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02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
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04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
21 Dec, 2024 by Jalen duplessis
Very helpful, professional and personable. When I was discriminated on my job they took my case very serious. During so they were in constant communication and guided me in my case. Through them I was able to resolve my case quick and easy and everything worked out for me. I will be reaching out if I have any other issues in the future.
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29 Jun, 2024 by Barry sartin
13 Jul, 2023 by Tiffany ridley
Professional and personable; experienced. They are experts in their areas of practice. I worked mostly with Andy Bizer, but everyone in the office was professional, courteous, and easy to work with/talk to. Andy returned my calls and emails quickly; made accomadations for my comfort. He walked me through the most difficult parts of my case, patiently answering my questions, explaining things until I was comfortable. Achieving my goals was always his only priority. His fees were very competitive and very reasonable.
Andy went above and beyond to settle my case according to MY preferences. I couldn't be happier with my results.
This is a great group of people, doing great things. They will always be my first choice for legal help.
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06 Jul, 2023 by Heidi sensebe
Eric and his wife, Pam, are both very knowledgeable about what they do. They were very thorough when explaining my legal matters. When I was at the office I felt like I was important. Thanks to the Person team!!!
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12 Sep, 2022 by Betty riolo
I first want to compliment Attorney Eric Person’s staff, Ms. Tabitha and Pam.
This turned out to be a very lengthy and emotional case but my calls were always answered
by them and any questions I had were answered. Tabitha even wrote me a personal letter when she mailed my documents back.
I was satisfied with the outcome of my case.
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11 Jun, 2021 by Keith raines
He is an old fashion attorney.
Small staff. Very attentive.
Huge huge LSU fan
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11 Dec, 2024 by Marshall
No contact, no information. Was assured they could get me more than '"anyone else". Never told my case could take YEARS to settle. Had to do an internet search to get that information. Cut and dried personal injury case. Police/hospital reports all supplied. The firm should have more forthcoming. Got NO clarification from firm (reason for internet search). Didn't know I was dealing with the firm of Doowee, Screwem and How. Like they are protecting some national secret, when asked for update.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Kaiden
Barbara had the nastiest attitude!! When you’re working with people there’s a way to communicate and be professional, you chose that career you need to learn how to speak to people. You don’t know what kind of day a person is having and then you come along with the nastiest attitude. You’re a reflection of this Firm and I wouldn’t recommend anyone based off your attitude!
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23 Apr, 2024 by Shukri aziz
11 Dec, 2024 by Marshall
No contact, no information. Was assured they could get me more than '"anyone else". Never told my case could take YEARS to settle. Had to do an internet search to get that information. Cut and dried personal injury case. Police/hospital reports all supplied. The firm should have more forthcoming. Got NO clarification from firm (reason for internet search). Didn't know I was dealing with the firm of Doowee, Screwem and How. Like they are protecting some national secret, when asked for update.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Kaiden
Barbara had the nastiest attitude!! When you’re working with people there’s a way to communicate and be professional, you chose that career you need to learn how to speak to people. You don’t know what kind of day a person is having and then you come along with the nastiest attitude. You’re a reflection of this Firm and I wouldn’t recommend anyone based off your attitude!
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23 Apr, 2024 by Shukri aziz
27 May, 2021 by Todd
John got my case from another attorney who was unable to handle it due to covid and complexities in New Orleans court. John was on it from day one, and took care of the matter very quickly. One thing I especially appreciated was his being responsive, thorough, and going the "extra mile". I highly recommend John Radziewicz.
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23 Feb, 2021 by Arthur
Case is still pending due to Covid but John has been very professional and keeps me informed
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23 Aug, 2019 by Nick
Outstanding legal firm.
I personally, had excellent customer service and great response time and was very satisfied with their work.
They handled a tricky case for me and felt like they worked a miracle.
Highly recommended.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
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07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
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21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
27 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Terrible attourney! I am having so many things come back to bite me. She did not handle my bankruptcy case properly! It was incomplete and i am now having a hard time! She does not return calls( as ik attourneys are busy) but SS is thee worst. I can’t even right the wrongs she messed up in my case. I do not recommended her!
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06 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Sharry has worked on two cases for me and has been diligent and thorough in finding justice in both cases. Highly recommend!
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02 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
On behalf of my wife who lost by hiring this unprofessional feminisit of a lawyer, I felt so bad for the wife even though she apposed me. Do yourself a favor and do not get this women to work on family law matters or criminal! She costed my wife dearly, in which I'm happy for. She gave horrible advice to her and many other women in jefferson parish, So if you want to get wrecked hire Mrs. Sharry Sandler.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Trudy hayes
12 Oct, 2023 by Azubuike carrington
Did an amazing Job. Thanks Ike. I’m currently a different man because of the job you did!
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05 Oct, 2023 by Orlando ismael armas quintana
Bonito lugar
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02 Aug, 2024 by Michael corbin
09 Jul, 2024 by Timothy mcdonald
24 Jun, 2024 by Carlos harris
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Belkin zambrano
19 Aug, 2024 by Gaming whit jose
Mal servicio temgo ya 11 meses con un caso de accidente llamo todo el tiempo no saben nada
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Jarret coleman
The Clark firm was great! Yasha was very on point, the rehabilitation center was great. They even helped me get a loan before settlement. I loved everything about working with the firm. Good representation. #TrustTheProcess
Read more
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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.
