Clients will sometimes tell me they want justice. I tell them that I can’t always get them justice, but I can get them money.
Here is why.
There are 2 different forms of legal action. These are criminal and civil. Criminal can get you justice and put someone in jail. Civil can only get you money. If you remember the two trials of O.J. Simpson, you have an idea about the two different actions. O.J. was found innocent in the criminal trial and did not go to prison. He was found liable in the civil action and ordered to pay money.
Take this example: someone approaches you on the public street and hits you in the face. There is a law in Alabama that says that is unlawful. The puncher is arrested, convicted and sent to jail. You get justice and no money. Now for the civil side, you sue him, he is found guilty and the court orders him to pay your medical bills, lost wages, etc. But remember, he is locked up; so, where is he getting the money?
This is why there is so much talk about insurance. It is where the most and easiest pile of money is located. Yes, you can possibly collect the bad guy’s car or other personal items — but what would you do with them? It is a lot of trouble to sell those things.
One last money item; it generally costs you nothing to talk with a personal injury attorney. I highly recommend you find out your rights.
If you suffer an injury, such as a traffic accident, slip and fall or injury from a faulty product, you can talk to us at the Law Firm of Eiland and Ritchie for free. We want to help you get back on your feet.
Also join us on NBC 15 LawCall here in Mobile every Sunday night at 10:30 right after the news. We do a short show on tape during the football season but will take your calls live again after the first of the year.
Alabama personal injury lawyer