Joe from Hazelton asks, “How does an insurance company come up with a settlement value?” Hi, I’m Mark Powell, a Scranton attorney – Legally Speaking. These days, insurance companies rely almost exclusively on computer programs to evaluate damages in personal injury actions. These programs rely on statistical data on what other cases have settled for […]
Jim from North Scranton asks, “Why do lawyers object at trial?” Lawyers object to inadmissible evidence. Inadmissible evidence is evidence that would confuse or mislead a jury, or evidence that simply isn’t relevant to the case at hand. Judges have to act as gatekeepers to determine what evidence is admissible and properly presented to a […]
Jackie from Scotrun asks, “What is hearsay?” By definition, hearsay is an out-of-court statement offered for the truth of the matter asserted. Rules of evidence are going to prevent statements from declarants who are not in court. There are books written on hearsay and the exemptions that apply. There are over 30 exceptions that will […]
Kevin from Throop asks, “Can you receive Workers’ Compensation benefits for scarring?” The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act provides money for disfigurement if the scar appears on your face or on your neck. Unfortunately, other types of scarring, which often can be the source of embarrassment, such as scarring on your arm, legs or stomach, is […]
Patty from Green Ridge asks, “What is a deposition?” Simply stated, a deposition is someone’s testimony taken before trial. Depositions can be used for discovery to find out what someone is going to say before they testify at trial, or it can be used to preserve and present testimony at a future date. Depositions are […]
