Braun & Ree LLP

Why do I need an attorney?

Because the insurance company already has one.  That may sound simple, but it's really an important point.  We believe that  the insurance company wants to pay you as little as possible, no matter how right you are, and no matter how strong your case is.  The insurance company employs dozens, even hundreds of people who have been trained to work on claims.  That's all they do.  They have all the tools and research necessary to help them effectively argue their position.  Without an attorney, there is no one to argue for you.

How do you get paid?

We get a percentage of the settlement or verdict we win for you.  If we don't recover anything for you, then you don't owe us any fee.  That's why we are always trying to get top dollar for you.

Do we owe you any fees up front?

No.  We get paid a percentage of the settlement or verdict we win for you.  You pay no fee until we help you win, and even then, the fee comes from settlement or verdict, not from your pocket.

How much money can I expect to receive?

That depends.  We need to sit down with you and go over the specific facts and strengths of your case, and give you our assessment at that time.  We will do all that at no charge to you.  As honest attorneys, we won't make promises to you without knowing the specific facts of your case.

How long will this take?

If we can reach a settlement out of court, the process can go fairly quickly.  The first step is for you to finish medical treatment.  Once you are done with treatment, then we gather your bills and medical records and submit your claim to the insurance company.  After that, if there are no extenuating circumstances, it usually takes about 60-90 days to negotiate a fair settlement.  If your case goes to trial, it will take longer.  Much depends on the specific facts of your case, the diagnosis of your injuries, and the length of your treatment.

Will I have to go to court?

That depends on the specific facts of your case and the insurance company.  Often, we can negotiate a good settlement without a lengthy trial process.  Sometimes, though, the insurance company simply won't agree to a fair settlement.  When that happens, we usually suggest that you allow us to file suit.  You might have to wait longer for compensation, but you will have a chance of getting the compensation you deserve.  In any event, you will make the final decision on whether or not to go to court.

Is there anything I shouldn't do?

You shouldn't talk with the insurance company until you talk to us first.  There are lots of things that may sound simple, harmless, or even attractive, that may in fact hurt your chances of a good settlement or verdict.  If you hire us to work for you, the best thing is to let us do the work. 

How will I know what's going on?

First, you can call us anytime and ask us about the status of your claim.  We are very easy to reach at all times.  Click on the Contact Us page for our phone numbers.  Second, we keep in touch with you.  We call you whenever there is a significant change in the status of your claim.  Remember that sometimes it can take a while to persuade the insurance company to be reasonable, but you will know what's going on every step of the way.