Shelton, WA asked in Insurance Bad Faith and Personal Injury for Washington

Q: Can an attorney act interested in your case, but really be working for an insurance adjsuter to get information?

A friend received a phone call from a law firm after 8 months from the date of the accident, which many attorneys have not wanted to represent this person simply due to the fact that there were no physical injuries, but a diagnosis of PTSD, depression and anxiety as a result of a near death or severe injury DUI accident & the fact that it is difficult to win a PTSD case. One would assume that an attorney with some sense would not try to jump into a case 8 months after the accident for the reasons stated above. The insurance co has delayed settling the claim. I am concerned that the adjuster is using any and all tactics to deny the claim or delaying it even longer & has possibly asked an attorney, who contacted my friend, to act interested in the case, in order to obtain info to later deny or continue to delay the claim in order to get info from my friend. Seems odd this firm has not confirmed they will be representing my friend, but continues to communicate w/ her about the case.

1 Lawyer Answer

A: A Washington attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for two weeks. I'm sorry for your friend's traumatic experience from the accident. It would be best for your friend to confirm with a law firm, whether it's this one or another one, if they are representing your friend. A signed retainer that formalizes representation would eliminate any misunderstanding as to whether there is an actual attorney-client relationship. Good luck

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