Premises Liability: Protecting Your Rights with The Money Team Law Firm
When you’re injured on someone else’s property, it can be a life-changing experience. If your injury was caused by unsafe conditions or negligent property maintenance, you may be entitled to compensation under premises liability law.
At The Money Team Law Firm, our premises liability lawyers are dedicated to helping you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
We understand the emotional, physical, and financial toll an injury can take. Whether you were injured in a slip and fall accident, dog attack, or as a result of poor property maintenance, The Money Team Law Firm is here to fight for your rights and hold the responsible parties accountable.
What is Premises Liability?
Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners, managers, and occupiers responsible for injuries that occur on their property due to negligence or unsafe conditions. Property owners have a duty to maintain a safe environment for visitors, and when they fail in this duty, they can be held liable for any accidents or injuries that occur as a result.
In the context of premises liability law, the injured party may be entitled to compensation for physical injuries, emotional distress, medical bills, lost income, and other damages. At The Money Team Law Firm, our experienced premises liability attorneys can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process.
Common Types of Premises Liability Cases
There are several common types of premises liability claims that our attorneys handle, ranging from simple slip-and-fall accidents to more complex cases involving negligent security or dangerous property conditions. If you’ve been injured due to any of the following circumstances, you may have a premises liability claim:
Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common types of premises liability cases. These accidents often occur due to wet floors, uneven pavement, or obstacles left on walkways or in aisles. Property owners must take reasonable care to address hazards, such as spills, potholes, and cluttered pathways. If they fail to address these dangers or warn visitors of their presence, they can be held liable for the resulting injuries.
Inadequate Security
Inadequate security claims arise when a property owner fails to take appropriate measures to protect visitors from harm, such as theft, assault, or other criminal activity. Property owners are responsible for ensuring that their premises are adequately secured through measures like lighting, surveillance, and security personnel. If inadequate security led to an attack or injury, you may be entitled to compensation under premises liability law.
Dog Attacks
When an animal attacks or bites someone on a property, the property owner may be liable for the injuries caused. Dog bites can lead to severe injuries, infections, and emotional trauma. Property owners are expected to ensure that their pets are safely contained and that visitors are not put at risk of injury. If you’ve been attacked by a dog on someone else’s property, The Money Team Law Firm can help you pursue a claim for your injuries.
Swimming Pool Accidents
Swimming pool accidents can result in serious injuries, including drownings, falls, and other trauma. Property owners are responsible for maintaining a safe environment around their pools, including installing secure fencing, ensuring proper water treatment, and providing adequate supervision. If you or a loved one was injured in a pool-related accident due to negligent maintenance or safety measures, you may have a valid premises liability claim.
Inadequate Lighting
Poor lighting in public or private spaces can contribute to accidents, including slip and falls, as well as violent crimes. Property owners are responsible for ensuring that lighting is adequate for safety, especially in high-traffic areas such as parking lots, stairways, and hallways. If inadequate lighting led to your injury or an assault, The Money Team Law Firm can help you pursue a case.
Legal Responsibilities of Property Owners: Ensuring Safety and Accountability
Property owners are legally obligated to ensure that their premises are safe for visitors and others who may enter their property. This responsibility is known as the duty of care. If a property owner fails in their duty to provide a safe environment, they may be held legally responsible for any accidents or injuries that occur as a result of hazardous conditions.
The Money Team Law Firm understands the importance of holding property owners accountable when they fail to maintain safe premises. Our premises liability lawyers are dedicated to fighting for victims who have been injured due to the negligence of property owners or managers.
Below, we outline the key aspects of property owner responsibilities and how these duties are affected by the category of visitor on the property.
Duty of Care: Property Owners Must Ensure a Safe Environment
Property owners have a fundamental legal duty to ensure that their premises are reasonably safe for visitors. This includes identifying, correcting, and preventing potential hazards that could lead to accidents or injuries. To fulfill this duty of care, property owners must take reasonable steps, including but not limited to:
Regular Inspections
Property owners must regularly inspect their premises for potential hazards such as wet floors, damaged flooring, defective lighting, or poorly maintained equipment. These inspections should be frequent enough to identify any unsafe conditions that could lead to accidents.
Proper Maintenance
Maintaining safe conditions is a critical part of a property owner’s responsibilities. This includes ensuring that facilities such as elevators, staircases, and plumbing are in good working order. Regular maintenance helps prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures or wear and tear.
Addressing Hazards Promptly
When a hazard is identified, the property owner must take immediate action to either fix it or warn visitors about it. For example, if a spill is noticed in a grocery store aisle, the owner must clean it up immediately or place warning signs to prevent accidents. Failure to address hazards in a timely manner can lead to legal liability if someone is injured as a result.
