How we work
What to Expect From a Personal Injury Lawyer Free Consultation
A personal injury lawyer free consultation is simply a first conversation where you explain what happened and we explain your legal rights, with no obligation. At Valley Accident Law we call it a free case review. You pay no attorney fee unless we recover money for you. This page walks through each step, from that first call to a resolution.
Reviewed by Charles Paglialunga, Esq.
- First step
- Free case review
- Confidential, no obligation
- Fees
- You pay no attorney fee unless we recover money for you.
- Written fee agreement, signed by you
- Filing deadline
- 2 years from the injury for most claims
- A.R.S. 12-542(1)
How a Claim Works With Valley Accident Law
Every claim is different, but most follow the same path. Here is what to expect from us at each stage.
- 1
A free case review
You tell us what happened. We listen, ask questions and tell you whether we think you have a potential case. Your free case review is confidential and there is no obligation.
- 2
We gather the facts and the evidence
We look at the crash or incident reports, photographs, medical records, bills and any messages from insurance companies, and we identify who may be responsible.
- 3
We deal with the insurance company
Requests for recorded statements, medical records and that fast first offer come through us, so you can focus on your recovery instead of on the adjuster’s next phone call.
- 4
We build the claim
We document your injuries, your medical bills, your lost income and the ways the injury has changed your life, so the claim reflects the full picture.
- 5
We negotiate from the full record
Insurance companies and attorneys often negotiate the percentage of fault. We negotiate from the evidence, and we explain every offer to you before you decide.
- 6
You decide what happens next
If a fair settlement is not offered, we will talk with you about filing a lawsuit. Together we will decide what is the best course of action for you.
No Win No Fee Lawyer: What That Means
Many people look for a no win no fee lawyer, and for no win no fee lawyers near me, because they worry about paying up front. In plain terms, that is a contingency fee arrangement, and it is how we work. You pay no attorney fee unless we recover money for you.
Arizona requires a contingency fee agreement to be in writing and signed, and to state the percentage and how costs are handled (Ariz. ER 1.5(c)). There is no statutory cap on the percentage. That is why we explain the agreement before you sign it, so you know exactly what you are agreeing to.
Questions about fees are among the most common we hear, so ask us anything on your free case review. You can also read more in our guide to contingency fees.
How Much Do Lawyers Get Paid for Winning a Case?
If you have wondered how much do lawyers get paid for winning a case, here is the simple answer, and what to look for in your own agreement.
- Usually a percentage of the recovery
In a contingency arrangement the lawyer is paid from the money recovered, and the percentage is set out in the fee agreement you sign. If there is no recovery, you are not charged an attorney fee.
- Costs are a separate question
Case costs, such as records and filing fees, are handled in the agreement too. Ask how they are treated, both if there is a recovery and if there is not.
- Everything in writing
A fair agreement is clear, in writing and explained to you before you sign it. If anyone avoids a direct answer about how they are paid, that tells you something.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Personal Injury Claim?
If you are asking, do I need a lawyer for a personal injury claim, the honest answer depends on how badly you were hurt and who was at fault. A minor property damage claim may be simple. A claim involving injuries, missed work, a disputed account of fault or an insurance company that is slow to respond is a different matter.
The first offer is often quick and low. Signing a release or accepting a payment will under most circumstances close your case permanently, so it helps to understand your legal rights first. A free case review costs you nothing and tells you where you stand, and you can read more about comparative negligence and the personal injury claim process while you decide.
Deadlines Matter
Most Arizona personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the injury (A.R.S. 12-542(1)). If a public entity such as a city, a county or the state may be responsible, a written notice of claim is due within 180 days (A.R.S. 12-821.01). Some claims, including claims against a public entity, have much shorter notice deadlines. The earlier you call, the better, but it’s never too late to find out your legal rights.
Arizona
Where to Go Next
These pages explain more about how we work and who we are.
Questions
Questions about how we work
Is there a car accident lawyer near me with a free consultation?
Our office is at 5635 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 170, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, and we represent people hurt across the Phoenix metro. You can start with a free case review by phone at (602) 584-8054, with no obligation.
Do I pay anything up front?
You pay no attorney fee unless we recover money for you. Ask us about the fee agreement and case costs on your free case review.
Will you tell me honestly if I do not have a case?
Yes. We will explain what we see and what your options are, including when the best option is not to file a claim.
Who makes the decisions about my case?
You do. We will explain your legal rights and give you our advice, and we will not settle your claim without your approval.
Free case review
Start With a Free Case Review
Call (602) 584-8054 to tell us what happened. Our experienced and friendly attorney will explain your legal rights. The earlier you call, the better, but it’s never too late to find out your legal rights.
Call any time. Office visits Monday to Friday, 9 to 5.
Thank you, we’ve received your request.
A member of our team will reach out shortly. If your matter is urgent, call us now at (602) 584-8054.