What Should I Do If I’m Being Sued?
After receiving a demand letter or being served with a civil lawsuit, you may be feeling anxious, confused, or fearful about the future and how to proceed. First, know that you are not alone. Second, know that there are knowledgeable professionals who can guide you through the process and point you to valuable resources. Simple preparation can help you determine how best to proceed after the initial shock.
Read the Letter or Lawsuit Carefully
Whether the document you’ve been given is threatening a lawsuit or is formally announcing one, your first step should be to read the document carefully, with a pen in hand. As you read, write down any comments you may have in the margins. Additionally, write down or highlight any questions you have about the document or language. You should research those questions or bring them to an attorney who is experienced in civil litigation. Be sure to highlight any stated deadlines. Lastly, ask yourself: what does the other side really want from me?
Gather Related Documents
After reading the letter or lawsuit, gather any documentation related to the dispute. These documents come in many forms and may include mail, emails, or text messages you’ve received as well as social media posts and photographs. Text messages should be transferred from your phone into a format that is easily sent to an attorney or insurance company if the need arises. Gather any documentation or evidence that you think might be related to your dispute. It is always better to have gathered too much information than not enough.
Call Your Insurance Representative
Most people only think of calling their insurance agency in the event of a car accident or bodily injury, but your insurance agent has probably sold you insurance coverage for more than those kinds of incidents. It is never a bad idea to call your insurance agent or your insurance company’s claims department to check your coverage. If you are covered, the insurance company may defend you in your dispute or cover your legal fees.
Contact an Experienced Civil Litigation Attorney at Baum Smith
To your initial consultation, bring the demand letter or lawsuit you received, your questions, and all the documentation you’ve gathered. Though every case is unique, an experienced attorney can give you an idea about how your case may play out in court. They may also guide you through the process of settling or defending your case.
It is important to act quickly. Do not wait for an approaching deadline to consult an attorney. For more information, please call our office at (541) 963-3104 or contact us online at baumsmith.com.
The content of this blog is intended to be general and informational in nature. It is advertising material and is not intended to be legal advice to or for any particular person, case, or circumstance. Every matter is different, and you should consult an attorney if you have any questions about your situation.