Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I pronounce that name?

SAX. There is no rhyme or reason for this.

2. Do I need a lawyer?

Well, that's why you're here, isn't it? First, why not fill out our Quick Contact form and we'll give you our opinion. If you think you need more information, please contact us by email or schedule an initial consultation, which is always absolutely free.

This can be a difficult issue for individuals. Hiring an attorney does have its cost, but generally, the more detailed and complicated the legal issues or the more significant the injuries, the more consideration should be given to consulting with a lawyer. As a general rule of thumb, though, remember; if the insurance adjuster tells you that you don't need an attorney, pick up the phone and give us a call!

3. What should I do if I am injured?

First, take care of yourself. Get immediate appropriate treatment. Follow up on that treatment.

Next, though, consider keeping a journal of what you are going through as a result of the injury. Take photographs to record exactly how you look at the time the injury occurred, and during your time of treatment thereafter. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Put the appropriate entities (insurance company, local government, etc.) on notice of the incident so that you do not waive any time frames. You may have a right, regardless of who is at fault, to have your medical bills and lost wages paid, at least in part.  

4. Should I provide the Insurance Company with a statement?

Probably not. What is the advantage to you? Perhaps there is one, but what is it in this circumstance? If you do not know, then do not allow a recorded statement. Any information you give regarding the facts and circumstances of your case and treatment may be used against you at a later date. Be careful!

5. How long should it take?

It depends. There are so many unknowns that factor into this equation that this is impossible to answer in a general statement. What are your needs. What city is the adjuster from that you are dealing with? What is the adjuster's personality? What is the likely verdict range if you go to Court? All of these issues need to be taken into consideration, but the most important one is the value of your case if you go to Court. If you have a reasonable idea what this range is, then you can determine if the case can settle through negotiations, or whether you will need to file suit.

6. What is my case worth?

See number 5, above. What are the facts and circumstances of your case? Is liability an issue (who is at fault)? What are the nature and extent of your injuries? What are the amount of medical bills that you have incurred, and wages from work that you have lost? (Even if your employer paid you during your time off, or the insurance company paid your medical bills, you may still have a right to collect theses amounts.). What are the limits of the "at fault" party's insurance? Are there other sources for your recovery? How long are the effects of your injury expected to last? Answers to these and many more questions will help develop the ultimate value of your personal injury case.

7. How much will it cost me?

If your case involves a personal injury, then the out of pocket cost to you should be absolutely nothing. We do not charge any fee for personally consulting with you about your case. If you decide to hire us, then we will cover all expenses until the end of your case, and the fee for our services will be a percentage (1/3) of the amount recovered. It is also at that time that we are reimbursed for expenses advanced. If we are unable to recover compensation for you, you do not owe us a fee. It is unfair for cost obligations to prevent you from obtaining the full amount you are due as a result of your injuries.

If your case involves something other then a personal injury matter, then check out the fee schedule section for guaranteed up to date information as to cost.

8. Who decides how much I should accept?

You do! You hire a lawyer for advice and knowledge based on years of experience. Hopefully, you will trust your lawyer, and listen carefully to his or her advice. But, it is your case, and you must make the final determination as to how much you should accept. You have the right to take your case to court if that is what you chose to do.

The Law Offices of Douglas T. Sachse practices in the following areas of law: Personal Injury, Auto Accidents, Dog Bites, Slip and Fall, Education, Criminal Defense.