If you’ve been hurt in an accident you didn’t cause or developed a disease or chronic illness from a defective consumer product or dangerous drug, you may feel like your injury – and its effect on your life – is a catastrophe. But, there’s a legal difference between catastrophic and personal injuries. How severe and life-changing the harm is may determine what kind of settlement and how much you receive. If injuries from an accident have changed your life, you may need the help of an Augusta, GA, catastrophic injury lawyer from Ted A. Greve & Associates to secure the compensation you deserve.
What Does An Augusta Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Do?
A catastrophic injury lawyer is a personal injury attorney who fights for victims who are now permanently disabled due to the negligence of another person or entity. A catastrophic injury leaves the victim with a very slim, often no, chance of recovery. Personal injury victims, while they may have serious injury and months of suffering, will fully or mostly recover.
A plaintiff in a personal injury case may require life-time care, like accommodations in a nursing home or memory care facility. They may not be able to work anymore, or if they can, be unable to continue in the same career they had before the accident. So, their earning potential (and its impact on retirement or future plans) could be significantly curtailed.
Your catastrophic injury attorney understands how your and your family’s lives are forever changed. They investigate your claim and identify the party or parties to blame, holding them accountable for their recklessness and negligence. Your lawyer builds a strong case against the at-fault party and fights to ensure that any settlement or jury award is enough to cover your needs for a lifetime.
What Makes A Catastrophic Injury Different From A Personal Injury?
A personal injury becomes catastrophic when:
- You cannot engage in gainful employment
- You require ongoing medical care
- You cannot complete activities of daily living without assistance
- A family member becomes your caregiver and cannot work
- You require a medical device for assistance or modifications to your house or car
Some common types of catastrophic injuries include partial or total paralysis, hearing or vision loss, or amputation of a limb or extremities. Internal organ damage that requires the removal of an organ could be considered catastrophic. Many brain injury victims, those who suffer serious changes to their cognitive abilities or who suffer a sudden onset of cognitive decline, may also be catastrophic injury victims.
10 Tips On Appeals And Post-Trial Proceedings
When a legal case doesn’t end as expected, understanding the options for appeals and post-trial proceedings is crucial. At Ted A. Greve & Associates, we’re here to guide you through this complex process. Here’s a breakdown of important considerations according to our August, GA catastrophic injury lawyer:
- Understanding Appeals: Appeals offer the opportunity to challenge a court’s decision if you believe there were errors in the legal process or if the outcome was unjust. Appeals typically focus on issues of law rather than factual disputes. Our Augusta catastrophic injury lawyers can assess your case and determine if grounds for an appeal exist.
- Filing Deadlines: It’s essential to act quickly if you’re considering an appeal. There are strict deadlines for filing appeals, which vary depending on the jurisdiction and type of case. Missing these deadlines can result in the loss of your right to appeal. Our experienced attorneys can ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed on time. You have an injury to focus on healing, let our attorneys focus on everything else.
- Grounds For Appeal: Common grounds for appeal include errors in the application of law, misconduct by the judge or opposing counsel, new evidence, or ineffective assistance of counsel. Our legal team will thoroughly review the trial record to identify any potential errors that may warrant an appeal.
- Appellate Process: The appellate process involves submitting briefs to the appellate court outlining the legal arguments for overturning the lower court’s decision. Appellate courts do not conduct new trials or reconsider evidence; instead, they review the trial record and legal arguments presented by both parties. Our attorneys have the experience and expertise to craft persuasive appellate briefs on your behalf.
- Oral Arguments: In some cases, appellate courts may allow oral arguments, during which attorneys present their case before a panel of judges. Oral arguments provide an opportunity to address any questions or concerns the judges may have and to further advocate for your position. Our attorneys are skilled litigators who can effectively represent your interests in oral arguments.
- Post-Trial Motions: In addition to appeals, post-trial motions may be filed to address issues that arose during or after the trial. These motions can include requests for a new trial, motions to set aside a verdict, or motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict. Our legal team can assess whether post-trial motions are appropriate in your case and advocate for your interests in court. We will work to get you the compensation you deserve to cover the expenses brought about by your catastrophic injury.