When property owners fail to fulfill these responsibilities and an injury occurs as a result, the injured party may be entitled to compensation through a premises liability claim. At The Money Team Law Firm, we are committed to ensuring property owners are held accountable for negligence that causes harm to others.
Why It’s Important to Understand the Duty of Care in Your Case
The duty of care a property owner owes to a visitor is a critical factor in determining whether they are liable for an injury. Whether you were an invitee, a licensee, or a trespasser, understanding how the property owner’s responsibility impacts your case is key to recovering the compensation you deserve. At The Money Team Law Firm, our premises liability attorneys will assess the specifics of your case, determine the property owner’s duty of care in your situation, and guide you through the process of filing a claim.
Categories of Visitors: Different Levels of Duty Based on the Visitor’s Status
Property owners’ responsibilities vary depending on the status of the person entering their property. The level of duty owed to visitors is determined by whether they are considered an invitee, a licensee, or a trespasser. Let’s take a closer look at these categories:
Invitees: Highest Duty of Care
Invitees are individuals who enter a property for business purposes, such as customers in a store, clients at a professional office, or contractors working at a business facility. Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees. This means that owners must actively inspect the property to ensure it is free of hazards, and they must repair or warn of any dangers they find. Owners must also take steps to ensure the safety of invitees during their visit, which includes maintaining safe walkways, adequate lighting, and secure barriers to prevent falls or injuries.
If an invitee is injured due to the property owner’s negligence—such as a slip and fall due to wet floors in a store—the injured party can typically pursue a premises liability claim against the property owner for damages. As an invitee, the property owner’s failure to meet the highest standard of care can result in substantial liability.
Licensees: Duty to Warn of Known Dangers
Licensees are individuals who enter the property for social reasons or with the property owner’s consent, but not for business purposes. Examples of licensees include friends or family visiting a home. Property owners owe licensees a duty to warn of known dangers. While owners do not have to ensure the property is free of all hazards, they must inform licensees of any dangers that they are aware of and could cause harm.
For example, if the property owner knows that the deck of their house is unstable, they must warn guests about the risk of falling. Failure to do so could make the property owner liable for injuries that occur as a result of the dangerous condition. However, unlike invitees, property owners are not required to actively inspect the property for hidden hazards or maintain it in perfect condition for the safety of licensees.
Trespassers: Minimal Duty of Care
Trespassers are individuals who enter a property without permission. Property owners generally owe a minimal duty of care to trespassers, which typically means that they cannot intentionally harm or set traps for individuals on their property. However, if a property owner is aware that trespassers frequently enter their property—such as kids who often trespass on a vacant lot—they may have a legal duty to prevent dangerous conditions that could harm these trespassers.
In cases of trespassing, property owners are not generally responsible for the safety of individuals who enter without permission, but if a trespasser is injured because the owner intentionally created a dangerous condition or failed to address an obvious danger, the property owner may still be liable.
For example, if a property owner knows that a fence is broken and dangerous and that trespassers regularly enter, the property owner may be held accountable for any injuries that occur.
Proving the Property Owner’s Negligence
Once the duty of care is established, the next step is proving that the property owner failed in that duty, leading to your injury. This involves showing that the property owner was negligent in maintaining a safe environment. To do so, the following factors must be proven:
- The Owner Knew or Should Have Known About the Hazard: Property owners have a duty to regularly inspect their premises. If the owner was aware of a hazard, such as a wet floor, broken stairs, or broken lighting, and failed to fix it or warn visitors, they may be deemed negligent.
- The Owner Failed to Address the Hazard: Even if the owner knew about the dangerous condition, they must have taken steps to repair it or warn visitors. If the hazard was left unaddressed for an unreasonable period, this could establish negligence.
- The Hazard Directly Caused Your Injury: You must show that the hazard directly caused your injury. For example, if you slipped on a wet floor, you need to demonstrate that the wet floor was the primary cause of the fall and resulting injuries.
At The Money Team Law Firm, we have extensive experience gathering evidence, including accident reports, witness testimony, and medical records, to prove the property owner’s negligence in premises liability cases.
Documenting the Hazard and Injuries
One of the most important steps in filing a premises liability claim is documenting the hazardous condition and your injuries. The stronger the evidence, the more likely you are to win your case. Here’s how to collect documentation:
- Take Photos of the Hazard: Immediately take pictures of the hazardous condition that caused your injury, such as wet floors, broken equipment, or uneven pavement. The photographs should clearly show the hazard and any contributing factors.
- Gather Witness Information: If there were witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information. Witness testimony can be crucial in supporting your version of events.
