Why do I need a lawyer who is knowledgeable in this area of the law?
Like other professionals, lawyers tend to specialize in particular areas of practice. Some focus on real estate closings; others handle injury cases only. Some never see the inside of a courtroom, while others take many cases to trial. Each area of the law has its own rules, procedures, and nuances, and by concentrating in a specific field, a lawyer doesn't just gain experience, but comes to understand, and exploit, the strategies and tactics that help them best serve their clients. In an aviation case, where both the emotions and stakes run high, it's important to work with a lawyer who has already mastered the field – not one who will be learning on your time, and at your expense. At Babbitt, Johnson, Osborne & Le Clainche, P.A., our lawyers have decades of experience handling catastrophic injury cases. We don't just know the law, but how to use it to best protect, and vindicate, our clients' rights – in each and every case we handle.
How will I go about paying for your time and expenses?
Most personal injury cases – including aviation accidents – are handled on a contingent fee agreement. This means that we receive a percentage of any recovery you receive as a result of the case, whether it be a verdict we win or a settlement we negotiate. It also means that if no recovery is achieved, you pay us nothing. Our expenses work the same way. Should you recover an award or settlement, our costs in developing the case are deducted from that. If you don't recover, you don't repay us. The risk is ours. We take it because of our confidence in our abilities – and your case.
Who is legally liable for damages in a general aviation accident?
While the owner and operator of the aircraft certainly may be liable for damages, other parties can be legally liable, as well, depending on the cause of the accident. Plaintiffs may be able to recover from manufacturers and maintenance companies, for example, in certain circumstances. In one recent case, a company that leased an aircraft to an inexperienced pilot was found to be liable for the accident that resulted. Working with an experienced aviation attorney is essential in identifying all possible claims and defendants.
How do I know if I have a case?
Aviation accident cases are complex and demanding, and only a lawyer who focuses in the area can make an accurate determination of whether you have a valid claim. Our lawyers have decades of experience litigating aviation suits, and, in a free consultation, can analyze your case, and its prospects.
