Frequently Asked Questions
Hiring An Injury Lawyer
By Richard N. Shapiro, SCLA Lawyer
Q: Do I really need a lawyer?
A: Part of our job is to help you figure out if you do need a lawyer. If you do not, we will tell you and there is no charge for this initial evaluation. Fortunately, we can usually help most people with serious injury to obtain a far better recovery than if pursued on their own.
Q: Can I afford to get into a lawsuit?
A: At Shapiro, Cooper, Lewis and Appleton P.C., we handle cases on a contingent basis so that if we do not recover anything for you, you do not owe us any fees. We also advance the legal costs for you so that large corporations and insurance companies cannot overwhelm you with experts and other legal tactics. We will also assist you in obtaining all benefits available to you to help you in this difficult time.
Q: How long will the whole process take?
A: There is no simple response to this question. A lot depends on how serious the injuries are and how complicated the case is. We take great pride in being able to resolve cases as quickly as possible while knowing that we have not rushed the process and missed something. Our lawyers and staff can help you determine a realistic framework for your case and its particular needs.
Q: What if I do not want to go to court because I am getting nervous about testifying?
A: On average, we are able to resolve a great majority of cases by settlement approved by you. However, we are always ready to try your case and will work with you to make sure you understand the process and to prepare you for court. As a result, there usually are no surprises when we go to court.
Q: How much am I likely to recover when in court?
A: Our goal is to obtain the best possible result for you. We believe that every case is unique and our evaluation of your case reflects our experience in assessing your situation. Our firm has obtained record verdicts because we are willing to fight hard and not just except a claim adjuster's evaluation of your case. As a result, we often have "million dollar" results whether by settlement or trial.
