What should I do if I want to change and have Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC represent me?

Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC will not ever interfere with the attorney-client contractual relationship between you and your current attorney. We will only be able to ethically discuss your case once you notify your current attorney in writing that you no longer want him or her to represent you on your case.

What is a “local counsel” and does Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC act as “local counsel”?

A "local counsel' is an attorney hired to assist the primary attorney with a case outside of the primary attorneys home county. The "local counsel" should provide the primary attorney with expertise of a particular court's policies and rules as well as local knowledge regarding the attitudes of the community. Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC often serves as "local counsel" in Galveston and Harris County courts. "Local counsel" fees depend on the amount of involvement and do not affect the amount of the fee paid by the client.

What is a deposition and what is involved?

Generally, the plaintiff can expect to have his or her deposition taken by the defense attorney(s). This means that the attorney(s) representing the parties sued in your lawsuit will have the opportunity to ask you questions under oath before the case goes to trial. Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC attorneys make sure that you are fully prepared and familiar with the process before it begins. An attorney will be with you for your entire deposition to ensure that the deposition is conducted in a fair and proper manner.

What are interrogatories and why do I need to complete them?

Interrogatories are usually the first discovery tool used in a case. They are questions presented by one side to the other which must be answered under oath within a period specified by the court’s procedural rules. Complete and accurate answers are very important in response to any discovery question, and the attorneys and staff at Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC will work with you to make sure everything is handled properly.

What is an expert witness and how much do they cost?

An expert witness is an individual who has some specialized knowledge in a specific area that the common person does not have. In many cases handled by Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC, expert testimony is required by law. Experts do charge for their time and expertise in any given field. However, like all other legal costs, the firm advances these expenses and you do not reimburse Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC until and unless recovery is made in your case.

Do I have to attend court throughout my trial?

Generally, Yes, with exception in only very extreme cases and circumstances based on medical necessity.

How long will my trial last?

Each and every case is different. The length of your trial depends on many factors, some of them include the number of witnesses to testify, the number of parties to the suit, number of exhibits to introduce into evidence and the court’s schedule.

How much is my case worth?

This question cannot be answered before the case is investigated and each case must be evaluated on an individual basis. Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC is experienced in evaluating cases and will give their opinion after a full investigation has been completed. However, an exact dollar amount or a guarantee will not be given at any time.

How much will legal representation cost me?

Brooks Harrison—Attorneys At Law, PLLC takes all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means we do not bill our clients by the hour for legal representation. The firm only gets paid its fee and reimbursement of expenses when a recovery is made in your case. If no recovery is made, no fees or expenses are paid.

How do I get to the courthouse and where can I park?

When it is time for you to go to the courthouse, we will make sure you know where to go, how to get there, and where to park.

What sort of clothes should I wear to court?

As a general rule, it is best to dress in such a way to show respect for the court. This usually means a suit or coat and tie. However, in some counties, slacks or pants and a clean, pressed shirt are acceptable. Jeans, shorts, tank tops, t-shirts and sandals should NEVER be worn to court.

Can I talk in court?

No. You may ONLY speak to your attorney, except when testifying and when asked a question by the judge.

Why shouldn’t I speak to the members of the jury?

Everyone except the court’s bailiff is prohibited from speaking with the jurors. This includes offerings of food, drinks, gum, sweaters, coats, and the like, and applies to everyone–all parties, attorneys and their assistants, witnesses, spectators, etc.

When will I receive my money?

It depends. If your case has been settled, your settlement can be paid only after the settlement papers have been signed and the funds have been deposited into a trust account. If a law suit must be filed, it may be 18 months or more before a settlement can be achieved or a jury award obtained. Even then, the losing party may appeal the jury’s decision, which may mean it will take longer for you to receive your award.

Is a settlement a regular monthly payment?

Sometimes, but in very limited cases. Some clients prefer to have their settlements paid in one lump sum, while others prefer to receive their settlement checks monthly or yearly. Feel free to consult with Brooks Harrison Law Group, PLLC on this issue.