What documents or information does the attorney need and why?
At the time of the initial consultation, you will not need every document related to the accident, but if the attorney takes the case, he or she will need everything that is related to the accident to do his or her best to represent you. The attorney will need photographs and videos (if they exist), estimates of the damage, medical bills, costs for prescriptions, hospital and ambulance bills. Estimates, repair bills, and receipts.
The more information you are able to give your lawyer, the easier it will be for him to help you recover financial compensation from a personal injury lawsuit. At the Frankfort Law Group, we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case. We have offices in Frankfort and Oak Lawn in Illinois, and in Merrillville, Indiana.
We collect 33 1/3 percent of any amount recovered, plus costs of the suit. Typical costs include filing fees and service fees. If we fail to get you money, we collect nothing.
Why do you need my taxes and paystubs?
To determine any wages lost due to your personal injury and to recover financial compensation for any wage loss.
Why is my medical history and medical records needed?
Once you claim injuries in a lawsuit your medical records will be released to the insurance company to verify the validity of your injuries, the doctors diagnosis and treatment he selected for you.
Why do we need a list of doctors?
Complete information will allow us to more easily represent your interests.
Can I sue the owner of the vehicle?
Only if the driver is the owner of the car, or if the owner of the car has knowledge that the driver is reckless, has no insurance, or was intoxicated at the time of the accident.
Punitive damages are money awarded to punish the Defendant, in order to deter future conduct. Punitive damages may be awarded in addition to actual damages, which compensate the plaintiff for the losses suffered due to the harm caused by the defendant, but aggravating circumstances must be present.
Loss of consortium refers to the spouse's ability to help with household and family duties. For example, the spouse can no longer provide financial support or help discipline and raise your children and it may also interfere with your relationship of each other.
Discovery is a process used to obtain evidence. It allows each party to request documents and question the other parties.
Deposition is a face-to face question-and-answer session. It usually occurs in the office of the lawyer who scheduled the deposition.
Will my case go to trial and do I have to go to court?
Only a small percent of cases go to Trial. The two sides will typically settle out of court and we will give you a check if you are awarded damages.
It is the deadline for filing your case. You may lose your legal right to damages for your injury. In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury is 2 years.
For more information or to schedule a free consultation, please call 708-349-9333 or 219-200-2599 or send our office an email.