Virginia Personal Injury Lawyer: Protecting Your Rights and Securing Justice

As a senior attorney with over two decades of hands-on experience in Virginia’s legal landscape, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact a personal injury can have on an individual’s life and their family. It’s not merely about physical pain; it extends to financial strain, emotional distress, and a complete disruption of one’s sense of normalcy. When you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, the journey toward recovery can feel daunting, riddled with legal complexities and aggressive insurance adjusters. That’s precisely why understanding your rights and having a knowledgeable advocate by your side is not just beneficial—it’s often critical to securing the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.

At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we approach each personal injury case with a commitment to meticulous preparation, strategic thinking, and unwavering client advocacy. We understand that every situation is unique, demanding a tailored approach that respects the individual circumstances while vigorously pursuing maximum recovery under Virginia law. This comprehensive guide is designed to shed light on the intricacies of personal injury claims in the Commonwealth, offering clarity on the legal process, potential challenges, and how a dedicated legal team can make a significant difference in your path to recovery.

Understanding Personal Injury Law in Virginia

Personal injury law in Virginia provides a legal framework for individuals to seek compensation when they have suffered harm due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. This area of law encompasses a wide range of incidents, from car accidents to slip and falls, and is primarily governed by specific statutes and judicial precedents designed to ensure accountability and facilitate recovery for victims.

In Virginia, the foundation of most personal injury claims rests on the principle of negligence. To successfully pursue a claim, you must demonstrate four key elements:

1. Duty of Care: The at-fault party owed you a legal duty to act reasonably. For example, drivers owe other motorists a duty to operate their vehicles safely.
2. Breach of Duty: The at-fault party violated that duty of care. This could be texting while driving, failing to maintain property, or providing a defective product.
3. Causation: The breach of duty directly caused your injuries. There must be a clear link between their actions and your harm.
4. Damages: You suffered actual damages as a result of the injury, which can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

A critical aspect of Virginia law that sets it apart from many other states is its strict adherence to contributory negligence. Under Virginia Code § 8.01-44, if a plaintiff is found even 1% at fault for their injuries, they are generally barred from recovering any compensation. This makes it imperative to build a robust case that clearly establishes the other party’s sole responsibility for the accident. Furthermore, the statute of limitations, outlined in Virginia Code § 8.01-243, typically mandates that personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years from the date of the injury. Missing this deadline almost always means forfeiting your right to pursue a claim, underscoring the urgency of seeking legal counsel promptly.

Understanding these foundational principles is the first step in navigating a personal injury claim successfully. It’s a complex area where nuances matter, and where the experience of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney near you can be invaluable.

Consequences of Personal Injury & The Stakes Involved

Beyond the immediate physical pain, a personal injury can impose severe, long-lasting consequences, including overwhelming medical debt, lost income, and psychological trauma, making the pursuit of compensation a critical step toward rebuilding one’s life. The stakes are profoundly high, as a successful claim can provide essential financial relief, while an unsuccessful one can leave victims burdened with unforeseen costs and suffering.

The aftermath of an injury often extends far beyond the emergency room. Victims frequently face:

• Mounting Medical Bills: From initial emergency care to ongoing rehabilitation, surgeries, medications, and therapy, healthcare costs can quickly become astronomical.
• Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Injuries can prevent you from working, leading to immediate income loss and potentially impacting your ability to earn a living in the long term, especially if the injury results in permanent disability.
• Pain and Suffering: This encompasses physical discomfort, emotional distress, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. While harder to quantify, these non-economic damages are a significant component of many personal injury claims under Virginia Code § 8.01-41.
• Property Damage: In cases like car accidents, your vehicle or other personal property may be damaged, requiring repair or replacement.
• Loss of Consortium: In some cases, a spouse may also suffer losses due to the impact of the injury on their relationship.

