TV vs. Reality - Attorney Addition
We have all seen the media portray lawyers in different lights; from characters like Jack McCoy in Law & Order, who for 16 seasons brought “Order” to his firm and fought ruthlessly to bring justice to his clients. To lighthearted movie lawyers like Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, winning cases with random facts and deductive reasoning. We even see more serious yet charming and persuasive lawyers like Harvey Specter from Suits. While television portrays attorneys as whatever best fits their storyline, there is much more to the practice of law than seen over a two-hour movie or couple of season-long shows. Here are some of the most common misconceptions about lawyers, of any kind of law practice.
Misconception: Having a lawsuit automatically means you will go to court.
Reality: It is also important to note that just because you meet with a lawyer, it does not mean that you are going to go to court or that a case is in progress. It’s said that approximately only 5% (or even less) cases actually make it all the way to court. Many cases are often negotiated between lawyers, adjusters, and end clients to get the ultimate compensation one deserves post-accident.
At Western States Law, P.C. we like to reiterate to clients that you DO NOT have to file a lawsuit or go to court if you do not want to. Even if you hire an attorney, you should not feel pressured to file a lawsuit if that is not what you want. Our attorneys will provide you with advice but, ultimately, you decide the direction your case takes.
Misconception: Instant results.
Reality: Where you may see on TV a case is solved in one episode or within the two-hour movie time frame, cases can often take months to years to settle. In particular with personal injury cases, the settlement time may depend on current and future treatments for your injuries.
Misconception: Instant “big bucks”.
Reality: Just like other industry commercials, injury attorneys advertise their biggest and best results, not the general and most common case results. Do not be fooled by the “Top Attorneys” advertisements you see on TV showing their millions of dollars earned for their clients. Many of these firms over-advertised to underdeliver. At our firm, we vow to get our clients the compensation they rightfully deserve by looking at factors such as medical bills, length of treatment, loss of income, loss of enjoyment, scarring or disfigurement, pain, and suffering, etc.
Misconception: Attorneys work on and off throughout the week on cases, hurrying through details, with little time to explain their actions and give clients status on their case.
Reality: Our attorneys at Western States Law, P.C., similar to the TV attorneys, fight for our clients daily however we do not need to be in the courtroom to get you the compensation you deserve. Most personal injury cases are settled outside of the courtroom. We typically start by meeting with our clients to gather information on their incident, then proceed to get legal and medical records that can contribute to our client’s overall compensation.
Misconception: Attorneys are impossible to get ahold of, often only giving status updates through case managers or paralegals.
Reality: Unfortunately, this thought is given to clients because most law firms operate this way. However, at Western States Law, P.C. we guarantee 24/7 access to your attorney. Our attorneys will provide a cell phone number during the initial meeting and will be available to give updates when you need them.
Overall, TV attorneys do an amazing job of entertaining us but when it comes to finding a trusted personal injury attorney after you or a loved one has been injured or worse, ensure to find a lawyer that will take your case personally. At Western States Law, P.C. we assist in getting the help you need in every way. Some larger firms pass your case off to a “case manager” or paralegal. With us, you will always have a personal injury lawyer assigned to your case.
We are proud members of the local Colorado community and take great pleasure in serving our clients. We care personally about each and every client, many of whom are friends, neighbors, or family members. Our business is built on this. We will not be satisfied unless you are.
With decades of experience, we understand the insurance industry thoroughly. We will explain your options and also understand that “we work for you.” Whether it is filing a lawsuit, or settling out of court, the decision is always yours. With Western States Law, you will not be pressured by your attorney to take actions with which you are uncomfortable.