This is where we try to answer the most common questions prospective customers might have.
Why do I need a lawyer?
Having an attorney can be incredibly beneficial for several reasons, here are just a few:
- Legal Expertise: Attorneys have a deep understanding of the law and can navigate complex legal systems to protect your rights and interests.
- Avoiding Mistakes: Legal procedures can be intricate, and making a mistake can be costly. An attorney ensures that all necessary documents are correctly filed and deadlines are met.
- Strategic Advice: Attorneys can provide strategic advice tailored to your specific situation, helping you make informed decisions.
- Representation in Court: If your case goes to court, having an attorney to represent you can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Negotiation Skills: Attorneys are skilled negotiators who can help you reach settlements or agreements that are in your best interest.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that a professional is handling your legal matters can reduce stress and give you peace of mind.
What will this cost?
Every case is different. For better guidance contact us for a consultation. Generally speaking, our office, like most attorneys can be paid in several different ways, depending on the nature of the case and the agreement between the attorney and the client. Here are the most common payment arrangements:
- Hourly Rate: Attorneys charge a set amount for each hour they work on a case. This rate can vary based on various factors like the type and complexity of the case.
- Flat Fee: For certain types of cases, such as drafting a will or handling a straightforward legal matter, attorneys may charge a flat fee. This means the client pays a fixed amount regardless of the time spent on the case.
- Contingency Fee: In cases like personal injury lawsuits, attorneys may work on a contingency fee basis. This means the attorney only gets paid if they win the case, typically taking a percentage of the settlement or award.
- Retainer: Some attorneys require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that serves as a deposit for future legal services. The attorney then bills against this retainer as they work on the case.
Each payment structure has its advantages and is suited to different types of legal matters. If you have a specific legal issue in mind, I can help you understand which payment arrangement might be most appropriate.
What types of cases does your law firm handle?
We handle a large variety of cases to help out clients. Schedule a consultation and the attorney can tell you whether we can help, or, if not, direct you to someone who specializes in your specific needs.
How long has your law firm been in business?
Attorney Erik Espinosa has been practicing law since 2008 and this firm has been open since 2010 helping clients with all types of legal matters.
Do you charge for a consultation?
Brief 10-minute consultations for simple matters may not be charged when no legal advice is given. For matters that are more complex or require a legal opinion a small consultation fee is required.
What are your office hours?
Office hours are 9am to 5pm, but we are available all times of the day via phone and email to our clients.
How much is my case worth?
The value of a legal case can vary widely depending on several factors. Here are some key considerations:
- Liability: Determining who is legally responsible for the damages is crucial. If liability is clear, the case may be worth more.
- Damages: This includes medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other costs incurred due to the incident. Future expenses and non-economic damages like pain and suffering are also considered.
- Evidence: Strong documentary evidence, credible witnesses, and favorable discovery can increase the value of a case.
- Jurisdiction: The location where the case is filed can impact its value, as different jurisdictions may have varying laws and precedents.
- Settlement vs. Trial: Cases settled out of court may have different values compared to those that go to trial. A jury or judge’s decision can significantly influence the final amount.
Ultimately, the value of a case is determined by a combination of these factors and the specific circumstances of the case. Consulting with an attorney can provide a more accurate assessment based on your unique situation.
What is a statute of limitations?
A statute of limitations is a law that sets the maximum amount of time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. The duration of the statute of limitations varies depending on the nature of the offense and the jurisdiction. Here are some key points:
Civil and Criminal Cases: Statutes of limitations apply to both civil and criminal cases.
For example, in civil cases like contract disputes or personal injury claims, the time limit can range from a few years to several years. In criminal cases, more serious offenses like murder may have no statute of limitations.
Purpose: The main purpose of statutes of limitations is to ensure that legal claims are made within a reasonable time frame, which helps preserve the integrity of evidence and witness testimony.
How soon will my case be resolved?
This varies greatly based on a number of factors including the type of case, whether it is settled or has to go to trial, whether it is contested or not, the amount of evidence in hand or if discovery has to be done to gather additional information.
It is impossible to tell at the outset, but speak to an attorney to get an idea based on your specific circumstances what a case may generally take.
Will I have to go to court?
Not necessarily. While some lawsuits do go to court, many are resolved through settlements before reaching that stage.
Here are a few possibilities:
Settlement: Many cases are settled out of court through negotiations between the parties involved. This can save time, money, and stress.
Mediation or Arbitration: These are alternative dispute resolution methods where a neutral third party helps the parties reach an agreement. Mediation is more collaborative, while arbitration is more like a private court.
Court Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial. In this scenario, both parties present their evidence and arguments, and a judge or jury makes a decision.
Each case is unique, so the likelihood of going to court depends on the specifics of your situation. Consulting with an attorney can provide more clarity on what to expect in your particular case.