The primary goal of a personal injury lawsuit is to make the injured party “whole” again, as much as money can. This involves recovering compensation for both economic (quantifiable) and non-economic (subjective) damages. However, the path to obtaining this compensation is rarely straightforward. Insurance companies, whose primary objective is to minimize payouts, will often employ tactics to deny or reduce your claim. They may argue your injuries are not as severe as claimed, that you were partly at fault (contributory negligence), or that your claim is outside the statute of limitations.

The stakes are particularly high in Virginia due to the harsh contributory negligence rule. If an insurance company can prove you contributed even slightly to the accident, your claim could be entirely dismissed. This makes the strategic presentation of evidence and a clear, compelling narrative of events paramount. For particularly egregious conduct, Virginia Code § 8.01-38 also allows for the recovery of punitive damages, designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar future actions, though these are awarded in a limited set of circumstances. Navigating these complexities requires a thorough understanding of Virginia personal injury law and a skilled legal team committed to protecting your interests.

Navigating the Legal Process: From Incident to Resolution

The personal injury legal process in Virginia typically begins with the incident and moves through stages of investigation, negotiation, and potentially litigation, involving interactions with insurance companies, medical providers, and various court systems. Understanding these steps is crucial for managing expectations and effectively pursuing your claim.

While every case presents its unique set of facts, the general trajectory of a personal injury claim in Virginia often follows these stages:

1. Initial Incident & Immediate Actions

The process begins with the injury-causing incident. Your immediate actions are critical: ensuring safety, seeking medical attention, documenting the scene (photos, videos), and gathering witness information. Reporting the incident to the appropriate authorities, such as the police for a car accident or property management for a slip and fall, creates an official record.

2. Medical Treatment & Documentation

Prioritize your health. Follow all medical advice and attend follow-up appointments. Comprehensive medical records are the bedrock of any personal injury claim, detailing the nature and extent of your injuries, treatments, and prognosis. This documentation directly supports your claim for medical expenses and pain and suffering.

3. Investigation & Evidence Collection

Once retained, your personal injury attorney will launch a thorough investigation. This involves:

• Collecting police reports, medical records, and bills.
• Interviewing witnesses.
• Gathering photographic and video evidence.
• Consulting with experts (e.g., accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, economists).
• Assessing all potential at-fault parties and their insurance coverages.

4. Demand Letter & Negotiation

After you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) or your injuries have stabilized, your attorney will compile all evidence and send a comprehensive demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurance company. This letter outlines the facts of the case, the extent of your damages, and a demand for compensation. Negotiations typically ensue, with your attorney advocating for a fair settlement.

5. Filing a Lawsuit (Litigation)

If negotiations fail to produce a satisfactory settlement, a lawsuit may be filed in the appropriate court. For most significant personal injury cases in Virginia, this means filing in a Virginia Circuit Court. These courts have general jurisdiction over civil matters, including personal injury claims seeking substantial damages. Smaller claims might initially be filed in a Virginia General District Court, though more complex or higher-value cases are typically transferred or refiled in Circuit Court. The formal legal process involves:

• Filing the Complaint: Your attorney files a formal document outlining your claims.
• Discovery: Both sides exchange information through interrogatories (written questions), requests for production of documents, and depositions ( sworn testimonies).
• Mediation/Arbitration: Many courts encourage alternative dispute resolution methods to reach a settlement before trial.
• Trial: If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial, where evidence is presented to a judge or jury who will render a verdict.

6. Appeals

If either party is dissatisfied with the trial court’s decision, they may have the option to appeal to the Virginia Court of Appeals, and subsequently, to the Supreme Court of Virginia. The Virginia State Bar, while not directly involved in individual lawsuits, is the regulatory body for attorneys and ensures ethical conduct throughout the legal process.

This process demands diligence, strategic insight, and a deep understanding of Virginia’s procedural rules. Having a seasoned personal injury attorney near you is essential to navigate these stages effectively and protect your interests at every turn.

