AN EAST BAY CALIFORNIA PERSONAL INJURY LAW FIRM

NO FEE CONSULTATION

EAST BAY PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

Law Office of Thomas E. Sokat

NO FEE UNTIL WE WIN!

FAQs

Serving Danville, Pleasanton, Livermore, San Ramon, Concord, Oakland and all points in between in the East Bay

Find Out if You Have a Case

No fee until we win!

Client Reviews

“

The accident changed my whole life overnight. I am now on permanent disability and dealing with one day at a time. Together with Tom ‘s knowledge and support we were able to get the maximum payout and I am in a much better place.

Carrie ConlonGoogle Review
He spent the time go over my case, and provided me with very good advice at no charge. Even though it was clear that he would not be able to take on my case due to time constraints (and therefore had zero incentive to give me further advice), he was kind enough to explain my options and guided me through next steps.
R.B.Google Review
After dealing with the insurance company for over year I almost gained a sense of defeat. I contacted Thomas and not only did he come to my rescue I received more than double of what was first offered to me by the insurance company. I would definitely use Thomas Sokat again if I need a lawyer.
R.S.Yelp Review

Helpful Articles

Common Questions Regarding Personal Injury Cases

I got injured. Do I have a case?

Whether or not you have a potential case is a question that can only be answered by an attorney after you speak with him and he has a chance to hear everything that you have to say about your potential case and evaluate any and all potential evidence that in his opinion is pertinent to the matter. If you have been involved in an accident, please call Thomas Sokat immediately for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Please do not assume that just because one attorney turned your case down that you don’t have a case. See “Why a personal injury attorney may not take your case.”

The simple answer is NO RECOVERY, NO FEE.

If after speaking about your case we agree to move forward, we will together review the terms of a contingency fee agreement and execute it if we both agree to its terms. Under the terms of our contingency fee agreement, The Law Office of Thomas Sokat will only get paid for their services out of any recovery made from your case. If there is no recovery, then you will not owe any funds to the Law Office of Thomas Sokat.

Depending on the case and/or client, the contingency fee of The Law Office of Thomas Sokat usually ranges from 25% of the gross recovery to 33% of the gross recovery. Most other attorneys, and especially large law firms charge 40%.

The amount of the fee is clearly stated in the contract and will be discussed with you before the contract is signed. If there is no recovery, then there is no fee for the services.

Under the terms of the contingency fee agreement, your attorney shall advance all costs that he believes are necessary to properly resolve your case or claim.Those expenses are only reimbursed out of any recovery. If there is no recovery, then you will not be responsible to your attorney for any fees or costs advanced by him.
If we decide to and do enter into a contingency fee agreement, your attorney will investigate and prepare case as necessary in his professional judgment and carry on any negotiations for settlement that you authorize. In the event that we agree that it is necessary and appropriate to file a lawsuit in order for you to obtain fair compensation, your attorney will prepare and file all necessary court documents on your behalf and conduct what is known as discovery before trial and attend all court proceedings involved in your case. All other services and terms of our attorney-client relationship are clearly and plainly stated in the contingency fee agreement.

It depends on several factors like the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impact. While no exact figure can be promised upfront, an experienced attorney can offer a realistic estimate after reviewing your case.

Call today and can give you a rough estimate on the phone. 

Here in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties, and throughout the state of California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. However, exceptions exist (e.g., claims against a government agency), so it’s best to act quickly

  • Get medical attention immediately.

  • Report the accident to the proper authorities.

  • Document everything (photos, names of witnesses, medical reports).

  • Avoid giving detailed statements to insurance companies.

  • Contact a personal injury attorney before signing anything, and ideally before speaking to the insurance company.

You may still be eligible for compensation. California follows comparative fault laws, meaning your compensation could be reduced based on your percentage of fault, but you’re not necessarily barred from recovery.

It varies. Some cases settle in a few months; others may take a year or more if they go to trial. Factors include the complexity of the case, medical treatment duration, and whether the insurance company disputes liability.

Be cautious. Insurance adjusters may seem helpful but their goal is to minimize payouts. Don’t give a recorded statement or accept a settlement without speaking to your lawyer first.

See “Can you trust the insurance claims adjuster in your personal injury case?“

You may still have options. Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (if you have it) can help, and in some cases, other third parties may share liability. A lawyer can investigate all potential sources of compensation.

Not necessarily. Most personal injury cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement. However, if a fair offer isn’t made, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit and possibly going to trial.

Always ask why the attorney is turning down your case. If his answer is that what you can expect to recover won’t pay for legal fees, remember his expenses may be higher than another’s. So get a second opinion.

If it’s clear your case is too small and no attorney can afford to take your case, don’t be afraid to ask the attorney what you should do. I always give those who call tips on how to settle with the insurance company. Others do too. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

Don't know if you need personal injury attorney?

There’s no cost to find out. Please contact Tom Sokat immediately for a free consultation and to get the compensation that you deserve.

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Tom Sokat

Do you even have a case? How much is it worth? Let's find out. Request a free case review below. I will listen and if I can’t take your case, I’ll tell you why, as well as give you advice on what to do next.