Strengthening Case Investigations and Client Credibility

• Effective case investigations involve verifying client credibility, gathering independent evidence, and assessing liability risks.
• The training refines investigative techniques to ensure only strong cases are pursued to maximize potential settlements.
• Cases presented unique challenges and key lessons regarding liability, medical documentation, and case strategy.

Shooting Incident at an Apartment Complex

• A shooting incident at an apartment complex involved a client who reportedly fired a weapon before being shot.
• Due to liability concerns, the case was immediately referred out, with instructions to drop it if no firm accepted it.
• Carefully evaluate cases with heavily contested liability or unfavorable facts before investing resources.
• A strong case requires clear liability, solid evidence, and a viable path to recovery.

Slip and Fall – Government Claim

• A slip-and-fall claim was made against a government entity.
• The plaintiff claimed to have fallen into a hole on city property.
• Medical records indicated the fall occurred at home, contradicting her claim.
• The city had repaired the hole, eliminating critical evidence.
• There were no witnesses, 911 calls, or receipts to confirm her presence at the accident site
• The client said they took an Uber to the hospital, but no receipt was available.
• Obtaining the Uber receipt is a key piece of verification because if it confirmed travel from the accident site to the hospital, the case could move forward.
• Securing tangible evidence to support a client's version of events and ensuring that medical records align with injury claims is important.
• Analyze and explain inconsistencies carefully, before dismissing a case.

Left-Turn Auto Accident – Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Case

• A left-turn auto accident occurred where liability was not disputed.
• The focus was on proving the extent of the injuries, particularly a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
• Proper documentation of TBIs is essential for maximizing case value.
• In cases involving lateral impact, consider additional evaluations for pituitary gland dysfunction.
• Despite strong liability, delays in medical treatment due to scheduling errors became an issue, frustrating the client.
• Proactive case management includes informing clients of delays caused by third parties to ensure they do not blame the firm.
• Timely and complete medical documentation maximizes case value, and any delays in treatment should be addressed promptly.

Key Takeaways

• To verify Statements, obtain independent proof (Uber receipts, photos, witness statements) if a client's statement contradicts records.
• Avoid cases where clients appear dishonest.
• Gather evidence early: accident scene photos, medical records, and police reports
• Medical reports must align with injury claims or provide explanations for inconsistencies.
• Refer or drop cases with low chances of success, and avoid wasting resources on cases with credibility or liability issues.
• TBIs and severe injuries justify high settlements with specialized treatment.
• Delays in treatment impact case value and client experience.
• Investigations should be efficient, focusing on critical evidence.
• Trainings should address key investigation gaps to improve future case handling.