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FAQs

General Legal Questions Asked Most Often

Q: How much is my case worth?

It depends on the seriousness of your case. The amount of money you'd potentially receive is dependent on factors that include: the details of your accident, your insurance coverage, the extent of your injuries, and the policy of the person liable for your injury. We help you examine all of the conditions of your case. Generally the dollar value is dependent upon the type and extent of injuries. 

Q: Can I speak to you for free?

Yes. Michael Finerty is happy to talk with you and offer legal advice, without charging any fee. After our conversation, if you decide to retain us, we will have you sign a contract with us and then we'll begin working on your case. There is no pressure if, after our conversation, you decide not to sign on with us. We are here to help.

Q: What would it cost for you to handle my case?

At Michael Finerty Attorney At Law, our fee is a "contingency fee" based upon a percentage of the recovery that is made at the end of your case. We only get paid if and you get paid. This shows that we are on your team and are intuitively motivated to fairly and ethically get you the highest amount possible for your case.

Q: Can I hire any lawyer to handle my case?

Lawyers and attorneys specialize in different sectors of law (contract law, family, law, real estate law, etc.) We specialize personal injury law and are here to help you win your case (whether through a direct settlement or through a court hearing). Despite who you hire, you have a right to ask them about their experience and expertise in personal injury law.

Q: Will we have to go to court if I hire you?

You will not go to court if the other party agrees to pay what we believe your case is worth and you decide to settle for that amount. Injury claims usually get settled out of court. Regardless, some cases require a formal trial proceeding. Hiring a firm with experience in handling personal injury cases (like ours) is imperative whether you are dealing with a settlement or going to trial. We are here for you. 

Q: What can I recover after a car accident?

You may be entitled to recover multiple types of costs, including medical expenses (surgery costs, hospitalization costs, ambulance costs, medical device costs, prescription costs, etc.), lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering as well as permanent impairment. The extent of your claim is heavily dependent on these factors.

Q: What is a "statute of limitations"?

It is imperative you contact an attorney as soon as you can after an accident or injury, as
"statute of limitations" refers to the need to file a lawsuit within a certain time limit. The time limit depends on the type of case, but know that there is always a time limit to taking legal action. 

Q: How are case values determined in Workers Compensation?

The injured worker along with the employer and their insurer need to come to an agreement of the value of the worker's compensation claim.  If the parties cannot agree, then there is no settlement.  The value of workers' compensation depends on a number of factors, such as severity of the injury, amount of the injured employee's weekly benefits, how long the employee is expected to be disabled from working, past and estimated future medical costs, and age of the injured worker. The greater the anticipated costs, the more valuable the claim. 

Q: Who will pay for my medical and car expenses if the other driver in my accident isn't insured?

We can look at your car insurance policy and tell you if you have med-pay or UIM coverages. These can help pay the costs of medical bills and car expenses if you are involved in a car accident with someone who has no insurance.

Q: What is med-pay and UIM coverage on my car insurance?

Medical payments coverage (med-pay) is part of auto insurance policies. It can help pay for your or your passengers' medical injury expenses, regardless of who caused the accident. It is a good idea to have med-pay on your insurance policy. Med-pay coverage is no-fault coverage and entitles the you to dollar-for-dollar reimbursement for medical expenses incurred from an accident. Underinsured motorist insurance (UIM) protects you if your vehicle is hit by someone without automobile insurance or someone with a policy that has too little to pay for your injuries. UIM is also something worth having on your insurance policy.

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