Frequently Asked Questions

A settlement conference takes place with a judge. A mediation is similar to a settlement conference. But instead of the settlement talks being supervised by a judge, in a mediation, the talks are supervised by a “mediator,” who is a neutral lawyer or a retired judge.

Yes, sometimes, especially if the injuries are not significant, or if the available insurance is limited. Before doing so, however, be sure to consult with a lawyer. Most will talk things over without charge and advise you whether it makes to settle on your own.

Many clients are surprised to learn that the police or other investigative agencies do nothing after an accident, regardless of what it concludes caused it. For most corporations, unless there’s a lawsuit, it’s "business as usual."

Some cases can be resolved within a few months of the injury or accident. But in our experience, most cases resolve between 18 months and 3 years from the date we file them.

Find an attorney with an excellent record of verdicts in a case similar to yours. You don’t want your lawyer to be learning “on the job.”

Under the contingency fee agreement, those costs are paid by the attorney, not the client. The attorney is reimbursed only if there is a settlement or a judgment in the client’s favor.

Only certain family members can sue for the loss of a loved one in. Those family members may all agree to have the same attorney represent them. When the family members don’t agree, each family member is entitled to his own attorney.

The decision about hiring a lawyer shouldn't wait too long. It’s best to have an attorney begin work while the evidence is fresh, before witnesses scatter or forget, and before documents disappear or are destroyed.

Under a contingency fee agreement, the client hires a lawyer, but if there is no settlement or verdict, the client pays nothing to the attorney for his work in investigating the case, initiating the lawsuit, or taking the case through trial.