Houston, TX Premises Liability Lawyer

If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property in Houston, Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries under premises liability law. Navigating the legal system and dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task, which is why hiring a Houston premises liability lawyer is crucial to getting the compensation you deserve.

The skilled personal injury lawyers at AMG Law PLLC are well versed in premises liability law and are ready to fiercely advocate for your rights. Our specialized knowledge, investigative skills, and ability to navigate complex legal proceedings are vital to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.

Speak with one of our experienced Houston premises liability lawyers by calling (202) 680-8666.

Understanding Premises Liability Law in Texas

Premises liability law concerns an owner’s duty to keep their property safe for visitors. When a property owner fails to maintain a safe environment and an injury occurs, the injured party may be able to file a premises liability claim. In Houston, Texas, the property owner’s legal responsibility depends on the visitor’s status: invitee, licensee, or trespasser.

Invitees are individuals who are invited onto the property for the benefit of the owner, such as customers at a retail store. Licensees are individuals who are on the property for their own benefit, such as social guests. Trespassers are individuals who enter the property without permission.

It’s important to note that property owners have a lower duty of care to trespassers than they do to invitees and licensees. However, property owners cannot intentionally harm trespassers or set traps for them.

Key Elements of a Premises Liability Claim

To have a successful premises liability claim, you must prove the following key elements:

• The defendant owned, occupied, or controlled the property.
• The defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care.
• The defendant breached that duty of care.
• The breach of duty caused the plaintiff’s injuries.

If you can prove the key elements of a premises liability claim, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Common Types of Premises Liability Cases

Some of the most common types of premises liability cases include slip and falls, dog bites, swimming pool accidents, and inadequate security leading to assault or burglary.

Slip and falls are the most prevalent type of premises liability case and can be caused by uneven surfaces, wet floors, or loose floorboards. Dog bites can be severe and lead to disfiguring injuries. Swimming pool accidents can result in brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and drownings. Finally, inadequate security can lead to serious injuries or death if a person is attacked or burglarized in an area with no security presence.

If you have been injured in any of these types of accidents, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately and document your injuries. Take photos of the accident scene and gather contact information from any witnesses. This information can be crucial to building a strong premises liability case.

Texas Premises Liability Statute of Limitations

It’s important to keep in mind that the statute of limitations in Texas for premises liability cases is two years. That means you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. If you miss that deadline, you may lose your right to compensation. It is crucial to contact a Houston premises liability lawyer as soon as possible after your injury to ensure you meet the deadline and have the strongest case possible.

The Role of a Houston Premises Liability Lawyer

When you suffer an injury on someone else’s property, you may be able to recover damages through a premises liability claim. A Houston premises liability lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Some of the ways a premises liability lawyer can assist you include:

Evaluating Your Case

After you’ve been injured, it can be difficult to know where to turn. A premises liability lawyer can evaluate the strength of your case by examining the circumstances of your injury, determining liability, and estimating the amount of damages you may be entitled to. They can help you understand your legal options and make an informed decision about how to proceed.

Gathering Evidence and Building a Strong Case

To succeed in a premises liability claim, you need strong evidence to support your case. Your lawyer will gather and preserve evidence to support your claim, which may include eyewitness testimony, photographs, or video of the accident scene, medical records, and expert opinions. They will work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are often more concerned with their bottom line than with fairly compensating injured parties. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement on your behalf. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can file your case in court and represent you at trial.

Representing You in Court

If your case goes to trial, your premises liability lawyer will represent you in court, arguing your case and presenting evidence to the judge or jury. They will use their legal expertise to fight for your rights and maximize your chances of success. Your lawyer will also handle any post-trial motions that may arise and appeal if necessary.

How to Choose the Right Premises Liability Lawyer

When you or a loved one has been injured on someone else’s property, it’s important to choose the right premises liability lawyer to represent you. This can be a daunting task, but with a little research and careful consideration, you can find the right lawyer for your case.

Experience and Expertise in Premises Liability Cases

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a premises liability lawyer is their experience and expertise in handling these types of cases. Look for a lawyer who has specific experience in premises liability cases and has a track record of success in obtaining favorable outcomes for their clients.

It’s also important to consider the lawyer’s expertise in the particular type of premises liability case you are dealing with. For example, if you were injured in a slip and fall accident, you want a lawyer who has experience handling slip and fall cases and understands the specific laws and regulations that apply to these types of cases.