The SRIS Virginia Injury Claim Navigator Tool

Effectively managing a personal injury claim requires methodical organization and attention to detail. The SRIS Virginia Injury Claim Navigator is a practical, step-by-step guide designed to help you organize critical information and ensure you are taking the necessary actions to protect your rights and strengthen your potential claim from the outset.

The SRIS Virginia Injury Claim Navigator Tool: Your Step-by-Step Guide

This tool is designed to provide you with a structured approach to managing the crucial initial steps of your personal injury claim in Virginia. Following these steps can significantly impact the strength and success of your case.

1. Immediately Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries manifest later. Get checked by a doctor, document all symptoms, and follow all prescribed treatments.
   • Record Date & Time of Medical Visit(s): [___________]
   • List Doctors/Specialists Seen: [___________]
   • Keep All Medical Records & Bills: (Confirm you have a system for this) [Yes/No]
2. Document the Incident Scene: If safe, collect as much evidence as possible at the scene.
   • Take Photos/Videos of Damage, Injuries, Scene Conditions: (Number of photos/videos) [___________]
   • Note Date, Time, & Location of Incident: [___________]
   • Identify Witnesses & Collect Contact Information: (Names, Phone, Email) [___________]
3. Report the Incident to Authorities: For car accidents, this means police. For workplace injuries, employers. For premises liability, property owners/managers.
   • Police Report/Incident Report Number: [___________]
   • Name of Reporting Officer/Personnel: [___________]
   • Date Reported: [___________]
4. Do NOT Speak to Insurance Adjusters Without Counsel: The at-fault party’s insurance company may contact you quickly. Politely decline to give recorded statements or discuss fault.
   • Date of First Contact Attempt by Adjuster: [___________]
   • Name of Adjuster/Company: [___________]
   • (Confirm you have not given a statement) [Yes/No]
5. Keep a Detailed Journal of Your Recovery: Document your pain levels, limitations, emotional impact, and how the injury affects your daily life.
   • Start Date of Journal: [___________]
   • (Confirm daily/weekly entries are being made) [Yes/No]
6. Track All Related Expenses: Keep meticulous records of all costs associated with your injury.
   • Medical Bills: [___________]
   • Lost Wages: [___________]
   • Travel to Appointments: [___________]
   • Other Out-of-Pocket Costs: [___________]
7. Limit Social Media Activity: Anything you post online can be used against you by the defense to undermine your claim.
   • (Confirm you have reviewed privacy settings and are cautious) [Yes/No]
8. Consult with a Seasoned Personal Injury Attorney: The sooner you engage legal counsel, the better equipped you’ll be to navigate the complex legal landscape and protect your rights.
   • Date of Initial Consultation: [___________]
   • Attorney/Firm Name: Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

Legal Strategies & Defenses for Your Personal Injury Claim

Developing a robust legal strategy is paramount in Virginia personal injury cases, demanding careful evidence presentation, expert testimony, and a proactive approach to countering defense arguments, especially given the state’s stringent contributory negligence laws. A seasoned attorney will employ a multifaceted approach to maximize your chances of success.

Successfully navigating a personal injury claim in Virginia requires more than just presenting the facts; it demands strategic planning and an understanding of how to anticipate and counter common defense tactics. Here are key strategies and considerations:

1. Proving Negligence Beyond Doubt

Given Virginia’s contributory negligence rule, establishing the at-fault party’s sole negligence is critical. This involves:

• Meticulous Evidence Collection: Gathering all available evidence—accident reports, witness statements, photographs, video surveillance, black box data, and cell phone records—to construct an irrefutable timeline and narrative.
• Expert Testimony: Employing accident reconstructionists to demonstrate how the incident occurred, medical professionals to link injuries directly to the accident, and economists to project future losses.
• Legal Precedent: Applying relevant case law and statutes to strengthen the argument that the at-fault party breached their duty of care.

