Serving Santa Cruz with Experience, Integrity & Focus

The Law Office of James C. Eschen has been part of the Santa Cruz legal community since 1997, offering trusted counsel in business disputes, real estate matters, and civil appeals. Led by James C. Eschen-a seasoned Santa Cruz attorney with over four decades of legal experience-our firm is known for clear communication, realistic guidance, and a hands-on approach to every case. Se habla español.

Frequently Asked Questions

About These FAQs

Below are some of the most common questions our Connecticut clients ask when starting a personal injury case. These answers are meant to provide general information. For personalized advice, contact Collier & Manning Trial Lawyers directly for a free consultation.

Personal Injury Questions

  • How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Connecticut?

    Most Connecticut personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the injury date. Because deadlines can vary based on case type, it’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

  • What damages can I recover in an injury case?

    You may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impacts on your quality of life.

  • Do I need a lawyer if the insurance offer seems fair?

    Even if an offer sounds reasonable, insurers often undervalue claims. A consultation with Collier & Manning Trial Lawyers can help you understand the real value of your case.

  • What should I do after a car accident?

    Your health and safety come first. Get medical attention, document the scene if possible, and contact a lawyer before speaking with any insurance company.

  • Can I sue if I slipped and fell on ice?

    If a property owner failed to keep their walkway safe, you may have a claim under Connecticut’s premises liability laws.

  • How do I know if I have a medical malpractice case?

    You may have a malpractice claim if a doctor or hospital failed to meet accepted standards of care, resulting in injury. These cases require careful review by experienced attorneys.

Hiring & Legal Process Questions

  • How much will this cost me?

    There are no upfront costs or fees to you. We pay for all of the expenses for handling your case and we are reimbursed out of money we recover for you.

  • Do I owe you anything if I don’t recover?

    No! We work on a contingency fee basis which means if we don’t recover money for you, you do not owe us anything.

  • Will I have to go to court?

    Many cases settle outside court, but we prepare every case for trial. This approach ensures our clients are ready for any outcome and often results in stronger settlements.

  • When should I hire an attorney after an accident?

    Right away! In some type of accidents, there are certain notice requirements that are mandated under Connecticut law. Additionally, in every case, we will want to ensure evidence, such as video/photographs or eye witnesses, are being preserved. 

  • What should I bring to my free consultation?

    Bring what you can—police reports, medical bills, or correspondence from insurers. If you’re unsure, we’ll guide you through what’s needed.

  • How long will my case take?

    Each case is different. It depends on a number of factors such as the type of case; the insurance carrier, if one or more are involved; whether the case has to go into litigation; and the status of a client’s treatment. Our staff are here to guide you through the process and reach a resolution as quickly as we can. 

  • Why should I hire Collier & Manning?

    We take your personal injury case personally. At Collier & Manning, you are not another case on the shelf; your recovery from someone else’s negligence matters to us. That is why each client is assigned a team of paralegals that know who you are and works diligently to keep your case on track for success. When you hire us, your case will be handled by both Attorney Collier & Attorney Manning – that’s two experienced trial lawyers for your case! 

Have More Questions?

Every case is different, and your situation deserves individual attention. Contact Collier & Manning Trial Lawyers today to speak directly with one of our attorneys.