Questions and Answers

How do I know if I have a case?

         To have a personal injury case, you must be able to prove that you have suffered a significant injury. In addition, you must be able to show that someone else (the defendant) is at fault under a negligence, strict liability or intentional misconduct theory. The most common cause of action is negligence. In a negligence action you (the plaintiff) must prove that someone (the defendant) caused you to suffer injuries.

How long will it take?

         We protect our client’s rights in an aggressive and rapid manner, but because of court congestion, lawsuits generally take several years to reach the trial stage. During this period of time, we are working very hard on your behalf. Unlike what you see on television shows, most of the work on a case takes place well before the trial. This is the time when we are busy laying the groundwork for your case, gathering medical records and reports, accident reports and work records, taking photographs and conducting other types of investigation. This is also the time when we develop and research theories of liability and damages.

         When litigation formally begins, medical information, wage records, expert witness information and other documentation is exchanged with our adversaries. Testimony of all parties and certain witnesses is taken during depositions, known as “Examinations Before Trial.” This is also the time when the injured plaintiff has a medical examination performed by a qualified physician who has been hired by our adversary. This entire process is referred to as “discovery,” and while we move through this phase as rapidly as possible, there is often a waiting period before the trial date is set.

How do I know if I need an attorney?

         If you have been seriously injured or if you are unsure as to the long-term impact of an injury, an experienced personal injury attorney should be consulted before giving any statement or signing any papers of any kind. This should take place as soon after the accident as possible.

         If you suffer an injury or lost wages from an automobile accident, it is very important that you file a “no fault benefit application” within thirty (30) days of the accident.

         There is a time limit, known as a “statute of limitations” that requires that a lawsuit be filed within a specific period of time, depending on the circumstances of your case. If you do not file within the time limits, you are prohibited from obtaining any compensation for your injuries. An attorney will help you stay well within the statute of limitations.

How much is my case worth?

         Determining the value of your case depends on a great many factors that are different in every case, depending on the severity and long term effects of your injury as well as the defendant’s degree of negligence. Are you unable to work because of the injury, and what was your income before the injury? How much were your medical expenses? What costs were created by the accident - including maintenance of your home or business? Do you have other sources of income that will offset the losses caused by the accident? These and many other factors are considered when determining the value of your case.

How much does it cost to bring a personal injury lawsuit?

         If you decide to retain our services, we will work for you and your family on a contingency basis. This means that we do not receive a fee unless we are successful in obtaining settlements or recovering compensation. Otherwise, you will not be billed for our services. All of our clients are provided with a written retainer agreement that clearly spells out this arrangement.

         Preparation of a case for litigation involves out-of-pocket costs: court and filing fees, investigation expenses, transcript costs, charges for medical records and reports, expert witness fees and other costs. In nearly all cases, The Law Offices of Osborne & Associates can advance these costs, knowing that most of our clients would find it burdensome to pay these expenses. Once the case is completed, the expenses and legal fees in your case are deducted from the money we recover on your behalf and you and your family receives the remaining money from your settlements.

Call us now and let us get you the justice you deserve!

 

14156 Magnolia Boulevard, Suite 200, Sherman Oaks, California, 91423, (818) 788-7776