What Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Do For You?

A Comprehensive Guide to the Roles and Responsibilities in Philadelphia

If you've found yourself injured due to someone else's negligence, you might be wondering, "What can a personal injury lawyer do for me?" Navigating the intricacies of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania laws can be daunting, but a personal injury lawyer is more than just a legal advocate. Below, we break down the key roles and responsibilities that a personal injury lawyer assumes to ensure your path to justice is as smooth as possible.

Case Evaluation and Strategy Development

Your journey with a personal injury lawyer starts at the initial consultation. Here, the attorney assesses the viability of your claim based on the specifics of Pennsylvania laws. Should you decide to proceed, they develop a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your case, considering factors such as evidence, witnesses, and local jurisdiction nuances.

Example:

In a car accident scenario, your lawyer may immediately move to secure any CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts.

Evidence Gathering

An injury claim relies heavily on evidence. Your attorney will set out to collect all pertinent information to build a robust case. This can involve anything from medical records to accident scene investigations. The local understanding of a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer can be crucial in knowing what to look for and where.

Example:

For a slip and fall at a Philadelphia mall, your lawyer would gather store surveillance footage, interview employees, and even consult with architects or safety experts if needed.

Filing Legal Documents

Understanding and filing legal documents can be complex. Your attorney will draft, review, and file all required documents, ensuring you meet all deadlines imposed by Pennsylvania law. This can range from the initial complaint to responses to motions from the opposing side.

Example:

In the case of a medical malpractice suit, your lawyer will file the lawsuit within Pennsylvania's statute of limitations, ensuring that you don't miss out on your right to seek damages.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies can be daunting adversaries, employing tactics designed to reduce your compensation. Your lawyer understands these tactics and will negotiate with the insurers on your behalf, often leveraging their experience to secure a more favorable settlement.

Example:

Following a bicycle accident, the insurance company may offer an initial settlement that doesn't cover long-term treatment. Your lawyer will counter-negotiate based on similar past cases and current Philadelphia medical cost standards.

Representation in Court

If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will represent you in court. They will present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and make final arguments, taking into account the specifics of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania judiciary systems.

Example:

During a trial, your attorney may use a local Philadelphia accident reconstruction expert to substantiate your claims, thereby increasing your chances for a successful outcome.

Why van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim?

Our firm is committed to going above and beyond in fulfilling these roles. We not only focus on the tasks at hand but also maintain a broader perspective, ensuring that we meet and exceed your expectations every step of the way. But perhaps the question you should be asking is not just "What Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Do For You?" but "What Additional Support and Services Can You Expect from Your Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyer?"

If you’re in Philadelphia or the surrounding Pennsylvania regions, we invite you to contact us for a consultation to discuss your specific needs and how we can meet them. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey to justice.