Siegel Legal – Blog

When you are injured in a car wreck, at work, due to medical malpractice or in any other situation caused by the negligence of another party, it can cause financial devastation.  You may be hospitalized for a prolonged time period, unable to file a claim until you are back on your feet.  If you are unable to work, your income is reduced.  Settlement loans help those who have been injured pay bills, medical costs and other expenses while awaiting settlement from the insurance company or through jury award.  If you are not familiar with settlement funding, this article will help clear up some of the questions you may have.

Insurance companies generally do not pay injury victims the fair compensation they are entitled to.  If you are receiving medical treatment and unable to work, you can imagine the costs you face, and how they may quickly escalate until you have no financial resources left.  Settlement loans allow you to live comfortably and pay your bills whether you or your attorney are working with the insurance company, or have taken your case before a jury to be settled.  Unlike other conventional loans, settlement funding is a quick and easy process; in fact, you could have your money the same day you apply if you qualify.

You may be thinking, “If I already have problems paying my bills, how can I possibly repay a loan?”  With settlement loans, the money given to you by the litigation funding company is actually an advance against your pending settlement.  You do not repay the money unless you win your case, and there are no monthly payments to worry about.  In the event that you are not awarded a settlement, you owe nothing to the settlement funding company, because the process is non recourse.  This means that you are at zero risk, unlike with conventional loans where you may default on the loan.

With settlement loans, there’s a very good chance you will qualify as long as you have a solid case.  Your attorney will submit the necessary information, which is regarding only the details of your accident and injuries.  There are no questions about employment, credit history or other background information.  Settlement funding companies are not interested in other aspects of your life, only your case.  There are no out-of-pocket expenses involved to further aggravate your debt; you repay the loan only at the time you win and have access to your money.

Typically, settlement loans allow you to get an advance of approximately 10% of your pending settlement.  This money can be used to pay household bills, buy groceries, have repairs to your car if it was damaged in the accident that caused your injuries.  You can focus on healing and winning your lawsuit, without worrying about how you will put food on the table and pay the bills.

Settlement funding is the easiest – and smartest – way to get the money you need right now, without putting yourself at risk.  Are settlement loans right for you?  Talk to your lawyer about the process, and whether it may be beneficial for your unique situation.

If you are an individual who was injured because of someone else’s negligence, you may have heard the term “lawsuit loans” and been curious as to exactly what this means.  Rather than an actual loan, lawsuit loans are simply a cash advance that is given against an expected settlement to an injured victim awaiting resolution of his/her claim.  If you feel that you have a strong case, it is likely you will qualify for litigation financing.

Why do injury victims need lawsuit loans?  Frequently, victims find themselves facing severe financial issues, which may by due to extensive medical costs related to their injuries, lost income when they are unable to work, etc.  However, creditors are not forgiving; they still expect to receive payment, regardless of your circumstances.  While you are awaiting settlement, you may be getting deeper and deeper into debt.  This is where litigation financing comes in; your attorney will work with you to determine if lawsuit loans are an option you may want to consider, so that you can live comfortably and avoid money problems while waiting for compensation.

There are several advantages offered by lawsuit loans that you don’t find with conventional loans.  First, there are no out-of-pocket expenses, and you will never be asked for information regarding your credit score, employment or other background details.  Litigation financing companies are only interested in the details of your accident and resulting injuries, nothing else.  Second, if you do not win your lawsuit for any reason, you do not repay the advance.  Third, you will not be required to make monthly payments to repay the loan, and only repay the money once you receive your settlement.  Essentially, those who qualify for lawsuit loans are at no risk whatsoever.

How much will you be advanced if you qualify?  Generally speaking, most litigation financing companies advance approximately 10% of your expected settlement.  For example, if your attorney expects that you will be awarded $125,000, you will likely qualify for about $12,000 to $13,000.  Lawsuit loans allow you to pay household bills, buy groceries, pay medical expenses and other costs.  This means that you are never forced to settle for far less than you are entitled to from the insurance company, which many injury victims do simply because they desperately need the money.

