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Q&A
The accident happened two years ago. Why am I being sued now?
So I got sued. What happens next, and how long will it take?
What should I do if I receive a summons and complaint, or any other legal papers?
Is this case going to settle? Or will it go to trial?
I do not think that the plaintiff's case has any merit. Why can't I just get it dismissed?
What are my obligations to cooperate with my defense counsel?
What if I want to meet with my attorney at anytime in advance of a significant event during the course of the lawsuit (i.e. deposition, trial, etc.)?
If I have to make an appearance at a deposition or trial, how should I dress?
If I am scheduled for a deposition, will I have sufficient time to meet with my counsel in advance of that deposition?
I have been sued, but I want to assert a claim back against the plaintiff for my own injuries or property damage. Can I retain the services of this firm for that purpose?
What are Interrogatories?
What is a deposition?
I have received a letter from my insurance carrier indicating that I could hire my own lawyer. Should I do so at this time?
DISCLAIMER
This website is designed to provide general information only, and does not constitute legal advice. This website should not be utilized as a substitute for professional legal counsel. Questions about legal rights and responsibilities should be discussed directly with an attorney.
The accident happened two years ago. Why am I being sued now?
So I got sued. What happens next, and how long will it take?
What should I do if I receive a summons and complaint, or any other legal papers?
Is this case going to settle? Or will it go to trial?
I do not think that the plaintiff's case has any merit. Why can't I just get it dismissed?
What are my obligations to cooperate with my defense counsel?
What if I want to meet with my attorney at anytime in advance of a significant event during the course of the lawsuit (i.e. deposition, trial, etc.)?
If I have to make an appearance at a deposition or trial, how should I dress?
If I am scheduled for a deposition, will I have sufficient time to meet with my counsel in advance of that deposition?
I have been sued, but I want to assert a claim back against the plaintiff for my own injuries or property damage. Can I retain the services of this firm for that purpose?
What are Interrogatories?
What is a deposition?
I have received a letter from my insurance carrier indicating that I could hire my own lawyer. Should I do so at this time?
DISCLAIMER
This website is designed to provide general information only, and does not constitute legal advice. This website should not be utilized as a substitute for professional legal counsel. Questions about legal rights and responsibilities should be discussed directly with an attorney.
QUESTION
I have received a letter from my insurance carrier indicating that I could hire my own lawyer. Should I do so at this time?
ANSWER
One of the most frequently asked questions, is whether or not someone should retain their own lawyer. Certainly if you intend to file a counterclaim or counter suit against the party suing you for personal injury or property damage, you will have to retain your own attorney.
The other circumstance where it really becomes necessary to obtain your own attorney is when you have been sued for punitive (punishment) damages. Punitive damages may arise in a situation when you are operating an automobile under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs or your actions leading up to the accident are malicious or reckless.
There is also a limited situation where a lawsuit has been filed seeking damages in excess of your automobile liability policy limits. This also may cause the need for you to obtain personal counsel, but you should rely upon your defense counsel to advise you when that time would be appropriate.
Phone: (330) 405-5061 • Toll-Free: (888) 648-3894 • Fax: (330) 405-5586
