Attorneys

What to look for when selecting an ethical Insurance Claims  Attorney:

Remember, when you hire an attorney you are paying for a service and you should be satisfied with the quality of that service. They should return your phone calls promptly, communicate with you personally and keep you updated on the status of your case. The attorney should also discuss the terms of your contract, including fees, up front. If you believe your attorney's performance is less than stellar, realize that you can replace them at your own discretion.

Interview them to decide which attorney you would like to handle your case. This interview takes place at an initial consultation. Don't expect your case to be solved during this visit. Consultations usually last 30 minutes so be prepared. Here are a few tips to get you ready.

• Write down your story, in your own words before your meeting to organize all of your thoughts;

• Make sure to bring copies of any documents that may affect your case;

• Give your attorney any names or dates that affect your case so the attorney has an idea of who is involved;

• Be prepared to answer all the attorney's questions; the attorney knows which questions to ask to help you;

• Always tell the truth even if you think some details may hurt your case.

• Don't lie or exaggerate the facts;

• Avoid becoming too emotional;

• Make sure you feel comfortable before leaving the attorney office. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Questions to ask an attorney:

1. How long have you been in business?

2. Do I need legal representation for my problem?

3. Have you handled cases like mine in the past?

4. What have results been on my type of case?

5. Will you be handling my case personally? If not, what kind of work will you be doing and who will be doing the rest of the work?

6. How available are you for meetings and phone calls?

7. How do you handle fees? Get a written retainer including:

   • Charges: Do you charge by the hour, a flat rate or contingency?

   • Services that are included

   • Extra fees that will be assessed

   • How you will be billed

8. What are the possible outcomes in cases such as this?

9. How long do you expect this matter to take?

10. What are my alternatives?

11. Do you recommend arbitration or mediation?

Insurance Claims Tips: 

• Make sure you record and safely store, a tape depicting all/most of your insured property

• Keep policies in safe, but readily accessible location.

• Report losses to agent/insurance company as soon as possible and definitely within the time frame set forth in the policy.

• Document all phone calls/conversations with the insurance agency/company.

• Maintain all property involved as well as possible for reasonable inspection by the insurance company.

• DO NOT cash any drafts/checks sent by the insurance company until you know whether that check extinguishes all claims you may have.

Timothy E. DePalma, P.A.

Mr. DePalma has practiced civil trial law in Central Florida since 1986.  He has tried dozens of jury trials in courts throughout Florida.  He presently focuses on insurance litigation of all types, both plaintiff and defense, including personal injury, wrongful death, property damage, coverage disputes, and construction and contractor litigation.

In addition, Mr. DePalma handles commercial litigation, probate administration and probate litigation, incapacity and guardianship matters, and simple estate planning, corporate, and limited liability company concerns.

Mr. DePalma takes pride in personally handling each of his cases from start to finish with great attention to detail.  He believes careful preparation is the key to success in the courtroom.

Mr. DePalma was raised in Ormond Beach, Florida.  He received his undergraduate degree from Stetson University in DeLand, Florida, and a Master of Science from Georgia State University in Atlanta.  Mr. DePalma received his law degree from Washington University where he was on the law review staff of the Urban Law Annual. 

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement.  Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. This web site is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.

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