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06 Dec, 2016 by Patricia
Erin Witte is a remarkable litigator. She made sure to always keep me up to date with what was going on with my case, regardless of how busy she was. She was very detailed in explaining my case to me. She also let me know what my status was before leaving the law firm. I appreciated that a lot.
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16 Apr, 2016 by Tom
Erin Witte proved to be extremely knowledgable in the specialized area of automobile fraud which was required by my case. Thanks to her expert familiarity with the applicable laws and options, thorough preparation, and persistent followup, we won our case and I was fully compensated for my losses. She was responsive to my inquires, kept me well informed, and helped me understand the path forward. I would call her again without hesitation.
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17 Mar, 2016 by Ruben
I was being sued by a collections company who was trying to capitalize on my dispute with a shoddy construction contractor I had been battling for years. Erin pursued my case with a relentless approach to fairness, forcing the collections company to drop the suit and resulting in the dismissal of the case. I could not thank Erin enough for helping to lift this weight off my shoulders.
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21 Feb, 2025 by Hilda rezola
Excelente la atención del abogado y de su asistente, muy agradecida por el servicio prestado.
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21 Feb, 2025 by Oscar lopez
Satisfecho y agradecido por el trabajo que el abogado iso. Muchaa gracias
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21 Feb, 2025 by Josué canales
Muy agradecido con el abogado contento con el trabajo del abogado y su asistente excelente
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30 Apr, 2024 by Ta ta
They failed so many clients and people. Also, why does Martin Schubert of this firm have to be such a crook and creepy?
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26 Oct, 2023 by Shelley bonneau
25 Oct, 2023 by Brittany prather
02 Jan, 2025 by Jaime singhal
Hiring this firm is better than no representation at all but I would think twice in hiring this firm if you have the funds to go elsewhere. This firm has hired lawyers struggling to maintain their good standing with the bar association and then the firm does not disclose that. Anything that could potentially affect a client's case should be disclosed and the firm not disclosing that is unethical. The firm has a poor mechanism for clients to make complaints and to also act on client complaints. The only person you will talk with is an office manager who has no authority to do anything. It's more like they have a person just to hear complaints so the owners of the firm don't have to deal with them. My whole time I hired this firm I felt like I needed to micromanage them. Its not ok for mail from the firm to be sent to the wrong address, for purge orders to be not filed, for clients to get emails and email communications for different clients that have nothing to do with your case, and info needed to be given to court to be not done in a timely manner or not done at all until the client has asked if it's been done. I'm sure the attorney I hired was a kind person and tried as hard as they could but I should have been informed of the situation so I understood how many micromanagings and check ins I needed to do. And the hourly rate for my situation was the same or higher than other legal staffers at the firm. My case had an overall positive outcome but there were errors made. Buyer beware when working with this firm!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Angela dodd
My name is Angela Marie Dodd. On 7/15 my former co-worker Mr. Hami, and I had what was supposed to be a consultation with Mr. Cook. This is a wrongful termination case for Mr. Hami. Mr. Hami is From Afghanistan. For those that are patient enough to listen to Mr. Hami, they would find that it is quite easy to understand what he is saying. However, that is not the case for most of the lawyers that we have had consultations with. This is the reason that I accompany Mr. Hami. I do not speak Persian; but I understand what he is saying. I also worked at the same place; and held the same position as Mr. Hami.
I was very disturbed by Mr. Cook's attitude and conduct towards myself, and Mr. Hami during our conversation on 7/15. July 15th was the first time that we met Mr. Cook on the phone. This was an Initial conversation. There was no prior discussion between us about anything. The only prior information that Mr. Cook had about Mr. Hami was that he had been given the right sue by EEOC.
Having the right to sue from EEOC meant that we were successful in proving to EEOC that some form of discrimination occurred towards Mr. Hami by his former employer. Somehow after asking Mr. Hami two questions about the form of discrimination that Mr. Hami received from his former employer; and having zero information about the details of the actual case; Mr. Cook was able to concluded that Mr. Hami would not be able to afford the $100,000 that it was going to cost to receive legal representation from him. Even after I stepped in and told Mr. Cook that Mr. Hami could afford to retain him; Mr. Cook insisted that Mr. Hami could not. Mr. Cook advised us to seek a lawyer that offered contingency services; and then without ever hearing any details of the actual case - told us that he would not be able to take on the case. What level of discrimination is this?