- Keep Detailed Records: Keep a detailed record of any medical treatments you receive, including doctor visits, prescriptions, and surgeries. This will help establish the full extent of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life.
Filing Your Claim or Lawsuit
Once you have gathered sufficient evidence, the next step is to file a premises liability claim. You can either file a claim directly with the property owner’s insurance company or, in some cases, pursue a lawsuit if the owner’s insurance refuses to offer a fair settlement. Filing a claim typically involves:
- Notifying the Property Owner: If you have been injured, it is important to notify the property owner or manager as soon as possible about the incident. Most insurance policies require prompt notification.
- Dealing with the Insurance Company: Insurance companies may try to minimize the payout or deny liability. Working with an experienced premises liability lawyer can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If negotiations with the insurance company are unsuccessful or they deny liability, your attorney may recommend filing a premises liability lawsuit. In a lawsuit, the court will decide whether the property owner is responsible for your injuries and determine the amount of compensation you should receive.
At The Money Team Law Firm, our premises liability attorneys are skilled in negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, litigating cases in court. We will fight for your rights to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations
Each state has a statute of limitations that dictates how long you have to file a premises liability claim after an accident. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. It is essential to act quickly after an injury. At The Money Team Law Firm, we will ensure that all deadlines are met and that you have the best chance of securing a favorable outcome in your case.
The Role of Comparative Negligence
In some cases, the property owner may argue that you were partially at fault for your injury. Comparative negligence is a legal concept where your compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of fault attributed to you. For example, if you slipped but were not paying attention or were wearing inappropriate footwear, the court may reduce your compensation.
Our premises liability lawyers will work to minimize the percentage of fault assigned to you and maximize the compensation you receive.
Compensation and Damages: What You’re Entitled to After a Premises Liability Injury
If you’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to various types of compensation for your losses. At The Money Team Law Firm, we are committed to helping you secure the full compensation you deserve.
In premises liability cases, damages can be classified into three main categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.
Our premises liability lawyers will ensure that your case accounts for all the harm you’ve suffered, helping you recover financially and emotionally.
Economic Damages: Recovering for Tangible Losses
Economic damages are designed to compensate you for the direct, quantifiable losses you’ve suffered due to your injury. These damages include:
Medical Expenses
The cost of treating your injury can quickly add up, especially if you require surgery, long-term care, or rehabilitation. Economic damages include reimbursement for all medical expenses related to your injury, both current and future. This can also include the cost of prescription medications, hospital stays, and physical therapy.
Lost Wages
Injuries from premises liability accidents can prevent you from working, causing a loss of income. Whether you’re unable to work temporarily or permanently, lost wages can be significant. Economic damages ensure that you’re compensated for the time you’ve missed at work and any potential reduction in future earnings as a result of the injury.
Property Damage
If your personal property was damaged in the accident—such as a broken phone, laptop, or vehicle—you may be entitled to compensation for the repair or replacement costs. Property damage is an important part of economic damages, ensuring that you’re made whole for any losses.
Non-Economic Damages: Compensating for Intangible Losses
Non-economic damages are intended to compensate for the emotional and psychological toll of your injury. While these damages are not as easily quantifiable as economic damages, they are just as important. Types of non-economic damages include:
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering refers to the physical and emotional distress you’ve experienced due to the injury. This can include ongoing pain, the impact of medical treatments, and long-term physical limitations. It can also account for the mental anguish that results from dealing with an injury, such as anxiety, depression, and the fear of permanent disability. Pain and suffering damages are an essential part of ensuring that you are compensated for the full extent of your injury’s impact.
Emotional Distress
The emotional impact of an injury can be just as severe as the physical harm, and emotional distress damages address this aspect of your suffering. This can include feelings of fear, embarrassment, anger, or anxiety that you have experienced due to the accident. The emotional toll of being injured can affect your relationships, quality of life, and overall well-being, and it is important to be compensated for these intangible losses.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
If your injury has caused you to lose the ability to participate in activities that once brought you joy, such as hobbies, sports, or spending time with loved ones, you may be entitled to loss of enjoyment of life damages. This compensation accounts for the ways in which your injury has affected your ability to live your life as you once did.
Punitive Damages: Holding Wrongdoers Accountable
In cases where the defendant’s conduct is particularly egregious or reckless, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are intended to punish the defendant for their actions and deter others from engaging in similar behavior in the future. Punitive damages are not based on the harm you’ve suffered but rather on the defendant’s conduct, which must have been particularly willful or malicious.
For example, if the property owner’s actions were grossly negligent—such as failing to address a hazardous condition despite repeated warnings—punitive damages may be appropriate. These damages send a strong message that reckless behavior will not be tolerated and ensure that the responsible party is held fully accountable for their actions.
