Category: Blog

At McCutcheon & Hamner, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. Our fee is set at 33%, and unlike many firms, it doesn’t increase if your case goes to trial. We thrive in the courtroom and have a strong track record, which is something the insurance companies are well aware of. That gives you a significant advantage, as working with us often results in much higher compensation than you’d see with other firms.

In Alabama, individuals may pursue legal claims for emotional distress, but such claims are subject to strict guidelines and requirements. Emotional distress, whether intentional or negligent, can be grounds for a lawsuit if the claimant can prove that the distress was severe and directly caused by the defendant’s actions. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED) claims involve conduct that is deemed extreme or outrageous, beyond the bounds of decency, and intentionally aimed to cause emotional harm. Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress (NIED) claims, however, require that the emotional harm resulted from negligence, but Alabama law typically demands that such harm be tied to a physical injury or an observable physical manifestation of distress.

Civil court cases and criminal court cases differ fundamentally in their purpose, procedures, and potential outcomes. Civil cases typically involve disputes between individuals, organizations, or entities over legal duties and responsibilities. These cases are usually initiated by a private party (the plaintiff) seeking compensation or another form of legal remedy from the defendant. The burden of proof in civil cases is generally lower, with decisions being based on the “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning the plaintiff’s case must be more likely true than not. Outcomes in civil court often result in monetary damages, injunctions, or specific performance orders, but not in imprisonment.

Slip and fall accidents are among the most common types of personal injury cases. These incidents can happen anywhere, from grocery stores and office buildings to parking lots and private residences. When you experience a slip and fall, the injuries can be severe, leading to significant medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term pain and suffering. This is why it’s crucial to understand your rights and how a personal injury attorney can assist you in navigating the complexities of a slip and fall claim.