2. Countering Contributory Negligence Claims

The defense will almost certainly attempt to shift blame to you. Strategies to counter this include:

• Demonstrating Due Care: Presenting evidence that you acted reasonably and responsibly at all times.
• “Last Clear Chance” Doctrine: In certain limited circumstances, if the defendant had the “last clear chance” to avoid the accident but failed to do so, your contributory negligence might be excused. This is a complex legal argument requiring significant experience to apply.

3. Maximizing Damages

Ensuring you receive full compensation requires a thorough accounting of all losses, current and future:

• Economic Damages: Explicitly calculating medical expenses (past and future), lost wages (past and future), property damage, and other out-of-pocket costs.
• Non-Economic Damages: Effectively presenting the impact of pain, suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. This often involves compelling testimony from the injured party, family members, and medical experts.

4. Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance adjusters requires a firm stance and a deep understanding of valuation. Your attorney will:

• Value Your Claim Accurately: Based on all damages, legal precedents, and jury verdict research.
• Handle All Communications: Shielding you from aggressive tactics and ensuring no statements are made that could harm your case.
• Negotiate Strategically: Presenting a strong case and being prepared to litigate if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

5. Litigation Preparedness

If a settlement is not possible, being fully prepared for trial is key. This includes:

• Trial Strategy: Developing a clear and persuasive narrative, preparing witnesses, and anticipating defense arguments.
• Courtroom Advocacy: Presenting your case effectively to a judge and jury in a Virginia Circuit Court, articulating complex legal concepts in an understandable manner.

A personal injury attorney near you with a strong track record and deep understanding of Virginia law, like those at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is indispensable in crafting and executing these strategies, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Personal Injury Cases

Navigating a personal injury claim can be complex, and certain missteps can significantly jeopardize your ability to recover fair compensation. Avoiding common mistakes is as crucial as taking the right actions.

Based on over 20 years of experience, I’ve observed several recurring errors that can weaken an otherwise strong personal injury claim. Be vigilant about avoiding these pitfalls:

1. Delaying Medical Treatment: Waiting to see a doctor not only jeopardizes your health but also creates an opportunity for the defense to argue that your injuries were not serious or were caused by something else. Seek immediate medical attention after an accident, even if you feel fine initially.
2. Failing to Document Everything: A lack of thorough documentation (photos, videos, witness contacts, incident reports, medical records, a pain journal, lost wage statements) can severely hinder your ability to prove your case and the extent of your damages.
3. Giving a Recorded Statement to Insurance Companies: The at-fault party’s insurance adjuster is not on your side. Their goal is to gather information they can use to minimize or deny your claim. Never give a recorded statement or sign any releases without first consulting with your attorney.
4. Admitting Fault or Apologizing: Even a simple “I’m sorry” at the scene can be twisted by the defense as an admission of fault, which is particularly detrimental in Virginia’s contributory negligence state. Stick to the facts and avoid making statements about blame.
5. Posting on Social Media: Anything you post online, including photos, videos, or status updates, can be used by the defense to argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed or that your lifestyle contradicts your stated limitations. It’s best to refrain from social media activity while your case is pending or ensure all accounts are private.
6. Failing to Follow Medical Advice: If you miss appointments, don’t take prescribed medications, or fail to follow rehabilitation protocols, the defense can argue you failed to mitigate your damages, impacting the value of your claim.
7. Accepting a Quick Settlement Offer: Insurance companies often offer low settlements early on, hoping you’ll accept before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and long-term costs. Never accept an offer without discussing it thoroughly with an experienced personal injury attorney near you.
8. Not Retaining Legal Counsel Promptly: The sooner you have an attorney, the better they can preserve evidence, investigate the incident, and ensure critical deadlines (like the statute of limitations under Virginia Code § 8.01-243) are met. Delaying can lead to lost evidence and missed opportunities.

