FAQs

From the moment you sign on as a client we get straight to work gathering crucial information about your case. Some examples of the types of documents we collect are police reports, witness statements, medical records, bills, and photographs. From there, we determine whether a more in-depth search is required. It is not uncommon that we employ the services of a private investigator to ensure that no stone is left unturned. All of this information allows us to perform a thorough investigation into the unique facts and circumstances surrounding your case.

We handle the insurance claims, document collection, and evidence gathering so you can focus on getting better. Unfortunately, we see that all too often cost, access, and red tape from our clients’ own health insurance companies get in the way of them receiving the best medical care possible. It is important for you to understand that you have options! Ask us about these options during a Free Consultation. Nothing should prevent you from getting quality medical care.

It is important to understand that each and every case is different. Depending on the severity of your injuries, it might be necessary for you to undergo months, if not years of medical treatment before you and your doctors feel that you have recovered or, at least, arrived at place of stability. Once we have gathered enough information and you have completed treatment, we will prepare a settlement demand to be sent to the insurance company.

After the insurance company receives our demand, we will engage in settlement negotiations if we feel doing so will be productive. During this process, we will remain in close communication with you about any settlement offers we receive. If a settlement is reached, we will work to finalize any outstanding medical bills you have and close out your case.

If the insurance company does not make an offer, or the offer is unacceptable, the next step is litigating your case.

The first step in litigation is filing a Complaint. This is a formal document that is served on the Defendant (or at-fault party) informing them they are being sued. Litigation is multi-faceted. It involves responding to written discovery requests, participating in and taking depositions (sworn testimony), and defense medical examinations. During litigation, the parties gather and create evidence to prove their respective cases. Ultimately, a case is tried in front of a judge or a jury.

During the course of litigation, instances arise that allow the parties to consider settlement. Just because your case does not settle prior to litigation, it does not mean it has no chance of settling. Sometimes the litigation process helps the parties get answers to questions they were unable to answer outside the confines of a lawsuit. Examples of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) are private mediation, court-sponsored mediation, mandatory settlement conferences, arbitration proceedings, and CCP §998 offers.

If the parties are unable to reach a settlement during the course of litigation, then the case will end up in trial. Trials can last anywhere from days to weeks. At trial, we employ the use of expert testimony to prove your case. Although some issues are resolved during litigation, trial ultimately requires us to prove liability, causation, and damages. The way a case is handled from day one can affect its outcome at trial. We take every case on with this in mind and prepare as if all cases will ultimately be tried. At trial it is up to a jury of your peers to decide the outcome of your case.