Why You Should Never Sign Anything Without Talking to Your Lawyer First

After an accident or traumatic event, it’s natural to want to get things over with. You might be contacted by an insurance adjuster offering a settlement. You might receive paperwork in the mail with terms like “release” or “final payment.” It can be tempting to sign and move on—especially if the compensation feels fair in the moment.

But signing the wrong document too early can cost you your entire case.

At Auger Hollingsworth, we’ve seen firsthand how dangerous it can be to sign anything without legal advice. One of the most heartbreaking examples came from a case we’re handling for a client whose child died in a horrific accident. Along with her unimaginable loss, she also suffered the loss of some valuable personal property. Initially, she planned to handle the property claim on her own.

The company involved offered her a few thousand dollars for the damaged belongings and sent her a release form. She was about to sign it when her sister stepped in and insisted she send it to us “just in case.”

That one small act changed everything.

When we reviewed the document, we discovered that signing it would not have just resolved the property claim—it would have also permanently settled her child’s fatality case for less than $10,000.

Had she signed it, there would have been nothing we—or any lawyer—could do to reverse it. Her right to pursue the full wrongful death claim would have been gone forever.

This kind of mistake is more common than people realize. Insurance companies are not required to explain what a release covers in plain language. Many injured people assume that a settlement offer is limited to the specific loss being discussed. But the fine print often includes broad language that ends your entire claim.

So what should you do?

• Never sign a release without sending it to your lawyer first.
• Never accept money or e-transfers from an insurance company until you’re sure what they represent.
• Don’t make any verbal or written agreements without legal advice.

At Auger Hollingsworth, we review these documents at no extra charge. We’d much rather review a release now than try to fix something later that can’t be undone.

Your case—and your future—deserve that protection. Please check with us before you sign. Always.