Question 1

Do you charge for a consultation?

Accepted Answer

We provide initial consultations at no charge. During this meeting, we'll review future fees, costs, and the terms under which we would represent you.

Question 2

Why can't I just negotiate with the insurance company myself?

Accepted Answer

While representing yourself may appear to save money, insurance companies recognize that cases without legal representation rarely proceed to trial. Even when they do, unrepresented individuals typically achieve poor outcomes. Claims adjusters prefer working with unrepresented claimants because there's less pressure to offer fair settlements, allowing them to resolve claims for significantly less than their actual value. They can make statements that go unchallenged since you may lack the resources to verify their accuracy. If your case doesn't warrant legal representation, I'll be honest about that. However, in most situations, having an experienced attorney results in substantially higher compensation, particularly when insurance companies know your lawyer is prepared to litigate if necessary.

Question 3

What if the person who hit me has no insurance or flees the scene? Am I SOL?

Accepted Answer

Our office has successfully recovered full compensation in numerous cases involving uninsured or fleeing drivers. First, we may be able to identify and locate the responsible party through independent investigation. Second, even if that driver cannot be found, you or another member of your household likely carries uninsured motorist coverage that can provide compensation.

Question 4

But won't my insurance rates go up?

Accepted Answer

Your rates will not increase for claims in which you are not at fault. Furthermore, you've been paying premiums for this coverage, often for many years. This is exactly what that coverage is designed to protect you against.

Question 5

How long will my case take?

Accepted Answer

Since our office operates on a contingency basis, we're only compensated when your case succeeds. This gives us strong motivation to advance your case as efficiently and quickly as professional ethics allow. However, the opposing parties and sometimes the court system don't share this same urgency. Predicting an exact timeline for achieving full value in your case is nearly impossible, but our office provides individual attention and will keep you regularly informed about upcoming deadlines and developments.

Question 6

Can you settle my case without my consent?

Accepted Answer

No, your case belongs entirely to you. You'll receive the benefit of all 35 years of my experience and counsel regarding the potential risks and rewards involved. While I may strongly recommend settlement if I believe it's the right decision, the final choice always rests with you.

Question 7

Have you ever been cited for an ethical violation or sued for malpractice?

Accepted Answer

No, never.

Question 8

What is your win percentage?

Accepted Answer

Ethical attorneys don't maintain such statistics or guarantee specific outcomes or monetary amounts. Juries can be unpredictable, and occasionally unforeseen facts emerge after a case begins. Fortunately, such situations are uncommon.

The Law Offices of Joseph J. Steffen Jr

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Law Offices of Joseph J. Steffen Jr