Being seriously injured in an accident can be overwhelming. Whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or another type of personal injury, finding an experienced lawyer is an important step toward protecting your rights and obtaining fair compensation. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions we receive about working with a personal injury lawyer in Maine.
Here are the questions we’ll address:
- When should I contact a personal injury lawyer?
- How do I choose a personal injury lawyer in Maine, and what questions should I ask?
- How much will a lawyer cost me?
- What should I prepare for the first call or meeting with a lawyer?
- How do you decide if I have a case?
- What are the basic steps of a personal injury lawsuit in Maine?
- How long will the process take?
- What is the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Maine?
- How much is my case worth?
- The insurance company offered a settlement. Should I take it?
When should I contact a personal injury lawyer?
If you have been seriously injured due to someone else’s fault, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible—before agreeing to any settlement offers or speaking with the at-fault party’s insurer.
Your priorities should be:
- Focus on your recovery and medical treatment.
- Speak with a lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.
How do I choose a personal injury lawyer in Maine, and what questions should I ask?
Consider several factors:
- Choose a lawyer and firm with a proven record of success in cases like yours.
- Trust your instincts; you should feel comfortable with the lawyer and their staff.
- You don’t have to hire the first lawyer you meet.
Many lawyers claim to handle personal injury cases but may never have taken one to trial. Some may settle for a low offer because they prioritize volume over results.
Questions to ask a lawyer:
- Have you had success representing clients in cases similar to mine?
- Does your firm have the financial resources to take on my case?
- Are you prepared to take my case to trial if necessary?
- What are some of the results you have obtained?
At Berman & Simmons, we offer no-obligation consultations and can meet you at the hospital, your home, or our offices in Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, or Biddeford.
How much will a lawyer cost me?
Our lawyers work on a contingency basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront and nothing unless we settle or win your case. Initial consultations, evaluations, and research are free, even if your claim is not valid. We also cover necessary case expenses, which are only reimbursed if we recover money for you.
What should I prepare for the first call or meeting with a lawyer?
Bring any notes about the accident, insurance information, witness names, photos of damages or injuries, and medical records if available—but it’s not required. Be honest, speak openly, and explain how the accident has affected your life.
Initial conversations can be conducted by phone, Zoom, or in-person. Everything discussed is confidential and protected by law.
How do you decide if I have a case?
After the initial consultation, our attorneys will determine whether you have a valid claim. We handle everything else, including gathering accident reports, medical records, and other documentation. A case generally requires proof that you suffered a substantial injury caused directly by another party’s negligence.
What are the basic steps of a personal injury lawsuit in Maine?
- Client Meeting / Initial Evaluation – We discuss your accident, injuries, medical treatment, and how your life has been affected.
- Case Workup – Investigations, evidence collection, and expert consultation while monitoring your medical progress.
- Pre-Suit Settlement – Often, we can negotiate a favorable settlement before filing a lawsuit.
- Filing a Lawsuit – If no pre-suit settlement is reached, we file a formal Complaint in court.
- Discovery – Formal information exchange between parties, including depositions and document review.
- Trial – If the case is not resolved pre-trial, we are prepared to go to court for a jury or judge decision.
How long will the process take?
Every case is different. Some resolve in months; complex cases may take years. Most are settled before trial, usually within a year. The goal is fair compensation, whether via settlement or jury verdict.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Maine?
Generally, you have six years from the date of your injury. Certain circumstances may shorten or extend this timeframe, so speak with a lawyer promptly to confirm deadlines.
How much is my case worth?
Compensation depends on the specifics of your case and may involve economic and non-economic damages.
- Economic damages: Medical expenses, lost wages, and lost earning potential.
- Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of companionship, permanent loss of function, or permanent disfigurement.
The insurance company offered a settlement. Should I take it?
Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts. Accepting a settlement without legal guidance can prevent you from pursuing other liable parties or additional coverage. Speak with an attorney before accepting any offer. At Berman & Simmons, we ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.
Read more about insurance company tactics here.