Chicago, Illinois Personal Injury Law Firm

When Can You Handle a Personal Injury Matter on Your Own?

Personal injury claims are typically complex legal actions involving complicated laws and legal theories, as well as detailed factual investigations.  There are some personal injury claims, however, that a person may wish to pursue without the assistance of an attorney.  

Claims involving a relatively small amount of money, such as those that fall below the applicable state’s small claims court threshold, may be appropriate to handle on your own. Relatively minor auto accidents that do not involve injuries, with only minimal damage to the vehicle, may also be resolved through each driver’s insurance company without the assistance of an attorney.  However, in these situations, you must be comfortable dealing with your insurance company and feel confident that they will provide you with an appropriate claim resolution.  

If you have any doubts about whether you should enlist the help of a personal injury attorney, contact the Chicago personal injury attorneys at Ankin Law Offices, LLC.  We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your personal injury accident and we can help you determine whether you could benefit from our legal experience and knowledge. 

Factors to Consider When Deciding Whether to Handle Your Own Personal Injury Case

Claims that involve uncomplicated laws and legal issues, with well-established and easily accessible forms, are most appropriate for self-representation.  The following factors may also impact whether a personal injury case is appropriate to handle on your own.

• Claims process is straightforward.  Some personal injury accidents, such as minor auto accidents, should only require a few telephone conversations with your insurance company and insurance adjuster.  If you have a good relationship with your insurance agent and understand how to pursue a claim under your policy, you may not need to hire an attorney.  
• Claim amounts are based on a structured system.  If your insurance company makes structured claims payments based on the type of accident, kind of injuries involved, medical costs, and damages you may be able to rely on self-representation. 

We Can Help You Decide Whether You Need an Attorney

Whether you ultimately decide to use an attorney to pursue your own personal injury claim, it is usually easier to seek the assistance of a personal injury attorney at the outset, rather than attempt to pursue a claim on your own and then decide to hire a personal injury attorney in the middle of the claims process.  For this reason, you may want to meet with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to learn more about how an attorney could help you protect your rights before you decide whether to rely on self-representation or to hire an attorney. 

At Ankin Law Offices, our skilled Chicago personal injury attorneys will provide you with a free initial consultation to discuss your personal injury accident and help you determine whether you could benefit from the advice and guidance of a trained personal injury attorney.  Contact one of our trusted Illinois personal injury attorneys at (800) 442-6546.

Other Helpful Links

Personal Injury Claims: When You Need a Lawyer

How Much Is Your Personal Injury Claim Worth?

Settling Your Personal Injury Claim FAQ

How To Find the Best Personal Injury Lawyer

Notifying Responsible Parties