FAQs
What types of cases do you handle?
WGLA handles civil lawsuits in New Mexico, Arizona, Texas, and California, focusing on representing individuals or groups of individuals who have suffered serious injuries. These cases may involve 18-wheeler accidents, errors by medical professionals, industrial accidents/explosions, employment discrimination, or wrongful conduct by the police or other government body. Please explore our What We Do page for more information about the types of cases we work on.
What is the process for filing a lawsuit?
First, we need to know about the types of injuries you have suffered, and about who might be responsible. This process starts out with a free consultation with you where we will begin to gather facts and documentation. We will often write a demand letter to the defendant, outlining the injuries and what it will take to make things right. If the defendant or its insurer does not pay up, we may need to file a lawsuit. Lawsuits involve discovery, where information is exchanged, and eventually a trial.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?
With WGLA, if we take your case, we only get paid if you collect. If you don't collect anything, we don't get paid.
How long will my case take?
This depends on many factors. It does not take long to send a demand letter and file a lawsuit. However, the civil justice system can vary greatly in terms of how long it takes for a case once filed to get to trial. In some instances, the process can take two or three years after the filing of the initial complaint, or even longer.
What do I need before WGLA will take my case?
It often helps to have relevant medical records, police reports, and any relevant communication such as text messages or emails. However, none of these items are required, and the requirements of any case will vary.
What damages can I recover?
Examples of damages that might be recoverable include medical expenses, lost wages, diminution of value, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
Do I need to go to court?
Not necessarily. Most cases start with a demand letter and preliminary negotiation with the other side. Even if a lawsuit is filed, you will not need to physically go to the courthouse until much later in the litigation process. To the extent anyone needs to go to the courthouse, WGLA will do that for you, until time of trial when you will need to appear.
How will you communicate with me about my case?
WGLA prides itself on keeping our clients updated about case progress at every step of the complex litigation process. You can always talk to us via phone, email, text message, or however you prefer. To contact WGLA for a free preliminary consultation, please use our website and indicate how we should reach out to you.
What should I do if I am contacted by the other party or their insurance company?
With WGLA on your side, we will be here to communicate with the other side or its insurance company on your behalf. You don't need to worry about that. If you have not yet contacted WGLA and if you are feeling pressure by the other side to sign a release (or sign anything) or agree to a lowball preliminary settlement, you should refrain from doing so and contact us first.
What if I am partially at fault for the accident/injury?
It is often the case that multiple parties are at fault for an injury, including the person who was injured. This is not necessarily a bar to recovery, and you should contact WGLA to evaluate your rights.