Do I need an attorney?
Whenever someone is injured through the negligence of another, the issue arises whether they need an attorney to help them with their claim. If serious injuries occur, victims can quickly find themselves at a distinct disadvantage. The insurance companies for the negligent parties will inevitably have an extensive network of insurance adjusters, doctors, and other experts whose job is to defeat or minimize any injury claims arising from an accident. Most people do not have the resources or expertise to fight on an equal footing with insurance companies. In addition, insurance adjusters often contact the injured persons or his/her family shortly after an accident to try to gain their confidence. In doing so, insurance adjusters often try to present themselves as the friend of the injured persons or the family of the person who was killed in an accident. The goal of such contact is inevitably to settle the case on terms as favorable as possible for the insurance company.

Any time an injured person requires advice on their legal rights, they can benefit from consulting an experienced personal injury attorney. Choosing a qualified personal injury attorney is a critical task. An experienced personal injury lawyer can explain the injured person's legal rights and all aspects of handling a personal injury claim. From the initial investigation, to gathering medical records and to making a fair and reasonable evaluation of the settlement value of the case, your attorney is a valuable advocate to have on your side.

What will it cost me to hire an attorney?
Most attorneys handle cases on a contingency fee basis. The standard arrangement is usually 1/3 plus expenses advanced on behalf of a client during the tendency of the action.

How quickly should I contact an attorney?
It is generally a good idea to contact an attorney as quickly as you can subsequent to an accident. Witnesses need to be interviewed, measurements obtained, photographs obtained and so on. An attorney skilled in the handling of personal injury cases will handle those matters for you and make certain that your rights are protected and preserved.

Why should I choose Burke and Thomas lawyers to represent me?
Simply put, the personal injury attorneys in our office are some of the best in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Combined, our attorneys have practiced law for more than 75 years and have the experience to handle all aspects of a claim when a tragedy strikes. Our lawyers have been recognized numerous times as Super Lawyers, an honor given to only the top 5% of attorneys in the state. They have been recognized as Who's Who in Personal Injury Law, Rising Stars, and ranked in the top 40 for Minnesota personal injury lawyers. When our office is contacted to handle an injury or wrongful death case, the attorneys at Burke and Thomas immediately travel wherever and whenever to assist the client and his or her entire family in their time of need. To find out more about our outstanding attorneys, please visit their individual attorney bios in the attorneys section.