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06 May, 2024 by Ashley rose
If you are looking for attorneys that actually care, this is your team. Professional and knowledgeable.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Jaime singhal
Hiring this firm is better than no representation at all but I would think twice in hiring this firm if you have the funds to go elsewhere. This firm has hired lawyers struggling to maintain their good standing with the bar association and then the firm does not disclose that. Anything that could potentially affect a client's case should be disclosed and the firm not disclosing that is unethical. The firm has a poor mechanism for clients to make complaints and to also act on client complaints. The only person you will talk with is an office manager who has no authority to do anything. It's more like they have a person just to hear complaints so the owners of the firm don't have to deal with them. My whole time I hired this firm I felt like I needed to micromanage them. Its not ok for mail from the firm to be sent to the wrong address, for purge orders to be not filed, for clients to get emails and email communications for different clients that have nothing to do with your case, and info needed to be given to court to be not done in a timely manner or not done at all until the client has asked if it's been done. I'm sure the attorney I hired was a kind person and tried as hard as they could but I should have been informed of the situation so I understood how many micromanagings and check ins I needed to do. And the hourly rate for my situation was the same or higher than other legal staffers at the firm. My case had an overall positive outcome but there were errors made. Buyer beware when working with this firm!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Angela dodd
My name is Angela Marie Dodd. On 7/15 my former co-worker Mr. Hami, and I had what was supposed to be a consultation with Mr. Cook. This is a wrongful termination case for Mr. Hami. Mr. Hami is From Afghanistan. For those that are patient enough to listen to Mr. Hami, they would find that it is quite easy to understand what he is saying. However, that is not the case for most of the lawyers that we have had consultations with. This is the reason that I accompany Mr. Hami. I do not speak Persian; but I understand what he is saying. I also worked at the same place; and held the same position as Mr. Hami.
I was very disturbed by Mr. Cook's attitude and conduct towards myself, and Mr. Hami during our conversation on 7/15. July 15th was the first time that we met Mr. Cook on the phone. This was an Initial conversation. There was no prior discussion between us about anything. The only prior information that Mr. Cook had about Mr. Hami was that he had been given the right sue by EEOC.
Having the right to sue from EEOC meant that we were successful in proving to EEOC that some form of discrimination occurred towards Mr. Hami by his former employer. Somehow after asking Mr. Hami two questions about the form of discrimination that Mr. Hami received from his former employer; and having zero information about the details of the actual case; Mr. Cook was able to concluded that Mr. Hami would not be able to afford the $100,000 that it was going to cost to receive legal representation from him. Even after I stepped in and told Mr. Cook that Mr. Hami could afford to retain him; Mr. Cook insisted that Mr. Hami could not. Mr. Cook advised us to seek a lawyer that offered contingency services; and then without ever hearing any details of the actual case - told us that he would not be able to take on the case. What level of discrimination is this?
