Personal injury attorneys play a crucial role in representing individuals who have suffered injuries due to the negligence or wrongful conduct of others.
Whether it’s a car accident, slip and fall, or medical malpractice case, personal injury attorneys work tirelessly to help clients obtain compensation for their losses. However, many individuals seeking personal injury attorneys’ services have questions and concerns about the process.
Here are five frequently asked questions a qualified personal injury attorney Maryland receives from their clients.
Questions Clients Ask Personal Injury Attorney Maryland
1. How much is my case worth?
Insurance companies consider multiple factors to determine the appropriate compensation for a personal injury settlement, and every case is unique. Nonetheless, some general principles can be used to approximate a reasonable settlement. The insurance company uses the severity of the injuries to calculate the costs and then multiplies by a factor ranging from 1x to 2x for minor to moderate injuries, up to 5x for severe injuries, and even higher for extreme cases. Even if the insurance company offers a fair settlement value, they may not provide the entire amount. A skilled personal injury attorney in Maryland can help negotiate a fair settlement in such situations.
2. How long will my case take?
The duration of your case is influenced by its level of complexity. In some instances, cases can be resolved in just a few weeks without formal litigation, particularly relatively straightforward ones. In such cases, your legal representative may directly negotiate with the other party or insurance company to achieve a prompt resolution.
However, certain cases may drag on for a year or longer due to the complexities involved. The majority of cases fall somewhere in between these two extremes. Ultimately, it is within your power to determine the duration of your case since you can choose to accept or decline settlement offers.
3. Do I need to go to court?
Sometimes, personal injury cases are resolved through settlements rather than trials. However, cases may proceed to trial when there is a disagreement regarding the facts or a disputed legal issue, leaving the court to decide.
By thoroughly constructing your case, there is a higher likelihood of settling with the other party by demonstrating the strength of your evidence. In the rare event that your case proceeds to trial, your lawyer can assist in preparing you for the proceedings.
4. What can I expect during a Personal Injury Case?
After filing your injury case, your lawyer will serve the other party with a copy of the paperwork and await their reply. During this time, your lawyer can build your case by gathering evidence and contacting witnesses. You and the other party can bring preliminary motions to the court.
Your attorney may also negotiate with the other party to settle the case. If necessary, you may participate in formal dispute resolution, such as mediation. You will receive a payment if a settlement is reached, and the case will be closed. However, if the case proceeds to trial, your lawyer will present your case and request a fair outcome from the jury.
5. How much will it cost to hire a personal injury attorney?
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if the case succeeds. The attorney’s fee is typically a percentage of the total amount recovered, and the percentage varies depending on the complexity of the case. This fee structure ensures that individuals who have been injured can afford to hire an attorney to represent them.
Conclusion
Personal injury attorneys are important in helping individuals obtain fair compensation for their injuries. While every case is unique, personal injury attorneys work diligently to ensure their clients receive the compensation they deserve.