With lawsuit loans, you will pay a small fee and interest when you repay the advance.  However, most individuals find that even after repaying the loan, they keep far more money than what the insurance company offered.  Discuss the possibility of litigation financing with your attorney today, and put your financial worries behind you.

One of the most frightening times in a parent’s life is when a child has been arrested for a criminal offense.  Whether the offense is underage drinking, drug possession, gang crimes or something more serious, it’s critical to have an Arlington juvenile crime defense lawyer to handle the legalities, and to prevent incarceration or other harsh penalties when possible.

Arlington juvenile crime defense attorneys realize that teens are at an age when their minds and ability to reason are not fully developed.  They make mistakes, but often the punishment seems extremely harsh in comparison with the crime the minor is accused of.  A criminal record can impact a child’s life in a negative way forever.  The job of a skilled juvenile crime defense attorney in Arlington is to work improve the final outcome.  It is important that a juvenile has the opportunity to rehabilitate, rather than be severely punished.

It is never recommended that a parent attempt to represent his or her child.  This is a decision that could be very dangerous to the future and reputation of your child.  Arlington juvenile crime defense lawyers are experienced in criminal law, and understand the complexities of these types of cases.  Your attorney will be very familiar with the rules and regulations regarding when to file notices, procedures, meeting deadlines and other areas of the juvenile criminal justice system.

The fact is, kids make mistakes – and peer pressure is a leading factor in some of these mistakes.  Should your child be punished and his/her future ruined forever?  Whether your child is charged with a misdemeanor or felony, it is urgent that a skilled and compassionate Arlington juvenile crime defense attorney intervenes for the best possible outcome.

Will your child be placed in a juvenile detention center, or even serve jail time?  Will he or she remain living in your home, and be able to attend school?  No doubt you have plenty of questions, which is natural as a loving, concerned parent.  A competent Arlington juvenile crime defense lawyer will answer all of your questions, provide sound legal guidance and do everything possible to ensure that your child’s future is protected.

In some instances, such as in the case of serious felony charges, children older than 14 may face the same or similar consequences as an adult would if convicted of the same offense.  Your child may even be transferred from the juvenile system to a criminal court system, particularly if the offense is a sex crime or a life was lost in the course of events leading up to the arrest.

Regardless of how minor or major you feel the offense was that your child has been arrested for, never take matters into your own hands.  Consult with experienced, capable juvenile crime defense attorneys in Arlington for the best possible results.

Federal crimes are serious, whether you have been arrested for drug trafficking, arson, homicide or any other federal offense.  The penalties if convicted are much harsher than for crimes committed on the state level, one reason you need a skilled Kansas City federal crimes attorney on your side.  Federal prosecutors are tough; it is critical that you consult with a lawyer who is experienced, skilled and aggressive in order to obtain the most favorable outcome possible.

Typically, those convicted on federal charges will serve jail or prison time, in addition to substantial fines and a permanent criminal record.  Depending upon the crime committed, you may lose your right to own guns or be subject to other punishment.  A capable Kansas City federal crimes lawyer understands that while those accused are innocent until proven guilty, all too often those arrested on federal crimes charges are often thought guilty by jurors before the trial ever begins.  This is why it is urgent that you have a federal crimes attorney in Kansas City who is aggressive, capable and not intimidated by federal judges and prosecutors.

Even if you only suspect that you are under investigation, it is in your best interest to speak with an experienced Kansas City federal crimes lawyer right away.  Your attorney can offer his/her guidance, explain what you should or should not do (such as speaking with law enforcement or federal agents, which you should never do without the presence of your attorney).  Federal crimes attorneys in Kansas City realize that while those accused want to have their say, their words are often the best evidence a prosecutor can use against them!

Kansas City federal crimes lawyers are knowledgeable and skilled in the area of federal law, which is extremely complex.  You must have a reputable attorney who is extremely knowledgeable and capable of navigating the system.  Federal prosecutors have a huge advantage in federal courts, primarily because the laws are written by politicians, and therefore highly favored by the government.  Your lawyer should be able to overcome the odds that are in the prosecution’s favor, providing you with a strong, effective defense.

