Author: Jennifer Gulbrandsen

More than 1,000 cannabis DUI cases across the Chicago metro area are now under scrutiny following the release of an investigative report into flawed lab testing by the University of Illinois Chicago’s Analytical Forensic Testing Laboratory (UIC AFTL). The internal investigation, conducted by law firm Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, confirms concerns that THC testing used in these cases may have been unreliable.

At the heart of the issue is the lab’s inability to distinguish between Delta-9 THC, the psychoactive compound that causes impairment, and other legally available THC isomers like Delta-8. This testing failure means that many individuals may have been wrongly charged, or even convicted, based on inaccurate or misleading blood test results.

The lab stopped conducting testing in February 2024 after concerns were raised by criminal defense attorneys and experts in forensic science. UIC later notified police departments and prosecutors statewide about possible flaws in prior test results. Despite this, the independent report stops short of declaring the results invalid, stating instead that their reliability should be evaluated on a “case-by-case basis.”

In response to the findings, DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin announced that his office has already dismissed charges in 19 affected cases, two felonies and 17 misdemeanors, because the prosecution relied on THC results now deemed unreliable. “With the validity of the test results called into question, I could not, legally, ethically, and in good conscience, continue the prosecution of these select cases,” Berlin said in a public statement.

This scandal highlights the critical importance of scientific integrity in DUI prosecutions. If you or a loved one has been charged with a marijuana DUI in Illinois based on UIC lab testing, your case may be impacted. 

If you or someone you know was wrongfully convicted of cannabis DUI due to faulty lab results, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website for a free case evaluation. Your path to justice begins with us.

Chicago Daily Law Bulletin

Parente & Norem trial attorney, Jake Esp, successfully argued to the Illinois 3rd District Appellate Court to revive a long-disputed auto insurance coverage case involving over $330,000 in damages from a 2017 rollover crash.

The case was whether two insurance companies, Pekin Insurance Co. and Progressive Northern Insurance Co., were obligated to provide coverage in a lawsuit stemming from the fatal accident involving 19-year-old Electra Roumeliotis. The accident left passenger Benjamin Graunke seriously injured, and he later won a substantial judgment against Roumeliotis’ estate.

Both insurance companies had previously been granted summary judgment, arguing they had no duty to defend or indemnify the estate. Pekin claimed Roumeliotis didn’t have permission to drive the vehicle, while Progressive argued she didn’t qualify as a resident relative under the policy issued to her stepfather.

But the appellate court disagreed.

In a nonprecedential Rule 23 decision, Justice Linda E. Davenport wrote that key factual questions remained unresolved; particularly whether Roumeliotis had permission to drive the car and whether she met the criteria as a resident relative under Progressive’s policy. These issues, the court concluded, must be determined by a jury or through further legal proceedings, not resolved by summary judgment.

Jake Esp, who represented Graunke on appeal, praised the panel’s decision, stating they ‘got it right.’

“We’ll proceed with the case, possibly settle, or head to trial within a year,” said Esp.

Case citation: Pekin Insurance Co. v. Rydzewski, 2025 IL App (3d) 240358-U.

When you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, determining who is legally at fault is one of the most important steps in pursuing compensation. Personal injury cases often hinge on establishing liability, and in many situations, that process is more complex than it first appears.

Below, we break down how fault is determined, what happens when multiple parties are involved, and why having a personal injury attorney is crucial for protecting your rights and maximizing recovery.

What is Negligence and How Does It Establish Fault?

In legal terms, negligence is the failure to act with the level of care a reasonable person would in a similar situation. When that failure causes harm to another person, the negligent party may be held legally responsible.

To prove negligence, your attorney must demonstrate four key elements:

• Duty of Care – The other party had a legal responsibility to act with care (e.g., a driver must obey traffic laws).
• Breach of Duty – They violated that duty through careless or reckless behavior.
• Causation – Their actions directly caused your injuries.
• Damages – You suffered losses as a result (medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, etc.).

How is Fault Determined in a Personal Injury Case?

Establishing fault requires a detailed investigation and legal analysis. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:

• Collecting Evidence
  This includes photos, video footage, police reports, medical records, and eyewitness statements. Your attorney uses this to reconstruct how the incident occurred and who was responsible.
• Identifying All Liable Parties
  In some cases, fault is straightforward; like when a driver runs a red light. But in others, multiple parties may share liability. 
• Bringing in Expert Witnesses
  Experts such as accident reconstructionists or workplace safety specialists may be brought in to provide credible insight into how and why an injury occurred.
  
