Frequently Asked Questions

What is it going to cost me?

Nothing.  Every person who calls with an inquiry receives a complete evaluation, for free.  Although we do not accept every case we often refer cases to other attorneys.  Every person who calls is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve which includes being heard and provided an answer to their questions. If we do accept your case, you pay us nothing unless we collect an award for you.

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Do I have a legal claim?

The answer to many legal questions is: it depends.  And that is the answer to this question.  Most clients have good intuition about whether or not they have been injured as a result of another person or companies’ negligence.  However, a thorough legal analysis of the specifics of your case, and often a forensic expert review, is necessary before we can know for certain whether a valid claim exists.

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Can I handle the case on my own, or do I need an attorney?

Again, it depends.  The answer is usually no and there is always a benefit to having an attorney.  The fee agreement entails attorney compensation based on a percentage of recovery.  The damages in your case may be far greater than the amount available to recover if, for example, the insurance policy covering your loss has a small limit.  In such a case, it may not make sense to hire an attorney and surrender a percentage of your award when you do not in fact need an attorney to recover the full policy limits.  The same case, with a higher policy limit the insurance company resists paying, could warrant an attorney.  So, it depends on your specific case.  Regardless, it is always advisable to take advantage of the free consultation Doran Law provides.  If we feel it is in your best interests to prosecute the case on your own, that is the advice we will give.

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What is my case worth?

Any attorney who provides a valuation at your first consultation is guessing.  It is impossible to know the value of a case until your claim has been extensively investigated.  This includes analysis of the strength of the liability claim and a thorough examination of your injuries.  This usually entails a forensic examination by a medical expert.  Without that effort, you cannot know the true value of your case and risk settling a claim for less than it is worth.  However, once the investigation is complete you will be advised what the appropriate settlement value is for your claim, and with that information decide whether the case should be taken to a jury.

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How do I handle insurance adjusters?

Consult a lawyer first. The insurance adjuster is not your advocate, but we are.