Why You Need a Lawyer that Sues Insurance Companies

When you’re facing a dispute with a company or an insurance provider, it’s tempting to consider taking matters into your own hands. The idea of saving money on legal fees and personally standing up for your rights can be appealing. However, representing yourself in a lawsuit against a corporate entity is rarely a wise decision.

Here are several reasons why you need a lawyer that sues insurance companies on your side:

• Legal expertise: Insurance companies have teams of experienced lawyers. You need someone equally knowledgeable to level the playing field.
• Procedural complexities: Lawsuits involve intricate legal procedures and deadlines. A single misstep could derail your case.
• Resource advantage: Corporations have vast resources at their disposal. A lawyer can help you navigate this imbalance.
• Negotiation skills: Experienced attorneys know how to negotiate effectively, often securing better settlements.
• Objective perspective: Emotions can cloud judgment. A lawyer provides an impartial view of your case’s strengths and weaknesses.

While the prospect of legal fees might seem daunting, the potential costs of representing yourself could be far greater. Hiring a skilled lawyer doesn’t just give you a fighting chance: it significantly increases your chances of getting what you deserve.

Don’t risk your case by going it alone — invest in professional legal representation to protect your rights and interests. Call Grimes & Fertitta today at 713-224-7644 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Can you sue an insurance company in Texas?

Before pursuing legal action against a company in Texas, you’ll want to confirm whether you have a valid case. Even when you feel you’ve been wronged, the situation may not always constitute a legally actionable offense. The law has specific criteria for what qualifies as a legitimate reason to sue.

Here are some common reasons and examples of when you might have grounds to sue a company in Texas:

• Breach of contract: If a company fails to fulfill its contractual obligations to you
• Fraud or misrepresentation: If a company deceives you, leading to financial loss
• Insurance bad faith: When an insurance company unreasonably denies a valid claim, delays payment, or fails to properly investigate a claim
• Unfair claim settlement practices: If an insurance company engages in deceptive practices during the claims process, such as misrepresenting policy provisions
• Wrongful denial of coverage: When an insurer denies coverage for a loss that should be covered under your policy
• Failure to defend: If your insurance company refuses to provide legal defense in a liability case as required by your policy

While these are common grounds for lawsuits, each case is unique and requires careful evaluation from an experienced personal injury lawyer, business dispute lawyer, or insurance claims lawyer. Don’t assume you don’t have a case — or that you do — without seeking legal counsel. A consultation can save you time, money, and stress by helping you understand your options and the potential outcomes of pursuing legal action.

Learn more: Can you sue an insurance company for taking too long? And can I sue my insurance company for emotional distress?

Do you need a lawyer to sue someone in Texas?

In Texas, you have the legal right to represent yourself in court, a practice known as “pro se” representation. However, while this option exists, it’s generally not advisable, especially when dealing with complex legal matters or facing opponents with legal representation.

Hiring a qualified lawyer significantly increases your chances of a favorable outcome and helps navigate the intricacies of the legal system. If your case falls under any of the below categories, you should hire an attorney to sue the company:

• Complex legal issues (cases that revolve around complicated legal concepts or require extensive legal research)
• High-stakes cases
• Cases against large companies
• Personal injury claims
• Employment disputes
• Contract disputes
• Intellectual property cases
• Medical malpractice suits
• Class action lawsuits
• Appeals

Remember, even if your case seems straightforward, having a lawyer can make a significant difference. They can help you avoid critical mistakes, meet all necessary deadlines, and present your case in the most compelling way possible.

How to file a lawsuit against an insurance company

Filing a lawsuit against a company can be overwhelming, especially when you’re up against a corporate team of lawyers aiming to avoid compensating you fairly. However, understanding the steps involved can help prepare you for what lies ahead.

Here are the steps for how to sue a company in Texas:

1. Consult with a lawyer

Before taking any legal action, consult with an experienced lawyer who specializes in your case type. They can assess the strength of your case, advise you on potential outcomes, and help you determine the best course of action. This initial consultation is essential for assessing your legal position and identifying any potential complexities in your case.

2. Determine the appropriate court

Depending on the nature of your claim and the amount of money involved, your lawsuit will need to be filed in a specific court. For example, smaller claims might be handled in a local small claims court, while larger, more complex cases will be filed in district court. Your lawyer will help you choose the right venue to ensure your case is heard in the proper jurisdiction.

3. Draft and file the complaint

The complaint is the formal document that outlines your allegations against the company, including the facts of the case, the legal basis for your claims, and the damages you seek. Your lawyer will draft this document so that it meets all legal requirements and accurately represents your case. Once the complaint is finalized, it will be filed with the appropriate court.

4. Serve the complaint

After filing, the complaint must be formally served to the defendant company. This legal process, known as service of process, makes sure that the company is notified of the lawsuit and has the opportunity to respond. Proper service is critical, as failure to serve the complaint correctly can result in delays or even dismissal of your case.

5. Wait for the company’s response

Once the company is served, they have a specific amount of time to respond, typically 20-30 days. The company may choose to file an answer, which addresses your claims point by point, or they may file a motion to dismiss, challenging the legal basis of your lawsuit. Your lawyer will prepare you for these possibilities and will respond accordingly.

6. Engage in discovery

Discovery is the phase where both parties exchange information and gather evidence to build their cases. This can involve depositions, requests for documents, and interrogatories (written questions that require answers under oath). Discovery is a critical part of the lawsuit, as it allows your lawyer to uncover evidence that supports your claims and prepare for trial.

7. Attempt settlement

Many lawsuits are resolved before they ever reach trial through settlement negotiations. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement that compensates you for your damages. Settling can save both time and money, but your lawyer will advise you on whether the settlement offer is in your best interest or if you should proceed to trial.

8. Prepare for trial

If a settlement cannot be reached, your case will go to trial. This is where your lawyer’s expertise becomes invaluable. They will present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf in court. The trial process can be lengthy and complex, but with a skilled lawyer by your side, you’ll be well-prepared to present your case effectively.

9. Collect the judgment

If you win your case, the court will issue a judgment in your favor. Collecting the judgment may involve additional legal steps, especially if the company is unwilling to pay. Your lawyer can assist with enforcing the judgment, whether through garnishing wages, placing liens on property, or other legal means.

Call the lawyers who sue insurance companies at Grimes & Fertitta for battle-tested representation

Now that you understand the importance of hiring a lawyer that sues companies, it’s time to take action. Choosing the right lawyer for your case is a crucial decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you want to avoid the hassle of extensive research and consultations, we can make it easier for you: call Grimes & Fertitta.

Our attorneys at Grimes & Fertitta have unique insights from having worked for corporations and insurance companies. We know their tactics inside and out, and we’re committed to using that knowledge to stand up for individuals like you.

Undecided? Learn more about our firm, see what our clients have to say about us in our Google Reviews, and read a few of our Notable Victories.

Contact Grimes & Fertitta today at 713-224-7644 or contact us online for a free consultation with Houston’s top litigation attorneys.

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