Barratry and Illegal Solicitation
If you or somebody you know has recently been involved in a car crash then you already know that the experience can be stressful. Unfortunately some attorneys use unethical tactics to acquire contact information of victims. Known as "runners," "solicitors," or "ambulance chasers," these individuals are looking to make money by reselling your case. This unsolicited contact is called Barratry which is illegal and unethical.
How to Spot Barratry
Oftentimes the soliciting law firm will not contact you directly but will act through third parties and unaffiliated "runners" who try to get you signed up. Often they will represent themselves as being from an insurance company.
Some examples of barratry/solicitation include:
- Soliciting employment by phone (text or call) or in person
- Accepting payment for soliciting employment (case runners)
- Paying or offering to pay victims or family members to solicit employment
- Offering an advance payment on a potential verdict or settlement
- Filing suit on behalf of a client without their knowledge or permission
- Coercing or exerting undue influence on a potential client
If you do receive unsolicited calls after a car crash, be cautious about the information you give out, and do not sign any documents without knowing what they are first. Often times these documents will come in the form of text links directing you to a form that can be signed right from your cell phone where it is often difficult to read or understand.
Statutory Fines of $10,000.
If someone reaches out to you that you have not contacted first this might be grounds for barratry. You might be entitled to a $10,000 statutory penalty plus attorneys fees. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to us at any time.
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