Being convicted on a federal offense will have a negative impact on many aspects of your life, including your career and reputation, your freedom, even your relationships.  Essentially, your future may be ruined, your freedom lost.  Why put yourself at further risk by not hiring skilled legal counsel?  Whether you have already been charged or are being investigated, discuss your situation with a compassionate Kansas City federal crimes attorney immediately, so that work can begin right away to protect your future.

There are numerous reasons to hire a Fairfax or Arlington DUI attorney when you have been arrested for driving under the influence.  Perhaps the most significant negative consequence to many who are arrested is the fact that they will have a permanent criminal record if convicted, which can affect many areas of life.  If you have been charged with this criminal offense, don’t assume that you must “pay the piper,” and that you have no choice.  Seasoned DUI lawyers in Fairfax will work to have the charges against you reduced or dismissed.

Experienced attorneys know that police must have a valid reason to pull someone over for suspected DUI.  Upon being pulled over, an officer will usually observe the behavior of the driver, and whether he/she smells alcohol. Police often look through windows to see if they can see any open containers of alcohol.  At that point, if the officer still strongly suspects an individual is driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both, he may administer breath/blood tests and field sobriety tests.  If the suspected individual fails either of these tests, he or she may be placed under arrest.

Skilled Fairfax DUI attorneys know that while most of the time an arrest is valid, police can make mistakes in the course of an arrest.  You may be completely innocent of the charges.  If you are guilty, you may believe there is nothing you can do about it.  Regardless of your innocence or guilty, it is critical that you consult with a lawyer who specializes in representing the rights of those charged with driving under the influence.  Why?

Your lawyer will challenge everything about your arrest, from why you were stopped to whether the administering and handling of breath/blood tests were done correctly.  Attorneys know how prosecutors work in cases involving DUI, and how to challenge the evidence.  If police performed a search without the proper warrant, the case may be thrown out of court.  Proper protocol must be adhered to in the course of a DUI stop and subsequent arrest.  If this is not the case, it often works to the benefit of the accused.

Your Fairfax DUI lawyer will work diligently to protect your rights and freedom. Some of the penalties you may face if convicted include jail time, steep fines, loss of your driving privileges and a criminal record.  Your auto insurance provider may deem it necessary to raise your insurance rates if they feel you are a risk.

Regardless of the circumstances, you must speak with a capable and aggressive DUI attorney in Fairfax to ensure your rights are protected, and that the best possible outcome is reached.  Put your freedom and future in the hands of a competent, experienced lawyer who will work hard to have you acquitted of the charges.

What does a Fairfax criminal defense attorney actually do?  When an individual is accused of or arrested for a criminal offense, his/her lawyer will represent the client’s legal rights, guide the client through the legal process and work to reach the most positive outcome possible.  Essentially, Fairfax criminal defense lawyers try to prove their clients’ innocence and protect them from the often harsh penalties of a conviction when possible.

You may need a Fairfax criminal defense lawyer whether you have been charged with something that seems as petty as shoplifting, or an offense that is extremely serious, such as armed robbery or arson.  Whether you are innocent or guilty, it is essential that you have capable and aggressive legal counsel.  The average person has little knowledge of criminal law, how the justice system works, or what it takes to get the charges against him or herself reduced or dismissed.  Your attorney has the experience, skill and in-depth knowledge to reach the best possible outcome.

Without a capable Fairfax criminal defense attorney to represent you, the odds are high you will face serious penalties.  Depending upon the offense you have been accused of, you may face steep fines, jail/prison time, a permanent criminal record and more.  Your lawyer will first attempt to handle the situation out of court by working with prosecutors or negotiating a plea bargain if it is your wishes; however, he or she will not hesitate to go to court to defend your rights and challenge any evidence.

It is also the Fairfax criminal defense lawyer’s job to deal with the emotional aspects, calming his/her client and using skills to keep the client rational and focused.  Your attorney will listen to your decisions, but also work to ensure you understand all options and the potential ramifications of any decision you may make.

Essentially, a defense attorney will investigate the circumstances surrounding his client’s arrest, examine evidence and determine how to challenge that evidence, support his client and offer his legal  guidance, and determine the best strategy or way to proceed in order to reach the best possible resolution of the issues for his client.

