If you have been bitten by a dog, you could have serious injuries that may take many months or years to heal. In some cases, you won’t be able to work or otherwise enjoy the same quality of life you had prior to the incident. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to contact an attorney who can help make you whole from a financial perspective.
1- An Attorney May Negotiate a Settlement
A personal injury attorney will typically aim to settle your case outside of court. Settlements tend to be ideal for all parties involved because you can resolve the matter in days or weeks instead of months or years. In addition, a defendant might be willing to pay more for the right to keep the details of the case out of the public domain.
2- An Attorney May File a Lawsuit
Legal counsel may decide to file a lawsuit simply to preserve your right to do so. In most states, there is a statute of limitations after which you can no longer take your case to court. Losing the leverage associated with going to court may make it difficult or impossible to negotiate a favorable settlement or otherwise obtain a favorable outcome in your case. In some cases, the statute of limitations may toll, and your attorney should be able to determine if you still have the right to take legal action if settlement talks fail.
3- Your Attorney Is Your Advocate
Your personal injury attorney has an ethical duty to act in your best interest. Therefore, this person will do whatever it takes to get the highest settlement offer such as obtaining medical records or interviewing witnesses. Your attorney may also speak to the media or other parties on your behalf, which reduces the risk that you’ll say or do something that could jeopardize your case. In some cases, your attorney’s reputation for zealously defending the rights of clients might make it easier to negotiate a favorable settlement.
4- Learn More Before Accepting a Settlement
Legal counsel can review any settlement offer that you have already received. In many cases, the first offer made by an insurance company is not the best one. Instead, it represents an attempt to prey on your desperation to pay medical bills or cover other expenses as quickly as possible. Your legal advocate will be able to review the proposed deal and provide insight into its pros and cons. Of course, you will be allowed to accept the deal if you’d like whether your attorney thinks it’s a good idea or not. If you do accept a settlement, the case is over even if it turns out you could have gotten more at a later date.
If you are hurt by a dog, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation. An attorney may be able to help you navigate your case and obtain a favorable outcome whether you choose to opt for a settlement or go to court. Your attorney will likely be paid out of any money you receive from the defendant, in most cases.
Disclaimer: “The content in this article is provided for general knowledge. It does not constitute legal advice, and readers should seek advice from qualified legal professionals regarding particular cases or situations.”
Published by: Holy Minoza
