Burlington Medical Malpractice FAQ's

In addition to advocating on behalf of our clients, at Martin & Hillyer we ensure that our clients are informed of and understand the litigation process - knowledge is power. With that goal in mind we have devoted this page to address frequently asked questions.

How much is my case worth?
The answer to this question will depend on a number of things such as the circumstances of the accident, your injuries, lost wages, future medical expenses, and your recovery. As your claim progresses we will keep you informed about the value of your claim.

Will I have to go to court?
Maybe. Most cases settle before trial. Our job is to prepare your case for trial by performing such work as investigating the cause of the accident, obtaining medical reports, hiring wage loss economists and future care cost experts, interviewing witnesses, etc. We will advise about the pros and cons of any settlement offer in order to ensure that you can provide us with informed instructions about whether to proceed to trial.

What are contingency fees?
A contingency fee agreement means that you do not have to pay legal fees unless we are successful in pursuing your claim. We represent most clients on a contingency fee basis.

What is the limitation period?
A limitation period is the time in which a lawsuit must be commenced. In most cases the limitation period is two years from the happening of the event (e.g., accident). The limitation period can be less than two years, however. You should speak to a lawyer as soon as possible in order to ensure that you do not miss the limitation period.

Why do medical malpractice law suits take so long?
Often the longest delay in a medical malpractice law suites is our client's own recovery. What at first may seem as a routine injury may with time develop into something quite serious. The onset of post-traumatic arthritis is a frequent occurrence. You only get one opportunity to ensure full compensation for your injuries. We will not resolve your claim (whether through settlement or trial) until we are armed with expert opinions about what the future will hold for you.