5 Things Clients Should Tell an Accident Lawyer in Annapolis

by | Aug 11, 2016 | Lawyers

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The relationship between an Accident Lawyer in Annapolis and a client can be a long one, and a productive partnership requires a level of openness and honesty on both sides. Below are several things attorneys may need to know during a personal injury case.

The Client’s Criminal History

In most cases, a minor unrelated incident will not affect a personal injury claim. However, clients may not realize how such matters could be relevant, which means that it’s important to share this information with a personal injury lawyer.

Prior Accidents and Injuries

The other party’s legal team will be on the lookout for pre-existing conditions, which may keep their client from paying the claim. If a client has a pre-existing injury or illness, the attorney must prove that it was either worsened by or unrelated to the claim.

Post-Event Injuries

If a person gets hurt after an accident, such costs should be separated from those related to the event. Even then, opposing counsel will likely believe that treatments are related to the subsequent injury. Clients should discuss these injuries with their physicians and their website attorney.

Bankruptcy

When a person files for bankruptcy before settling a personal injury claim, the damages can be included in the bankruptcy estate. However, an Accident Lawyer in Annapolis may be able to work with the bankruptcy attorney to ensure that a good portion of the money goes to the client rather than the creditors.

Divorce

If a client files for divorce during a personal injury suit, the other spouse may be able to get some of the settlement funds. A personal injury attorney can make claim-related decisions with the client’s impending divorce in mind.

It’s the attorney’s job to portray the client in a good light in consideration of the case’s facts. If the lawyer lacks the necessary information, they will have no way to tell the whole story. Cases with missing or incomplete information are typically not well received by juries, and most of these judgments are reduced or denied. By hiring an Accident Lawyer in Annapolis and being honest about the factors listed above, a client can increase his or her chances of success.