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26 Mar, 2022 by Jennifer
I needed an attorney in 2011 for a case where I was run over by an ex boyfriend. I highly recommend Mr. Neustrom. My family contacted Mr. Neustrom while I was in the hospital (Wichita, Ks) a hour and fifteen minutes away from home and he drove to the hospital the next day to speak with me. He went above and beyond. Mr. Neustrom and the rest of the team eased my mind about the whole process. Definitely great customer service and professionalism. All my calls were answered and or returned. Honest and trustworthy. He mailed me a check after the case was settled due to the companies lack of communication for payment. Mr. Neustrom is the one I will call on. Thank you so much for everything!
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01 Sep, 2017 by Paula
My car accident was in 2010. This case was an international case because I am an international student who is from Taiwan. I studied in Salina kansas and it happened in South Dakota. He pretected my rights and explained every detials for me. I really apprecatied everything he had done for me. After I moved to Nebraska, he still help me to understand some legal questions even introduced me his office attorney to help when he was busy. Once again, he works hard and help me a lot but only for money.
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10 Feb, 2015 by Kirk
When I was injured in an on-the-job accident in 1999, Pat was the attorney I chose to represent me because he was a neighbor and a personal friend, who I had known for nearly ten years. Pat helped me secure an award for the state maximum amount, as well as an agreement that obligated the work comp insurer for future, accident-related, medical expenses. I settled into an amicable relationship with the insurer that lasted for nearly 10 years, but suddenly, for reasons that I've never been able to discern, I began having trouble securing insurance approval for prescribed medicines. Additionally, the insurer demanded I consult a physician located 3 hours away because they were "concerned about the quality of care" my pain management physician was providing. I suspected their concern was more likely centered on prescription cost, rather than quality of care, but I knew I needed legal help to resolve the issue. Even though it had been nearly a decade since Pat had worked on my case, he and his staff gathered the information they needed to adequately, successfully, confront the insurance company and convince them that they would not fare well if this matter would appear before a judge. It's probably no surprise that the insurance company tried several times to make it more difficult for me to maintain the level of pain control I enjoyed prior to their "concern" for my welfare, but Pat successfully met and overcame every challenge. He also submitted the bill for his services to the insurance company, who having been unable to produce a single, successful, legal outcome, signaled total defeat by paying for my defense! I don't know how Pat's performance could possibly be improved. Pat provides advice that is reasoned and reliable. His strategies are informed by nearly 40 years of experience, which renders them particularly effective. He is practical, but he never made me feel that I was just a "client" or that my issues were just components of a "case". Pat never lost sight of me as a person, and he understood that the result of the insurance company's failure to live up to their responsibilities, was an increase in my physical pain. Pat and his excellent staff worked with an urgency that made me feel as though they were experiencing that same pain. Who could ask anything more? I give Patrik Neustrom my highest recommendation.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Kirsti huehl
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26 Sep, 2023 by Lele clayton
**EDIT TO ADD: Gary did eventually refund me approximately $1500 of the $4000 paid. That doesn't fix any of the problems created by his actions or even lessen the additional costs of having to hire a different firm to fix everything and keep my son and his daughter safe and together. But I am a fair person and feel that I should be transparent about the gesture he actually did fulfill by refunding that smaller portion of my money.
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19 Jul, 2023 by Nick lauseng
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28 Nov, 2024 by Ron keithley
Worse experience with attorneys. I don't think Russ or Joe had a clue what they were doing. Messed the case up bad, I had to hire another attorney to win the case. Which cost me more money. Would never recommend them to do anything for anyone.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Brieaun baier
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18 Jul, 2024 by Juan banda
Klint Spiller Helped me guide my business through a thought situation. Klint is an attorney you can trust
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28 Nov, 2024 by Ron keithley
Worse experience with attorneys. I don't think Russ or Joe had a clue what they were doing. Messed the case up bad, I had to hire another attorney to win the case. Which cost me more money. Would never recommend them to do anything for anyone.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Brieaun baier
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18 Jul, 2024 by Juan banda
Klint Spiller Helped me guide my business through a thought situation. Klint is an attorney you can trust
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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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