How much does it cost for me to talk to you?
Answer: The initial consultation is always free. If you and I agree that you need further representation, all fee arrangements with a client are in writing and evidenced by a contract. For personal injury cases, the usual fee arrangement is for a contingency fee meaning you pay no up front money and the fee is deducted from the negotiated settlement of your claim or from the judgment received in court.
Do I need a lawyer just because I have been in an accident?
Answer. Yes, you do. The insurance company who insures the party who injured you already has lawyers, claims adjustors, and investigators on your case looking for a way to keep from paying you. Hiring a lawyer levels the playing field where you can rest easy at night knowing your interests are being protected.
How much is my personal injury case worth?
Answer. We have to wait until you are through being treated medically for your injuries and we have all of your medical reports, bills, and lost wage information before we can assess the potential value of your case. Then we discuss with you our opinion of the value of your case and come to an agreement on how much to demand from the insurance company. We submit our settlement demand and attempt to negotiate a settlement. If a settlement cannot be negotiated, we will file suit and either a judge or a jury will decide the value of your case.
I got injured on the job. I am afraid if I hire a lawyer or process a workers compensation case, I will be fired. What do I do?
If you have already reported you were injured on the job, you have already filed a workers compensation claim whether you hire a lawyer or not. There is a civil cause of action that can be brought against an employer who takes a job action against you for filing a workers compensation claim. The other side already has lawyers advising them on how not to pay you. Hiring a lawyer levels the playing field and makes the employer less likely to take a job action against you knowing full well he might get sued if he does so.
How long do I have to sue?
Answer: In Tennessee, you have one year from the date of your injury to bring suit on an automobile accident, work injury, or medical malpractice claim The one year statute of limitations is tolled in work injury cases when the employer or his insurance company has made temporary disability payments to the injured employee or paid for his medical expense, and does not begin to run until the date of last payment.
