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Hi, Almost 2 years ago exactly I was involved in an incident at a local bar/restaurant. I was served yesterday by the sheriff. A woman who was also at the same bar claims that during the incident a bar stool fell on her foot causing an excess of $17,000 in medical bills and more in future bills. She is suing several people involved, including the bar itself. My question is that I have no idea where to start and don't have any money for an attorney, so what should I do? Are there any attorneys in my area that will represent on a contingency fee basis? I believe this is a very petty claim but do I have any grounds for counterclaim? Thanks so much and any information would be helpful!
2 ANSWERS
Personal Injury Attorney serving Marietta, GA
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Law Office of Ronald Arthur Lowry
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Assuming this case is in Georgia (but really just about every jurisdiction in the US) a formal written answer has to be filed with the court where the lawsuit is pending within a few days (the length of time varies from court to courtI don't want to tell you a certain day amount and be wrong if that court is different) and if you fail to file the written answer in time the case is then in "default." That means you are prohibited from contesting that you were at fault and caused the injury. If you have homeowner's insurance there is a liability insurance portion of that type policy which should provide you with insurance coverage and a lawyer at the insurance company's expense. If you have such a policy (even a renter's policy) contact the insurer immediately to make sure there is such liability coverage and to report the claim. Then deliver the suit papers to the insurer making sure to document the delivery. If you have no such insurance, contact a local attorney immediately. If you do not know whom to contact call me and I will refer you to such an attorney in your area. I will not charge you anything to do that. Do not wait. Every minute is important as the lawyer (whether your private attorney or an insurance company hired attorney) will need time to investigate, prepare the written answer and file it with the court. Good Luck!
Answered on Apr 26th, 2012 at 9:01 PM
Slander and Defamation Attorney serving Tucker, GA
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Law Offices of David W. Hibbert
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The incident at the bar apparently resulted in injury to the woman. She was required to make her claim within the 2 year statute of limitations. Likely her attorneys have tried to resolve the matter with the bar owners and has failed to reach settlement of the issues. You should check with local attorneys and your county bar association on who might be in a position to assist you in filing a proper response to the complaint. "Pro se" is the term for representing one's self in a legal proceeding. Failure to file a response to a lawsuit served upon you within the appropriate time limit can result in a loss by default and a judgement against you for the damages claimed. Generally, each allegation of the complaint filed against you needs to be admitted, denied or otherwise addressed in your response.
Answered on Apr 26th, 2012 at 3:50 PM