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06 May, 2024 by Ashley rose
If you are looking for attorneys that actually care, this is your team. Professional and knowledgeable.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Jaime singhal
Hiring this firm is better than no representation at all but I would think twice in hiring this firm if you have the funds to go elsewhere. This firm has hired lawyers struggling to maintain their good standing with the bar association and then the firm does not disclose that. Anything that could potentially affect a client's case should be disclosed and the firm not disclosing that is unethical. The firm has a poor mechanism for clients to make complaints and to also act on client complaints. The only person you will talk with is an office manager who has no authority to do anything. It's more like they have a person just to hear complaints so the owners of the firm don't have to deal with them. My whole time I hired this firm I felt like I needed to micromanage them. Its not ok for mail from the firm to be sent to the wrong address, for purge orders to be not filed, for clients to get emails and email communications for different clients that have nothing to do with your case, and info needed to be given to court to be not done in a timely manner or not done at all until the client has asked if it's been done. I'm sure the attorney I hired was a kind person and tried as hard as they could but I should have been informed of the situation so I understood how many micromanagings and check ins I needed to do. And the hourly rate for my situation was the same or higher than other legal staffers at the firm. My case had an overall positive outcome but there were errors made. Buyer beware when working with this firm!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Angela dodd
My name is Angela Marie Dodd. On 7/15 my former co-worker Mr. Hami, and I had what was supposed to be a consultation with Mr. Cook. This is a wrongful termination case for Mr. Hami. Mr. Hami is From Afghanistan. For those that are patient enough to listen to Mr. Hami, they would find that it is quite easy to understand what he is saying. However, that is not the case for most of the lawyers that we have had consultations with. This is the reason that I accompany Mr. Hami. I do not speak Persian; but I understand what he is saying. I also worked at the same place; and held the same position as Mr. Hami.
I was very disturbed by Mr. Cook's attitude and conduct towards myself, and Mr. Hami during our conversation on 7/15. July 15th was the first time that we met Mr. Cook on the phone. This was an Initial conversation. There was no prior discussion between us about anything. The only prior information that Mr. Cook had about Mr. Hami was that he had been given the right sue by EEOC.
Having the right to sue from EEOC meant that we were successful in proving to EEOC that some form of discrimination occurred towards Mr. Hami by his former employer. Somehow after asking Mr. Hami two questions about the form of discrimination that Mr. Hami received from his former employer; and having zero information about the details of the actual case; Mr. Cook was able to concluded that Mr. Hami would not be able to afford the $100,000 that it was going to cost to receive legal representation from him. Even after I stepped in and told Mr. Cook that Mr. Hami could afford to retain him; Mr. Cook insisted that Mr. Hami could not. Mr. Cook advised us to seek a lawyer that offered contingency services; and then without ever hearing any details of the actual case - told us that he would not be able to take on the case. What level of discrimination is this?
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06 May, 2024 by Ashley rose
If you are looking for attorneys that actually care, this is your team. Professional and knowledgeable.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Jacob pintar
26 Jan, 2024 by Tania hossain
Thank you Dylan Phillips at Chap Petersen & Associates for helping me with an incredibly difficult client situation. Your professionalism, incredible kindness and understanding is greatly appreciated as you walked me through next steps in resolving this client matter to my 1000% satisfaction. I am very thankful to Chap Petersen for taking my case. And incredibly grateful to Dylan for your hard work on behalf of my company.
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14 Sep, 2023 by Roni turker
I hired Chap Peterson for legal assistance, but unfortunately, my experience was far from satisfactory. Despite paying for their services, I did not receive the level of support and attention I expected. Communication was lacking, and it felt like my case was neglected. I'm disappointed with the overall experience.
Never expect that Chap is going to handle your case. You will face with couple un-experienced young employees. We had a deposition with other party and they didn’t even tell me the date.
On my first meeting with Chap and Chris, I explained them everything and never told them that the other party had damage to my business. Chap and Chris said no worry, since they break the contract we can still win the case . I ask them couple times when the case was continuing, are we still certain? Every single time , they said we are good, we will win the case.
After, I spend 20k-30k and 2-3 weeks before trial they called me and said there is no case because there is no damage to the business. I said I told you that from the beginning and you knew that why you start this case then?
Stay away from this company. They are going to get your money and will do the same thing.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I was referred to Broderick Dunn by a local attorney and friend, and she undoubtedly guided me to the right person. In a very emotional state, having been bullied and pushed out of my job after a long career, I found Mr. Dunn and his staff to be exceptional from start to finish.
From the initial intake to the conclusion of my case, the professionalism and responsiveness of Mr. Dunn and his knowledgeable staff were outstanding. Anytime I called or sent an email, I received prompt and thorough responses. Broderick was always there to listen and provide advice every step of the way.
It quickly became evident that I was going to have a successful outcome, and I did—thanks to Broderick Dunn. He was able to secure more than what we initially sought. I highly recommend him for his expertise and dedication.
