You know what really makes us angry ? When insurance companies take advantage of people who have suffered an injury or other calamity, are facing hard economic times ( that would be just about everybody ) , and the insurance representative knows you are desperate and will accept any compensation without at least checking with a lawyer about your rights. Recently, we had a situation where a client was offered $500 to settle his claim. He didn’t want to pay a lawyer but he decided to check with us anyway. After our consultation, we convinced him his case was worth substantially more than what he was offered. He followed our advice, retained us on a contingent fee ( that’s a % of the recovery, which is the way we charge for legal services ) and we went to work. The outcome ? He received a settlement of $75,000 ! It wasn’t a gift, it was fair and just payment. When our client left, we asked him whether he thought it was worth it. He smiled and said ” Absolutely ” !   Just remember….it doesn’t cost anything to ask about your rights at Schulman,  Zimmerman. It might just be one the best things you ever do.