Personal Injury

Q: What do I need to do?
A: We will need to establish the details of your case to assess its validity. We will need to know: The date of the accident and where and how it happened

• Details of any witnesses
• Details of your injuries and medical treatment
• Details of your existing legal expense insurance policies as we are usually happy to act under the terms of your policy

Details of whether you are a trade union member (as this may entitle you to free or reduced cost legal representation) We will tell you what we think the value of your claim is once we have investigated the medical evidence. Once we have discussed the value of your claim with you we will consider making an offer to settle for that amount.

If the defendant (the person you are holding responsible for your accident), agrees to your offer or puts forward a reasonable counter offer we will settle your case without going to court. The vast majority of personal injury cases settle without court proceedings.

If the defendant does not respond reasonably it may be necessary to issue court proceedings. We will advise you accordingly but very few cases go to a disputed trial.

Q: Will I have to go to Court?
A: The prospect of going to court may be daunting but we will discuss all the options available to you. Trials in personal injury cases are rare. We will advise you as to the best way to proceed with your case. It may be necessary for you to attend court if there is no other reasonable way of progressing your claim.

We will explain to you exactly what to expect at court. We will ensure that all preparations are made prior to the court hearing. All you will need to do is to wait to hear the judgment and if the judge has awarded what you were claiming.

Q: What about the costs?
A: The majority of our cases are dealt with under a "No Win No Fee" agreement in the form now recommended by the Law Society.

Solicitors costs can vary and depend upon a number of factors such as;

• The experience and knowledge of the solicitor and
• The type and complexity of your case

There is no longer any legal aid for personal injury cases. However, if your case is successful the defendant will pay most of our costs.

If you lose the case there are a number of options available to you. If we have taken on your case under a "No Win No Fee" agreement then we will not charge you any costs.

You may also take out a legal fees insurance policy which will cover you for the defendant's fees and expenses if you lose.