Circeo Law Firm
Why hire a personal injury attorney
Insurance companies have adjusters, lawyers, and algorithms designed to minimize what they pay you. An attorney levels that playing field.
Fee arrangements vary. Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis.
An attorney knows the true value of your claim. Insurance companies count on injured people not knowing what their case is worth and accepting low-ball offers.
Evidence disappears fast. An attorney preserves surveillance footage, witness statements, and medical records before they're lost.
Frequently asked about personal injury
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in West Virginia?
Most states have a statute of limitations between 1 and 6 years from the date of injury, with shorter windows for claims against government entities. Confirm the exact deadline for your situation with a West Virginia attorney — missing it usually bars your claim entirely.
How much will it cost to hire a personal injury attorney?
Most personal injury attorneys work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing upfront and the attorney takes a percentage of any settlement or judgment (commonly 33–40%). If there is no recovery, you typically owe no attorney fee. Ask about case-expense advances and any non-fee costs before signing.
What if I was partly at fault?
It depends on your state. Some states bar recovery if you are 50% or more at fault; others reduce recovery proportionally to your share of fault; a few bar any recovery if you contributed at all. An attorney in your state can explain how the rule applies to your facts.
Should I talk to the insurance adjuster?
Talk to a lawyer first. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and recorded statements made early can be used to limit your claim later. You are generally not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer.