Caller: “Yes, I need an attorney for my grandson. He was arrested for stealing a car.”
Me: “Okay, can you give me details?”
Caller: “Yes, he was at the bar and after he decided to leave, he got in the wrong car and left with it. He didn’t mean to do it. He was just confused.”
Caller:*on the phone* “My father-in-law was hit by a car while riding his bike. I need to get some advice about what he should do.”
Me: “Was he injured?”
Caller: “Yeah. I mean, he’s conscious and stuff, but he’s bleeding and in pain.”
Me: “When did this happen?”
Caller: “About five minutes ago. Can we sue the guy?”
Me: “I’m sorry, did you say this JUST happened? Have you called the police and ambulance?”
Caller: “No, that’s why I called you. I need to know what to do.”
Me: “Hang up and call 911!”
Caller: “Really? So we should take him to the doctor even though he doesn’t have medical insurance? Who’s going to pay for it if he dies? I can’t be responsible for that!”
(Sirens are heard in the background.)
Caller: “Oh, no, someone must have called, because a firetruck just pulled up… Am I going to have to pay for this?”
Me: “Sir, please deal with his injuries and make sure he’s taken to the hospital. You can call us back after he’s been treated if you need to and we’d be happy to explain how to get the bills paid. Right now you need to worry about him.”
Caller: “I ain’t doin’ anything ’til I know who’s gonna pay for this. I shouldn’t be stuck with this!”
Me: “In all likelihood, the insurance company for the driver who hit him will pay his medical bills.”
Caller: “I’m calling them, then…” *aside in background* “Don’t go messing with him; I gotta find out who’s paying for this before you go taking him anywhere!” *hangs up*
Did you find this story using our Emergency Services roundup?
Caller: “I’m calling about the court date tomorrow. Do I have to appear there?”
Me: “Well… I see from the file that you are the defendant, while we represent the plaintiff. Did I get that right?”
Caller: “Yes. Do I have to appear there?”
Me: “You do realize that you are talking to your opponent’s lawyer?”
Caller: “Yes.”
Me: “Well, okay. You don’t really have to appear. If you don’t appear in court, you’ll lose the case, though, because you’re not represented by anybody else.”
Caller: “So, I don’t have to appear there?”
Me: “No, not in the strict sense of the word ‘have to.’ But you do realize that you are calling the opposite lawyer, don’t you?”
