FAQs
What should I do after a car accident?
Seek medical attention first, then document the scene with photos and gather witness information. Contact law enforcement and avoid admitting fault to insurance companies before consulting an attorney.How long do I have to file a personal injury claim?
In Louisiana, you typically have one year from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Acting quickly preserves evidence and witness testimony for your case.Can I get custody if I have a criminal record?
Yes, having a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify you from custody. Courts consider the nature of charges, rehabilitation efforts, and what's in the child's best interests.What's the difference between a felony and misdemeanor?
Felonies are serious crimes punishable by more than one year in prison, while misdemeanors carry lighter sentences. Felony convictions have longer-lasting consequences on employment and rights.How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost?
Legal fees vary based on case complexity and charges involved. Many attorneys offer payment plans and free consultations to discuss your specific situation and fee structure.When should I hire a divorce attorney?
Consider hiring an attorney when you're contemplating divorce, especially if children or significant assets are involved. Early consultation helps protect your interests throughout the process.What evidence helps in nursing home neglect cases?
Medical records, photographs of injuries or conditions, witness statements, and facility inspection reports strengthen your case. Document everything and keep detailed records of incidents.Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in Louisiana?
You can refuse, but Louisiana's implied consent law means automatic license suspension. Refusal may help your criminal case but creates immediate administrative consequences.How is child support calculated in Louisiana?
Louisiana uses income-based guidelines considering both parents' earnings and the number of children. Courts may adjust for health insurance, childcare costs, and special circumstances.What makes a strong personal injury case?
Clear liability, documented injuries, medical treatment records, and provable damages create strong cases. Witness testimony and expert opinions further support your claim for compensation.Does The Law Office of Dhu Thompson offer free consultations for personal injury cases?
Yes, initial consultations are free for personal injury cases. To make the most of your meeting, bring any accident reports, medical records, photos of injuries or the scene, and insurance correspondence you have received so far.Do I have to pay upfront to hire a personal injury lawyer in Shreveport?
No upfront payment is required to hire a personal injury lawyer here. The firm works on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases, meaning you owe nothing unless compensation is recovered on your behalf.What sets a top-rated personal injury lawyer in Shreveport apart from other firms?
A top-rated personal injury attorney combines deep case experience, prompt responses to client questions, and a clear fee structure with no out-of-pocket costs unless you win. Local knowledge of Louisiana courts and a track record across a range of injury case types are also strong indicators of quality representation.What is the process for getting a divorce in Louisiana?
Louisiana requires spouses to live separately for 180 days before a no-fault divorce is finalized, or 365 days if the couple has minor children. Contested divorces involving property division, custody, or spousal support take significantly longer. An attorney can help protect your rights under Louisiana's community property laws and pursue the best outcome for your situation.Is Louisiana a community property state, and how does that affect my divorce?
Yes, Louisiana is a community property state, meaning most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are typically split equally between spouses. This can significantly affect the outcome of property division in a divorce, particularly for real estate, retirement accounts, and shared business interests.What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce in Shreveport?
An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on all terms — including property, custody, and support — allowing the process to move faster and at lower cost. A contested divorce requires court intervention to resolve disputes, which extends the timeline and increases complexity, making experienced legal representation especially important.Do I have to pay anything upfront if I hire a personal injury lawyer in Shreveport?
No, hiring a personal injury lawyer in Shreveport typically costs nothing upfront — attorneys in this area work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless your case is won or settled. This arrangement lets injured clients pursue full compensation without any out-of-pocket risk.Can I sue after an 18-wheeler or commercial truck accident in Louisiana?
Yes, you can pursue a lawsuit after a commercial truck accident in Louisiana. These cases are more complex than standard car accidents because they involve federal trucking regulations and often multiple liable parties, such as the driver, the trucking company, and cargo loaders. An attorney experienced in commercial trucking cases can identify every source of liability on your behalf.