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21 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I don’t recommend him. I was not happy with his lack of professionalism. I had to call and email so many times to get a response
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30 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Broderick represented me to swiftly resolve a noncompete restriction after I left my firm to join another. The firm had attempted to restrict me from doing business across multiple industries, globally. Broderick battled through two external law firms as well as two internal legal divisions of the firm to drive in months. He was swift, effective, and amazingly efficient in making sure a fair outcomes was reached and that I could go back to work. Just amazing!
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08 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney Frei for a family member. I was their POwer of Attorney. . I handled all aspects of helping to prepare a personal injury suit including settlement negotiations.
I was assured my expenses would be reimbursed. Upon settlement and an award of 875,000.00, I presented Attorney Frei my costs of 4,000.00. Not only did he not reimburse me, but he ignored emails and phone calls. I have no choice but to report him to the Virginia Bar
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31 Mar, 2015 by Tom
Our auto liability case just settled and we are happy that our representation was superior and exceeded our expectations. Steve and his associate Matt took our case even though it was a week from the filing due date and it wasn't particularly big bucks. At trial, we got 30% more than the insurance co offered. They both showed excellent judgement as all of their recommendations were spot-on. At all times, they prepared and discussed our concerns thoroughly, keeping us well informed. I work closely with many top lawyers for more than two decades and can be fairly critical and meticulous, probably more so than their peers would say, so its no small matter to say I found their work to be very competently done and I highly recommend him.
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27 Jul, 2014 by Michele & jack
To Whom It May Concern; July 28, 2014
Attorney Steven Frei and his staff were a God-send to me and my 88 yr. old uncle. My uncle was severely injured for the rest of his life, as a passenger in an automobile accident. I live in Miami, FL and the accident happened in Fairfax, VA. Mr. Frei came highly recommended from attorney's in Florida. Mr. Frei resolved our lawsuit this month July 2014 extremely satisfactory. I am so grateful to Mr. Frei and his law team for their expertise, for being so thorough, considerate, patient and
truly caring about his client (my uncle) in order to reach justice and the proper/fair restitution for damages my uncle suffered from then, now and the rest of his life. Mr. Frei is a true professional and gentleman with integrity...NOT easily found in today's society. I know because I have worked with many attorney's throughout my life, being a professional business person and I know the difference. That is "why" I am taking the time to write this accreditation...to help other's in need, seeking an EXCELLENT attorney and law firm. I "highly" recommend Attorney Steven Frei and his law firm.
Sincerely,
Michele & Jack from Florida
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29 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Adam nearly destroyed me. I won't get into all of the details here since I don't want to relive it. He represented me in a divorce case. It dragged it out for years. He would ghost me for many months at a time - no email or phone responses. I provided him with a mountain of evidence and he neverused any of it. He did not allow me to defend myself in court against false accusations. I lost almost everything I had because of him and went into a deep depression. I felt like he was on her side and did everything he could to help her, not me. Just did a web search and found he was reprimanded by the VA Bar for doing the same to a client who has now lost custody of her child.
It's not easy to be deep into a case and then spend tons of money to get another attorney to take your case. So be forewarned: don't use him at all.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Jfringer3
He gave me excellent advice on what to do about another attorney's misconduct/malpractice. His advice confirmed some of the research I'd already done, but he put my mind at ease by giving me practical, insightful advice on what to do to resolve my problem.
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27 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Initial consultation was free and he suggested a strategy for my divorce case, as soon as I hired him, he would not return my calls/emails. If you are a woman of color, please do not hire him. He bullied me during my most vulnerable phase of life, over charged me and then Nancy Duff refunded some of my money. He was in my corner during during and also did not help get the community property due from my ex- after the judge granted it. During the trial of my divorce, he went out for dinner with my ex and his lawyers. The next day at the trial, he came disorganized and kept his nose stuck into paper work while the ex's lawyer was questioning me on irrelevant issues. He is disorganized and does not go through all his emails. If I were the woman that I am now, I would never hire him to represent me during my divorce.
