Through media and other channels, lawsuits have been getting a bad reputation lately, and many people now have the perception that lawsuits are responsible for the country’s problems and ills. We would like to take a look at these myths, and debunk them. Myth: Number of lawsuits filed are rising quickly Fact: The number of personal injury cases resolved in US District Courts decreased by 79% between 1985 and 2003, or from 3,600 in 1985 to less than 800 in 2003. Myth: Insurance Rates are going up because of lawsuits Fact: Insurance companies are making record profits. In 2007, insurance companies reported a profit of $61.9 billion, up from $38.7 billion in 2004. As profits go up, premiums go up. Myth: Doctors are unable to practice, due to malpractice lawsuits Fact: Malpractice suits only make up less than 2% of overall healthcare spending, and according to the Government Accountability Office, malpractice cases have not widely affected access to healthcare. Finally, the overall number of physician has increased by more than 40% since 1990, which is outpacing the US population growth. Myth: Trial Attorneys charge hourly fees Fact: Most lawyers do not charge by the hour. There exists a 200-year-old charging system that is based on contingency fees. This allows people with limited financial means to obtain representation, and only pay a percentage of monetary damages recovered at the conclusion of a trial. The Simon Law Group handles medical malpractice, divorce, and other civil lawsuit cases. If you live in Phoenix and the East Valley, contact us today for your legal needs at any of the following numbers: (480) 745-2450 (602) 926-1212 (623) 321-5200]]>