How to Get a Free Case Evaluation from DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress
Updated
DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC offers free case evaluations, so you can find out whether you have a viable West Virginia injury claim before committing to anything. The firm's site lists "Free Case Evaluations" as a standing feature and includes a "Get a Free Consultation" call to action. To request one, use the contact options on dbdlawfirm.com — typically a contact form or the firm's phone number — and be ready to describe your accident, your injuries, and any deadlines you're facing.
What the free case evaluation actually is
A case evaluation is an initial conversation, not a formal engagement. The firm reviews what happened, considers whether someone else was at fault, and tells you whether the matter is worth pursuing. Because the firm handles personal injury and wrongful death cases across West Virginia, the evaluation is also where they'll flag practical issues — for example, whether the statute of limitations is running short or whether key evidence (like surveillance video or a truck's electronic logs) could disappear.
The site describes the firm as Charleston-based, founded 40 years ago, with more than 150 combined years of experience among its lawyers. It also states the firm recovered more than $60 million in West Virginia workers' compensation funds from mining companies in a case involving contract miners. That track record is context for what the firm says it can handle, not a promise about your case.
How to request one
The site's own calls to action point to two routes:
- Online contact form — Fill out the form on dbdlawfirm.com with your name, contact details, and a short description of the incident. This is the easiest option if you're gathering information after hours.
- Phone — Call the firm directly. The site presents a "Get a Free Consultation" prompt, and a phone call is usually faster if you have documents in hand or a deadline approaching.
Either way, the expected result is the same: someone from the firm contacts you to schedule the evaluation or ask follow-up questions.
What to prepare before you reach out
You don't need a complete file to start, but the more specific you are, the more useful the first conversation will be. Consider having:
- The date, time, and location of the accident — this matters for deadlines and for identifying witnesses or footage.
- A short description of what happened — who was involved, what you believe caused it, and whether a police or incident report exists.
- Your injuries and treatment so far — including whether you've seen a doctor and whether you're still treating.
- Any correspondence from insurers or the other party — especially anything asking you to give a statement or sign something.
- Basic identifying details — your name and the best way to reach you.
If you don't have all of this, that's fine. The evaluation exists partly to help you figure out what's missing.
Case types the firm says it handles
The practice areas listed on the site are:
| Category | Examples listed |
|---|---|
| Vehicle accidents | Car accidents, truck accidents |
| Workplace and industrial | Industrial accidents, workers' compensation matters |
| Professional negligence | Medical malpractice, nursing home abuse |
| Premises and general injury | Slip and fall claims |
| Fatal and complex claims | Wrongful death, opioid litigation |
| Business-related | Commercial litigation, employment law |
If your situation falls outside these categories, it's still worth asking — the firm describes taking on complex cases and answering questions about potential cases.
Common sticking points
- Deadlines. Personal injury and wrongful death claims are subject to time limits, and they can be shorter than people expect. Mention the accident date early so the firm can tell you whether time is a concern.
- Talking to insurers first. Statements given to an adjuster before you've had any evaluation can complicate a claim. If an insurer has already contacted you, say so during the evaluation.
- Assuming you need a finished case. You don't. The evaluation is designed for people who are still figuring out whether they have a claim.
- Fee structure. The site does not publish fee terms or pricing on the pages reviewed here, so ask directly during the consultation how fees and costs would work in your situation rather than assuming a particular arrangement.
A reasonable next step
If you were hurt in West Virginia and believe someone else was at fault, submit the contact form on dbdlawfirm.com or call the Charleston office, and bring the details above to the conversation. The evaluation is free, and it gives you a clear answer on whether the firm can help — or whether you need to look elsewhere.