Common Questions

Common Questions

1. How do I pay for my legal fees?
2. How do you decide whether you will take my case?
3. How much is my case worth?
4. Who from your law firm will work on my case?
5. How long will it take before we go to trial or before the case is settled?
6. If there is a trial, will I need to be there?
7. What is a deposition?
8. If my case settles, how long will it take before I receive money?
9. Will you speak with me before settling my case?

1. How do I pay for my legal fees?
Nils Berlin, P.C. accepts injury and wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that if there is no recovery, you pay nothing for our attorney services, although you may remain responsible for potential associated costs.

2. How do you decide whether you will take my case?
We review many cases. Nils Berlin personally reviews/evaluates each case to determine if the case has merit. It is only after Nils look at each potential case individually, that a decision is made whether to form an attorney/client relationship.  

3. How much is my case worth?
The value of every case is obviously dependent upon a great variety of factors.  We carefully consider all potentially relevant issues before reaching a reasoned evaluation of your case.  Of course, the evaluation of any case may change during the course of representation.  We have been reviewing accident cases for over 17 years, for both individuals and insurance companies, and are highly skilled in evaluating claims.  Regardless, no attorney can, or should, make a guarantee of any recovery.

4. Who from your law firm will work on my case?
Both the lawyer and the legal assistants will be intimately familiar with all aspects of your case, and will be available to communicate with you throughout the course of the representation.
 
5. How long will it take before we go to trial or before the case is settled?
The time it takes to resolve a case by settlement or trial varies considerably depending on a number of different factors, including the course of treatment and the court’s calendar.

6. If there is a trial will I need to be there?
Yes, if there is a trial or arbitration, you must be present. You may also need to appear at any court ordered hearings, mediations or pre-trial conferences.

7. What is a deposition?
During the course of your case you will most likely have to give a deposition.  A deposition is a statement given under oath in front of a court reporter.  If your deposition is scheduled, we will meet with you beforehand, and attend the deposition with you.

8.  If my case settles, how long will it take before I receive money?
Typically, once a case is settled, documents must be exchanged between both parties to a claim/lawsuit. This process usually takes 30 - 45 days, but can take longer if your case involves special circumstances.

9. Will you speak with me before settling my case?
Yes.  We will never settle your case without your express consent. Whenever settlement negotiations are initiated by either party you will be informed, and it is only with your full participation, advice, and authority that your case will be settled.