The laws governing our nation can be difficult to understand, written in a complicated language that is often misinterpreted. That’s why it’s important to find a team you can trust to translate, and to help you gain footing in a legal landscape that can seem complicated and overwhelming.
To help set the record straight once and for all, West Law Firm has separated fact from fiction. Our team, proudly serving Berkeley County and the surrounding areas, is happy to shed some light on common myths and misconceptions about the legal system.
Check out our list below and feel free to get in touch if we missed a myth you’re curious about!
MYTH #1: I can’t afford an attorney and should just handle my case on my own.
FALSE.
Many law firms offer free initial consultations, providing advice that doesn’t cost a dime. Here at West Law Firm, we’d be happy to meet with you and to learn about your situation. Keep in mind that navigating the legal system on your own is a serious gamble – an unnecessary risk that could result in the loss of the benefits you deserve. Instead, partner with a team you can trust, right here at home in Berkeley County: West Law Firm.
MYTH #2: I can file a suit or Workers’ Compensation claim whenever I want.
FALSE.
Believing this myth could cost you the compensation you’re rightly owed. Because of the statute of limitations, victims have a certain period of time when they can file a suit – a window that varies from state to state, depending on the type of case. For Workers’ Compensation claims, for instance, the accident victim has 90 days to notify their employer. However, they have up to two years to actually file a claim.
MYTH #3: I can deal with the insurance company on my own.
FALSE.
The insurance company is focused on its own profits, not your best interests. While it may sound cynical, insurance companies are out to make money just like any other business. They’ll find loopholes to ensure you receive the lowest settlement possible – a solution that only benefits their bottom line. By hiring an attorney, you can be sure that your voice will be heard, amplified by your representative’s legal experience.
MYTH #4: All cases go to court.
FALSE.
Movies and TV legal dramas lead many people to believe that every case is settled in the courtroom. On the contrary, most cases never go to trial and are settled outside of court. This saves both parties money, hassle and stress.
MYTH #5: My injury isn’t severe enough to justify hiring a lawyer.
FALSE.
This line of thinking is extremely risky. Even if you don’t feel that your injury is very serious or you’re not seeking a large settlement, it’s wise to consult an experienced legal team like the personal injury attorneys at West Law Firm. At the very least, we can provide guidance on whether or not to pursue your case and prevent you from dealing with the insurance company directly.
MYTH #6: One attorney is as good as the next.
FALSE.
While every attorney graduated law school, the similarities between them often stop there. Many focus on certain practice areas, gaining experience in specific kinds of cases. It’s important to do your research and find a legal team that is a good fit for you – and your particular type of case.
MYTH #7: My case will drag on and I won’t receive benefits for a long time.
FALSE.
No two cases are exactly the same and they certainly don’t adhere to a specific timeline. While it’s true that some cases will take a few years to reach a conclusion, others don’t take nearly as long. Your attorney can give you a better idea of how long it’ll take, but keep in mind that this is just a general estimate.
MYTH #8: My attorney can tell me exactly how much compensation I’ll receive.
FALSE.
Your attorney can provide an estimated amount, but cannot definitively conclude how much your case is worth. Every case is different, and the many factors involved make it impossible to know how much money you’ll receive.
MYTH #9: Personal injury cases are usually frivolous.
FALSE.
Most personal injury claims are based on fact, made by victims who have been injured by another’s negligent or reckless behavior. The personal injury attorneys at West Law Firm take each claim seriously, learning every aspect of the case in order to effectively fight for the compensation you deserve.
To schedule your free initial consultation at our Moncks Corner office or to learn more about the steps that follow, contact West Law Firm at 843-761-5626 or click here.
About West Law Firm, P.A.
Founded by H. Norman West in 1945, West Law Firm has served the Lowcountry for nearly 75 years. Practice areas include personal injury, car wrecks, criminal defense, DUI defense, family law, wrongful death, land disputes, business litigation, probate and estate planning, and alternative dispute resolution.
West Law Firm, P.A.
207 Carolina Avenue
Moncks Corner SC 29461