Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the usual course that a case takes?
Q2: Why should I choose your law firm?
Q3: What can I do to help you win my case? 
Q4: What about medical treatment and mounting medical bills?
Q5: How does your law firm charge attorney's fees?
Q6: Who is going to front all the costs and expenses of the case?
Q7: Will my case have to go to jury trial?

Q1. What is the usual course that a case takes?

Every case is different. Pursuing a case is very time consuming. There are many things that occur after an action is filed an served. Once the Defendant files an answer, the parties then begin a process referred to as "discovery".  The parties usually send each other written questions to be answered by the opposing party these answer must be signed under penalty of perjury. The parties will often take depositions ( court reporter recorded testimony) of parties, witnesses, treating physicians and others related to the particular personal injury claim. Later expert depositions will also be taken. As well the parties often request production of documents.  Settlement opportunities may arise during the litigation. The California Courts now order most case into arbitration or mediation, which can be done either through the Court system or privately.  If these efforts fail in producing a settlement a trial is finally set.  A case may be tried to a jury or a judge. In some cases the parties may agree to private arbitration which becomes final upon the judge making an award. Many cases settle as the time for trial approaches, it is not unusual for a case to settle on the Court House steps. Most cases resolve within two or three years, many settle within a year. We work hard to bring your case to a successful conclusion as early as practicable but keep in mind an early settlement is not always in your best interests, especially if there are open questions about the nature and extent of your injuries.   Please read Disclaimer.

Q2: Why should I choose the Law Offices of Richard M. Katz?

My office is dedicated and experienced. We strive to deliver high quality legal services to our clients. Our goal is to have a one-on-one relationship with our clients.  We want each of our clients to be satisfied with their experience in dealing with our law office. We encourage our clients to let us know if there is a problem of what type or another. We are approachable. Please read Disclaimer.

Q3: What can I do to help us be successful and win my case?

Being responsive to telephone calls and letters is the most important thing you can do. During the initial stages of case there is considerable information that may be needed, we will need your cooperation in providing us with the information requested. During the discovery phase of your case you will need respond to discovery from the defendant promptly and completely.  From time to time we will need to meet with you, including preparing you for deposition. Should your matter be sent to arbitration or mediation we will need to meet so we can prepare you for the process.  Of course should your case go to trial we will be working with you more often. Your cooperation is necessary and contributes to a successful outcome. Please read Disclaimer.

Q4: What about medical treatment and mounting medical bills?

We work with you and your individual situation to maximize medical treatment benefits. In the event you need to be seen by a specialist, we are ready to help you locate one. Often because of our experience we can have you seen by a specialist who will wait until your case is resolved for payment.  We do our best to see that each client gets the medical treatment they need. In some cases we may even make arrangements for surgery to performed on a lien basis.  Please read Disclaimer.

Q5: How does your law firm charge attorney's fees?

Generally this office works on a contingency fee basis.  Which means that if we do not make a monetary recovery for you we do not get paid. Over the years I have learned that most injured victims cannot afford to pay an attorney by the hour. Our contingency fee is percentage of the amount recovered for you. The contingent fees we charge are consistent with other attorneys who handle personal injury cases. Please read Disclaimer.

Q6: Who is going to front all the costs and expenses of the case?

It costs money to pursue a case. Costs must be advanced during the case to file a lawsuit, hire experts, conduct discovery and prepare for trial. We generally advance all costs. Ultimately, you are responsible for reimbursing the costs. This usually occurs when the case settles. Please read Disclaimer.

The fact is that the vast majority of cases are settled before trial.  More than 90 % of our cases settle, but if the settlement offer is unacceptable, we will proceed to a jury trial.  Please read Disclaimer.

For an Immediate Consultation Call the Law Offices of Richard M. Katz 626-796-6333.  Our Offices Are Conveniently Located in the Heart of the San Gabriel Valley in the City of Pasadena at 1122 East Green Street . Call now!!!