What does it mean that Mr. Dippel is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization?
The Texas Board of Legal Specialization Website explains why Board Certifiation is important:
“Board Certification is a mark of excellence and a distinguished accomplishment within the Texas legal community. Consumers and organizations get the highest quality of legal services when working with Board Certified lawyers — having substantial experience, the respect of their peers, and proven specialized competence in their select area of law. Out of 100,000 lawyers that are licensed to practice in Texas, only 7,300 are Board Certified. These lawyers have voluntarily applied for Board Certification, have a minimum of 5 years of practice experience (with at least three years in specific legal areas), completed at least 60 hours of continuing legal education hours and passed a rigorous exam. Once certified, these lawyers meet additional criteria to continue their education and involvement in their specialty area as well as reapply for Board Certification every 5 years.”
What does it mean that Mr. Dippel is a Member of the College of the State Bar of Texas?
The College of the State Bar of Texas is an honorary society of lawyers who are among the best trained attorneys in Texas. Members are qualified attorneys who are interested in both high ethical standards and improved training for all Texas attorneys. The College recognizes Texas lawyers who attend at least double the Continuing Legal Education (CLE) required by the State Bar of Texas.
What does it mean that Mr. Dippel is AV Preeminent Rated?
An AV® certification mark is a significant rating accomplishment. It is a testament to the fact that a lawyer's peers rank him or her at the highest level of professional excellence, both as to his skill as a trial lawyer and his adherence to the highest ethical standards.
What does it mean that Mr. Dippel is a Texas Super Lawyer?
Texas Super Lawyers, a division of Thompson Reuters, selects attorneys using a rigorous, multi-phase rating process. Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third party research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. According to Thompson Reuters, only 5% of lawyers in Texas are selected. Mr. Dippel has been elected as a Texas Super Lawyer for the years 2009 – 2019.
Why should I choose your firm to evaluate my case?
Relationships with clients – before, during and after the case – are important to the Firm. Mr. Dippel takes the time to educate clients about the legal process available and to explain client options. Mr. Dippel personally handles your case; it is not referred to another lawyer. In addition, Mr. Dippel's experience as a partner in a prestigious defense firm has taught him how large corporations and insurance companies defend cases, and thus how best to approach them when he is representing those who are injured.
Does your firm handle cases outside of Texas?
Yes. Mr. Dippel has filed cases throughout the country, including New York, Connecticut, Washington, Ohio, Florida, Nevada and others. In these circumstances, he strategically selects local lawyers to work with him. For these specific cases, he obtains special permission to practice in each state. He has also been admitted to the United States Court of Appeals for the First, Third and Sixth Circuits.
An advertising lawyer said my case was worth millions, and he hasn’t even met with me yet. He is pressuring me to sign a contract. What should I do?
Lawyers should not promise you results or project recovery amounts without first fully evaluating and researching your case. For every million dollar case reported in the press, there are many more which resolve for less, or are even lost if not handled properly. An important part of your case is managing expectations. These are complex cases, and significant results are difficult to obtain. Educate yourself, and find a law firm with whom you are comfortable. Relationships matter. These cases involve difficult life decisions, and you deserve counsel who will place your - not their - interests first.
Do you have a nurse on the firm staff?
Yes. The firm and its clients are fortunate to have a registered nurse who works on the case. She has substantial experience working in emergency health care and is responsible for the medical evaluation and work up on cases.
How do I know if there is a case?
It is impossible to know until a certain amount of preliminary work is completed by the office. The firm will gather basic information, complete research, and interface with technical or medical experts in order to help you make this determination. The best way to begin this process is to contact Mr. Dippel.
Is there an initial consultation charge?
No.
There is a disagreement in our family about whether we should sue someone over the death of a family member. What should we do?
In circumstances involving serious injury or death, it is not uncommon for members of the family to disagree about hiring a lawyer. The best way to thoughtfully address family concerns is to have a preliminary meeting to answer everyone’s questions and concerns. This provides all concerned with equal access to legal counsel and permits the family to understand, evaluate and choose a course of action that comports with their expectations as a group.
Does someone have to be catastrophically injured, or killed, in order for your firm to review a case?
Because the kinds of cases the firm pursues are complex and expensive, the nature of the harm suffered by the family is a consideration. Development of the case, and especially trial, is an extremely emotional event. It is not fair for the client to endure this process, only to result in the firm having spent more in case development than the jury might award.
The extent of the injury is an important factor to evaluate. While this is a consideration, it is not the only one, nor the most important. The tragedy your family has suffered must be viewed in its entire context, in order for Mr. Dippel to thoughtfully counsel you.
How long do I have to file a case?
It depends upon the kind of case. Cases based on claims of negligence are generally controlled by a two year statute of limitations, though very limited circumstances may impact when the statute of limitations commences. Generally, if a lawsuit for a negligence claim is not filed within two years, you will, by law, be prevented from filing suit. If you suspect you may have a legal claim, it is always advisable to consult with a reputable firm immediately, for your own protection.
Will Mr. Dippel personally handle my case?
Yes.
If you cannot take my case, will you be honest about why?
Yes. There are multiple reasons why a case cannot be pursued, and Mr. Dippel will give you his honest opinion. While the firm cannot represent everyone who calls, Mr. Dippel tries to help everyone in some way.
