The law in the State of Massachusetts dictates that when you have been injured by the fault of someone else you are entitled to seek compensation for your injuries. As simple as the concept is, the law supporting it often leaves readers with more questions than answers. What type of injury constitutes a legally protected injury? What sort of fault needs to be proven? Am I among the type of plaintiffs the law was designed to protect? Questions such as these are common and important to an understanding of the type of claim one person might have against another. These, among many more, are the types of questions that ought to be asked prior to agreeing to an attorney-client relationship. Asking these questions will not only give your attorney an idea of the strength of your claim, but also allow you to evaluate the attorney you want working on your case. Here are some issues addressed in a free consultation for a personal injury claim:
- What is the fee agreement? A plaintiff’s attorney makes money by making money for the client. Before entering into an attorney-client relationship, it is important to understand exactly how that fee agreement works. Having a conversation about this information ahead of time will prevent surprises or misunderstandings when it comes time to accept compensation for your claim.
- What is the theory of liability? People are injured daily in just about every way one could imagine. Defendants, like plaintiffs, come in all shapes and sizes, and create injuries through various means. Different laws protect plaintiffs based on their relationship to the defendant and the means by which the plaintiff was injured. Having a general understanding of which theory of liability an attorney is pursuing will serve as a road map of the claim before it is even brought to the defendant.
- What are the weaknesses of the claim? If there are obstacles presented by the facts of the claim the attorney can generally identify these during or shortly after an initial consultation. A conversation about a claim’s weaknesses will also help prevent surprises or misunderstandings as the case progresses.
- How does a personal injury case work? While each case is unique, a Massachusetts personal injury claim tends to follow a pattern as it progresses. Once an initial consultation is held, theories of liability are discussed, and weaknesses are identified, an attorney will be able to present you with an expected progression of the case.
- Who should I talk to? Some personal injury cases are ripe for good stories later in life. This does not necessarily mean that a plaintiff ought to discuss them. In fact, it is best to keep quiet about all facts of your case unless talking to your attorney or doctor. Specifics such as who to talk to, when, and about what can prevent a plaintiff from sabotaging their own claim.
Attorney Peter Ventura holds free consultations for all future clients to ensure that each claim for personal injury is handled correctly. All questions are welcome and clients are important. Call today for a free consultation at 508-755-7535 or contact us online.
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