When people think of personal injury claims involving knee injuries or shoulder injuries, they often envision torn ligaments, fractured bones, surgeries, physical therapy, and permanent limitations. What’s less visible but just as real (sometimes more debilitating) is the psychological harm that can accompany traumatic physical injury. Among the psychological consequences, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one that plaintiffs and their attorneys increasingly recognize, and, under the right facts and with appropriate evidence, can seek to recover as part of the damage package. Continue reading

Nighttime pedestrian accidents are a persistent and deadly problem in Chicago. When streets are poorly lit, pedestrians are far harder for drivers to see, crosswalks and sidewalks become hazard zones, and split-second decisions turn into life-changing injuries or fatalities. In this blog, we explain how inadequate lighting contributes to nighttime pedestrian crashes, summarize recent Chicago and Illinois data, review research on lighting as a safety countermeasure, and outline practical steps pedestrians can take to reduce risk. Continue reading

Jury trials in personal injury cases can be unpredictable, but certain factors consistently lead juries to award higher verdicts. Whether it’s the severity of injuries, the defendant’s conduct, or the quality of legal representation, understanding these reasons can shed light on what motivates jurors to side with plaintiffs and award substantial damages.

At John J. Malm & Associates, with offices in Naperville and St. Charles, our award-winning team leverages decades of litigation experience to achieve justice for our clients. This blog explores the top seven reasons juries decide to award higher verdicts in personal injury cases and explains how damages are calculated. Continue reading

Understanding the differences between a concussion and a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is crucial for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management. Although both conditions involve brain injury, they differ in severity, symptoms, and long-term effects. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1.5 million Americans suffer from a TBI each year, with concussions making up a significant portion of these cases. Continue reading

When a minor is injured in an accident, the legal process becomes more complex, particularly when it involves the management of settlement funds. In Illinois, courts often require the appointment of a Guardian of the Estate to oversee and manage any settlement proceeds on behalf of a minor. This legal guardian is responsible for handling the minor’s financial interests and ensuring the settlement funds are used in a way that benefits the child, both immediately and in the future. At John J. Malm & Associates, we assist families in navigating this process to ensure that their child’s best interests are protected and that any settlement funds are handled responsibly.

What is a Guardian of the Estate?

A Guardian of the Estate is a court-appointed adult, often a parent or a trusted family member, who is given the legal authority to manage the financial affairs of a minor. In the context of a personal injury settlement, a Guardian of the Estate is appointed to manage the settlement funds on behalf of the minor. This differs from a guardian ad litem, who is appointed to represent the minor’s interests in legal proceedings; a Guardian of the Estate specifically handles the financial aspects after a settlement is awarded.

Filing a personal injury lawsuit is the first step in seeking compensation for injuries resulting from incidents like car accidents, truck accidents, slip and falls, nursing home negligence, dog bites, product liability, wrongful death, or medical malpractice. The process can seem complex, but understanding what to expect helps manage stress and ensure you’re prepared.

This guide will walk you through the key stages of filing a personal injury lawsuit in Illinois, from filing a complaint to navigating settlement negotiations or going to trial. Whether you’ve suffered from a motor vehicle accident or nursing home neglect, this information will empower you throughout your case. Continue reading

Filing a personal injury claim after an accident is a critical step toward securing the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. However, the process can be complex, and even small mistakes can jeopardize your case.

At John J. Malm & Associates, our top-rated personal injury lawyers bring over 90 years of combined litigation experience to personal injury cases, helping clients navigate the legal system and avoid costly pitfalls. With offices in Naperville and St. Charles, our award-winning team has recovered millions for injured clients across Illinois. In this blog, we’ll highlight common mistakes people make when filing a personal injury claim and how to avoid them. Continue reading

Maximizing compensation in a personal injury case is crucial for ensuring that you are fully compensated for the damages you have suffered. Whether you have been involved in a car accident, slip and fall, or dog bite, the following strategies can help you navigate the complexities of Illinois personal injury law and maximize your financial recovery. Below, we explore how to build a strong case, document damages effectively, and negotiate assertively to ensure fair compensation. Continue reading

A personal injury case in Illinois involves a legal dispute where one party suffers harm due to the negligence or intentional actions of another. Illinois law provides the framework for plaintiffs to recover compensation for injuries sustained in incidents like car accidents, slip and falls, dog bites, and wrongful death claims. Personal injury cases aim to provide financial recovery for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Continue reading