My insurance agent says I can handle the case myself without a lawyer.  Is this a good idea?

Since a consultation is free, it won't hurt to ask us if we think we can help.  Having worked as lawyers for many years, we have a bias against insurance companies and what they might tell you.  This bias is based on our knowledge that no matter how nice insurance adjusters sound on the phone, they have one goal in mind above all others--to pay you as little as possible. 

Insurance companies do not work for you.  They rarely help you figure out your legal rights, and may not fully understand them.  They rarely give you a fair assessment of the value of your case.

If your injuries are significant, there are several reasons why a good lawyer can help you.  When you hire a lawyer who is willing to take a case to trial, value is added to your case in a number of ways.  A good lawyer will seek every category of damages that applies to your case, and find ways to support those damages with evidence that will be admissible in court. 

The threat of trial itself adds to your bargaining power.  Make no mistake: the insurance company knows that it's almost impossible to take a case to trial on your own. 

If you take my case, what will I have to do?

If you hire us to be your lawyers, you will be a significant part of your case team.  We will ask you to help us gather the information that we will use to support your case. 

Just as we will keep you informed about your case, you will need to keep us informed about your medical treatment and your physical limitations.  After we file the lawsuit, you will have to answer written questions called interrogatories and sit for a question-and-answer period with the opposing lawyer called a "deposition."  (Of course, we'll prepare you first, find a time that is convenient for you, and sit next to you during the deposition).  You may have to be evaluated by other doctors.  If your case does not settle, you will have to be present for the trial. 

How long will it take?

Even though many cases settle before trial, this does not usually happen until both sides have prepared the case.  Generally, lawsuits take about two years from filing to trial.  This can vary significantly in either direction based on the complexity of your case, the congestion of court dockets, and other factors. 

Our advice to our clients?  Be patient.  We are always willing to tell you exactly what is happening with your case.  In the meantime, you have to trust that we are working hard for you.

Can I talk to you about my case for free?

Yes.  If you want to talk to one of our lawyers about a case, just call on the phone and ask.  After you have answered a few basic questions with one of our staff members, we will be happy to discuss your case for free on the telephone or in our office.  Generally, it will take only ten to thirty minutes for us to decide whether or not we can help you.

What other resources are available on your web site?

Our website is designed to demonstrate what sets Schaeffer & Lamere apart from other consumer law and personal injury law firms in Illinois and Missouri.  Please begin by following the links to our firm and to notable settlements.  

Next,you can read more about our partners by following the links to Evan Schaeffer and Andrea Lamere.  To learn what some of our clients have said about us, see testimonials.

Do you have other questions?   You can submit questions or comments with our personal injury help form.  Or e-mail us at eschaeffer@riverbendlaw.com. 

You can also call our office at (618) 467-8200 or toll free at (888) 783-9679.  However you contact us, we'll answer your questions for free.  

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