FAQs Archive - Duran McDonald

Q: Is it true that I should get three to four times my medical bills?

Many people will tell you that there is a formula for your recovery. If it was only that easy. Your recovery is not based on a formula but rather, on several factors like: - The impact the injuries had on your life - The long-term impact of your injuries and prognosis - The medical treatment that you endured - The percentage that your actions led to the injuries or damages you have suffered The purpose of any recovery is to compensate you for your loss and try to put you back into the position you were in prior to the injuries occurring. Duran & McDonald will include you on all of our legal analysis based on our experience, knowledge and training so that you understand what you are entitled to receive.

Q: How much do I have to pay for an attorney?

If you speak with an attorney who requests money up front, WALK AWAY! Most, if not all, attorneys who represent people who have been injured by someone else will not require any money up front. Duran & McDonald will sign a written, easy to read, agreement with you that outlines our payment plan. We receive a percentage of the recovery at the end of the case. That allows you to be represented without the need for out of pocket expenses and to pursue what you are legally entitled to.

Q: How much do I have to pay for a consultation with your office?

All of our consultations are free. Make the most of it and schedule your consultation today. Our attorneys will spend time with you to go over your options and you can decide whether we are the right fit for you. Choosing the right attorney is an important choice. You want to make sure you have access to the attorney and not just support staff. You want to make sure that the attorney you choose understands your story in a meaningful way so that you are not “just another case.” Duran & McDonald will do what we can to make sure you understand your case, how we can best communicate with each other and make sure our attorneys are accessible to you.

Q: The insurance company for the person who caused my injuries already offered me money, why do I need an attorney?

There is an old saying, if something is too good to be true then it probably is. Often, when you accept money without speaking with an attorney beforehand you are receiving less than what you may be entitled to recover. Also, when you accept money from an insurance company you may be closing the door to other compensation by the person at fault or even by your own insurance company. Call Duran & McDonald today and we will be more than happy to discuss your options with you before you accept any money.

Q: I’ve been injured, when should I contact an attorney?

The simple answer is that if you want the best representation and to increase your chances of getting fair compensation for your losses, it’s best to have an attorney working by your side at the earliest possible time after your injury. Once you are injured due to the fault of someone else, it often starts the ball rolling of attorneys and insurance companies whose job it is to ensure the person at fault does not compensate you for your injuries and loss. It is important that you do not go into it alone. Contact our office today and we can immediately begin to guide you through the maze of medical bills and insurance adjusters.

Q: I have been charged with a crime, what next?

Once you have been formally charged with a crime you have a right to be presented with the evidence that may be used against you in the case. You also have a right to be represented by an attorney. You should immediately contact an attorney when you are first informed of a criminal case against you. There are important decisions that need to be made and your rights need to be enforced immediately . Call us today so that you can be properly represented at every stage of your case. We will defend your rights and fight for you!

Q: How much does an attorney cost for a criminal case?

There are a lot of choices when it comes to hiring an attorney that you trust to represent you in one of the most stressful events in your life. One of the factors that you will have to take into consideration when hiring an attorney is how much will it cost you. Be sure to ask the attorney on what you will get in terms of experience and knowledge when you hire your attorney. Our office has represented our clients at every stage of the proceeding and we begin working immediately on defending your case in preparation for trial. Our goal is not to simply get the best plea deal for you. We explore all available defenses. Duran & McDonald will present you with a retainer agreement that specifies everything in detail so there are no surprises as the case moves forward. Our office has a fair and reasonable rate depending on the charges that you face in your case. We can give an estimate when you speak with us based on our experience in hundreds of cases.

Q: I received a target letter, do I need to attend the grand jury?

First, it is important to know how a grand jury proceeding works. A grand jury is made up of a group of people from the community that are called to hear evidence on whether a crime should be charged . This proceeding is not to decide whether you are guilty or not guilty. This is an important step in the criminal process and you will benefit greatly from speaking with an attorney before deciding to attend the grand jury proceeding. One of the most important rights that you have at all stages, including at grand jury, is the right to not make statements that can be used against you. The Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution gives you the right to avoid answering any questions that would incriminate you. A criminal defendant does not ever have to take the stand and testify on his or her own behalf in most cases. You will not receive a warrant for not attending a grand jury proceeding and it will continue without your participation. Call us today so we can discuss your options and we can assist you in making an informed decision on whether to attend.