresa meier
Lindsey was always there for me no matter what I needed( even when she was sick) . When she moved south I was worried but she was still there by my side. She treated me like family and I appreciate her and Robin so much!
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13 Jan, 2024 by Rod buvens
Mr. Pittman attempted to use his "local influence" and that he "knows all the lawyers and judges" to get away with not paying an invoice for money that he knows that he owes. Bar complaint filed.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Carla gray
Mr. Pittman Represents the HOA that I am a member of. He was very unprofessional tonight to several members including myself. If you are looking for a professional attorney please don’t waste your time reaching out to him. He displayed poor people skills tonight . One of the worst speakers I have ever had that listen to.
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27 Mar, 2022 by Aaron ray
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21 May, 2021 by Rebecca
Brian Chunn talks a good game but does not deliver. If you need someone who's tough and will fight for you, Brian Chunn is definitely not the lawyer for you. Worst mistake I've ever made.
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What a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do for You

A personal injury lawyer specializes in helping individuals who have been physically or emotionally injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another party. Whether you've been hurt in a car accident, suffered a slip and fall, or experienced medical malpractice, a personal injury attorney works to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. They can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.

Personal injury lawyers act as your advocate, navigating the legal system on your behalf and dealing with insurance companies to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. They understand how to handle complex legal matters and help you avoid common pitfalls.

When Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial in many situations where you've been harmed due to another's negligence. Some key scenarios include:

  • Severe injuries: If you've suffered significant or permanent injuries that result in substantial medical bills, a lawyer can help ensure you are fairly compensated.
  • Long-term or permanent disability: Injuries that affect your ability to work or require ongoing medical treatment are complex, and a lawyer can help estimate long-term damages.
  • Disputed liability: If the responsible party or their insurance company denies liability for your injury, a lawyer can gather evidence and advocate on your behalf.
  • Insurance company lowball offers: Insurers often try to settle personal injury claims for as little as possible. A lawyer can negotiate to get you a fair settlement.
  • Medical malpractice claims: Injuries caused by a doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider due to negligence require a personal injury lawyer experienced in medical malpractice law.
  • Exposure to hazardous substances: If you've been injured due to exposure to toxins, chemicals, or dangerous substances, a lawyer can help pursue legal action.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process is crucial, especially if you're unsure of the full extent of your injuries or damages.

What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do?

A personal injury lawyer provides a wide range of services to guide you through the legal process and maximize your compensation. They can:

  • Evaluate your case: A lawyer will assess the strength of your claim and determine whether you have a viable case.
  • Investigate the incident: Gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions is key to building a strong case.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies: Lawyers handle communications with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement and aren't taken advantage of.
  • File a lawsuit if necessary: If a fair settlement can't be reached, the lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.
  • Help calculate damages: This includes medical expenses, lost wages, future medical needs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
  • Prepare and file legal documents: Lawyers handle all the paperwork and deadlines associated with your case, including filing motions and discovery requests.
  • Represent you at trial: If your case goes to trial, the lawyer will argue your case before a judge and jury to obtain the compensation you deserve.

How Are Personal Injury Lawyers Paid?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case, either through settlement or a court judgment. Here’s how it works:

  • Contingency fee percentage: The lawyer will take a percentage of the settlement or award, typically between 25% and 40%, depending on the complexity of the case and the stage at which it's resolved.
  • Costs and expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, the lawyer may deduct other costs associated with the case, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and court costs. These expenses are often advanced by the lawyer and repaid out of the settlement.
  • No upfront payment: Since the lawyer’s fee is contingent on winning, you usually don’t pay anything upfront.

Always discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to avoid surprises.

How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer depends on the specifics of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure. However, since most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, the amount you pay will depend on the outcome of your case. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Contingency fees: Typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award. The percentage may increase if the case goes to trial or requires an appeal.
  • Other costs: In addition to the lawyer's fee, you may be responsible for case-related expenses such as expert witness fees, medical record retrieval fees, and court costs. These are often deducted from your settlement, so you won't have to pay out of pocket.

While the cost may seem high, hiring an experienced lawyer can significantly increase the amount you recover, making it a worthwhile investment.

Top Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer

Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, it's essential to ask questions to ensure you’re choosing the right representation. Here are some important questions to ask:

  1. What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award.
  3. How long will my case take?
    While it's hard to predict, a lawyer can give you an estimate based on similar cases they’ve handled.
  4. How often do you take cases to trial?
    Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary.
  5. Will you personally handle my case?
    In larger firms, junior lawyers or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it's important to know who will be managing your claim.
  6. Do you have references from past clients?
    Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insight into the lawyer’s effectiveness and professionalism.

How to Check the Credibility of a Personal Injury Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a credible personal injury lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Check bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any history of disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Online platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and Google reviews can provide insight into the lawyer's reputation and client satisfaction.
  • Look at their track record: Review their experience with personal injury cases, particularly how many cases they’ve successfully resolved or taken to trial.
  • Ask for references: Credible lawyers should be willing to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their work.
  • Check professional memberships: Lawyers who are members of respected organizations, like the American Association for Justice (AAJ), often have a solid reputation in the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer, prepare the following:

  • Detailed account of the accident: Write down everything you remember about the incident, including dates, times, and locations. Include any witnesses or police reports if available.
  • Medical records and bills: Bring any documentation of your injuries, treatments, and associated medical costs.
  • Insurance information: Provide your insurance details and any communication you’ve had with the other party’s insurance company.
  • Employment and income records: If your injury has impacted your ability to work, bring proof of lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
  • Photos or videos: If you have photos of the accident scene, your injuries, or property damage, bring them to your consultation.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions to ask, including how the lawyer will handle your case and what you can expect in terms of timeline and outcome.

By preparing thoroughly for your first consultation, you’ll help the lawyer understand your case more quickly and get a better sense of your legal options.

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