If you have never been exposed to the Criminal Justice System or been fortunate enough to never have been the victim of an injury incident (automobile accident, slip and fall, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse), then you are one of the lucky ones. The reality is that you, or a friend, family member, or acquaintance, at some time, will need help in at least one of these areas of law. I have been representing people in these areas for over fifteen (15) years. A person in the criminal justice system for the first time is facing a possible arrest, a public criminal accusation, fines, probation, incarceration and, most seriously, a criminal conviction that will stick to every job, apartment, or school application for the rest of your life. Your attorney will examine the evidence, question the witnesses, and research the law. Your lawyer will be there with you in court to address the judge and deal with the prosecutor to make sure the case is resolved fairly and appropriately, considering all of the circumstances. If the case can not be resolved, your lawyer will be with you in trial, in front of a judge and jury, and will be the only person in the room fighting for you. A personal injury case is certainly different than a criminal matter but, for many people, the stakes can be nearly as high.
Imagine this situation: your spouse is on I-4 returning from Orlando and is involved in a serious motor vehicle accident. The accident was caused by the other driver, but right now that doesn’t matter. The injuries are severe, and will require a lengthy and expensive hospital stay, followed by a long rehabilitation. The aftermath can be financial and emotional ruin. You and your spouse will be faced with the following questions:
- Does the other driver have insurance and how much is available?
- What, if anything, does my insurance cover?
- Who pays for medical expenses now, next year or several years from now that were caused by the accident?
- How do we get the car replaced?
- What about lost work and wages?
A good lawyer will guide you through the financial minefield caused by the accident and will fight to make sure that the other driver and his insurance carrier are forced to pay everything that the law requires. I have been representing people in Pinellas County for over fifteen (15) years. I have been there to answer questions, research the issues, and fight for the client.