You just signed up with a law firm to represent you in your personal injury case. One of the first things the firm does is send you a “Welcome Letter”. While this may just seem like an ordinary correspondence, please DO NOT IGNORE! There is highly important information listed in this letter.
Confidentiality Regarding Your Accident:
The first paragraph emphasizes the importance of not discussing your accident with anyone. This caution is to protect the integrity and value of your case. By refraining from sharing details with others, you allow the legal professionals to handle all aspects of your case effectively.
Property Damage Concerns:
The letter addresses property damage claims related to your vehicle. It advises you to contact the firm’s assistant if you have any concerns. Additionally, it highlights the importance of promptly addressing vehicle storage issues to prevent potential complications or losses, especially if liability has not been established.
Medical Advice Compliance:
Another key aspect covered in the Welcome Letter is the importance of following your doctor’s advice diligently. By adhering to your medical treatment plan and informing your doctor of all complaints, even minor ones, you ensure that your medical condition is well-documented. This documentation is crucial for evaluating your injuries and supporting your personal injury claim.
In summary, the “Welcome Letter” from a law firm serves as a guide to help you navigate the legal process effectively and protect your interests in a personal injury case. It provides essential instructions to safeguard the value of your case, address property damage concerns, and prioritize your health by following medical advice for a successful recovery and claim process.
- Legal Process Overview: The letter may outline the general process of a personal injury case, including stages like investigation, negotiation with insurance companies, potential litigation, and settlement procedures. This overview helps you understand what to expect as your case progresses.
- Communication Channels: It often details how you can communicate with the legal team, the best methods to reach them, and the expected response times. Clear communication channels ensure that you can easily get updates on your case and address any concerns promptly.
- Documentation Requirements: The letter may also specify the documents and evidence you need to gather and provide to support your case effectively. This could include medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and other relevant information.
- Timeline Expectations: There might be a section outlining the anticipated timeline for different stages of the case, from initial investigations to potential trial dates. Understanding the timeline helps manage expectations regarding the duration of the legal process.
- Legal Fees and Payment Structure: Details about legal fees, payment arrangements, and any contingency fee agreements could be included. This transparency ensures you have a clear understanding of the financial aspects of your representation.
- Client Responsibilities: The letter may outline your responsibilities as a client, such as attending appointments, providing accurate information, and cooperating with the legal team to strengthen your case.
By comprehensively covering these additional aspects, the “Welcome Letter” serves as a comprehensive guide that not only informs you about the critical initial steps but also sets expectations, clarifies roles, and helps you actively participate in your personal injury case. This proactive approach fosters a strong attorney-client relationship and contributes to a smoother legal process overall.
One of the first paragraphs should tell you the following:
“DO NOT DISCUSS YOUR ACCIDENT WITH ANYONE”
You signed up with a firm for a reason. Let the firm work for you. They are the experts and they do not want you to harm the value of your case. In a nutshell, it is best to leave it to the professionals representing you.
The Welcome Letter should also have a paragraph explaining property damage: “If your vehicle was damaged in this accident, and you have any concerns regarding property damage claims, please speak with my assistant. If your vehicle is in storage, you must take steps to get your vehicle to a free storage area. If you are in a rental, be advised you have a duty to keep your rental expenses to a minimum.” This seems to be a major problem for some clients. There are times that liability has not been accepted and the client leaves their vehicle in storage for weeks, and sometimes even months at a time. Before you know it, their vehicle is set to be auctioned off. Do not let this happen to you!
There should also be a paragraph in the Welcome Letter telling you to follow your doctor’s advice: “Only by following your doctor’s advice can you hope to hasten your recovery. You should advise your doctor of all medical complaints, including minor ones, so your medical condition can be properly documented and evaluated.” Remember, the ONLY way to recover from a personal injury claim is through your medical bills and records. You do not get money from an insurance company simply because you were involved in an accident.
Here in South Texas, it is important to have an attorney represent you that you know and trust. Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C. has been around for decades serving the residents of Corpus Christi all the way down to the greater Rio Grande Valley. We have attorneys on standby 24/7 to answer any of your legal needs. As always, our phone and in-person consultations are FREE. If we cannot help you, we will be sure to help you find someone who can. If you or a loved one have any questions please be sure to call the office at 361-882-4357 or drop by our Corpus Christi location at 1201 Third Street. Here at Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C. we are always putting YOU first!
