Signals that a lawyer changes the outcome
Treatment beyond a single visit. Ongoing care means a claim with future costs, and early offers rarely account for them.
A fault dispute. Arizona follows pure comparative negligence — partial fault reduces a claim by percentage and doesn't end it — and the percentage is argued with evidence that has to be preserved early.
A government entity. Claims against a city, county, or the state require a notice of claim within 180 days, far sooner than the general two-year deadline.
Coverage questions. Arizona insurers must offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. When the responsible party can't pay, your own policy may be the recovery.
When handling it yourself is fine
Minor injury, fully resolved, undisputed fault, and an offer that covers the documented expenses. Keeping copies and reading the release before signing is the main work.
What it costs
Contingency: nothing upfront, nothing hourly, and a percentage of the recovery only if there is one. The written agreement is the version that matters.
Where to go from here
Our practice areas page covers the case types we handle, and there's a full guide on how to choose a personal injury attorney in Phoenix. A free consultation is available any hour — in English or Spanish. (602) 217-0000.