Holzer Edwards, Chartered
Attorneys at Law

Home
About Us
FAQ
Vioxx Recall
Our Expertise
Business Practice
Do I Need An Attorney
Attorney Biographies
Internet Resources
Personal Injury Form
Contact Us


Do I Need An Attorney

We're proud of our dedication to serving the legal needs of those who seek our help, and share a basic concern for providing the highest quality legal representation for those whose legal rights must be protected.

HOLZER EDWARDS, Chartered, is experienced in handling personal injury cases. Each of the attorneys has a thorough understanding of the intricacies of insurance procedures and personal injury law. This enables us to obtain the most fair and reasonable settlements for our clients often without the necessity of going to trial.

If you need advise or would simply like some questions answered, we will be glad to help. Please give us a call.

Why Do I Need an Attorney?

Laws relating to accident injuries are extremely complex and subject to frequent change. An attorney's expertise is invaluable, not only in dealing with insurance matters on your behalf, but also in the ability to explain and interpret the law. The right attorney knows how to obtain fair compensation for your injuries through negotiations, frequently without going to court. Also, the attorney is familiar with court procedures, filing requirements, deadlines, and other details that a non-lawyer could very easily overlook.

When you hire an attorney, all of the resources and support staff of a highly trained professional will be on your side to protect your legal rights.

The attorney represents your interests. He or she will research and analyze all the available facts and information relating to your claim, prepare the appropriate legal documents, and negotiate a settlement, while always presenting the courses of action that may be taken, the possible alternatives, and the possible consequences.

Won't the Insurance Company Handle the Case?

If you have sustained an injury as a result of an automobile accident, it is important to know that any insurance company involved will be anxious to keep costs to a minimum. These companies operate, after all, for profit and paying you as little as possible maximizes their profits. The company will very likely want you to sign a release form as soon as possible by promising to pay your automobile costs and medical bills.

 

 Do I Really Need an Attorney?

Anxiety caused by an automobile accident injury should not be unnecessarily compounded with worry about resulting insurance claims. Whether to use the services of an attorney or negotiate the claim yourself may seem a simple decision. It's easy to think that your insurance company will "take care of" the matter and that will be the end of it. Sadly, it's quite common for accident victims to be intimidated into forfeiting their legal rights. This brochure is intended to help you make an informed choice.

Although it may be tempting at such a stressful time to have all your present costs "taken care of," there are some very important points to bear in mind:

  • You should be aware that it is not uncommon for symptoms to show up a considerable time after the initial accident and trauma.
  • Until your physician is confident that your recovery is complete and is willing to prepare a final report stating that your condition has returned to pre-injury status, you cannot be certain that future accident-related medical costs will not be incurred.
  • Once you sign the insurance company's release form, the matter is final. Should associated problems develop later, you will have no recourse for payment from the insurer. All additional expenses relating to the accident will be yours to bear alone
  • If the accident is caused by another driver's negligence (i.e., drunken or inattentive driving, speeding, failure to yield right of way, etc.), you are entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering. You may be sure the insurance company will not offer you substantial payment for these injuries.

How Long Will it Take to Settle My Claim?

It is very much to your advantage not to "rush" the settlement of your claim. The final release that you sign when you receive your settlement is exactly that - final! If any further symptoms related to the accident develop, you have no recourse. For this reason, your attorney will advise you not to settle your claim until your physician is confident that your recovery is complete. Then, informed negotiations on your claim can begin shortly after your physician's final report is received.

Can I Afford An Attorney?

There is no fee for the initial consultation at Holzer Edwards, Chartered. Generally, in personal injury cases, the attorney will be paid on a "split contingency" basis. This means that the fees will not be paid until a fair settlement or judgment has been obtained from the insurance company and/or any other responsible party. Then, all your medical bills and any other costs incurred will also be settled in full. Above all, having these matters handled by a competent attorney relieves you of concern regarding the financial aspects of your injury and allows you to concentrate on your recovery.

Holzer Edwards, Chartered
1516 West Hays
Boise, Idaho 83702
Phone: 208-386-9119
Fax: 208-386-9195


The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.

Copyright © 2008 by Holzer Edwards, Chartered. All rights reserved. You may reproduce materials available at this site for your own personal use and for non-commercial distribution. All copies must include this copyright statement.