- Enforcement Of Judgments: If you’ve obtained a favorable judgment but the opposing party refuses to comply, enforcement proceedings may be necessary to collect the judgment. Our attorneys have experience navigating enforcement procedures and can take the necessary steps to ensure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
- Costs And Fees: It’s important to consider the potential costs and fees associated with appeals and post-trial proceedings. While pursuing an appeal can be time-consuming and costly, it may be necessary to achieve a just outcome. Our firm offers transparent billing practices and will work with you to develop a cost-effective strategy for pursuing your case. After all, it is important for you to be able to return to your life as much as possible after your injury instead of worrying about finances.
- Collaborative Approach: Throughout the appeals and post-trial process, we work closely with our clients to keep them informed and involved every step of the way. We understand the importance of communication and collaboration in achieving successful outcomes for our clients.
- Seek Experienced Legal Representation: Appeals and post-trial proceedings require specialized knowledge and expertise. If you’re considering an appeal or need assistance with post-trial motions, don’t hesitate to contact us at Ted A. Greve & Associates. Our Augusta catastrophic injury lawyers are dedicated to providing skilled and compassionate legal representation to clients throughout the appellate process.
Contact Us Today For A Free Case Review
Are you permanently disabled due to an accident you didn’t cause? Is your loved one unable to care for themselves after suffering grievous injury? The skilled Augusta catastrophic injury lawyers at Ted A. Greve & Associates can help you learn your options for compensation and secure compensation for your past, present, and future medical needs.
Augusta Catastrophic Injury FAQs
Catastrophic injuries are life-altering events, but your Augusta, GA catastrophic injury lawyer can help you find a way forward. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help guide you through this challenging time.
What Qualifies As A Catastrophic Injury?
A catastrophic injury is one that has severe, long-term effects on a person’s quality of life and ability to perform everyday activities. These injuries often result in permanent disabilities, significant medical treatment, and ongoing rehabilitation. Examples of catastrophic injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, amputations, and multiple fractures.
How Is Compensation Calculated In Catastrophic Injury Cases?
Compensation in catastrophic injury cases is calculated based on several factors, aiming to cover both economic and non-economic damages. The calculation involves a thorough assessment of the injury’s impact on the victim’s life, including current and future needs.
How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit After A Catastrophic Injury?
The timeframe for filing a lawsuit after a catastrophic injury is governed by the statute of limitations, which varies by state. Delaying action can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. Consulting with a Georgia catastrophic injury attorney as soon as possible can help ensure all deadlines are met and that your case is thoroughly prepared.
What Types Of Evidence Are Important In Catastrophic Injury Cases?
Gathering robust evidence is essential in building a strong catastrophic injury case. Important types of evidence include:
Medical Records: Detailed documentation of the injury, treatment received, and ongoing medical needs.
Accident Reports: Official reports from law enforcement or other authorities detailing the circumstances of the incident.
Witness Statements: Testimonies from individuals who witnessed the accident or can attest to the injury’s impact on the victim’s life.
Photographs and Videos: Visual evidence of the accident scene, injuries, and any contributing factors.
Expert Testimonies: Insights from medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and economists to explain the injury’s long-term effects and financial implications.
How Can An Attorney Help With My Catastrophic Injury Case?
An attorney plays a vital role in catastrophic injury cases by providing legal guidance, handling complex paperwork, and advocating on your behalf. Here’s how an attorney can help:
Investigation: Conducting a thorough investigation to gather evidence and build a strong case.
Negotiation: Engaging with insurance companies and opposing counsel to negotiate a fair settlement.
Litigation: Representing you in court if a settlement cannot be reached, presenting evidence, and making legal arguments to secure a favorable outcome.
Support: Offering ongoing support and advice throughout the legal process, helping you understand your rights and options.
Having an attorney from Ted A. Greve & Associates can significantly enhance your ability to secure the compensation you deserve, providing peace of mind during a difficult time.
Contact Us Today
Catastrophic injuries demand serious attention and a strategic approach to ensure victims receive the compensation needed to support their recovery and future well-being. Our team has secured multiple million dollar settlements for our clients, and now it’s our turn to help you.
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional legal assistance. Contact Ted A. Greve & Associates today for a consultation, and see how a catastrophic injury lawyer from our office can help.
