All insurance companies representing the person(s) at fault for your injuries will have at their disposal a team of adjusters, investigators and attorneys working to limit your compensation. The insurance company's goal is to pay you the least amount possible to settle your claim. They are trained professionals who have years of experience and training in denying and minimizing the claims of injured people. You need the assistance and guidance of an experienced attorney to protect your interests and help ensure that you, the injured party, receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.
Similarly, companies that injure people through their employment actions, products, business decisions, or actions generally have a team of in-house attorneys ready to defend your claim for damages. Such companies also retain outside counsel to defend vigorously claims for compensation. The lawyers at the Westhoff Law Firm have represented companies while working for defense firms. Consequently, we have valuable insight into how companies defend lawsuits. We will use this insight in helping you with your claim for injuries.
When should an attorney be hired?
As a person who might have a potential claim, you should retain an attorney as soon as possible after you have been injured. While you are in the process of dealing with your injuries or your wrongful termination, the party at fault has notified his, her, or its insurance company and attorneys to put them on notice of your claim. The party at fault, their attorneys, and/or their insurance company begins to immediately investigate your potential claim.
It is important that you do not talk to anyone associated with the party at fault, including the party's insurance company, prior to consulting an attorney. This will ensure that your legal rights are protected.
Is the hiring of an attorney expensive?
Depending upon the unique circumstances of your case, there may be no fee whatsoever until we collect on your claim for damages. You may, however, be responsible for litigation costs associated with the prosecution of your case depending on the circumstances.
What damages am I entitled to recover?
There are several types of damages which one can recover in an injury claim. At The Westhoff Law Firm, we are responsible for reviewing each factor for damages, considering your specific claim, and obtaining fair compensation from the party responsible for your injuries.
The basic types of damages are as follows: * Loss of income
* Loss of future earning capacity
* Recovery of medical expenses you incurred for treatment of your injuries and the possibility of future medical ...expenses
* Pain and suffering
* Past and future loss of enjoyment
There may be other damages you are entitled to as a result of your injuries. Of course, every case is different and we will advise you of your potential damages once we have thoroughly reviewed the facts and law of your case.
In an employment case, you may be entitled to the following:
* Back pay
* Front pay
* Compensation for mental or emotional distress
* Attorneys’ fees and litigation costs
When do I need to make a claim for personal injuries or wrongful termination?
It depends on the type of accident you have been involved in and the circumstances surrounding your injury. In employment cases, it depends on the type of wrongful termination case you have.
Contact one of our personal injury attorneys or employment discrimination attorneys to discuss the limitations period for your claim or you can contact us to determine what action should be taken to preserve your legal rights.
Does is matter that I wait to make a claim for personal injuries or wrongful termination?
Yes. If you wait too long and fail to properly file suit within the time allowed by law, you will not be able to recover damages for your injuries and be forever barred from recovering.
In employment discrimination and sexual harassment cases, claimants have 6 months from the last date of discrimination or harassment to file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or similar state agency to protect their state law rights. Do not wait! Call one of our employment lawyers today if you feel you have a case.
If I do file a claim will it settle quickly?
Like so many other answers to legal questions, that depends. There is no definite period of time that determines when a case should be settled because every case has its own unique facts and legal circumstances. The lawyers at the Westhoff Law Firm takes great pride in our work ethic to avoid unnecessary delays because we understand the hardship an injury can bring. While we are aware of our clients' desires to have their claims resolved as quickly as possible, if our opponents will not come to terms and settle your case on a basis that you find fair, reasonable and acceptable, we will prepare to take your case to trial and seek compensation by way of a jury verdict.
Does the Westhoff Law Firm represent clients who are not from Missouri?
Yes. The Westhoff Law Firm helps clients who are injured in other states. If we feel that our legal services can be cost effective so as to avoid unnecessary legal expenses, we will gladly help you. If the assistance of an attorney from another state is necessary, we may affiliate with a qualified attorney from that state to assist in the prosecution of your claim.
Ben and Peter Westhoff are licensed to practice law in Illinois. Our firm has represented people in a variety of legal actions in Illinois. If you live or work in Illinois and have a legal problem, please call us immediately to discuss your rights.
Does The Westhoff Law Firm handle other types of legal matters besides personal injury and employment?
Yes. Although our firm concentrates on injury and employment cases, we also represent clients in real estate litigation. We have successfully handled property contract disputes, trespass actions, quiet title claims, landlord-tenant cases, and property damage cases. We also represent those facing criminal charges for drug possession, assault and battery, DWI, theft and stealing, and other criminal matters.
If you or someone you know has been injured in any type of accident or needs legal assistance to address some other issue, call The Westhoff Law Firm at (314) 727-1554 for a free consultation to ensure that your legal rights are fully protected. Call us toll free at 877-672-0303. You can also e-mail us at info@westhofflaw.com. You will have an opportunity to speak with one of our attorneys promptly.