Reputation and Client Testimonials

Another important factor to consider when choosing a premises liability lawyer is their reputation in the legal community and among their clients. Look for a lawyer who has a good reputation for being honest, ethical, and professional.

Research the lawyer’s reputation online and read client testimonials to get a sense of their track record and how they treat their clients. You can also ask for references from the lawyer and contact those clients to get a firsthand account of their experience working with the lawyer.

Communication and Availability

Communication is crucial when working with a lawyer, especially in a premises liability case where there may be ongoing medical treatment and other issues to address. Look for a lawyer who communicates clearly and often and is available to answer your questions and address your concerns.

During your initial consultation with the lawyer, pay attention to how they communicate with you and whether they take the time to listen to your concerns and explain the legal process to you. This will give you a good sense of what it will be like to work with the lawyer throughout your case.

Fee Structure and Costs

Finally, consider the fee structure and costs associated with hiring a premises liability lawyer. Most lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. However, be sure to review the fee agreement carefully and understand any additional costs, such as court fees or expert witness fees.

It’s also important to consider whether the lawyer offers a free initial consultation and whether they will work with you to develop a payment plan if necessary. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the lawyer’s fees and costs upfront so that you can make an informed decision about whether to hire them.

By considering these factors when choosing a premises liability lawyer, you can find the right legal representation to help you navigate the complex legal process and obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

What to Expect in a Premises Liability Lawsuit

Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility that property owners have to maintain a safe environment for those who visit or occupy their property. If you have been injured on someone else’s property due to their negligence, you may have a premises liability case. Here is what you can expect during a premises liability lawsuit:

The Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation with a Houston premises liability lawyer, they will listen to the facts of your case and assess its merits. They may ask you a series of questions to get a better understanding of the situation and determine if you have a case. It is important to be honest and thorough when discussing the details of your case with your lawyer, as this will help them build a strong case on your behalf.

Your lawyer may also explain the legal process to you, including the potential outcomes of your case and the timeline for resolution. They may also discuss their fees and how they will be paid, which is typically a percentage of any settlement or verdict you receive.

Filing the Lawsuit

If your lawyer determines you have a case, they will file a lawsuit on your behalf. This involves drafting and filing legal documents with the court and serving notice on the defendant. The defendant will then have a certain amount of time to respond to the lawsuit, either by admitting fault or denying liability.

At this point, your lawyer will begin gathering evidence to support your case. This may include witness statements, photographs of the scene, and medical records documenting your injuries. They may also consult with experts, such as engineers or accident reconstruction specialists, to help prove your case.

Discovery and Depositions

During the discovery phase, both parties have the opportunity to exchange information and interview witnesses through depositions. Your lawyer will use these depositions to build a strong case for you. They may also file motions with the court to request additional evidence or to exclude certain evidence from being presented at trial.

Discovery can be a lengthy process, and it may take several months or even years to gather all of the necessary evidence. However, it is an important part of the legal process, as it allows both sides to fully understand the strengths and weaknesses of their case.

Settlement Negotiations

If the defendant is willing to settle, your lawyer will negotiate a settlement amount on your behalf. This may involve several rounds of negotiations, as both sides try to reach a mutually agreeable amount. Your lawyer will keep you informed throughout the negotiation process and will advise you on whether to accept or reject any settlement offers.

If the defendant is not willing to settle, your lawyer will prepare for trial. This may involve hiring additional experts or conducting further research to strengthen your case.

Trial and Verdict

If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will represent you in court, arguing your case and presenting evidence to the judge or jury. The judge or jury will render a verdict, either in favor of you or the defendant. If you win, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

It is important to note that not all premises liability cases go to trial. Many cases are settled out of court, either through negotiation or through alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration.

If you have been injured on someone else’s property, it is important to consult with a Houston premises liability lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you understand your legal options and can work to get you the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a Consultation with a Houston Premises Liability Lawyer Today!

If you’re dealing with a premises liability case in Houston, hiring an experienced lawyer is crucial to getting the compensation you deserve. At AMG Law PLLC, our Houston premises liability lawyers will guide you through the process, building a strong case on your behalf and representing you in court. With the right lawyer by your side, you can get the compensation you need to help you recover from your injuries.

Call (202) 680-8666 to schedule a free consultation with an AMG Law PLLC Houston premises liability lawyer.