Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between personal injury and medical malpractice cases?
Personal injury covers a broad range of accidents like car crashes and slip-and-falls, while medical malpractice specifically involves healthcare provider negligence. Medical malpractice cases require medical expert collaboration to prove standards of care were violated. At Law Offices of Garrett Gibbins, PLLC, we handle both with specialized investigation and expert witness access.When should I hire a lawyer after a car accident in Houston?
You should consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible, ideally within days of the accident. Early involvement allows for timely evidence gathering, witness interviews, and protection of your legal rights. Law Offices of Garrett Gibbins, PLLC provides comprehensive case analysis and representation from initial assessment through court proceedings.How does criminal defense work for DWI charges in Texas?
Criminal defense begins with case assessment and evidence investigation, including reviewing arrest procedures and test results. Your attorney then negotiates with prosecutors or prepares for trial with strategic defense planning. Law Offices of Garrett Gibbins, PLLC offers full-service representation from investigation through court proceedings for DWI and other criminal charges.What does appellate representation actually involve?
Appellate representation involves thorough analysis of the trial record to identify legal errors, followed by strategic planning and persuasive brief writing. The attorney then presents oral arguments before appellate courts. This process requires specialized expertise distinct from trial work, focusing on legal research and written advocacy.Can a lawyer help with business contract disputes before they go to court?
Yes, attorneys can provide strategic negotiation and dispute resolution services before litigation becomes necessary. Early legal involvement often resolves contract breaches through negotiation, potentially saving time and legal costs. Law Offices of Garrett Gibbins, PLLC handles both pre-litigation negotiation and courtroom representation for contract disputes.What makes a wrongful death case different from other personal injury claims?
Wrongful death cases involve the loss of life due to another party's negligence or wrongful act, requiring representation by surviving family members. These cases include claims for loss of companionship, financial support, and funeral expenses. They demand experienced legal guidance through complex emotional and legal challenges.How do civil rights cases involving police misconduct work?
Civil rights cases require proving constitutional violations, often under federal civil rights laws. These cases involve thorough evidence gathering, witness testimony, and understanding of constitutional protections. Law Offices of Garrett Gibbins, PLLC provides experienced trial representation for police misconduct, discrimination, and federal civil rights violations.What should be included in a comprehensive estate plan?
A comprehensive estate plan includes wills, trusts for asset protection, healthcare directives, and tax-efficient strategies. Regular reviews ensure your plan adapts to changing laws and personal circumstances. Law Offices of Garrett Gibbins, PLLC provides complete estate planning services including ongoing plan reviews.What's the biggest mistake people make with family law cases?
Many people wait too long to seek legal counsel or attempt to handle complex custody and support matters alone. Early legal guidance helps develop personalized strategies and protects your rights throughout proceedings. Family law requires understanding of both legal standards and negotiation tactics for favorable outcomes.Do I need a lawyer to handle a business dispute or just for court?
Legal representation is valuable throughout the entire dispute process, not just courtroom proceedings. Attorneys provide case analysis, evidence gathering, and strategic negotiation that often resolves disputes before trial. Law Offices of Garrett Gibbins, PLLC offers business dispute resolution from initial analysis through post-trial support if needed.How are nursing home abuse cases investigated and proven?
Nursing home abuse cases require comprehensive investigation including medical records review, facility inspection reports, and witness interviews. Medical experts collaborate to establish negligence and causation of injuries. These specialized medical malpractice cases demand thorough documentation and expert testimony to prove substandard care.What happens during the post-trial phase of civil litigation?
Post-trial support includes enforcement of judgments, appeals if necessary, and collecting awarded damages. Attorneys ensure court orders are properly executed and handle any remaining legal matters. This phase is critical for actually obtaining the relief won at trial.
