Kansas Traumatic Brain Injury Attorneys
Meet Our Dedicated TBI Attorneys
Navigating the complex legal landscape of traumatic brain injuries can be daunting, which is why it's crucial to have the right team by your side. At SRC Law Group, our team of expert attorneys, Phil Stein, Adam Chingren, and Ashley E. Repp, combine their extensive experience, expertise, and dedication to fight for justice for our clients.
Founding attorney Phil Stein has a distinguished career that spans over a decade in the intricate field of criminal defense. His journey commenced with handling serious and complex criminal matters as both a prosecutor and defense attorney, equipping him with an invaluable skill set. Phil's experience as an Assistant District Attorney in the Sex Crimes Division bestowed upon him an exceptional proficiency in analyzing forensic evidence such as DNA, toxicology, and computer/phone forensics, a critical asset in TBI cases.
Phil’s legal acumen extends beyond prosecution. He spent a significant part of his career with a well-respected defense firm, managing a vast spectrum of city, state, and federal criminal matters. As a defense attorney, Phil tirelessly represented clients across Kansas and Missouri, handling cases from DUIs to homicides. This extensive trial experience assures you that Phil's aggressive defense strategies are backed by experience, expertise, and a proven track record, making him a reliable choice for your TBI case.
Another founding attorney of SRC Law Group, Adam Chingren, brings to the table an unmatched passion for justice and a comprehensive understanding of both civil litigation and criminal law. His legal journey began in civil litigation, focusing on family law, before transitioning to the Office of the Public Defender in Johnson County, Kansas. Here, Adam worked on over 500 felony cases, enriching his expertise and practical knowledge of the criminal justice system.
With multiple successful trial experiences under his belt, Adam's robust skills extend to arguing cases both in District court and before the Kansas Court of Appeals. His nationally recognized expertise, as demonstrated by his awards from the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys, fortifies his reputation as a reliable and authoritative legal ally in your TBI case. His experience with various criminal cases, including those involving TBIs, positions him to handle the complexities of your case with both expertise and assertiveness.
Ashley E. Repp, a founding criminal defense attorney at SRC Law Group, is known for her dedication to her clients and her determination to bring them justice. Ashley’s career began as an assistant prosecutor, where she specialized in DWI/DUI cases and sex-related offenses. She later transferred to focus on crimes against children, during which time she became a certified forensic interviewer. This unique background gives her an edge in understanding and defending cases involving trauma, such as TBIs.
Ashley’s career trajectory from prosecuting DWI/DUI, sex-related offenses, and even multiple homicide cases, to defense attorney, showcases her wide-ranging experience in the field of criminal law. Her hardworking and driven approach, combined with her dedication to each case, make her a trustworthy and authoritative attorney for your TBI case. Ashley's individualized approach to each case, bolstered by her experience, assures you of a tailored strategy to fight for your rights.
At SRC Law Group, we bring together the expertise, experience, and trustworthiness of our attorneys to provide you with the strongest possible representation in your TBI case.
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Recognizing the Signs of Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most severe types of injuries that individuals can sustain, often resulting in profound and lasting impacts on a person's life. These injuries can occur from a variety of incidents, such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, or any incident involving a forceful blow or jolt to the head.
Recognizing the signs of a TBI is a critical step towards obtaining the necessary medical treatment and legal assistance. While symptoms can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury, there are common signs to be aware of.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms often appear immediately after the incident or gradually over several hours or days. These can include persistent headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, difficulty balancing, and sensitivity to light or sound. More severe cases may involve seizures, dilated pupils, loss of coordination, or unconsciousness.
Cognitive and Sensory Symptoms
TBIs can also impact cognitive and sensory abilities. Victims might experience memory or concentration problems, mood swings, or feelings of depression or anxiety. Sensory symptoms can involve blurred vision, ringing in the ears, a bad taste in the mouth, changes in the ability to smell, or sensitivity to light or sound.
Speech and Language Symptoms
Language and speech can also be affected by TBIs. This could manifest as slurred speech, difficulty swallowing or chewing, or trouble finding the right words when speaking or writing.
Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms
TBIs often result in emotional or behavioral changes, which can be confusing for both the victim and their loved ones. These changes can include mood swings, depression, anxiety, irritability, changes in sleeping patterns, and even personality changes.
Symptoms might not appear immediately
It's important to note that these symptoms might not appear immediately after the incident but could emerge days or even weeks later. Hence, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention after any accident, even if you initially feel fine.
Once you have sought medical attention, it's vital to consult with an experienced brain injury attorney. They can help you understand your legal rights, guide you through the legal process, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and associated costs.
At SRC Law Group, we understand the complexity and severity of traumatic brain injuries. Our team is ready to guide you through each step of your journey, providing you with the support and expertise you need during this challenging time.
Statutes of Limitations for TBI Cases in Kansas
When dealing with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in Kansas, it's crucial to understand the legal timeframes that can impact your ability to pursue compensation. In Kansas, like in many other states, the law sets a specific period, known as the statute of limitations, within which you must initiate a personal injury lawsuit. This statute serves to ensure the integrity of evidence, witness accounts, and overall fairness in litigation.
For personal injury cases, including those involving TBIs, the statute of limitations in Kansas is generally two years. This means that from the date of the injury, you have two years to file a lawsuit against the party or parties responsible for your injury. If you fail to initiate legal action within this timeframe, your case will most likely be dismissed by the courts, barring very few exceptions.
Special Considerations for TBI Cases Stemming from Medical Malpractice
However, if your TBI has resulted from medical malpractice, such as surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or other medical negligence, the timeframe is slightly different. In such cases, the statute of limitations is also generally two years, but it starts from the date when the malpractice was or should have been discovered. This aspect recognizes that victims may not be immediately aware of medical malpractice.
Filing Claims Against Government Entities in Kansas: Special Timelines
Moreover, when it comes to claims against government entities or employees in Kansas, a different timeline applies. For such cases, a formal claim must be filed with the appropriate governmental agency within a year of the injury. If the claim is denied, a lawsuit can then be initiated within 90 days of the denial notice.
While these timeframes provide a general guideline, it's crucial to remember that every TBI case is unique. Various factors, such as the victim's age or the nature of the injury, can potentially affect the applicable statute of limitations. Therefore, it's always recommended to seek prompt legal advice when dealing with TBIs to ensure that you protect your right to compensation.
Understanding the Medical and Legal Implications of Diverse Traumatic Brain Injuries
TBIs can present themselves in a variety of forms, from mild concussions to severe injuries that could lead to permanent disability or even death. They are often a result of different types of accidents, including vehicular accidents, falls, workplace accidents, or acts of violence. Each case has its own unique set of circumstances, requiring an intricate understanding of both the medical and legal implications.
Our attorneys have developed a strong foundation in understanding the medical aspect of these injuries, including the analysis of diverse forms of forensic evidence such as DNA, toxicology, and computer/phone forensics. This knowledge aids in comprehending the severity of the injury, the prognosis, and the long-term implications for the victim, which are essential elements in building a compelling case.
Establishing Negligence and Pursuing Justice in TBI Cases
From a legal standpoint, TBIs often involve complex issues around determining fault and proving negligence. These cases require meticulous investigation, gathering and presenting of evidence, and effective negotiation with insurance companies. The ability to demonstrate convincingly the link between the negligent act and the TBI is vital for a successful outcome.
Attorney Phil Stein's vast trial experience and profound understanding of forensic evidence, combined with Attorney Adam Chingren's extensive criminal case expertise and recognized skill in court advocacy, and Attorney Ashley E. Repp’s specific focus on cases involving trauma, ensures a robust representation for TBI victims.
Personalized Legal Strategy and Relentless Advocacy for TBI Victims
We, at SRC Law Group, leverage our collective expertise to unravel the complexities of these cases, gathering and analyzing the critical evidence, liaising with medical professionals, and developing a strong case strategy. We are adept at tackling insurance companies and fighting relentlessly to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
We understand that every TBI case is unique and requires a tailored approach. We take the time to understand your situation, offer personalized advice, and formulate a legal strategy best suited to your circumstances. With SRC Law Group by your side, you can be assured that your TBI case will be handled with the utmost care, professionalism, and diligence, maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.