• Reviewing Applicable State Laws
  Legal standards for determining and sharing fault vary by state. Understanding these standards is critical to evaluating the potential outcome of your case.

What Happens When Multiple Parties Are at Fault?

Not every case involves a single at-fault party. In many situations, both the injured party and others may share responsibility. Here’s how different states handle shared fault:

• Pure Comparative Negligence
  You can still recover damages even if you’re partially at fault. Your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. 
• Modified Comparative Negligence
  You can recover compensation only if you are less than 50% or 51% at fault (depending on the state). If you’re more than halfway responsible, you won’t be eligible to collect damages.
  
• Contributory Negligence
  This is the strictest rule. In states with contributory negligence laws, being even 1% at fault may bar you from recovering any compensation.

What to Expect During the Fault Determination Process

Each case is different, but here’s a general overview of the fault determination process:

1. Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney
   A skilled attorney will assess your case, explain your rights, and map out your legal options.
2. Case Investigation
   Your lawyer will collect and analyze all evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case for liability.
3. Insurance Negotiation
   Insurers may try to reduce payouts by shifting blame. Your attorney will handle negotiations to ensure your rights are protected and your compensation is fair.
4. Filing a Lawsuit, if Necessary
   If a reasonable settlement can’t be reached, your lawyer may recommend going to court, where a judge or jury will ultimately determine fault and damages.

Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer

Determining fault isn’t always cut-and-dried, especially when injuries are serious or when multiple parties are involved. A personal injury attorney brings legal knowledge, investigative resources, and negotiation experience to your side. They help ensure every relevant factor is considered and that you receive the compensation you deserve, even if you share some responsibility for the accident.

Get Help From a Trusted Legal Team

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we’ve helped countless individuals navigate complex personal injury cases and secure the compensation they need to heal and move forward. If you or someone you love has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help.

Call or text us today at (312) 641-5926 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Let us fight for the justice you deserve.

Losing a loved one is one of life’s most painful experiences, especially when that loss is the result of someone else’s negligence or misconduct. In such tragic circumstances, a wrongful death lawsuit can provide grieving families with a path to justice and financial compensation.

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, we’re dedicated to helping families navigate the legal complexities of wrongful death cases with care, clarity, and strength.

What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil legal action brought on behalf of a deceased person whose death was caused by the wrongful actions of another party; whether through negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. These cases aim to compensate surviving family members for their losses, which may include:

• Medical expenses incurred before death

• Funeral and burial costs

• Lost income and financial support

• Loss of companionship and emotional suffering

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Typically, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate is responsible for filing the lawsuit. This person may be named in the deceased’s will or appointed by a court. In many cases, this is a close family member, though state laws can vary in terms of who is eligible to serve in this role. Consulting with an attorney can help ensure the right individual initiates the case in accordance with local law.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Wrongful death lawsuits are often complex and emotionally charged. Having an experienced attorney on your side can make all the difference. Here’s how:

• Legal Guidance: Your attorney will manage the process from start to finish, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

• Evidence Collection: Lawyers know how to gather, preserve, and present key evidence such as medical records, witness statements, and accident reports.

• Pursuing Fair Compensation: An attorney will work to secure the full extent of compensation you may be entitled to, including both financial and emotional losses.

Types of Damages in a Wrongful Death Case

There are generally two types of damages awarded in wrongful death lawsuits:

Compensatory Damages
These are intended to reimburse the family for actual losses and may include:

• Funeral and burial costs

• Medical expenses related to the incident

• Lost wages or income the deceased would have provided

• Emotional distress and loss of companionship

Punitive Damages
In cases involving especially egregious behavior, such as gross negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to penalize the responsible party and deter similar actions in the future.

How to Prepare for a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Timely preparation is crucial in these cases. Consider gathering the following types of evidence as soon as possible:

• Photos or video footage of the incident or location

• Police or incident reports

• Witness contact information and statements

• Medical and financial documents relevant to the deceased’s care and support

Swift action helps preserve critical evidence and ensures compliance with deadlines, such as the statute of limitations.

