Every day, personal injury attorneys hear from folks who have recently suffered from an accident. Many times, the careless act of a driver, a medical mistake or a defective product is the cause of an injury.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury, you probably have many questions about what happened and what to do. We help families investigate “what happened,” talk to witnesses and find the truth. We are here to answer your questions and help you take the proper steps as you try to get through this challenging time.

In a series of Q&As, we will answer questions and share resources to help you as you’re dealing with personal injury.
This is the second article. We’ll cover what the personal injury claim is, when to hire an attorney and what kind of process you can expect.

What does the legal claim of “personal injury” mean?

Under the law, a “personal injury” is an injury to the body, mind or emotions caused by a negligent, careless, intentional or reckless act of another person or corporation.
A personal injury can result from any accident that causes serious injury.

What should I do if I think I have a personal injury case?

First, you’ll want to consult with an experienced New Jersey civil trial lawyer that knows about personal injury cases and personal injury laws.
Personal injury cases can be very difficult and complicated. The law is complex and not all lawyers have the skills and experience to handle this type of claim. A serious injury is one of the worst things that can happen to your family –and when the worst happens, you need the best.

You should demand a lawyer that is experienced in handling personal injury claims.
That lawyer will have the knowledge and the experience to explore and analyze the issues surrounding the events that led to your injury and tell you whether you have a personal injury case that can be proven in court.

Experienced personal injury attorneys will have access to experts and resources to perform an in-depth analysis of data such as medical records, MRIs, CAT Scans, pathology studies, product design, safety standards, OSHA regulations and more to determine the next course of action.
It is extremely important to talk to an attorney about your situation as soon as possible.

How long do I have to file a claim?

You must file your lawsuit within two years from the date of the injury or the claim will be legally barred by the statute of limitations law.
Although your family will undoubtedly be going through the healing process, it is very important to speak with a lawyer as soon as you can so that an investigation can start as soon as possible and your rights are not lost.

What will a personal injury attorney do for me?

Step One: Determine if there’s a personal injury case

At the Mininno Law Office in Collingswood, NJ, and Philadelphia, your case will be reviewed by experts and consultants hired by the firm to review the evidence to determine if there is a potential personal injury case.
These professionals are retained by the firm and will work closely with us to review the evidence.

Step Two: Determine if a lawsuit should be filed

If your personal injury attorney determines you have a personal injury case, the firm will invite you and your family to meet at the firm’s offices and have an open and honest discussion about the merits of your case.
All of your questions and concerns will be answered and then you and your family can decide if the case should be filed. If you decide to proceed, the Mininno Law Office will then notify authorities and make sure that you are protected from day one.

Personal injury attorneys can work with authorities to find out what your rights and legal options are. While the victim fights to heal physically and emotionally, the personal injury attorney will work to make the case.
We will help you explain your situation to your bill collectors and make sure that any bills are properly submitted to your insurance carriers for payment.

When you come to the Mininno Law Office, you will receive a free case evaluation or consultation with our team. They will be able to break down the details of your case and determine if you need a medical malpractice attorney.

How much do personal injury attorneys cost?

Generally, attorney fees are not cheap, and personal injury attorneys know that defendants may not have the money to hire them.However, the Mininno Law Offices will work on a “contingency fee basis,” which allows you to get the best legal representation available without having to pay up front.
In other words, contingency is service now, pay later.

Another benefit of working on a contingency basis is that you do not pay legal fees unless and until you win. As a fee, the lawyer receives a percentage of your recovery as compensation. Most lawyers receive for 33 to 40 percent of your compensation.
In the event that you do not win the case, if you’re working with a personal injury attorney on contingency, you do not have to pay any fee. In other words, we work for free unless or until we are successful.

How long will my personal injury case take and what else can I expect?

A personal injury lawsuit is a battle. You can expect a long, tiring process. You must be prepared to answer written questions, some of them personal in nature, and be prepared to answer questions about your case at an attorney’s office.
But don’t worry. We will be with you the entire time to protect your rights. You may find yourself spending a large amount of time each day helping your attorney with the case. It’s a team effort.

These cases are usually not quick and simple. Sometimes they are resolved quickly, but it may take months or even years for a case to be resolved. However, if we do win the case, you are entitled to compensation.
The exact amount of money you can recover can’t be determined without analyzing all information related to your injury including your medical bills, loss of income, and the severity of your injury. Each case involves a different set of circumstances, and therefore different amounts of money.

The victim of medical malpractice and his or her family may recover monetary damages for:

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Costs of specialized care — including medical equipment, caregivers and aides, physical and emotional therapy and education
• Family’s out-of-pocket expenses for caring for the victim

If a loved one has suffered a personal injury, an attorney specializing in personal injury cases can help you recover the expenses you incur as well as compensation for pain and suffering by presenting a strong case.

As far as receiving compensation, that depends on a number of factors such as how serious the offense is and whether the case is settled or goes to trial.

Do you have any other questions? Get free help now

Personal injury attorneys who are trained and experienced can give you the help you need when you need it. When you suffer a serious injury, you enter a difficult and trying time.
At Mininno Law Office, we make a special effort to handle these cases delicately and discreetly. We want to help you and your family through the tumultuous period that follows a personal injury.

We have tried to answer some of the basic questions most people have when they consider whether they need a New Jersey personal injury attorney.
But, we are available to answer any other questions you may have. Just send us a question on the form to the left and we will give you an answer.

Or, if you would like to speak immediately with a New Jersey personal injury attorney, you can call (856) 833-0600. If you would like to speak to a Pennsylvania lawyer, you may call (215) 567-2380.