FAQs for Clients
The legal process can intimidate almost any personal injury client.. Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the process. We invite you to browse our firm’s site, to understand the many successful results that we have obtained for our personal injury and wrongful death clients. For more information, please contact us.
- What will it cost, if SKWC takes my case?
- For personal injury cases, the law firm of SKWC takes the majority of cases on a contingency basis. This means that if you do not recover anything as our client, then we do not charge for our time. If you receive an award (either by a settlement or a favorable jury verdict), SKWC will recover our attorney fees as a percentage of the total amount recovered.
Costs are treated differently than attorneys’ fees. Costs are expenses incurred during the litigation, such as copying charges, filing fees, expert witness fees, etc. Under Washington’s rules of professional conduct, these expenses remain the client’s ultimate responsibility; however, it is our practice to advance costs during the course of a lawsuit. Costs can be paid out from a settlement award or favorable jury verdict. - Do I need a personal injury lawyer?
- You need an personal injury attorney, you have been seriously injured or wronged in some way by a product, toxic substance, medical provider, business, insurance company or individual.
- How should I choose a personal injury lawyer?
- The most important factors in choosing an attorney include 1) experience, 2) resources, and 3) comfort level. You should have confidence that your personal injury lawyer has relevant experience that will help you with your case. Additionally, the firm should have the resources to fight a well financed opponent. You should also feel comfortable with the individual who is fighting on your behalf.
- What are the chances that my case will succeed?
- Remember that each case is different. No attorney can guarantee a case’s outcome. We depend on our clients to provide us with truthful and complete descriptions of what occurred along with all of the relevant information available. Occasionally, we will consult with experts to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a case. When we arrive at a clear understanding of the facts, we can advise you about the likelihood of recovering damages in your case.
- How long will it take?
- Our goal is always to obtain a just and fair resolution of your case as quickly and efficiently as possible. Sometimes a case is resolved in a matter of months, while others take a year or longer. Different factors affect the length of a case. One factor is your goals of the case. Other factors include the pace of the court system, the opposing party’s openness to settle or cooperate during litigation, and the option to appeal the case.
As with most civil cases, the trial date is typically scheduled at least a year from the time the lawsuit begins. This allows both sides adequate time to exchange information, talk to witnesses, and prepare for trial. At any point during this process, a case may resolve, or it may proceed to trial in the event that a settlement is not reached. Our numerous years of experience and large support staff enable us to complete your case as quickly as possible and limit delays. - Have you handled a case like mine?
- We invite you to review our firm history, our results, and our history of handling case similar to yours. There is a reason why we are the only personal injury law firm in Washington State to have as many of our attorneys listed as “Super Lawyers.” We point proudly to our long track record of obtaining justice for people just like you.
If your specific case falls outside of our area of expertise, we will let you know and, if possible, refer you to someone who can help. - How would approach my case?
- We at SKWC treat our clients with the understanding that you have likely already experienced a great amount of pain. Our job is to listen and focus on your best interest. After learning everything about your case, we develop a legal strategy, employing our significant resources, trial experience, and legal knowledge -- all to ensure that you get the best result possible.
- Why should I choose Stritmatter Kessler Whelan Coluccio?
- Our attorneys are nationally recognized for their excellence. There is a reason why we have the largest number of Super Lawyers compared to any other Washington State personal injury firm. Our top-notch legal minds and financial resources help get the best results for our clients.
Our creative and aggressive methods have won landmark, multi-million dollar damage awards for our clients.
We at SKWC love fighting for our client’s rights. We fight to win. Call us and find out how we can help you. To learn more call 206-448-1777 or contact us online.
