HOW MUCH WILL MY INITIAL CONSULTATION COST?
Your first consultation will be free. At the first meeting, we will discuss the important details of your claim. Your responses will help us determine the potential value of the claim and whether you are still within the time frame to start legal proceedings. We will explain your legal rights and give you a preliminary idea of the nature of the proceedings which need to be taken to ensure a fair and equitable settlement. If you decide to retain our firm to pursue your claim, we will also reach an agreement regarding legal costs.
WILL I HAVE TO GO TO COURT?
The vast majority of cases will settle outside of court. However, Nicholson Smith & Partners prepares each and every case as if it were going to trial. Because of our reputation of preparedness for court proceedings, we believe insurance companies are more likely to settle rather than proceed to trial. If, however, we are unable to reach a settlement, we will first give you the option of whether you would like to proceed with your claim, and if so, our legal team will work with you to make it as easy a process as possible.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO SETTLE MY CASE?
It is very difficult to determine how long any particular case will take to resolve. There are many factors outside of our control which will affect the timing of a resolution of your claim. Those factors include the nature of your injuries, the attitude and approach taken by defense lawyers or insurance companies, as well as the availability of court time. This is one issue which is often frustrating for both the claimant and the lawyer, and needs to be examined and discussed on an ongoing basis. The average case can take up to 3-5 years to be resolved, depending upon the complexity of your claim.
IS THERE A TIME LIMIT ON MAKING A PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM?
In Ontario, your right to pursue a claim can be jeopardized if you do not commence the claim process within the legislated time period. That is why it is critical that you consult one of our personal injury lawyers as soon as possible. If you are unable to travel, we’d be glad to meet with you in the hospital or at your home.