Frequently Asked Questions with The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein

1. Are you a national law firm?

No - We are Maine lawyers working for Maine people from our seven conveniently located offices in Sanford, Biddeford, Portland, Windham, Lewiston, Augusta and Bangor. All of our attorneys and legal professionals live in and work in Maine, representing injured Mainers every day. We're often contacted by Mainers who have been injured in another state, and have a network of attorneys throughout the country whom we can call upon to assist in representing our Maine clients. We have the resources available to get Mainers the legal help they need wherever an accident or personal injury occurs.

2. What kind of cases does your law firm handle?

The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein assists Mainers in all kinds of personal injury claims including auto accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle and pedestrian accidents, medical malpractice, snow machine accidents, dog bites, products liability, prescription drugs recalls, workers' compensation claims, construction site accidents, and admiralty and maritime claims. If you prefer, we are happy to meet with you virtually and securely from the comfort and safety of your home.

3. Are you the "Joe" on the Time and Temperature Building in Portland?

Yes - We are proud to adorn the historic Time and Temperature Building located in downtown Portland.  The building's illuminated sign was first installed in 1964 and flashes continuously 24-hours a day, 7-days a week with the local time and temperature followed by "CALL" and then "JOE."  Often, we donate the sign to non-profits and maintain a blog to update Mainers on the organizations we are supporting: www.portlandtimetemp.com.

4. How long has your firm been practicing personal injury law?

In nearly 50 years of practicing law, we have represented more than 25,000 Mainers in their personal injury and disability claims. Since 1974, our attorneys have helped Mainers gain the access to justice they deserve, and have helped accident victims and disabled persons recover over $500 million in damages and benefits.

5. Does your law firm offer a free office or phone consultation?

Yes - You can talk with the attorneys at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein for free, at absolutely no cost or obligation. We have always offered free, initial, confidential consultations by phone, at one of our seven local offices or another convenient location of your choice.

6. Do your attorneys handle cases on a contingent fee basis?

Yes - All of our cases are handled on a contingent fee basis. We produce results or we don't get paid. You owe us nothing unless and until your case settles. A contingent fee means that the lawyer's fee is a percentage of the money the lawyer obtains to compensate you for your injuries. If there is no recovery, then there is no fee.

7. Does your firm do only one thing - help injured and disabled Mainers?

Yes - Our law firm only represents injured and disabled people - this is the only work we do at our firm. We never represent insurance companies or people accused of causing accidents. We believe it is absolutely critical that your attorney represents only injury victims. Personal injury law is a specialized area of law that requires the expertise of a specialist for best results on a consistent basis.

8. Will a lawyer from your firm visit me at home or at the hospital?

Yes - We understand that mobility can be a challenge after an accident. If you are unable to meet with us at one of our seven conveniently located offices, we will meet with you at any location in Maine that is comfortable for you. To obtain critical case-related information, including photographs and statements, our staff will meet you at your home, in the hospital, or another location of your choice. Each of our seven offices is wheelchair accessible. If you prefer, our advanced technologies allow us to meet with clients virtually from the comfort and safety of your own home.

9. Does your firm have the staff to properly handle my case?

Yes - The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein has an extraordinary team of professionals who are solely committed to helping accident and disability victims. Our law firm works in teams of attorneys and case managers equipped to handle injury claims. In addition to our experienced lawyers, we have a dedicated staff of legal professionals including intake, finance, information technology, marketing, and reception departments. An attorney and case manager will be assigned to work on and monitor the development of your case. Your case manager will be responsible for gathering all of the relevant medical records, police records, employment records, bills, and insurance information that may be needed depending upon the nature of your claim. Our staff will take care of all the important details so that you can focus on getting proper medical attention and recovering from your injuries as quickly as possible.

10. Does your law firm have adequate financial resources?

Yes - Our firm has the financial stability and strength to pay all client costs before a settlement is achieved. We never ask our clients for a retainer or to pay in advance for client costs. When choosing a personal injury law firm, it is critical that you select a law firm that has the necessary staffing, financial stability, technology, and longevity of service to injury victims. Insurance companies vigorously challenge injury claims. You need an attorney with the organization and strength to go the distance on your behalf.

11. How quickly are client phone calls returned?

We have built our reputation on providing top-notch client services. Our clients' interests and concerns are our number one priority. Promptly returning phone calls is an important part of the service we offer all our clients. Your phone calls to our office will be answered by a receptionist who will assist you in directing your inquiry to the right person on your team.

12. What is the law firm's policy about keeping clients informed?

Every member of your legal team - lawyers, case managers, and legal assistants - can be reached on his or her direct phone number, exclusive email address, dedicated fax number, and through our toll free phone number (1-866-275-4563). You will receive copies of all letters and correspondence sent from our office. Close client communication is a top priority at every step in the process.

13. Are communications confidential?

Yes - Each of our lawyers and all staff members will treat your communications with our office in a highly confidential way. Our computer system and all of our offices are protected from intrusion of unauthorized persons. The information you communicate to our staff will not be shared with others without your specific permission.

14. Would your office ever refer a client's case?

There are situations that arise with claims in which it's in our client's best interests to call upon the expertise of an attorney outside of our law firm. In some instances, it makes sense for us to tap into the specialized skills or talents of another law firm. We do our best to assist just as many Mainers as possible with their personal injury and disability claims. Our firm's resources are not, however, unlimited; it is sometimes best for our clients to coordinate their representation with outside attorneys.

15. What is the Arrive Alive Creative Contest and how can I learn more about it?

The Arrive Alive Creative Contest asks Maine high school seniors to come up with a creative message about the dangers of drinking and driving and the dangers of distracted driving. In the past 17 years, our law firm has given away over $160,000 in prizes to seniors who have helped send the message: "Stay Safe and Arrive Alive!" First place winners receive a new laptop computer and all applicants receive great prizes from my law firm. A complete set of rules and all past winning entries can be found at: www.arrivealivecreativecontest.com.