What is a Legal Claim?

A legal claim is a formal assertion of a right that one party holds against another. This right can pertain to money, property, or specific actions. Most commonly, claims arise from financial losses incurred due to accidents or similar incidents. The term “claim” is also applicable in various contexts beyond traditional lawsuits, including workers’ compensation and Social Security benefits. Essentially, any legal entitlement to money, property, or benefits can be classified as a claim.

Types of Legal Claims

In a legal context, claims can be categorized into two primary types: legal claims and equitable claims.

Legal Claims

Legal claims are often the first type that comes to mind when discussing claims. These occur when an individual suffers harm or damage due to another party’s actions, and they seek compensation for those losses. To establish a legal claim, certain criteria must be met to demonstrate that the damages directly relate to the wrongful act. The objective of a legal claim is to restore the injured party to their prior state, compensating them for losses such as medical expenses incurred from an accident.

Common examples of legal claims include:

• Car accidents
• Slip and fall incidents
• Dog bite cases
• Product liability claims
• Social Security claims
• Workers’ compensation claims

These claims may arise from case law or be governed by Connecticut statutes.

Equitable Claims

Equitable claims differ from legal claims in that they seek remedies based on fairness rather than direct monetary compensation. While equitable claims can involve financial compensation, they often focus on actions that need to be taken or ceased. Examples include:

• Specific performance: This requires a party to fulfill their contractual obligations.
• An injunction: This prohibits a party from taking specific actions that may cause harm.

Equitable remedies can sometimes prevent future damages from occurring, thus playing an essential role in certain legal disputes.

Insurance Claims

Insurance claims are another critical aspect of legal claims, though they operate independently of legal requirements. When filing a claim with an insurance company, it is vital to adhere to the specific reporting protocols established by that company to ensure your rights are protected. This is particularly relevant in cases involving uninsured motorist coverage, where failing to follow the proper procedures can jeopardize your ability to receive compensation.

If an insurance claim is denied, ignored, or rejected, pursuing a legal claim may become necessary. Regardless of the nature of your claim, having experienced legal counsel can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Get Help with Your Claim

At Etemi Law, we understand that navigating the complexities of legal claims can be overwhelming. With our extensive experience in Connecticut, we are dedicated to helping you through your unique situation. We offer personalized service and are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.

We invite you to take the first step in resolving your legal issues by contacting us for a FREE consultation. Call (203) 409-8424 today, or fill out our online form to schedule your appointment. Let us help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.