Do's & Don'ts
Below is some basic information to be aware of should you find yourself in one of the situations described below, where you may need to hire an attorney. It is not intended in any way to be legal advice, simply some general information to know so that you don't lose or impact your rights before you contact an attorney. Legal advice can only come from talking to a licensed attorney who is familiar with the facts and circumstances of a particular case and the relevant law.

• Do get names, addresses, license plate and phone numbers of the involved drivers and any witnesses
• Do take photographs of scene and injuries
• Do notify defendent and authorities immediately after occurrence
• Do take care of your injuries-concentrate on getting better
• Do keep records of your medical treatment and time missed from work
  
  
• Don't talk or give statement to defendant's insurance company
• Don't attempt to negotiate with defendant insurance company before your medical treatment is completed
• Don't wait months from the date of injury before hiring an attorney, as your right to file claim or lawsuit may be barred
• Don't wait days or weeks from the time you are injured to seek medical attention

• Do report the incident to your employer immediately , preferably in writing
• Do seek medical attention immediately, if your injuries so require
• Do have your doctor put any work restrictions in writing and send it to your employer
• Do inform the hospital or doctor that you were injured at work
  
  
• Don't forget to inform your attorney when you are released by your doctor to return to work
• Don't disobey your doctor's orders concerning treatment, restrictions or return to work
• Don't miss any doctor's or therapist appointments unnecessarily

• Do keep track of the names of all nurses and physicians whom you speak with about your or your loved one's medical treatment
• Do make sure a competent family member has power of attorney for a sick or elderly family member, if necessary
• Do get a complete set of your or your loved one's medical records
  
  
• Don't wait too long to seek counsel about a potential claim as your claim could be barred
• Don't sign any release or waiver agreements after receiving the medical treatment at issue
• Don't feel you have to continue treatment with the medical provider who committed the alleged malpractice

• Do contact an attorney before signing any lease, memorandum, contract, or other agreement to buy or lease
• Do hire an inspector(s) to ensure the property is in suitable structural, mechanical and environmental condition.
• Do get insurance: casualty, title and perhaps liability
• Do your homework-check out finance companies and comparable property prices/rental rates
  
  
• Don't sign a contract or lease without reading it or having an attorney review it
• Don't rely on any oral statement or promises with regard to most real estate transactions
• Don't pay earnest money, security deposit or down payment directly to a seller/landlord without having a contract or lease.