If you have been charged with any criminal offense no matter how minor or serious it may seem, seek the skill and experience of a qualified Fairfax criminal defense attorney right away.  It could mean the difference between harsh punishment and your freedom, career and reputation.

Contrary to the name, lawsuit loans are not “loans” at all but a cash advance against a pending settlement for those involved in a personal injury lawsuit.  When you are an injury victim in need of cash, financial issues can develop during the course of time it takes for a lawsuit to reach completion.  Essentially, when you want to obtain an advance against your settlement, it is considered “no recourse litigation funding.”  This simply means that if for any reason you do not win your lawsuit, you do not repay the advance.

Because the process is no recourse, the plaintiff is at no risk – in other words, in the event you lose your lawsuit you do not owe money to the litigation funding company that you do not have.  Lawsuit loans allow those who qualify to get a portion of their expected verdict or settlement immediately, usually within 24 hours.  How much you may be advanced depends upon the funding company you secure the advance from, but most offer about 10% of the expected settlement.

What can lawsuit loans be used for?  Most injured victims involved in a lawsuit find that when they cannot work, it can be hard to pay the bills or buy groceries.  You can use the advance to pay medical and other bills, utilities, to buy groceries or pay attorney fees so that your lawyer has the financial resources to fight vigorously on your behalf.

How do you repay the money?  Most litigation funding companies do not require payment on a monthly basis; after all, this would only add to your financial burden.  You will not be required to repay the advance or any associated fees or interest until the time that your lawsuit has been won, and you have your  money in hand.  Any money that is left after you repay the funding company is all yours, free and clear.

Should you apply for a lawsuit loan?  You will need to first discuss this form of funding with your attorney.  Should the two of you decide this is a good option for you, your lawyer will prepare the information the litigation funding company needs in order to determine if you qualify.  Whether you have bad credit or are unemployed makes no difference; the funding company only wants the information relevant to the accident / circumstances which caused your injuries, and the details of your injuries themselves.  This helps them determine if you have a strong case that will likely be won.

Lawsuit loans are one way to experience financial relief, so that you can live comfortably and as you normally would while waiting for your lawsuit to settle.  Talk to your attorney, who can further explain the process and help you decide if it is right for you.

Even though there are only 6 major highways in Fairfax County, as many as 1,000 motorists on those highways are issued tickets every day.  Experienced traffic violation attorneys understand the serious consequences those who commit traffic violations may face, which may include steep fines, loss of your driving privileges and jail time to name a few.  Certain offenses carry even harsher penalties, so it’s important that you have a skilled traffic lawyer in Fairfax on your side if you have been at the receiving end of a ticket, or been arrested.

Some offenses are more serious than others.  For instance, you may have been issued a ticket for driving 5 miles over the speed limit, or because your blinker was not working properly even though you were not aware of the problem.  In other cases, such as racing, driving recklessly or even causing an accident, you will need qualified legal representation. A capable Fairfax traffic lawyer is familiar with the traffic court in Fairfax County, and will work diligently to protect your rights and driving privileges.

Depending on the seriousness of the traffic offense you are accused of committing, you may be facing fines of $250 to $2,500 for a serious charge such as driving on a suspended license or reckless driving.  In addition, without the benefit of a trusted Fairfax traffic attorney, demerits will be assigned to your driving record for a moving violation by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.  Even if you did not commit a moving violation, a conviction will be posted to your record.  Depending upon the seriousness of the charge, you could actually end up with a criminal record.

Seasoned Fairfax traffic defense lawyers understand all offenses, from those that are considered minor to the most serious – and how to defend them.  Without driving privileges, your life can be severely limited; driving is a privilege most people take for granted.  You do not realize how much you depend on the ability to drive wherever and whenever you like until your rights are taken away.

No matter how minor or major the offense you have been accused of committing, consult with a reputable Fairfax traffic lawyer immediately who can help determine the best path to take in your situation.  Driving is not only a privilege, but a necessity in most cases – don’t lose your privilege to drive.  Your attorney will work with you and do all possible to protect you from harsh penalties such as jail time and substantial fines.