FAQ
Straight Talk Is Good Business
When You Have Been Injured
Answers from Cole, Cole, Easley & Sciba, P.C.
Our Victoria attorneys would like to help you if you don’t know what to do.
If you’d like our help, contact us to give us some information about you and your circumstances. You can also call our offices at (361) 678-3233 to schedule a free case consultation. Se habla español.
What should I do if I’ve been injured?
- Gather as much information as you can and preserve evidence. Remember, in most accidents, the negligent party will quickly notify his/her insurance company and act to limit liability. Insurance company adjusters work quickly and efficiently to reduce their risk. If you wait too long to start protecting yourself, you may allow the other party or their insurance company to gather evidence you need. They may speak with witnesses and obtain physical evidence before you can even think about what you need to do. It is common for us to be called by someone who has had a serious injury but didn’t want to contact a lawyer. Many people put off contacting a lawyer in the hope of feeling better (“This soreness will go away with time.”) or because they believe the other side will treat them fairly. Regrettably, too often we find that an injured party’s claim is barred because they simply waited too long or evidence they need had vanished. It is a fact of life that, while injured parties and their families are recovering or grieving, the other side is working diligently to protect their interests and limit their liability.
- Identify witnesses. Get their names, addresses and phone numbers. After the passing of time, witnesses often disappear or are unwilling to get involved or give accurate statements of what they saw or heard.
- Call an attorney you know and trust and who has financial resources necessary to handle your claim. If you don’t know an attorney, and many people don’t, ask trusted friends or advisors whom they would call if they needed a lawyer. Like most lawyers, we do not charge fees for initial consultations related to injury cases.
- Do not talk to the other side’s adjustor or their attorney until you have spoken with your attorney. Remember, if you enter into an agreement with them or sign a release or other document before getting the advice of a lawyer, you may unknowingly limit or prevent your right to a fair recovery. In order to protect yourself and your loved ones, do not make an agreement or sign a document until you have discussed the matter with an attorney of your choice.
Testimonials
Local Knowledge, National Reputation
At Cole, Cole, Easley, & Sciba, P.C., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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I have gone through hell in the family court system in Texas against the father of my children, who is an attorney in our community with abundant legal resources. After years of fighting for my children, I was unjustly put in criminal contempt for not bringing my daughter to soccer practice despite following the custody agreement and the advice of my attorneys at the time. I asked about appeal options, and while the attorneys felt my case was justified, they said it would be a waste of my time and money and that only two percent of cases win on appeal. However, as a mother and a teacher, I wanted to clear my reputation and fight for what’s right. I hired a law firm to file a mandamus with the Court of Appeals, but the court denied our petition. Not wanting to give up, I decided to go to the Texas Supreme Court. After consulting with a few attorneys who were very discouraging and didn’t want to take my case, one referred me to Attorney Sam Cole. Sam told me my case was a long shot but agreed I was right and would fight for me if I wanted to proceed. He worked with me on my case and on a payment plan that worked for my situation. He always explained everything and answered questions with patience and understanding. He thoroughly researched all that had happened and the law that surrounded the issue. Sam treated me as a person and not just a paycheck, and had I lost in the Supreme Court, I would still be writing this review. However, the Supreme Court did rule in our favor, and after more than 2.5 years of this hanging over my head, I am completely vindicated. I hope the outcome of my case will help prevent this from happening to others in the future.Pamela J.
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This firm is very understanding, knowledgeable, and professional. They are easy to work with and look out for the clients’ best interests. Great people!Linda U.
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Jim Cole helped us every step of the way through a difficult time in our lives. We were always treated as though we were family from Jim and everyone at the firm.Tyler K.
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In 2021, I was hit by an 18-wheeler, suffered a head injury, and was taken to a nearby trauma ER. As soon as I could do so, I contacted Jim Cole. Jim, supported by Will, Evan, Chuck, Luther, and all of Cole, Cole, Easley, and Sciba, provided unparalleled legal expertise, which resulted in a very favorable outcome for me. I've worked with trial lawyers on both sides of the bar, civil and criminal, all my working life. There are many good personal injury lawyers and law firms, but none finer than those at Cole, Cole, Easley, and Sciba.John R.
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No one ever wants a need for an attorney, but if you do, I highly recommend Mr. Jim Cole and his wonderful staff. Everyone in this office is knowledgeable and friendly. They made me feel like I was more than just a client. Without a doubt, should the need arise again, my first choice would be Mr. Cole.Anna
Our Values
What Our Work Means To Us
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Client FocusWe communicate with clients clearly and tell them candidly what they can expect, given the specifics of the case.
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Community FocusWe believe in giving back to the Victoria community. We support various organizations financially and with our time.
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Local KnowledgeIn 1954, Emmett Cole, Jr., returned to the crossroads area to found our practice after working a year at a Houston law firm.
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National ReputationWe have provided effective, ethical legal representation throughout Texas and nationwide for more than 50 years.