What’s attorney-client privilege?

Simply put, it means that whatever you discuss with a lawyer is absolutely private. Attorney-client privilege protects clients AND potential clients. From the initial call on, what you tell me does not go further– not to your family, your friends, or anyone else. Even if we don’t enter a contract, your information stays private.
The privilege protects you so you can tell me everything. That way, you can get the right advice, and I can know how best to advise and help you.

What’s a “personal injury”?

It’s a legal term that covers all physical injuries, losses and harms that result when someone gets hurt because someone else was careless or reckless. There are a number of things that can happen, including physical injuries, lost time from work, pain and worry. Sometimes a medical test or check shows there is no serious injury; sometimes the physical injury is permanent.

The party who caused the accident is legally responsible to pay compensation for what they did–whether it’s a test to confirm no broken bones or paralysis.

I only represent clients with serious, complicated, or permanent personal injuries.

How does a lawyer get paid?

In the personal injury, wrongful death, and denied life insurance cases I handle the attorney fee is a percentage of the final recovery. It’s called a “contingency fee”. It means I only get paid if you recover, and I don’t get paid for my work until the end. If the case settles out of court or if there’s a jury verdict and final judgment, a part of that is used to pay the contingency attorney fee.

If I advance expenses (for things such as records, filing fees, court reporters or expert witnesses, etc.)  those are paid back at the end in addition to the attorney fee. Sometimes, clients pay the expenses as the case proceeds.

In some cases involving business disputes or when I give insurance advice, I keep a time record and get paid by the hour. A retainer is paid and put into trust, and bills are sent each month.

The fee will be clearly spelled out in the contract we sign.

If you take my case, who will handle it?

I will. Paralegals who work on your case will work under my supervision, and they will not negotiate your case with the insurance companies or other opposing lawyers.
Many firms assign cases after they’re taken in; one lawyer will “sign up the client” and pass them off to someone else. Other firms “juggle” cases depending on their workloads.
You deserve personal service and consistency. You need to chose based on your confidence in the lawyer.
It’s important for you and me to meet. If we chose to work together, you won’t be surprised later. From the very beginning, you’ll get a chance to talk to the lawyer who will handle your case– me. You won’t talk to an intake employee asking questions from a list on a computer menu before being transferred to a lawyer who might be assigned to your case.

What experience do you have in handling these types of cases?

Having practiced law since 1980, I have had experience with all kinds of claims. For over 11 years, I was in a large law firm representing insurance companies and corporations so I’ve been “on the other side”.

Since 1992, my clients have been individuals and small businesses. I know when people have legitimate claims and know how to help my clients maximize their legal rights. Other lawyers have brought me in to help them with their biggest cases.

Do I have to pay for an initial consultation?

No. You don’t have to pay to find out if you have a valid legal right. If you have a claim, I’ll tell you.


Do I have a good, legitimate claim?

It depends. Our legal system only allows compensation to people who sustain real injuries and losses caused by someone else.

People are entitled to compensation when two conditions exist. One, they are actually injured and have sustained real damage. Two, the injury or damage was caused by someone or some business which either failed to use reasonable care (“negligence”) or did  not fulfill a responsibility required by a law, regulation or contract.

Call me and explain your situation. I will tell you if it appears you have a legal right to compensation.  We’ll discuss what other information may be important to consider.

We’ll also discuss whether the party who caused your loss probably has insurance or assets to pay because it’s a stressful waste of your time if you can’t recover for your loss. 

Do you take every case when you’re contacted?

No. There are various reasons for that. 

Serious injuries and death cause extreme stress and claims take time to resolve. So it’s critical to make sure you and your lawyer are a “good fit”. Honestly, I have to feel the client and I can work together and vice versa. You and your lawyer need to discuss things frankly from the start.

Sometimes, people can handle things without a lawyer.  I believe in helping people “do it themselves” if they can. Often I get calls about legitimate claims that do not involve permanent injury or complex legal questions. If you have that type case, I may suggest ways you can resolve your own claim. 

Sometimes there are serious injuries when there is not a legal right to recover. Instead of giving people in those situations the “runaround’ or leading them on, I tell them the truth. 

Do I need a Lawyer?

Maybe. It depends on the facts and what the law allows in your situation.

Contact me to explain what happened. We’ll discuss your injuries and the financial impact such as medical bills and lost earnings. Choosing the right lawyer lets you spend your time getting on with your life and helps you get the full amount you deserve.

Initial consultations are free. Call and get information to understand your rights and make the right decision.

I’ll explain the law that applies to your situation, answer your questions, and tell you if I can help.

In order to give my clients personal service and attention, I only handle a limited number of complex, serious cases at a time. If you have that type of case, we will sign a contract, and you will get my best.