E. Carter Corriston, Sr.
Plaintiffs' Personal Injury Law - Hackensack, NJ

It's a good thing I got started in trial law when I did, because it's much more difficult to become an experienced trial lawyer nowadays. The plain fact is there are fewer opportunities now to try cases. Cases are simply getting too expensive to bring to court. When I started it might have cost a firm $1,000.00 to prepare a case - now that number is up to $50,000, or even $100,000. The risks are huge for the client, and for the firm representing the client. It also means that the younger lawyers aren't getting the courtroom experience they should. That doesn't mean you shouldn't bring a meritorious claim. It simply means that it's less likely that you will get to a full-blown trial. A negotiated settlement is more likely.

No good lawyer worth his salt is going to put a value on a case at its beginning when the client's future recovery cannot yet be determined, especially when we haven't gathered such facts through discovery to properly assess the case. In a personal injury case, much will depend on the nature and permanency of the injury. Another determining factor as to value may be the ability of the defendant to satisfy the judgment.

In fact, discovery is the key to success in virtually all cases. The more we learn in the discovery process, the more solid a case we can prepare. And if you come prepared, the other side should be ready for a fight.

Everyone who considers hiring a lawyer to bring a lawsuit should know this: You become partners with your attorney, and that partnership is a long-lasting and important part of the success of your case.

I love practicing law, and I'm fortunate that my sons have chosen to follow me into the field. It's very rewarding to practice with them. There are not many firms around with the history and reputation of Breslin and Breslin. We've been practicing accident law longer than any other firm in our area. That's very gratifying because it makes a big difference for our clients.

E. Carter Corriston, Sr.
"You become partners with your attorney, and that partnership is a long-lasting and important part of the success of your case."