Personal Injury FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do I need an Attorney?

A: If you have been seriously injured and it appears this was caused by another person's actions, you should meet with an attorney. Without an attorney, out-of-pocket costs for a lawsuit against a giant corporation, the government, or a large insurance company would be impossible for most clients to bear. The only chance of standing up successfully against large institutions is having an attorney who is willing to take all the risks of the litigation and who has the experience and competence to level the playing field on your behalf. Hagelgans and Veronis have been doing this for well over a decade.

Q: Why should I choose Hagelgans & Veronis?

A: Hagelgans & Veronis maintains the traditional, individual approach to cases. We only deal with personal injury cases. We will look at the specific merits of each case individually and develop the claim in accordance with its own strengths, weaknesses and circumstances. Each case Hagelgans & Veronis accepts receives the personalized attention it deserves. We limit the number of cases we handle so that each case receives the attention it deserves.

Q: How do I determine if I have a case?

A: Hagelgans & Veronis know how to apply the law to the facts of your case. From this, they will be able to determine whether or not you have a case. Initially, one of our attorneys will conduct a preliminary evaluation over the phone. If the claim appears to have merit, you will then meet with him for a more detailed consultation. The initial evaluation is free of charge.

Q: How can Hagelgans & Veronis help you?

A: Hagelgans & Veronis will help you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries without inconvenience. If Hagelgans & Veronis agrees to handle your case, you will not be obligated to spend any of your own money pursuing the matter. Representing you on a contingency fee basis, we will vigorously represent your interests in obtaining a fair settlement or trying the case to verdict. In any matter that we undertake, the client makes the decision of when to settle and whether to settle. We do, however, advise our clients of our opinions on whether the settlement is fair and adequate under the particular circumstances of his or her case.

Q: What is a contingency fee and who pays the expenses?

A: Hagelgans & Veronis handles cases on a contingency fee basis. In Pennsylvania, when a case is handled on this basis, it is required that the agreement be in writing. The basic terms of the agreement state that the fee is contingent upon us being able to recover money on your behalf. In other words, you will be under no obligation to pay your attorney's fees for time spent on your case or for costs advanced on your behalf unless we are successful in obtaining a settlement for you.

Q: How do I know if I really need a lawyer?

A: If you have been seriously injured in an auto accident, a product malfunction, an on-the-job accident, or as a result of medical or professional malpractice and you believe someone else is at fault, you may need an attorney to protect your rights. At Hagelgans & Veronis, we will evaluate your case at no cost or obligation to you.

Q: What type of lawyer or law firm do I need?

A: The law is very complex and lawyers - like physicians - often concentrate on a single area. If you have been injured, you need a personal injury lawyer, just as you would need a family law attorney to handle a divorce. At Hagelgans & Veronis, we take only personal injury Plaintiff cases. This means we only represent people who are injured. We never defend the people or institutions who caused the injury or their insurance companies.

Q: What kind of track record and experience does Hagelgans & Veronis have?

A: Since the inception of our law firm in 1994, Hagelgans & Veronis has recovered over $100,000,000.00 of compensation for its clients.

Q: What will it cost to hire your firm?

A: At Hagelgans & Veronis there is no cost for a consultation. Should you choose us to represent you, there are no legal fees or expenses until your case is tried or settled and you have received a monetary award. Our fee is a percentage of your award.

Q: What kind of attention will my case get?

A: You will get personal attention. Jim Hagelgans, Nick Veronis and Tom Wee have caseloads that permit them to form close working relationships with their clients. We limit the number of cases we take so that we can devote the time and resources that are necessary for each case. We will make appointments at your convenience. We will come to your home or place of business. Best of all, you will discuss every step of your case with your lawyer. Your calls will be returned promptly and all of your questions will be answered.

Q: How long will my case take?

A: The more complex the case, the longer it takes. Sometimes a claim will take longer because of the severity and length of medical recovery of a particular client. Since Hagelgans & Veronis limit the number of cases they take, they are able to fairly resolve or litigate all of their files as promptly as possible to the benefit of their clients.

Q: Will my case go to trial?

A: That depends upon what is best for you and on what you hope to achieve with your case. A quick settlement may not be in your best interest. We are prepared to go to court if that is what it takes, and insurance companies know that. This gives up leverage in dealing and negotiating fair settlements with insurance companies. Some other personal injury firms seldom take a case to court.