Glossary of Key Personal Injury Terms

Understanding the specialized terminology used in personal injury law is crucial for anyone navigating a claim. This glossary provides concise definitions for essential terms you may encounter.

Negligence

Failure to exercise the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in a similar situation, leading to injury or damage to another.

Contributory Negligence

A legal doctrine, particularly strict in Virginia (Virginia Code § 8.01-44), stating that if a plaintiff’s own negligence contributed in any way to their injury, they are barred from recovering damages.

Statute of Limitations

A law (e.g., Virginia Code § 8.01-243) that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. For most personal injury claims in Virginia, this is two years.

Damages

Monetary compensation awarded to an injured party for losses sustained due to another’s wrongdoing. Can be economic (medical bills, lost wages) or non-economic (pain and suffering).

Demand Letter

A formal letter sent by an attorney to the at-fault party or their insurer, outlining the facts of the case, the extent of injuries and damages, and a demand for a specific settlement amount.

Discovery

The pre-trial phase in a lawsuit during which each party can obtain evidence from the opposing party through various legal tools like interrogatories, requests for production, and depositions.

Settlement

An agreement reached between parties in a legal dispute, often before trial, to resolve the claim, typically involving a payment from one party to the other.

Common Scenarios & Online Questions

Many individuals facing personal injury issues grapple with similar questions and scenarios. Here, we address common situations and concerns frequently encountered by those seeking justice for their injuries.

Scenario 1: Rear-End Collision & Whiplash

“I was rear-ended at a stoplight in Richmond, Virginia. My car has minimal damage, but I’m experiencing neck pain and headaches days later. The other driver’s insurance is calling, offering a small amount to settle. Should I take it?”

This is a classic scenario. Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries often have delayed symptoms. Accepting a quick settlement offer, especially without a full medical evaluation, is a common mistake. Such offers are typically far below what your claim might be worth, failing to account for future medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It’s crucial to first seek comprehensive medical assessment and then consult with a Virginia personal injury lawyer before speaking further with any insurance adjusters or accepting an offer.

Scenario 2: Slip and Fall on Commercial Property

“I slipped on a wet floor in a Virginia grocery store that had no ‘wet floor’ sign. I broke my wrist and can’t work. The store manager filled out an incident report, but now they’re saying it was my fault for not watching where I was going. What should I do?”

Premises liability cases, like slip and falls, hinge on whether the property owner knew or should have known about a dangerous condition and failed to address it or warn visitors. The store’s immediate claim of your fault is a common defense tactic, aiming to invoke Virginia’s strict contributory negligence rule. Immediately document the scene (if possible), gather witness information, and secure legal representation. A seasoned personal injury attorney near you will investigate surveillance footage, employee testimonies, and maintenance logs to establish the store’s negligence and counter their claims of your fault.

Scenario 3: Dog Bite Incident with Children

“My child was bitten by a neighbor’s dog in Fairfax, Virginia, requiring stitches. The neighbor is apologetic and says their dog has never done this before. I don’t want to ruin our relationship, but my child is traumatized and has medical bills. What are my options?”

Dog bite cases can be sensitive due to existing relationships. However, your child’s well-being and recovery are paramount. Virginia operates under the “one-bite rule” for dog bites, meaning an owner is typically liable if they knew or should have known their dog had dangerous propensities (e.g., previous bites or aggressive behavior). Even if “never done this before,” an investigation might reveal prior incidents or aggressive tendencies. Your attorney can often negotiate with the neighbor’s homeowner’s insurance to cover medical expenses and pain and suffering without directly suing your neighbor, preserving relationships while securing necessary compensation for your child.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Injury Claims

Q1: What types of personal injury cases does Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handle in Virginia?

We handle a broad spectrum of personal injury cases, including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, slip and falls, premises liability, wrongful death, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, dog bites, and other incidents involving serious injuries caused by negligence.

Q2: How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?

At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we operate on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases. This means you pay no upfront legal fees, and we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. Our fees are then a percentage of the final settlement or award.

