Frequently Asked Questions
A: If you think you have a legal claim, your first step is finding a lawyer to represent you. You can contact Thomas & Wan to discuss your claim by filling this form or by calling us at 713.529.1177. A lawyer will evaluate your case.
A: When you’re filing a lawsuit, you want to use an attorney who has experience dealing with your type of claim and a proven track record of success. Ask your attorney what kind of experience they have, how long they have been practicing, how much time they spend on cases like yours, and any other questions you may have. Most importantly, ask your attorney whether he or she will be handling the case or will be referring it to another firm. It is important that you are comfortable with and confident about your attorney, and you should never be afraid to ask questions.
A: Linda Laurent Thomas and Michelle Wan have over 45 years of combined experience in handling personal injury cases across the nation. They are routinely asked to handle legal issues and difficult cases by other law firms. Ms. Thomas and Ms. Wan approach practicing law as a profession, not a factory where a client’s case is “flipped” or referred to another law firm. They handle your case with personal service and will be happy to discuss your case with you. Most importantly, Thomas & Wan gets results. Although there is no guarantee of success in any case, Thomas & Wan will fight for your rights and keep you informed of your options.
A: Most personal injury firms, including Thomas & Wan, work on a contingency basis. This means that you only pay for our services if we win a verdict or settlement for you. If no recovery is made, you pay nothing.
A: The first part of the lawsuit process is called ‘discovery.’ In this phase, the lawyers for the plaintiff (you) and the defendant (the person or company you are suing) try to discover what evidence exists and how this evidence proves or disproves your claim.
A: As your lawyers, we have to get as much information from you as possible to prove your case. The lawyers for each side will supply each other with written questions regarding your personal information, the names and addresses of witness, your injuries and medical treatment, and the experts each side intends to call to present their case. These questions are called interrogatories. During this time, you may be contacted by your lawyer or paralegal who will ask you for more information about your accident, your injuries, and what kind of medical treatment you received. We will use your answers to strengthen your case.
A: A deposition is testimony given under oath that is recorded for use in court at a later date. During your deposition, Thomas & Wan will ask the defendant questions, and the defendant’s lawyer will ask you questions. A court reporter will be there to record everyone’s testimony. We will prepare you for your deposition so you will be familiar with the process and know what to expect, and your attorney will be by your side the whole time to make sure the deposition is fair and proper.
A: Mediation is a meeting with all of the parties in the case. The goal of mediation is to settle your lawsuit. A mediator, generally a retired judge or lawyer who is a neutral person, acts as a communicator between the parties. A mediation takes about a day. You are required to be present to decide whether you want to settle your case or go to trial. Courts often require parties to attend a mediation before going to trial. A mediation usually occurs a month or two before your trial date.
A: If your case goes to trial, a judge or jury will determine whether the defendant is responsible for financially compensating you for your injuries or not and what amount the defendant is responsible for. If Thomas & Wan wins a settlement or verdict for you, we will take our fee from there.