Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Newark

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Newark, New Jersey?

  973-733-6000 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Newark.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Newark, New Jersey?

  To obtain a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case in Newark, you can go to the City Annex building located between City Hall and 31 Green Street. The police report can be picked up after three business days from Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The cost for the first page of the report is $1.50, and each additional page is $.75, payable in cash only. Only the victim with a valid photo ID can get a copy of the report. Currently, Accident and Incident reports can be picked up. If you have OPRA (Open Public Records Act) questions, you can contact Room 415A in City Hall or call 973-424-4116.

• What are some of the common injury cases that Newark personal injury lawyers represent?

  Accidents involving cars, buses, motorcycles, commercial motor vehicles, trucks, and railroad are among the most common injury cases that Newark personal injury attorneys handle. Other usual cases include matters regarding construction accidents, defective drug injuries, medical malpractice, and nursing home abuse. The attorneys offer legal guidance and representation throughout the personal injury claim process to help clients negotiate settlements and recover from their injuries.

• What types of damages can be claimed in a Newark personal injury case?

  In Newark personal injury claims, victims may recover economic damages such as medical expenses and lost wages, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering and loss of consortium. Various factors determine the value of a case, such as the severity of the injuries, contributory fault, and the conduct of the responsible party. Other expenses related to the injury may also be considered.

• What are some ways to strengthen a personal injury claim in Newark?

  To strengthen your Newark personal injury claim, it is important to keep detailed records, such as witness contact information, photos of the scene, and all records related to the accident and medical treatment. Keeping a written log of symptoms and recovery can also be helpful. Even seemingly insignificant posts can negatively impact the case, so it is best to avoid using social media until the case has been resolved.

• What is the typical fee structure for a personal injury attorney in Newark?

  In Newark, personal injury lawyers usually operate on a contingency fee basis, which means they only receive a payment if their client wins a settlement or verdict. The fee is a percentage of the amount recovered, typically ranging from 33% to 40%, depending on the complexity of the case. The advantage of this model is that the lawyer shares in the risk and only gets paid if the client recovers compensation. It also ensures that the lawyer will work diligently to obtain the best possible outcome for the client.

• What is Newark's statute of limitations for personal injury claims?

  Newark's statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident or when the injury occurred. There are some exceptions that may shorten the time a person has to file a lawsuit. If the injury was caused by a government agency, the time frame may be shortened. If a lawsuit is not filed within the time frame, the other party may prevent the plaintiff from seeking damages.

• How to choose a personal injury attorney?

  It's crucial to find a personal injury attorney who is experienced, but it's also important to feel comfortable. Take advantage of free consultations and ask questions about how long each candidate has been practicing, how their fee structure works, and who will be handling the majority of the casework (some big firms may hand off routine tasks to paralegals). Above all, find someone who listens well and believes they can achieve an optimal outcome. Still uncertain? Ask friends for referrals and check out online reviews.

• What does a personal injury lawyer do?

  Personal injury attorneys help those who have suffered due to the negligence of others get the compensation they deserve. That may include negotiating settlements with other people, insurance companies, or even government agencies or arguing the case in court. Some attorneys specialize in a certain type of injury, such as auto accidents or birth injuries, while others advocate for almost any injured party.

• What does personal injury law cover?

  In the legal world, "personal injury" is any kind of injury, physical or psychological, that results from the negligence of a person, business, or other entity. While visible or acute injuries such as a broken leg or concussion are among the most obvious types of personal injuries, this category also covers less tangible injuries such as emotional distress and issues such as asbestos exposure that may contribute to long-term problems.

• What are the most common types of personal injury claims?

  Personal injury claims encompass a wide variety of situations ranging from accidents on privately owned property to injuries in the line of duty to whiplash sustained during a commute. These claims may include car accidents, dog bites, slip and falls, medical malpractice, defamation, product defect accidents, premises liability, product liability, workplace accidents, food poisoning at a restaurant, and boating or aviation accidents.

• How do personal injury lawyers get paid?

  Many personal injury lawyers advertise that they don't get paid unless their client does. This is called "working on contingency," meaning the attorney is compensated only if they win their case. These payments are typically percentage based, giving attorneys a predetermined portion of the court-ordered award. Other lawyers may command an hourly rate or combine an hourly rate with a smaller contingency fee.

• How much do personal injury lawyers charge?

  Personal injury lawyer fees can differ from state to state and may be subject to local regulations. In general, personal injury attorneys work under contingency agreements entitling them to 33% of any related settlement or award. Sometimes lawyers use a sliding contingency, charging 33% for awards agreed upon during pre-trial negotiations and raising the fee to 40% once the matter goes to trial.

• When do I need to hire a personal injury lawyer?

  Anytime an injury is known or suspected to be the result of negligence, it's a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney who can offer insight into the validity of a claim and whether or not that claim is worth pursuing legally. A consultation is particularly important if someone has suffered serious injuries that have left them disabled or otherwise impacted their financial future or quality of life.

• Can I file a personal injury claim without a lawyer?

  It's possible to pursue a personal injury claim without an attorney; however, it's best to save self-representation for cases involving minor injuries or are otherwise considered straightforward. Cases that involve serious injuries that are not completely resolved or where liability has yet to be determined are more complex. Those situations can quickly become stressful and time consuming as they require an understanding of tort law, resources for gathering medical records, and time to review photographs and evidence pertaining to the injury and scene of the accident (if applicable). Bringing on an experienced personal injury lawyer could result in a higher reward while giving the injured party more time to concentrate on their physical, mental, and emotional recovery.

• How long does a personal injury lawsuit last?

  The length of time it takes to settle a personal injury lawsuit is highly dependent on a number of factors ranging from the type of case to the length of medical treatment to whether the suit is settled before court or requires a long trial. While most personal injury cases are resolved within two years, more complicated suits could take longer.

• What are the benefits of hiring a personal injury lawyer?

  It's tempting to save on lawyer's fees by pursuing self-representation, but there are many benefits to hiring a personal injury lawyer including their years of experience. A good attorney will know how to properly assess your damages, including not just medical bills but other concerns, such as lost wages and pain and suffering, to craft a demand that fully reflects the compensation to which the injured party is entitled. They also have the resources and knowledge necessary to consult with experts, negotiate effectively with insurance companies, properly navigate the legal system, and otherwise ensure the best possible outcome.