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The Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento: What to Expect from Your Case

Frank Penney • March 15, 2025

If you’ve been injured in an accident, you may be wondering what a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento actually does and how they can help your case. Many accident victims don’t realize how complex personal injury claims can be until they start dealing with medical bills, insurance companies, and legal paperwork. That’s where an experienced attorney comes in.


At Frank Penney Injury Law, we’ve handled thousands of cases, helping victims recover the compensation they deserve. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to expect when working with a personal injury attorney in Sacramento, from your first consultation to the resolution of your case.


Step 1: Your Free Consultation

The process starts with a free consultation, where your attorney will review the details of your case. During this meeting, you’ll discuss:

  • How the accident happened
  • The severity of your injuries
  • Any medical treatment you’ve received
  • Insurance policies involved
  • Potential legal options

This is also your opportunity to ask questions and determine whether the lawyer is the right fit for your case. A good personal injury lawyer in Sacramento will give you an honest assessment of your claim and explain the next steps.


Step 2: Investigation & Evidence Collection

Once you hire an attorney, they will begin an in-depth investigation to build your case. This may include:

  • Gathering accident reports
  • Collecting medical records and bills
  • Interviewing witnesses
  • Analyzing photos and videos of the accident scene
  • Consulting with experts (e.g., accident reconstructionists, medical professionals)

A strong case requires strong evidence. An experienced personal injury attorney in Sacramento will ensure nothing is overlooked.


Step 3: Handling Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance adjusters can be frustrating—and sometimes even harmful to your case. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Your lawyer will take over all communication with insurers, making sure you don’t say anything that could be used against you.

A car accident lawyer will also negotiate aggressively on your behalf to secure a fair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer adequate compensation, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court.


Step 4: Negotiating a Settlement

Most personal injury cases are resolved through a settlement rather than a trial. Your lawyer will calculate the full extent of your damages, including:

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  •  Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  •  Property damage
  •  Emotional distress

They will then negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement. The best car accident lawyers in Sacramento know how to maximize compensation, ensuring you get the financial recovery you deserve.


Step 5: Litigation (If Necessary)

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your personal injury attorney in Sacramento will take the case to court. This involves:

  • Filing a lawsuit
  • Pre-trial discovery (gathering more evidence, depositions, etc.)
  • Court motions and hearings
  • Trial before a judge or jury

Although trials take longer, they can sometimes lead to higher payouts. Having an attorney with courtroom experience is essential if your case goes this route.


Why You Need a Skilled Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento

Handling a personal injury case alone can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with serious injuries. A qualified attorney takes the burden off your shoulders, ensuring you receive the best possible outcome.


At Frank Penney Injury Law, we have over 25 years of experience representing accident victims in California. We’ve successfully handled over 6,000 cases and recovered approximately $500 million for our clients. Recognized as the 2023 California Consumer Attorney of the Year, Frank Penney is dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured individuals.


If you’ve been hurt in an accident, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.


You Can Bank on Frank!




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Our legal team understands that life can be very stressful after an accident of any type. The financial costs of your accident can add to that stress. When you are asking for help, this should make your life easier – not more difficult. That is why you do not have to worry about any upfront legal fees and expenses when you hire Frank Penney Injury Lawyers to handle your California personal injury case.


At Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, Frank Penney and his staff work on a contingency basis. This means you only have to pay a fee if you win your case. We will never charge a fee unless we obtain a settlement on your behalf. No win. No fee. Case closed.


This means there is no risk in asking Frank Penney Injury Lawyers for help. You get to benefit from Frank Penney’s years of experience, knowledge, and success without needing to stress about the cost. Call today to set up a free initial case assessment or to learn more.

When I first contacted the Law Offices of Frank D. Penney after my accident, I was frustrated with car insurance companies, and medical insurance companies; after all, I was in pain. He and his staff put me at ease instantly! It was such a relief to have someone working on MY BEHALF! They were able to settle my case for more than I initially thought it was worth. THANKS AGAIN!!!


- KRISTA H.


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