Q3: What is the first thing I should do after being injured in an accident in Virginia?

Your absolute first priority should be to seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Then, if safe, document the scene, collect witness information, and report the incident to the appropriate authorities. Finally, contact a seasoned personal injury attorney near you as soon as possible.

Q4: How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Virginia?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the injury, as stipulated by Virginia Code § 8.01-243. There are limited exceptions, but missing this deadline typically means you lose your right to pursue compensation. It is critical to act quickly.

Q5: What if the insurance company offers me a quick settlement?

Be extremely cautious. Insurance companies often try to settle cases quickly for a low amount before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and the true value of your claim. It is highly advisable to consult with a personal injury lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. before accepting any offer or signing any documents.

Q6: What kinds of damages can I recover in a personal injury claim in Virginia?

You may be eligible to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical bills (past and future), lost wages (past and future), and property damage. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life, as outlined in Virginia Code § 8.01-41.

Q7: What is Virginia’s contributory negligence rule, and how does it affect my case?

Virginia follows a strict contributory negligence rule (Virginia Code § 8.01-44). This means that if you are found to have contributed in any way, even 1%, to the accident that caused your injuries, you may be completely barred from recovering compensation. This rule makes it crucial to have a knowledgeable attorney who can vigorously defend against any claims of your fault.

Q8: Will my personal injury case go to trial?

Most personal injury cases are settled out of court through negotiation. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is fully prepared to take your case to trial in a Virginia Circuit Court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Q9: How long does a personal injury case take to resolve?

The duration of a personal injury case varies greatly depending on its complexity, the severity of injuries, the willingness of parties to negotiate, and court schedules. Simple cases might resolve in a few months, while complex cases involving significant injuries or disputes over fault can take a year or more.

Q10: Can I still pursue a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Due to Virginia’s strict contributory negligence rule, if you are found to be even slightly at fault, you generally cannot recover damages. However, there are very limited exceptions, and an experienced personal injury attorney can assess if any apply to your situation, or if the “last clear chance” doctrine may be applicable.

Q11: Do I need a personal injury attorney near me?

While the location of your attorney is less critical than their experience and reputation, having a personal injury attorney near you can be beneficial for local court familiarity and convenience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients throughout Virginia, bringing seasoned local insight to your case.

Q12: What should I bring to my initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer?

Bring any documents related to your accident, such as police reports, insurance information, medical records, photographs of the scene and your injuries, witness contact information, and a journal documenting your pain and recovery. Any information you have will help us assess your case more thoroughly.

Q13: How do you calculate the value of my personal injury claim?

Valuing a personal injury claim involves assessing all economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, property damage) and non-economic damages (pain, suffering, emotional distress). We consider factors like the severity of your injuries, prognosis, impact on your life, and past court decisions in similar cases, always striving for maximum compensation.

Q14: What if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your car insurance policy. This is a crucial aspect of insurance that a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you navigate.

Q15: What role do government agencies and courts play in my personal injury case?

The Virginia Circuit Courts are where most personal injury lawsuits are filed and litigated. Virginia General District Courts may handle smaller claims. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles is involved in accident reporting. Ultimately, these legal entities uphold the laws that govern your right to seek compensation and ensure a fair legal process.

Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Today

When facing the aftermath of a personal injury, the path to recovery and justice can be complex and emotionally taxing. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we stand ready to provide the seasoned, authoritative legal representation you need. With over two decades of dedicated experience in Virginia personal injury law, we understand the intricate nuances of these cases and are committed to fighting tirelessly on your behalf. Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Let our knowledgeable team guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. We are a trusted personal injury attorney near you, prepared to offer a confidential case review.

Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at 888-437-7747 today to schedule your confidential case review. Your recovery starts with informed, decisive action.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article by Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading or acting upon this information. Legal advice can only be provided after a comprehensive review of your specific facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.