Aggressively Advocating For You In Matters Surrounding Insurance Mediation, Appraisal And Litigation
For more than 30 years, Saavedra-Goodwin has represented policyholders in insurance matters. Our team strategizes the best means of recovering the maximum possible compensation for property damage claims. Depending upon the facts of your case, our Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach property damage lawyers may suggest mediation to reach a fair settlement with the insurer. If the insurer does not agree to your rightful compensation, our attorneys may pursue an award through binding appraisal instead. We may also advise you to take your case to trial in certain circumstances.
Benefits Of Mediating Insurance Claims
Your insurance policy may require you to first attempt a settlement through mediation. Even if your contract does not specifically mandate this dispute resolution method, you may benefit from mediation in several ways, including:
- Lower costs – Reaching a settlement through mediation typically costs less than bringing a case to trial. Mediation saves you the costs of discovery, attorneys’ fees and other litigation expenses.
- Timing – Trial preparation and litigation can take months, or in more complex cases, years to complete. Mediation usually occurs during one or several sessions that can be conducted more expeditiously. This means you receive the funds to put your business on track or make needed repairs to your home sooner than if you litigate your claim.
- Predictability – Our attorneys advise you on the value of your claim and develop a mediation strategy to reach a fair settlement under your policy.
- Confidentiality – You may have a business reason for keeping your claim’s award or the facts surrounding the property damage confidential. Both parties can agree to keep the mediation proceedings and results confidential.
Insurance Appraisal
Appraisal is a process in which the policyholder and the insurer each retain an appraiser/advocate. The chosen appraisers then mutually select a neutral third appraiser who makes a binding determination as to the value of your loss. An appraisal can usually be set much sooner than a trial and the proceedings are conducted more expeditiously. Hence, appraisal may be a positive choice for recovering your benefits. Also, you may have an appraisal clause in your insurance contract that requires use of this binding dispute resolution technique for certain disputes.
Litigation Of Insurance Disputes
If we believe it is in your best interests, we recommend litigation to recover a judgment against the insurer. Our trial attorneys have substantial courtroom experience and take a strategic approach to litigation. In the past, we have defended insurance companies and can therefore view the process from the insurer’s perspective. Our lawyers remain mindful of the costs and time of litigation to you and your company and take appropriate steps to minimize interference with your business operations until the conclusion of your claim.
Know Your Options For Recovering Compensation From Your Insurance Company
Saavedra-Goodwin advises on whether to mediate, engage in appraisal or litigate your claim. Our Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach property damage lawyers have the extensive experience to make strategic decisions in your case. Schedule a consultation about your insurance claim by calling (954) 928-9568 or contacting our firm online.