A personal injury lawyer handles lawsuits that involve injuries to a person’s body, mind, or reputation caused by another’s actions. The field of law that encompasses this type of claim is known as tort law and includes every manner of harm resulting from negligent acts by individuals or companies.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can handle the legal aspects of your claim, from filing a lawsuit to negotiating an appropriate settlement. They can also help you pursue non-economic damages for emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life.
Whether you’ve been injured in an auto accident, hurt on the job, or are seeking benefits through Social Security, a personal injury attorney can guide your claim from start to finish. They’ll take on the burden of coordinating medical treatment and gathering necessary evidence to build your case, including photos, videos, witness statements, and documents like police reports and official records.
Once they have a solid understanding of the facts and applicable laws, they’ll perform a liability analysis. This will include reviewing statutes, court decisions, and common law precedents to determine the best path forward for your case. This can be a time-consuming process, especially when the case involves complex issues or unusual circumstances.
Then, they’ll begin preparing for trial. They’ll review and organize all evidence, as well as gather more if needed. They’ll also interview witnesses and prepare any expert testimony to use at trial. Once the case is ready for trial, they’ll schedule a date and send notice to all parties. This includes the other drivers in an auto accident, your employer if you’re suing for workplace injuries, and manufacturers if you’re suing over a defective product.
If an insurance company offers a quick settlement, it’s often a sign that they don’t recognize the full extent of your injuries and are trying to close your case for less than you deserve. Your personal injury lawyer will know how much you’re entitled to based on similar cases that have settled in the past and can negotiate for you.
Once the case is resolved, your personal injury lawyer will receive their award from the defendant or from the insurance company, and they’ll pass this along to you. They’ll typically ask you to pay any hourly rates they haven’t already collected, as well as their percentage of the settlement or award. They’ll then ensure that all outstanding medical bills are paid, and they’ll write you a check for the remainder of your award. Depending on the terms of your agreement, you might have to pay taxes on any awards you receive.