If you or a loved one were bitten by a dog in Chicago, choosing the right lawyer can make a major difference in the outcome of your case. Illinois has strong dog bite laws, but insurance companies still look for ways to reduce or deny claims. Before you hire a Chicago dog bite lawyer, it is important to ask the right questions so you understand exactly who will be handling your case and how it will be managed.
Below are six key questions that can help you make an informed decision.
1. How Much Experience Do You Have With Chicago Dog Bite Cases?
Dog bite cases are not handled the same way as car accidents and other personal injury claims. Illinois follows a strict liability standard in most dog bite cases, which means the legal strategy is different than in negligence-based claims. You should ask how many dog bite cases the Chicago car accident attorney has handled and whether they have experience with high-value cases involving especially serious injuries.
2. Who Will Actually Be Handling My Case?
At some firms, the lawyer you meet during the consultation is not the person who works on your case day to day. You should ask whether your case will be handled by the attorney you meet or passed off to a junior associate.
It is also reasonable to ask how often you will receive updates and who your main point of contact will be throughout the case.
3. What Is My Case Likely Worth?
No attorney can promise a specific dollar amount, but an experienced Chicago dog bite attorney should be able to explain the factors that may affect your case’s value including all of the specific Texas dog bite laws. A good lawyer will also be honest about both the strengths and weaknesses of your case instead of giving you unrealistic expectations.
4. How Do You Handle Insurance Companies?
Most dog bite claims are paid through insurance policies, not directly by the dog owner. You should ask how the lawyer handles negotiations with insurers and whether they are prepared to go to court if a fair settlement is not offered.
Insurance companies tend to take cases more seriously when they know a lawyer is willing to file a lawsuit and proceed to trial if needed.
5. What Will It Cost To Hire You?
Most dog bite lawyers in Chicago work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing up front and no attorney’s fees unless you win compensation. Still, you should ask what percentage the lawyer takes, how case expenses are handled, and whether you owe anything if the case is unsuccessful.
Make sure you fully understand the fee agreement before signing anything.
6. How Long Do I Have To File My Claim?
In Illinois, there are strict deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits, including dog bite cases. Missing the statute of limitations can permanently prevent you from recovering compensation. A lawyer should be able to clearly explain how much time you have and whether any special deadlines apply in your situation.
This is especially important in cases involving children and/or government property.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Meyers & Flowers
Hiring an injury attorney in Chicago is an important decision that can dramatically affect your finances as well as your peace of mind. Schedule a free consultation with Meyers & Flowers today to learn about how we can help you with your case and work to put maximum compensation into your pocket.
Call (630) 232-6333 or contact us online to get started.