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28 Jan, 2023 by Shana
I have had plenty of experience with many different attorneys and this was by far the WORST one I have ever dealt with. LATE TO COURT, overcharges, pompous ( and for no reason-it's not like he's good)...He took a divorce case with my father whom has cognitive issues, which he was aware of and didn't refer him to an attorney that specializes in divorces. He saw it as easy money, fast and no work. Don't hire this guy....He also was hired for petty traffic stuff and did nothing but overcharge and still had a ton of fines...worst money ever spent
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11 May, 2022 by Derrick
I would like to thank Justin Daniels for the endless time he put into my cases and the research that he did to prove that I was not guilty of the charges . Down to earth guy and always on top of things and goes far and beyond to do his job to the fullest and stays in contact with you through the whole process . I can’t thank you enough for everything that you did . Definitely the best!
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31 Dec, 2021 by Eric
Although it has been 3 years since my release I must say Justin worked miracles on my case !! I’m very pleased with the outcome and don’t regret any of it . Fast forward to present time how about a ex - drug dealer is now the owner of a 6 figure Lawn Care service along with several other business from Painting to carpet cleaning . I really would like to show my appreciation to Justin Daniels. Please hire him he is the best !!
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13 May, 2018 by Jeff azimzadeh
I have known Mr. Baskin for over twenty years, during all these years Peter has been not only by my side when I needed him for
legal advise but also a true friend. recently, I had contacted Peter for a legal matter involving my wife which occurred in Arlington County, known for its most challenging and toughest court system.
My wife and I were very concern and embracing ourselves for the worst. After contacting Peter, he made himself available immediately and even took out of his weekend to meet with us. Peter thoroughly examined our case and discussed all the possible scenarios. Finally, on the day of her trial as expected, Peter had display a mastery of the judicial knowledge and argued our case to a best outcome! I am truly grateful to your hard work and dedication to everyone of your clients and honored to call him my attorney and better yet, a wonderful human being.
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08 May, 2018 by Kimberley
I found myself in an unexpected legal matter to which I had no idea how to begin to deal with or navigate and a friend referred me to a Mr. Peter Baskin in Fairfax, Va. Not only did Mr. Baskin take the time to sit down with me and explain in detail how to approach my case he made clear to me all of my possible options as well as answered every single one of my questions. This was a very unfortunate matter and difficult time in my life. If it were not for Mr. Baskin things could have taken a turn for the worst with a very bad outcome effecting myself and my career for the rest of my life. Mr. Baskin not only won my case and turned around the outcome in it's entirety he made himself available to me for every phone call to which I called frequently as a result of unchartered territory as well as overall nervousness. Mr. Baskin is an incredible attorney and not only will I recommend him in the future I already have referred him to several of my friends which he has done an excellent job for as well. If your an individual that finds themselves in need of an attorney the best thing you can do for yourself if pick up the phone and contact this attorney! He turned around this very critical outcome for me and I'm certain he will do the same for you.
Best of Luck to you!
Kimberley
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05 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Hired Peter Baskin to defend in a case where I was being charged with disturbing the peace. Peter promised he would be able to get the charges dropped however he was unable to accomplish anything during the hearing process. Not only did I still have to pay him but the conviction is still on my record. Complete waste of money.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
He is terrible , he is rude and condescending. He is for the police not the people do not give this man your money please go to another Law Firm see Mr. Carol or Mr. Hall. I would give a zero if I could .
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04 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
STAY AWAY from Drummond.
He sold me to the prosecutors and gave me the worse case scenario on a first time felony charge. He didn’t care about the outcome of my case and just wanted $.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Choudhry
So I hired this attorney for my case against a builder. She told us she would charge twenty five percent of the total amount she would collect. We agreed but when she did a poor job of resolving the case she changed us extra fees, wonder why . To us it looks very dishonest. But she did it shamefully and charged us about $241 on top of the twenty five percent. We were thinking of a couple of other cases to her but her behavior was such we decided to never go to her again.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
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:
-
What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents. -
What is your fee structure?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award. -
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. -
How often do you take cases to trial?
Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary. -
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. -
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.
