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10 Mar, 2015 by Kirsten
Working with Randy has been a pleasure, he took great care of me and my case, keeping me up to date with everything that was going on. He is accommodating, knowledgeable, vastly experienced with personal injury law, and ensured I would be generously compensated. Which I was. Randy is honest and if you need advice outside his expertise, he does not hesitate to refer you to the best in that field, which is what he did for a close friend. His staff is warm, sharp and are seasoned professionals who make you feel like you are a top priority whenever you speak with them. I highly recommend Randy Shuman - you will not be disappointed!
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10 Mar, 2015 by Kirsten
Working with Randy has been a pleasure, he took great care of me and my case, keeping me up to date with everything that was going on. He is accommodating, knowledgeable, is vastly experienced with personal injury law and ensured I would be generously compensated. Which I was. Randy is honest and if you need advice outside his realm of expertise he doesn't hesitate to refer you to best in that field. Which is what he did for a close friend. His staff is warm, sharp and are seasoned professionals who always make you feel that you are top priority whenever you speak with them. I highly recommend Randy Shuman - You will not be disappointed!!
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10 Jan, 2019 by Janetsy
I have worked with Daniel on many occasions. Dan gives amazing legal advice and goes above and beyond for you! Dan is very resourceful. He also helps people file for his taxes and set it all up in the easiest way possible. SO grateful to have met Mr. Occena.
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05 Mar, 2018 by Christinne
This is a late review. Attorney Dan represented me for an auto accident that happened in September 2015. He was not my first lawyer in this case. He was actually my third and it was because of circumstances. Would like to first explain the background: I am a dental hygienist and was working full-time hygiene for 3.5 years before this car accident happened. I was rear-ended on 93 traveling north bound under the tunnel about to get onto the Zakim bridge. I was transported to MGH Hospital in an ambulance and my car was towed. I sustained neck and back injuries which in the end caused me to not maintain a full-time status as a dental hygienist due to the chronic pain I was experiencing while I was trying to maintain my job. My first lawyer had to pass my case on to his associate due to medical reasons. Even when he was my lawyer, he was never in his office, nor was he reliable to respond to my texts or emails. It was like I was talking to a wall. When this first lawyer transferred my case onto his associate, it was this lawyer's paralegal that sent me an email to inform me of this transition. This second lawyer was then transferred my case and all supporting documents. This was over 6-8 months after the date of the auto accident (my dates are a little hazy because it's been so long). After having this lawyer for about a year (now closing to 2 years after the car accident) or more, this lawyer and his paralegal kept reminding me that there was a 3-year limit on submitting for a car accident case. This second lawyer informed me that he has worked on a lot of cases like mine and did not think that I would not get as much. He told me that he was not on the page as what I believed what this case was worth. So this lawyer, sent me a letter, stating that he is "leaving my case due to lessening the volume he is taking on at this time" but based on our last conversation, it was not positive. Now to talk about Dan Occena. He was recommended to me by a friend who had previously represented for a car accident. My friend and I, weirdly, both got into our own separate car accidents within a span of one month. She had treatment and legal closure within one year. She was happy with the outcome of her legal dispute. I needed more treatment than she did, but the moment that I needed any legal direction, I did not get any from the first two lawyers. Once I met with Dan, he reviewed my case and discovered that the second lawyer did not get all the files from the first lawyer. Therefore, him and I both knew that this case was already a mess. Not because of the incident itself or the treatment I had to receive, but because it was like there was "TOO MANY HANDS IN THE POT" kind of situation. What was great about Dan was that he was not intimidated by the mess, he was not turned off by the "multiple representation" I had thus far, and he was honest and spoke in a manner that was much more humane than most attorneys I had spoken to! (I HAVE WORKED WITH ENOUGH LAWYERS TO COMPARE). From the first day I met him in May 2017 until the day I received my settlement check in September 2017, he clearly had the least amount of time and was the most effective in my case and was able to get the settlement I was happy with! Throughout the time that Dan had represented me, he was quick to respond to my questions and was always immediate to returning any of my calls. He kept me posted about everything he did, while he was researching or reviewing information to support my case. Dan honestly took the mess he was given, re-organized it and re-collected what he had to, and get this case wrapped in a way it should have been done in the first place. He was transparent, honest, and efficient in how he practiced and I appreciated that the most about him. I recommend him 110% and I would hope to never need him again (I pray not to get into another car accident!), but if I knew someone looking for a lawyer, he would be my first and only choice to recommend.
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08 Jun, 2017 by Rachel l
I initially met Dan a few years ago when I hired him to represent my mother's affairs and I was really impressed with him! Great guy, very humble and just a down to earth guy. Trust is everything and he is definitely very trustworthy, fair and very reasonable with his pricing. Dan also tries to make himself available to his clients despite how extremely busy he always is... he makes time for you. As an attorney he is the best, but more importantly as a person he is one of the nicest people you could meet and I know that he will thrive in this business and continue to over exceed his expectations. I recommend Dan to everyone I know. Outstanding attorney!
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24 Aug, 2024 by Dave m
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11 Jul, 2024 by La familia vlogs
Molly is a very nice person , she is professional lawyer she knows her job very well and takes it very serious , I recommend her to all of you in need of legal help she definitely will resolve your case at your convenience if it’s in her hands , Juliana her assistant is always on top of the game answering the phone and giving you directions and answers about anything you ask . Molly is the lawyer to go to !!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Junior alvarado
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24 Aug, 2024 by Dave m
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11 Jul, 2024 by La familia vlogs
Molly is a very nice person , she is professional lawyer she knows her job very well and takes it very serious , I recommend her to all of you in need of legal help she definitely will resolve your case at your convenience if it’s in her hands , Juliana her assistant is always on top of the game answering the phone and giving you directions and answers about anything you ask . Molly is the lawyer to go to !!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Junior alvarado
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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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