At The Money Team Law Firm, we will work tirelessly to pursue punitive damages when appropriate, ensuring that justice is served, and the wrongdoer is held accountable for their actions.
How The Money Team Law Firm Can Help Your Premises Liability Case
At The Money Team Law Firm, our premises liability lawyers are committed to ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Here’s how we can help with your premises liability case:
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
When you reach out to The Money Team Law Firm, we offer a free consultation to evaluate your case. Our team will listen to the details of your injury, investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident, and determine if you have a valid claim. We will provide you with honest, expert legal advice and explain your legal options.
Thorough Investigation and Evidence Gathering
We conduct a thorough investigation to identify the cause of your injury and gather evidence to support your claim. This may include collecting witness statements, reviewing security footage, documenting hazardous conditions, and consulting with experts. Our team works diligently to ensure that every detail of your case is properly documented.
Negotiation and Settlement
Our premises liability attorneys are skilled negotiators who work directly with insurance companies to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries. Insurance companies often attempt to offer lowball settlements, but with our help, you can ensure you are fairly compensated for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Litigation and Trial Representation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our personal injury attorneys have extensive experience litigating premises liability cases and are dedicated to fighting for the best possible outcome in court. Whether through settlement or trial, we will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
Maximizing Your Compensation
At The Money Team Law Firm, we fight to maximize your compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. This includes reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. If the property owner’s negligence was particularly egregious, we may also pursue punitive damages.
About The Money Team Law Firm
At The Money Team Law Firm, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others. With years of experience in handling personal injury and premises liability cases, our team of personal injury lawyers is committed to providing exceptional legal representation and personalized service to each and every client.
We understand that facing an injury can be overwhelming, both physically and financially. That’s why we work tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive the compensation they deserve. Whether you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, suffered from medical malpractice, or have been harmed due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, The Money Team Law Firm is here to support you.
Our premises liability attorneys have a proven track record of success in securing favorable outcomes for our clients. We take a compassionate approach to each case, offering guidance, support, and advocacy every step of the way. With The Money Team Law Firm by your side, you can trust that we’ll fight for your rights, protect your interests, and work tirelessly to help you recover financially, emotionally, and physically.
When you choose The Money Team Law Firm, you are choosing a team that truly cares about your future. We pride ourselves on our dedication, experience, and commitment to securing justice for those who need it most.
Why Choose The Money Team Law Firm?
- Proven Track Record: We have a history of successfully representing clients in premises liability cases and securing favorable results for our clients.
- Client-Focused Approach: At The Money Team Law Firm, we prioritize your needs and provide personalized legal representation throughout the process.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case. This ensures that you can pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal costs.
- Compassionate Legal Support: We understand the emotional and physical toll that an injury can take. Our team is here to provide you with the support you need during this difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Premises Liability and Personal Injury Claims
At The Money Team Law Firm, we understand that navigating a premises liability claim can be confusing and overwhelming. To help you better understand your rights, we’ve compiled answers to some frequently asked questions related to premises liability law. If you have additional questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced premises liability lawyers for a free consultation.
What is premises liability law, and how does it affect me?
Premises liability law refers to the legal responsibility property owners and occupiers have to maintain their property in a safe condition for visitors. This area of law applies when someone is injured due to the negligence of a property owner, such as a slip and fall or dog bite on unsafe premises. If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property due to their negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The Money Team Law Firm helps victims of these accidents recover damages and hold property owners accountable.
How do I know if I have a premises liability claim?
If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property, it’s important to determine if the property owner was negligent. Premises liability claims are typically based on the property owner’s failure to maintain a safe environment. If you were injured due to an unsafe condition, such as a wet floor, poorly lit areas, or faulty equipment, you may have a valid premises liability claim. Consulting with an experienced premises liability attorney will help you assess the circumstances of your injury and determine your legal options.
What types of accidents are covered under premises liability?
Accidents that happen due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property are commonly covered under premises liability. These can include slip and fall accidents, dog bites, falling objects, and inadequate security leading to crimes or assaults. If you were injured at a business, store, hotel, or other property due to negligent maintenance or unsafe conditions, you may be entitled to compensation. The Money Team Law Firm handles all types of premises liability cases, from common accidents to more complex situations involving poor property maintenance or inadequate warnings about dangerous conditions.
What do I need to prove in a premises liability case?
