It can be hard to find the right attorney after an accident. There are many personal injury lawyers, and you need to hire one who will do the best job for your specific situation. During your free initial consultation, you will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the upcoming legal process. Use this time to decide if they are the best personal injury attorney for you.
What to Expect from Your Initial Consultation
Most initial consultations with personal injury lawyers are similar. If you speak directly with an attorney, you can ask them questions, and they should give you an idea of your options going forward.
Assessing the Viability of Your Claim
Although you may have been injured by someone else, not every claim is viable. There are requirements regarding the types of losses you must have to collect any damages. For example, if you only have property damage, you may not be able to collect money for pain and suffering, even if the situation was very stressful.
Additionally, there are deadlines within which a claim must be filed. In New York, most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within three years of the date on which the injuries occurred.
Your personal injury lawyer will review your claim and help you determine if it is worth pursuing. If you only have a couple hundred dollars’ worth of losses, the court costs might be more expensive than your damages.
It’s important that your attorney is truthful with you during your initial consultation so that you understand the viability and value of your claim.
What to Bring to the Meeting
To have a successful consultation, your attorney will need as much information as possible about your accident. You can bring certain items to help your personal injury lawyer understand what happened during your accident and how you should proceed.
Medical Records and Bills
Bring any medical records and bills that you have with you. Bring discharge paperwork if you went to an emergency room or hospital after your accident. If you have followed up with any specialists, physical therapists, or your primary care physician, bring treatment records from them as well.
You may not have received any medical bills yet, especially if the providers are billing your insurance company first. Once you receive bills and explanations of benefits from the insurance company, bring them to your attorney.
These documents will help your lawyer understand how badly you were hurt and how much money your claim may be worth. Medical expenses are often one of the most significant components of economic damages.
Your Insurance Information
Bring insurance policy documents from your health insurance company and any other insurance companies involved. If you were injured in a car crash, bring car insurance policies. If you have the other driver’s insurance information, bring that as well. If you were injured on someone else’s property, they should have homeowners’, renters’, or business insurance to cover your damages. Bring any information you have about these policies.
Your attorney will want to determine policy limits for all insurance involved. If you have damages over these limits, you may have to personally sue the person who caused your injuries and make an insurance claim.
Police Reports and Other Documentation
You should have called the police at the scene of your accident. There should be a police report detailing what happened and everyone involved. This document will provide a stepping stone for your attorney to put the pieces of your accident together.
If you have any other documents about your accident, bring them to your initial consultation with your personal injury attorney. For example, if you have photos, videos, or statements from eyewitnesses, they will be useful in your claim.
Notable
Results
$7,900,000 Construction Workers Injured When a Scaffold Collapsed
Plaintiffs, members of Local 79 and Local 235, respectively, were injured when they were both caused to fall when the scaffold they were standing on collapsed. Both plaintiffs sustained serious injuries to their spine requiring surgery. Plaintiffs commenced an action against the owner of the project and the general contractor alleging violations of Labor Law § 240. The defendants argued that the scaffold did not collapse and the plaintiffs’ were exaggerating their injuries. HKD was able to track down former employees who confirmed how the accident occurred and undermined the defendants’ position. The case was settled mediation by HKD partner, Jordan Hecht, for a total of $7,900,000. The outcome of an individual case depends on a variety of factors unique to that case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any similar or future case.
Read More ResultsWhat to Ask at Your Consultation
One of the best parts of an initial consultation is that you will be able to ask any questions you have about your case and the attorney. Most attorneys will give you some information about your case and the legal process even if you do not decide to hire them. You should use your consultation as a time to determine whether the attorney is right for you.
What Is the Attorney’s Experience?
You want an attorney who has experience with cases like yours. For example, if your case involved a child, you will want a child injury lawyer who understands specific New York laws involving child personal injury claims. Similarly, if you were in a crash with a semi-truck, you would need an attorney who knows how to battle the large insurance agencies used by trucking companies.
How Are Fees Charged?
Most personal injury law firms, including Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., operate on contingency fees. That means that the amount you pay them and whether you pay them is contingent upon them helping you win your case. If you do not win, you pay them nothing. Ask your attorney how they will charge fees during the initial consultation.
What Communication Can You Expect?
Ask your attorney who you will communicate with throughout the case. Many attorneys work directly with a team of paralegals and legal assistants. Will you have a dedicated team, or will your case be thrown into a pile? Find out how to contact the attorney directly if you have legal questions. Ask for frequent updates regarding the progress of your case. While your attorney should handle stressful legal issues, they should also keep you informed.
Schedule a Consultation with an Attorney Today
If you are ready to get started with a claim, you contact a personal injury lawyer for a free initial consultation. You can ask any questions and determine how you want to proceed. Your lawyer can help you understand the value of your claim and any options you have going forward.
