If you have recently been involved in an Orange County, California personal injury accident and are considering the wise choice to retain the services of a personal injury attorney to help you with your case, there are a few things you can do in order to get the most out of your attorney. While an experienced attorney certainly knows how to investigate and litigate gate your case, there are things you can do to make his job easier and assure that you receive the maximum compensation possible in your case according to Orange County personal injury attorney Emery Ledger of Ledger & Associates.
First, come prepared for your first meeting. The best way to do this is to gather all the documents you may have in your possession well in advance of your scheduled meeting. While those documents will vary depending on the circumstances of your case, examples may include a police report, letter from the insurance company handling the case for the defendant, medical bills or reports that you have or estimates regarding repairs to your vehicle or personal property. You should also make a list of questions you have for your attorney. Each client is unique and some have more knowledge about the legal process than others. The only way your attorney can be sure to address all of your questions or concerns is if you remember to ask them.
Next, stay in touch with your attorney. In many cases, your attorney’s support staff may be more accessible than he is as he may spend a significant amount of time in court. You should make a point of finding out who the best contact person is in the firm and touching base on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. If anything substantial has changed from your end you should report it immediately. For instance, if your medical treatment has changed or any surgery is being scheduled your attorney needs to know. Additionally, if you are having any issues with your medical treatment or with your job as a result of the accident then you should bring those issues to the attention of your attorney as soon as possible. In addition, make sure to respond to any inquires by your attorney in a timely manner. Your attorney may need medical releases signed, wage information or additional documentation in order to move your case along so be sure to get those documents back to him as soon as possible.
Finally, be realistic when it comes time to discuss settlement of your case. When you are nearing the end of your medical treatment, sit down with your attorney and ask him what he thinks your case is worth. If you have chosen an experienced and knowledgeable Orange County personal injury attorney then he will be able to tell you what your case is worth and what would likely happen if you were to take your case to trial. Clearly, if the defendant isn’t offering to settle for anything near what the case appears to be worth then trial may be necessary. Remember, however, that trial is a risk.
If you would like a free and detailed evaluation of your case from the Orange County personal injury attorneys at Ledger & Associates, please contact the office at 1-800-300-0001 to schedule your appointment. You may also get more information on the firm by visiting their website at www.ledgerlaw.com.