To win a premises liability case, you need to prove that the property owner had a legal duty to maintain safe conditions, that they failed in this duty, and that this failure directly caused your injury. Specifically, you need to show that the property owner either knew or should have known about the hazardous condition, failed to correct it or warn you, and that this negligence led to your injury. At The Money Team Law Firm, our premises liability lawyers will gather evidence, review medical records, and consult with experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
Can I still make a premises liability claim if I was partly at fault for the accident?
In many cases, even if you were partly at fault for your accident, you may still be able to pursue a premises liability claim under the principle of comparative negligence. In states with comparative negligence laws, the amount of compensation you receive may be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For example, if you slipped and fell due to a hazard but were also not paying attention, your damages might be reduced by your share of the fault. However, having an experienced premises liability attorney from The Money Team Law Firm on your side can help minimize any fault assigned to you and maximize your compensation.
How long do I have to file a premises liability lawsuit?
Each state has a statute of limitations that dictates how long you have to file a premises liability lawsuit. In most states, the statute of limitations is two to three years from the date of the injury. It is crucial to file your claim as soon as possible to avoid losing your right to seek compensation. The Money Team Law Firm can help you understand the statute of limitations in your state and ensure your case is filed in a timely manner.
What compensation can I receive from a premises liability claim?
If you are successful in a premises liability claim, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. This can include medical expenses, such as hospital bills, doctor visits, and therapy, as well as lost wages if your injury prevented you from working. Pain and suffering is another form of compensation for the physical and emotional distress you’ve endured. If the injury has impacted your quality of life, you may also be entitled to loss of enjoyment of life damages. In cases of egregious negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the property owner and deter future misconduct.
How do I prove a premises liability case?
Proving a premises liability case involves demonstrating that the property owner’s negligence led directly to your injury. This requires gathering evidence such as accident reports, photographs of the unsafe condition, witness statements, and medical records. Your premises liability attorney will help you collect and organize this evidence to strengthen your case. They may also consult with experts, such as safety engineers or medical professionals, to prove that the hazardous condition was the direct cause of your injury.
Should I hire a premises liability lawyer?
Hiring a premises liability lawyer is crucial to ensure that you receive fair compensation. Insurance companies often attempt to settle claims for less than they’re worth, but an experienced premises liability attorney from The Money Team Law Firm will negotiate on your behalf to secure a settlement that fully compensates you for your injuries. Additionally, if your case goes to trial, an experienced lawyer will provide the representation you need to fight for your rights in court.
What should I do if I am injured on someone else’s property?
If you are injured on someone else’s property, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Next, report the incident to the property owner or manager and ask for a written report of the event. Take photographs of the hazard that caused your injury, if possible, and collect contact information from any witnesses. Finally, contact an experienced premises liability lawyer from The Money Team Law Firm as soon as possible to discuss your options and begin building your case.
How much does it cost to hire a premises liability lawyer?
At The Money Team Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. We believe that everyone deserves access to experienced legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. Our premises liability attorneys will fight for your rights, and our fee will only come out of the compensation we recover for you.
Can I make a premises liability claim if the injury happened in a public place, such as a store or restaurant?
Yes, you can file a premises liability claim if you are injured in a public place, such as a store, restaurant, or mall. These types of businesses have a responsibility to ensure their premises are safe for customers. If you were injured due to hazardous conditions, such as a wet floor, faulty equipment, or poorly maintained walkways, the property owner or business may be liable for your injuries. At The Money Team Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling premises liability claims in public places and will help you navigate the legal process to get the compensation you deserve.
Resources from The Money Team Law Firm: Your Guide to Premises Liability and Personal Injury Claims
At The Money Team Law Firm, we are committed to providing valuable information to help you understand your rights and options regarding premises liability. Below are some insightful blog posts that address common questions and concerns:
How Do You Prove Premises Liability?
Learn about the essential components of proving a premises liability claim, including the duty of care owed by property owners and the steps to establish negligence.
5 Most Common Premises Liability Claim Types You Should Know About
Explore the most common types of premises liability claims, such as slip and fall accidents, inadequate security, and defective conditions, and understand how they can impact your case.
Contact The Money Team Law Firm Today – We’re Here to Fight for Your Rights!
If you’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation on your side. At The Money Team Law Firm, our premises liability attorneys are dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you deserve and hold negligent property owners accountable.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that an injury can take, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
When you choose The Money Team Law Firm, you can trust that our skilled legal team will handle your case with the care and dedication it deserves. We’ll work tirelessly to gather evidence, build a strong case, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. If necessary, we’ll take your case to court to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. During your consultation, we’ll assess the details of your case, explain your legal options, and provide you with the guidance you need to make informed decisions.
You don’t have to face this challenging journey alone—The Money Team Law Firm is here to fight for you, so you can focus on healing and recovery.
Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders—we’re here to help you win your case!