Call Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C. at (212) 490-5700 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.
CLIENT REVIEWS
09/09/2021
When I spoke to Mr.Noah Reiss he gave me valuable legal advice. Connected the dots who and why. He is a great asset to this firm. Will call him again as a friend. Thank you so much.
5
Harendra Gautam, HKD CLIENT
08/11/2021
Ross Raggio, did an amazing job on my case. The office staff was responsive and very helpful to my questions and concerns. I had a very good experience. I highly recommend this firm.
5
patricia Carnevale, HKD CLIENT
06/22/2021
I had a great lawyer with a great Paralegal that made everything easy to understand.
5
Deniece Buffaloe, HKD CLIENT
04/01/2021
I am extremely satisfied and pleased most of all grateful for the services of Jonathan and his team! It is such a relief to have a strong team supporting you through a process that’s stressful. Thank you again for everything.
5
thabossladi87, HKD CLIENT
03/01/2021
Hetch,Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., is the law office I highly recommend. My attorney Judd Kleeger, accomplished to represent me, support my needs & secure my future after suffering a traumatic accident. Other lawyers couldn’t guarantee this to me but Judd…
5
Stephanie Campos, HKD CLIENT
02/25/2021
I can say without hesitation that if you are injured due to someone else’s fault, that no one will fight harder and more passionately for you than Jordan Hecht and Judd Kleeger. I have worked side by side with them…
5
lisa kessler, HKD CLIENT
02/23/2021
I highly recommend the law firm of Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek – as well as my attorney, Jordan Hecht. Jordan was able to answer all of my questions and put me at ease. He was always responsive and patient. He…
5
Emily Weinstein, HKD CLIENT
02/23/2021
I have referred numerous cases to Judd Kleeger and the team at HKD. I feel very confident when i refer a client that they will be treated with the highest regard. Each of my referrals has had very positive experiences…
5
Jason Bauer, HKD CLIENT
01/29/2021
I was always able to reach my attorney Judd Kleeger with any concern I had about my case. He responded timely and with the utmost courtesy to my sometimes desperate phone calls and email. He knew exactly what to do…
5
VIRGINIA BOOTHE GORDON, HKD CLIENT
01/19/2021
The attorneys at Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek are smart, professional, responsive and dedicated to achieving the best results for their clients. Most importantly, they are trustworthy and genuinely good people who you can depend upon.
5
Richard Leff, HKD CLIENT
01/18/2021
Judd Kleeger and his team are extremely competent, super professional and have achieved consistently better results than I or my clients had anticipated. He is my “go to” PI team. This was my experience over a decade and not just…
5
Larry Schatz, HKD CLIENT
01/15/2021
I have known Judd Kleeger for over a decade now. By far the smartest hardest working attorney I have ever dealt with. His advice has been spot on time and time again. Highly recommend him.
5
Michael nessim, HKD CLIENT
01/15/2021
I retained Judd Kleeger for a personal injury case. I would, without hesitation, recommend Judd, and his firm, for anyone who finds themselves in a situation that demands a tenacious advocate who will not stop fighting until he gets results.
5
Lisa Dawn Angerame, HKD CLIENT
01/15/2021
I can’t recommend Judd Kleeger enough. He is without a doubt the most professional lawyer I’ve encountered. Judd Kleeger is diligent and quick in his responses, always making sure his clients are in the right hands. I’ve never had to…
5
Emily Halperin, HKD CLIENT
01/14/2021
Judd Kleeger is an exceptional attorney who makes sure to get the best possible outcome for his client. He is always available, and is knowledgeable, prepared and dedicated to his clients. He is not afraid to go to trial and…
5
Didi Hutt, HKD CLIENT
01/14/2021
Mr. Judd Kleeger and his team at Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek are great! They always provide very thoughtful and caring advice. Mr. Kleeger is extremely professional and very easy to work with.
5
Alan Levine, HKD CLIENT
01/06/2021
We quickly had to get legal counsel and we contacted Jordan Hecht. The rapport and guidance was outstanding at all times, prompt, timely and open for calls and updates. I can’t thank Jordan enough for his care, work and expertise….
5
Luljeta Chisolm, HKD CLIENT
12/29/2020
Had a great experience with attorney Ross Raggio. He was professional and attentive every step of the way – would highly recommend.