Recovering Maximum Compensation for Victims
Medical Bills
Lost Wages
Emotional Trauma
Lastly, we acknowledge the emotional trauma and the less tangible consequences of a TBI. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment in life – these are real damages that might not have a direct monetary equivalent but are crucial elements of your compensation. These so-called non-economic damages can be hard to quantify, but our experienced attorneys have the expertise to effectively calculate and present these damages to ensure they are recognized and adequately compensated.
When you entrust your TBI case to SRC Law Group, you're not just getting legal representation - you're gaining allies who will tirelessly fight for your rights. We are committed to recovering the maximum compensation you deserve, not only for the immediate expenses but also for the long-term costs of your recovery journey. Allow us to shoulder your legal burdens, so you can focus on the most important task – your healing and rehabilitation.
Understanding the Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
1. Mild Traumatic Brain Injury or Concussion:
2. Moderate to Severe TBI:
3. Closed Head Injuries:
4. Open or Penetrating Head Injuries:
5. Diffuse Axonal Injuries (DAI):
6. Coup-Contrecoup Injuries:
These injuries occur when the force impacting the head is strong enough not only to cause a contusion at the site of impact, but also on the directly opposite side of the brain. This happens when the impact causes the brain to move within the skull, striking the opposite side.
As experienced TBI lawyers, we understand the nuances of these different types of injuries and their potential long-term implications. With a deep understanding of the medical, personal, and legal aspects of TBI cases, the SRC Law Group is uniquely positioned to advocate for victims effectively. Whether your TBI was due to a fall, a car accident, or another form of negligence, we will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Facing the Long-term Costs of Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a significant health concern that go far beyond the immediate aftermath of the injury. The impact of a TBI can last a lifetime, with survivors often facing a daunting array of medical, personal, and financial challenges. At SRC Law Group, we are well aware of these long-term costs and we're here to guide you every step of the way.
The immediate medical treatment of a traumatic brain injury can be overwhelming and expensive, but it's only the tip of the iceberg. Long-term, ongoing medical care is often required, which may include
- physical therapy,
- speech therapy,
- psychological support,
- and regular check-ups.
Medications and Medical Devices
Rehabilitation
Lifelong Care
Potential Loss of Earning Capacity
Quality of Life
Moreover, there's the decreased quality of life to consider. TBIs can result in emotional distress, loss of enjoyment in previously loved activities, and strained relationships. These non-economic damages, while harder to quantify, are just as real and significant as any other costs associated with TBIs.
At SRC Law Group, we work tirelessly to gather all necessary evidence, consult with medical experts, and employ our extensive legal expertise to build a compelling case. Our goal is to recover the maximum compensation you deserve to cover your medical expenses, loss of income, rehabilitation costs, and the impact on your quality of life.
We believe in fighting for justice for our clients, and that means accounting for both the immediate and long-term costs of your brain injury.
When the Negligent Party is at Fault
Navigating a traumatic brain injury case is complex, and the process becomes even more complicated when the injury is a result of someone else's negligent or reckless actions. At SRC Law Group, we specialize in handling such cases, leveraging our deep understanding of the law and our robust experience to guide you through this intricate process.
If your TBI was caused by someone else's negligence - be it a careless driver, an irresponsible property owner, or a medical professional's malpractice - it's critical to recognize the legal path you'll need to follow to secure justice and compensation.
Conducting a Thorough Investigation
dealing with Insurance Companies
Take Your Case to Trial
Securing Compensation
Remember, it's not just about receiving compensation for the medical expenses you've already incurred. We also fight to secure compensation for any future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, loss of income, pain and suffering, and other long-term effects of your injury.
At SRC Law Group, our commitment is unwavering – to support you in this challenging journey, to keep your best interests at heart, and to work relentlessly towards securing the maximum compensation for your traumatic brain injury. We stand by you, advocating for your rights and ensuring that the negligent parties are held accountable for their actions.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are often more concerned with their bottom line than providing the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys, with their extensive experience in negotiations, will tirelessly advocate for you, ensuring you are not short-changed in the settlement process.
At SRC Law Group, we are more than just your legal representatives. We are your allies, your advocates, and your partners in the fight for justice. If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, contact us today for a free consultation. Let our experience and dedication work for you.