Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers fast - we've compiled the most common questions to help you get the information you need without the wait.


How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Louisiana?

Louisiana updated its statute of limitations recently, giving most accident victims two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit (up from the old one-year rule). But timing is still tight. Evidence vanishes fast on highway accidents, oil rigs, and maritime vessels, so starting early matters a lot.

Will I work directly with an experienced attorney or get passed off to an assistant?

You get direct access to the actual attorney handling your case-not a case manager, intake clerk, or paralegal. Big TV law firms often hand off clients to junior staff members. We intentionally keep our practice focused so you get one-on-one communication and honest guidance every step of the way.

What should I do right after an offshore or vessel accident in the Gulf?

First, get medical attention immediately and report the injury to your captain or supervisor. Avoid signing any detailed statements or settlement releases from the company adjuster before talking to a lawyer who knows maritime law. Jones Act and maritime claims have unique requirements, and protecting your rights early makes a huge difference.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer in Lafayette?

Nothing upfront. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay us a penny unless we win or settle your case. We cover the upfront costs of gathering evidence, consulting medical experts, and building the case-so you can focus entirely on recovering.

How is a Jones Act maritime claim different from a regular workers' compensation claim?

Standard workers' comp pays basic benefits regardless of fault, but limits what you can recover. The Jones Act covers qualifying seamen and allows you to sue an employer for negligence, opening the door to damages like pain and suffering, full lost wages, and future loss of earning capacity.

What types of compensation can I recover after a serious vehicle crash?

Depending on the details of your crash, you can pursue compensation for emergency room bills, ongoing physical therapy, lost income, reduced future earnings, property damage, and physical pain. If the crash resulted in permanent disability or spinal cord injuries, long-term life care planning gets built into the claim too.

Can I bring a lawsuit if a defective medical device or pharmaceutical drug hurt me?

Yes, product liability and mass tort claims allow you to hold manufacturers accountable for unsafe medical products or drugs. These cases often involve complex technical and scientific evidence, so working with a firm experienced in mass tort litigation ensures your case gets handled properly.

What makes a maritime or oil rig injury case different from an auto accident claim?

Maritime and offshore laws-like the Jones Act, Maritime Law, and the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act-are federal regulations with completely different rules than state traffic laws. Plus, proving liability on a vessel or rig involves understanding complex maritime equipment, safety protocols, and multi-party contractor setups.

How do I know if I have a valid medical malpractice claim in Louisiana?

If a healthcare provider failed to meet the standard of care and directly caused you harm, you might have a case. Louisiana requires medical malpractice claims to go through a Medical Review Panel before filing in court. It's a distinct process-and having an experienced lawyer evaluate the records early helps determine if the claim meets legal standards.

What steps should I take if I suspect nursing home neglect or abuse?

Document everything you notice right away, including photos of injuries or unsafe conditions, written logs of incidents, and medical records. Report the concern to the facility management and the state regulatory agency. Then contact a attorney to review the situation and take legal steps to protect your loved one.