Bill- I think you being a former practicing attorney has skewed your view. While I do believe in some situations an attorney is absolutely necessary, I also believe in trying to negotiate in good faith at first WITHOUT one. Just because an insurance company or your former employer WANTS you to sign fast, doesn’t mean you MUST do it. Take…
Bill- I think you being a former practicing attorney has skewed your view. While I do believe in some situations an attorney is absolutely necessary, I also believe in trying to negotiate in good faith at first WITHOUT one. Just because an insurance company or your former employer WANTS you to sign fast, doesn’t mean you MUST do it. Take your time, review, and if they persist on forcing your hand, simply tell them “I’d like to make sure I’m making the best decision for me. Would you prefer I get an attorney involved?” Sometimes just the threat of one and showing you have a spine is all you need, and bonus, you save the 33% attorneys fees. Attorneys might get you a higher settlement, but it rarely covers the percentage they take. I sold insurance for 20 years, I’ve seen plenty.
Bill- I think you being a former practicing attorney has skewed your view. While I do believe in some situations an attorney is absolutely necessary, I also believe in trying to negotiate in good faith at first WITHOUT one. Just because an insurance company or your former employer WANTS you to sign fast, doesn’t mean you MUST do it. Take your time, review, and if they persist on forcing your hand, simply tell them “I’d like to make sure I’m making the best decision for me. Would you prefer I get an attorney involved?” Sometimes just the threat of one and showing you have a spine is all you need, and bonus, you save the 33% attorneys fees. Attorneys might get you a higher settlement, but it rarely covers the percentage they take. I sold insurance for 20 years, I’ve seen plenty.
Oh, I agree it has skewed my view. Like most things I write I don't think I'll really convince anyone!
I used to be an IRS Collection Employee. I have a skewed view of EVERYTHING and EVERYBODY!
You can hire lawyers to review contracts and offers on a hourly basis and not on a % contingent fee basis.