When you’ve been injured in an accident, speaking with a personal injury lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take toward protecting your rights and pursuing compensation. However, what you say, and what you don’t say, can significantly impact your case. Many accident victims make the mistake of withholding information, downplaying their injuries, or making statements that may harm their credibility.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we’ve represented countless clients in Chicago and across Illinois who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence. Our experienced attorneys understand that communication is the foundation of a strong attorney-client relationship. The more transparent you are with your lawyer, the more effectively we can build your case, protect your interests, and secure the compensation you deserve. Continue reading

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