Law Archives

“Keys to the Courthouse Doors” – Contingency Fees Provide People Access to Justice

Many people know that some attorneys take cases on a contingency fee basis. What is a contingency fee? What are the advantages of working with an attorney on a contingency basis? An attorney working on a contingency basis does not charge an upfront retainer fee nor do they charge an hourly fee. The attorney will not […]

What are Punitive Damages and Why do We Need Them?

Punitive damages are needed in our society to punish and discourage dangerous conduct that endangers us. Extremely hazardous and outrageously reckless behavior can lead to severe injury and death. Illinois (and US) civil law provides a means to prevent others from acting in a way that puts people at unnecessary risk of harm. The Illinois […]

What Is The Trial Process and How Does It Work For You?

How Does the Trial Process Work? Litigation: Start to Finish There is a lot of confusion surrounding litigation, what your rights are and what recourse you have. If you are injured as a result of someone’s negligence you have the right to make a claim with the insurance company that represents the person responsible in […]

Is Your Attorney an Ambulance Chaser?

Ambulance chasing lawyers and their “investigators” run rampant. Ambulance chasers are lawyers (or their paid people) who literally chase ambulances. They pay cops, paramedics, hospital staff, nurses and others to provide contact information about injury victims. The ambulance chasers or their “investigators” then inappropriately contact injured people to persuade them to sign a representation agreement. If […]

Alternative Dispute Resolution Process – Mediation and Arbitration

Not all cases end up at a jury trial. At any part of the litigation process both sides can agree to settle the disagreement by alternative dispute resolution, or ADR. That is, the parties can agree to have a retired judge, retired neutral, or attorney that specializes in mediation help settle the case. Both sides agree to come […]

In Praise of Consumer Protection Laws and Class Actions

The rule of law must protect the powerless against the powerful. This principle has been developed in civilized societies and passed down through the centuries. Without the rule of law, those with power are free to oppress, abuse, and take advantage of those without power. The concept of justice and redress for harm is one prerequisite […]