FAQ

General FAQ

• Do I need a lawyer?

  If you are asking this question, you likely would benefit from speaking to an experienced attorney. If you have been injured in an accident, on the job, on someone’s property or because of a defective product, it is best to obtain counsel and have the attorney guide you through the process whether it be a claims process with an insurance company or through litigation if necessary. An experienced attorney will make sure you will receive everything you are entitled to under the law.
• My case is challenging. Other law firms are reluctant to take it. Do you take on cases like this?

  Yes, if the damages are serious and we can envision a path to success. Our caseload routinely includes unique personal injury matters, including difficult, expensive, and complicated cases.

• What if the settlement isn’t enough? How will I live?

  Throughout a case, we identify and explain issues that could affect the outcome and the potential amount of recovery. In addition to advocating on your behalf, we make sure that you are fully informed and advised, enabling you to make a decision that best takes care of yourself and your family.

• Does your firm promote going to trial in every case? Or do you also use mediation as a means to settle a case?

  We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, although most cases are settled through negotiation or mediation. However, as trial attorneys, we are ready to go to court, which maximizes the likelihood of a fair settlement.
• How do you bill for your legal services?

  It costs nothing to set up a consultation with an attorney at Kenney & Conley. If you retain our office to represent you in connection with a claim for personal injury, we will work on a contingent fee basis which means we get paid only if we recover damages for you.
• Is your firm active in the legal community?

  Indeed. Our firm is known for shaping Massachusetts law in this practice area. Examples include securing the ability of police and firefighters to sue negligent third parties by defeating the so-called Firefighter’s Rule, securing the Rescue Doctrine so that rescuers can bring claims against those who negligently create danger, and helping eliminate the Natural Accumulation Rule, which had limited property owners’ responsibility to protect visitors from snow and ice-related injuries.
• What should I bring to a consultation?

  This can vary depending on the nature of your case. However, it is always important to bring your identification, insurance information, police or incident reports if applicable, photographs, and any communications received from insurance companies and/or defendants. We can advise you more specifically about relevant documentation to bring when you call our office.
• How does your firm ensure that my case won’t be shuffled between multiple attorneys who may not understand my concerns?

  Our first priority is to listen to our clients describe what happened in their own words. Throughout the case, we prioritize direct communication with our clients. Typically, a case is staffed by two lawyers and a dedicated legal assistant. Doing so allows us to provide consistent care for our clients.

• How much experience do you have?

  Our office has successfully handled personal injury cases since 1985. We have over 100 years of combined experience in personal injury cases and will work tirelessly on your behalf to recover what you rightfully deserve.
• Will your attorneys keep me informed and consider my wishes when deciding how to proceed with my case?

  Yes. Because of the complex nature of most of the cases we handle, we believe that it is important to provide transparency and advise on the risks and potential outcomes of a trial. The ultimate decision whether to settle a case belongs to our client.

• How much is my claim worth?

  This is a very common question that is nearly impossible to answer without conducting a complete evaluation of your case. The value of a claim is complex and is based on the specific circumstances of your case including the liability, causation and damages claimed. We have the experience to evaluate your case and determine how best to proceed to maximize your recovery.
• Will I have to go to court?

  It will depend. Several factors including the nature of your case, the circumstances of your injury and extent of your damages will often dictate how your case is handled. Some cases will resolve in the claims phase, while others will need to have their cases filed in court. However, even if your case is filed in court, it does not mean you will have to go to trial. A vast majority of cases reach a resolution without ever requiring the parties to appear in court.