FAQ

This question does not have one unanimous answer.  Each case differs from one another.  Once you have been in an accident, either personal, or work related, our first concern is that you receive the proper medical treatment to ensure a full recovery.  Depending on the treatment your medical provider recommends, it is not unusual for a case’s duration to exceed a year or more.  Usually, not much is accomplished until a client’s medical treatment is completed.  Once a client is done treating, our office will order medical records and bills, review them, and submit them to the at-fault insurance company for their review.  This begins the settlement negotiation process. 

Each case is unique in a sense that one case may have more updates than another.  We will provide updates as they occur, but it is unlikely that an update will happen daily, or even weekly.  However, should you have any questions or concerns, we are available by telephone and email to provide you with the most current status.

 Our fees are contingency based.  What does this mean?  It means that if we do not recover a settlement on your case, you do not owe us anything!  Our firm advances up front costs to obtain medical records, court fees, depositions, etc., so that you need not stress over the costs.  Once a settlement is reached, attorneys fees are typically assessed at 33-1/3%, and the cost of the reasonable expenses for your case.

Attorneys’ fees are established by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission at a rate of 20% of the total amount received for compensation, in addition to any expenses for collecting medical records and bills, medical exams, and depositions. 

Generally, no.  However, if you happen to receive punitive damages, you will be taxed on those.  Punitive damages are damages intended to punish the Defendant.  These damages are uncommon and typically only awarded if your case goes to trial before a jury. 

Federal and state laws have statute of limitations.  This is a time limit in which your case can be filed within the court system.  If your case is not filed within that time limit, it can prevent you from making a claim at all.  If you feel that you have a claim, you should consult with an attorney sooner rather than later.