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25 Mar, 2024 by Grow us
I highly advise you research before taking on this firm. I was hit 5 times in 1 year by negligent drivers. The officers in 4/5 cases stated that these incidents were completely unavoidable! Meaning these cases are an EASY target for an attorneys office. 2 vehicles were utterly totalled out of 5 wrecks. Mine and my children's bodies were severely affected. My Chiropractor referred me to this firm saying "he is a fellow believer, he will take care of your family Clifton". Patrick took VERY little notes throughout the whole process, he settled 1 out of 5 cases. That incident I was STOPPED in a Taco Bell drive through and a Uber driver SLAMMED into me at 20mph. Admitted that he was "sorry for not paying attention", with a witness present that I have access to! My neck and waste was heavily injured! It took Patrick and his team 6 months to resolve that 1st case. I rarely heard from him and he would NOT communicate with me. And the amount, we'll just say I was NOT compensated for my injuries and loss. Then I was hit head on with the 2nd wreck 1 month later that destroyed my classic Rolls-Royce Phantom edition of Lexus LS600HL. It was a "no fault" situation, and State Farm is to pay me back pay am the way to that wreck April 21 2023. Patrick and his team did NOTHING to get that ball rolling. State Farm said that they never even spoke to Patrick's office! To this day 'Nothing'. 3rd wreck in my new VW hybrid Jetta driving down town Minneapolis on a 1 way, DRUNK DRIVER turned left from the MIDDLE LANE and "t-boned" my passenger side! And the police refused to come to the scene 1 block from the station after I reported smelling alcohol on his breath. And although I got his i.d. and insurance, this driver fled the scene when he found out I called the police! Patrick has done NOTHING on this case!!! Simple in and out case! This happened June 2023. 4th wreck my children and I were headed to the Chiropractor office. We were getting into highway 10 headed east from Hanson Blvd. A vehicle who admittedly reported she was traveling OVER interstate speeds of 78 MPH dove across 3 lanes and NAILED my daughters and I where her S.U.V. CLIMBED UP MY DRIVER SIDE! Where I had to do ridiculous tactics to keep us all alive! And the state Patrol yelled at her for her reckless action!!! 'EASY' case!!!! Yet Patrick and his team have neglected taking care of this literally saying this is difficult on his firm. Like, ummmm isn't this your career? This was in August 2023 Anywho, if that's not enough, my children and I were in Robbinsdale, I was parked on the side of the road, and a driver in a F150 was nearly 75 feet away at a stop sign SUDDENLY decided to drive in REVERSE upwards of 25 mph RECKLESSLY not only backing into my car, but DROVE OVER my car line a monster truck nearly crushing myself and my 7 year old daughter on our way home from school and grocery store! Patrick then said to me that it is very difficult for he and his team to resolve these matters. This was 1 month ago. Thriving these indecents, Patrick stated utterly un responsive through all 5 cases unless I pressured him for not communicating. It became too too much for me! Ask the way to the point where he wrote me this morning saying "I think you should talk to other attorneys" ... and "I don't like having unhappy clients. If you are unhappy, it might be best for both of us if you discuss your situation with other attorneys. Maybe you will have a better experience "... Take it from me. Research 1st! My Chiropractor said "Clifton, I am disappointed in how you feel about Pat. I have worked with him for over 20 years and he and his son have been wonderful. I hope you two can work things out. You are my patient and I will continue to serve you if you want that". So out of 20 years, ask of a sudden? Lastly, when I was needing to hear about my cases, Patrick messaged me "I'm on vacation". I said can you please have someone from your office inform me of the status (after being silent for 3 months) and he did NOT put me in contact with anyone from his firm...
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22 Mar, 2024 by Abraham hoppe
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14 Sep, 2023 by Crystal nordland
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30 Aug, 2024 by Kenzie carr
Eric was incredibly helpful with my car accident!
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19 Jun, 2021 by Courtney steeves
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16 Dec, 2017 by Dustin eby
I have used Eric and he has went above and beyond to help me highly recommend will work for you till the job is done
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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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