5
Carter Martin, HKD CLIENT
12/28/2020
Mr. Ross Raggio and his team at Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., provided excellent legal services. His team and him were absolutely great, always returning calls or emails when we had questions about the case. Always very cordial, caring and…
5
Marisol Pitre, HKD CLIENT
12/11/2020
My wife and i are very grateful to Mr. Jordan Hecht for his sincere compassion and legal assistance during one of the most challenging time in our lives. He was extremely professional and answered all of our concerns. Mr. Hecht…
5
peggy lamarre, HKD CLIENT
12/10/2020
Very professional and very responsive. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of an attorney. The attorney Ross Raggio, who was personally assigned to my case consistently followed through and was able to bring the case to…
5
Rene David Alkalay, HKD CLIENT
12/08/2020
Mr. Ross Raggio went above and beyond to settle my case during the height of the pandemic, a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed slim. He was responsive and professional, and was…
5
Kjanecaron, HKD CLIENT
12/07/2020
I was a sole practitioner specializing in personal injury law in NYC for more than 36 years. When I decided to retire, I had to make several critical decisions before terminating my practice. To whom should I refer my clients…
5
Martin Munitz, HKD CLIENT
12/07/2020
Ross was always available and working with my best interests, also very thorough with any questions I had along the case. Will recommend to others!
5
Dan Greenberg, HKD CLIENT
12/04/2020
Jordan Hecht of Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek is the best lawyer I’ve ever worked with. He is smart, tough, and very professional. I highly recommend the firm and could not have asked for a better outcome.
5
Ben S, HKD CLIENT
12/03/2020
The HKD law firm is highly professional, responsive and caring. They were willing to handle my case when other firms declined. Not only did we win our case, but received a huge settlement.
5
Linda Winikoff, HKD CLIENT
12/03/2020
My representation by Jordan Hecht and the whole staff at Hecht, Kleeger and Damashek was top notch professional and very productive
5
Peter Visconti, HKD CLIENT
12/02/2020
I have had the pleasure to work alongside Ross Raggio on several matters. He is an extremely talented attorney with an exceptional understanding of the law. I would recommend him and HK&D to anyone looking for a personal injury attorney.
5
Robert Dallas, HKD CLIENT
12/02/2020
I came to know the firm through my relationship with one of the partners, Jordan Hecht. Jordan and I became close friends in law school. I have since referred several cases to Jordan and his firm ranging from a mesothelioma…
5
Jeffrey Jagid, HKD CLIENT
12/02/2020
From the moment that I contacted this Law firm and got assigned Mr. Ross. They have been nothing but helpful, Especially Mr. Ross. In the time that Mr. Ross took my case, it took him 3 months to a get…
5
Kelvin Morel, HKD CLIENT
01/21/2020
I cannot speak highly enough about this firm. The situation that necessitated my need for legal representation was very stressful on me and my family and the lawyers here were with me every step of the way. I could always…
5
David Irwin, HKD CLIENT
07/05/2015
I retained Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek for a serious personal injury case. They were very professional and managed to obtain a settlement for me that far exceeded my expectations. I would strongly recommend this firm for anyone’s legal needs.
5
Peter M., HKD CLIENT
07/05/2015
After meeting a half dozen lawyers at different firms, I decided to go to Hecht, Kleeger and Damashek. As soon as I met Jon Damashek, I knew I had to look no further. Mr. Damashek made me feel at ease…
5
Michael R., HKD CLIENT
07/05/2015
After meeting with Jon Damashek I knew immediately he was the right attorney for me. I had met with other attorneys in the past, but Jon’s experience, knowledge, and track record were most impressive. I highly recommend Jon Damashek and…
5
Ryan G., HKD CLIENT
07/05/2015
I know all three named partners at this firm and highly recommend them. They are very professional and tireless advocates for their clients. If you need a personal injury attorney, you cannot do better than Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek.
5
Eric G., HKD CLIENT
07/05/2015
I have worked with countless attorneys over the years and Jon Damashek stands out among them. I have seen first hand him advocate for his clients vigorously. He fights for the rights of the seriously injured, does not back down…
5
Wendy B., HKD CLIENT
07/05/2015
I had the opportunity to work with Jon Damashek and had an amazing experience. I have known Jon for many years and always felt very comfortable relying on his expertise and knowledge of the law and more importantly his ability…
5
Steven B., HKD CLIENT
07/05/2015
I cannot recommend Jon Damashek highly enough. I attribute the favorable outcome to my case to his consummate and tireless dedication and tenacity. Just as important, he was truly there with me every step of the way. He was very…
5
Mike W., HKD CLIENT
06/05/2019
I had the opportunity of having this amazing team of lawyers work on my case. When I first met with Jordan Hecht and Michael Kusz, I really liked their energy and the spunk that they had, it meant business and…
5
Anonymous, HKD CLIENT
05/01/2015
“I had the opportunity to work with Jon Damashek and had an amazing experience. I have known Jon for many years and always felt very comfortable relying on his expertise, knowledge of the law, and more importantly – his ability…
5
Steven, HKD CLIENT
05/01/2015
“I cannot recommend Jon Damashek highly enough. I attribute the favorable outcome of my case to his consummate and tireless dedication and tenacity. Just as important, he was truly there with me every step of the way. He was very…
5
Mike, HKD CLIENT