Personal Injury Matters
1. How do I know if I have a case?
Every personal injury case is different. Only
an experienced attorney can assess your circumstances and advise
you of the
best course of action.
Generally, the quicker you seek counsel, the more favorable
the outcome.
If you would be interested in a free evaluation of your case,
you can either tell us briefly of your situation via e-mail,
or call us directly and ask for a free consultation. There
is no fee charged for you or your family to consult
with us.
2. What is a contingency fee?
A contingency fee means that your attorney
receives a fee only if a financial reward is obtained for you.
At the law firm of E. Stewart Jones, our fee
is based on a percentage of what we are able to obtain for you.
In
short, we don't get
paid a legal fee unless we win your case.
3. What are my rights?
Fundamentally, if you have been injured through
the negligence of another, you have the right to be compensated.
You
may also have a right to automatic reimbursement
of any lost
wages and
related medical expenses. It is important for you
to know, however, that retaining an attorney is your best
assurance
that your rights
will be protected when going up against large insurance
companies and their corporate attorneys.
4. If I get an attorney but do not want to
go to trial, can I settle?
Yes. Your attorney will work with the insurance
companies to secure a fair settlement for you.
The final decision
to accept
an offer of settlement or go to trial is yours
alone to make.
Criminal Matters 1.
What is the difference between criminal procedure and civil procedure?
When a crime has been committed, action is
taken by a government agency against the person(s), organization
or other entity that
violated the law. The first purpose of a criminal prosecution
is punishment, which frequently consists of a fine or jail
time. In a civil matter, the dispute is between two
or more individuals or entities. The first purpose of a civil
prosecution is the
obtaining of compensation for the wronged person or entity.
Settlement in a civil matter is generally an award of a money
judgment.
A criminal sentence is not imposed in a civil matter.
2. Do I have to answer police questioning?
If you are a suspect or think you could become
a suspect, you are within your rights to request an attorney
before speaking
with any law enforcement officer. By law, everything you
say to your attorney is protected by the client-attorney
privilege.
Anything you say to law enforcement officers can be held
against you.
3. If arrested, what steps can I take on my
behalf?
a. Do not discuss your situation with anyone
except your attorney.
b. Unless your attorney says otherwise, dont
discuss your case with law enforcement.
c. Request to have your attorney present if
you are to be put in a lineup or subjected to testing.
d. Remain calm and courteous. Allow your attorney
to speak for you to ensure that your rights are
protected and you
are given
all the benefits afforded to you under the law.
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