When a personal injury lawyer is hired to represent a client, the first step they take is to thoroughly investigate the case. This process involves collecting and examining all relevant evidence in order to build a strong case for their client. The goal of this investigation is not only to understand what happened but also who may be legally responsible for any harm caused.
The initial phase of an investigation often involves meeting with the client and discussing the incident in detail. This discussion helps the lawyer understand how the injury occurred, who was involved, and what kind of damages were sustained. The attorney will ask specific questions about where and when it happened, who else was present, if there were any witnesses, and other details that could be crucial for building a solid case.
After gathering information from their client, personal injury lawyers then start collecting evidence related to the accident or event that led to the injury. This could include medical records showing treatment received as well as prognosis for recovery; police reports if applicable; photographs or videos of where it happened; statements from eyewitnesses; and even expert testimony on certain aspects like how much income has been lost due to https://themarinelawyer.com/car-accidents/ inability work because of injuries sustained.
In some cases, personal injury lawyers might also hire private investigators or forensic experts to help them gather more detailed information about an incident. For instance, they might need an accident reconstruction expert if liability is disputed in a car crash case.
Another key aspect of investigating a personal injury claim involves evaluating potential defendants – those who might be held legally accountable for causing harm. Lawyers identify these parties based on details gathered during their investigation: It could be another driver at fault in an auto accident; property owners failing maintain safe conditions leading slip-and-fall accidents; manufacturers producing defective products causing injuries etc.
To establish liability against these potential defendants, attorneys must prove negligence – that they owed duty care towards injured person (their client), breached this duty by acting unreasonably under circumstances which directly resulted harm. This is where all collected evidence comes into play, as it helps illustrate how defendant’s negligence led to client’s injury.
Finally, personal injury lawyers also investigate the financial aspects of a case. They calculate the total damages their client has suffered – including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage and non-economic damages like pain and suffering – to determine what compensation they should seek.
In conclusion, investigating a personal injury case is an extensive process that requires meticulous attention to detail. The objective is not only finding out who was at fault but also collecting sufficient evidence to prove this in court and determine fair compensation for the injured party. Personal injury lawyers play a crucial role in ensuring justice for those who have been wrongfully harmed due to others’ negligence.