Choosing the Right Attorney

The outcome of a wrongful death case often hinges on the quality of legal representation. Keep these tips in mind when selecting an attorney:

• Look for experience: Choose a lawyer with a proven track record in wrongful death cases.

• Schedule a consultation: Use this opportunity to ask about their process, success rate, and communication style.

• Review testimonials: Client reviews can offer insight into the firm’s professionalism and results.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

To strengthen your case, be aware of these common mistakes:

• Delaying evidence collection: Waiting too long can result in the loss of valuable information.

• Missing deadlines: Legal deadlines vary by state and missing them can prevent you from filing altogether.

• Handling the case alone: The legal system is complex and an experienced attorney is essential for navigating it effectively.

Costs and Case Outcomes

Wrongful death lawsuits often involve legal fees and court expenses, but many firms, including The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay unless we win your case.

Most wrongful death cases settle out of court, but if trial becomes necessary, our legal team is prepared to advocate aggressively on your behalf.

Let Us Help You Move Forward

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s actions, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, we are committed to helping you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at 312-641-5926 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, filing a personal injury claim is an important step toward getting the compensation and justice you deserve. But while your attorney is building a case, there’s another factor that can significantly influence the outcome… your social media presence.

Many people don’t realize that their posts, photos, comments, and even those from friends and family can be scrutinized and used as evidence. What seems like an innocent update or photo can easily be misinterpreted or taken out of context by insurance companies or opposing attorneys.

Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your case.

Social Media as Evidence in Personal Injury Claims

After a claim is filed, insurance companies begin a thorough investigation, and one of the first places they look is social media. They’ll check your public profiles and may even request access to private or deleted content. Their goal is to find any information that may contradict your claim or reduce their financial liability.

This is important to understand because insurers are not evaluating your content for context or intent; they’re looking for anything that can be used to suggest your injuries aren’t as severe as stated or that you contributed to the accident in some way.

Common Social Media Mistakes That Can Undermine Your Case

Discussing Your Injuries Online

It may feel natural to share details about your experience, but discussing your injuries publicly can give the other side material to challenge or reinterpret your account. Even statements made in frustration or humor can be used out of context.

Posting About Your Recovery

While it’s encouraging to share progress with friends, describing your recovery journey on social media can work against you. A simple post saying you’re “feeling better” may be used to argue that your pain and suffering are less serious than claimed.

Sharing Photos from Vacations or Social Activities

Images of you traveling, exercising, or engaging in leisure activities, even if they’re from before the incident, can damage your credibility. Opposing counsel may argue that these activities indicate you are not seriously injured.

Being Tagged by Friends or Family

Even if you’re cautious, your friends and family might not be. Posts that tag you at events or in photos can provide additional information to the opposing legal team. This is why it’s critical to ask your network to avoid tagging you and to adjust your privacy settings accordingly.

Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Claim

Pause or Limit Your Social Media Use

Consider taking a break from social media altogether while your case is ongoing. At the very least, limit your activity and avoid posting anything related to your health, activities, or the case itself. The less content available, the less there is that can be misinterpreted.

Keep Case Related Information Private

Do not post about the accident, your injuries, your doctors, or legal proceedings. This information should be shared only with your attorney. Once anything is online, even in a private post, it may be discoverable.

Share Documentation with Your Attorney, Not the Public

Photos of your injuries, copies of medical bills, doctor’s notes, or videos related to your condition should be sent directly to your legal team. This evidence helps them build a stronger case and ensures the information is presented in the right context.

Talk to Your Attorney About Social Media Strategy

A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you understand which types of posts are risky and may advise you to archive or restrict access to existing content. Being proactive can make a significant difference in protecting the integrity of your case.

Social media has become an integral part of how we communicate, but in the context of a personal injury claim, it can be a liability. Insurance companies and defense attorneys will search for any narrative that reduces their responsibility. Taking the right precautions can help ensure that your claim is based on facts, not digital misinterpretations.

If you’ve been injured and are considering legal action, reach out to The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. for a free consultation. Our experienced trial attorneys understand how to navigate not only the legal complexities of your case but also the digital risks that come with it.

Call or text us today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form on our website. We’re here to protect your rights and help you move forward with confidence.

Bike-share programs like Divvy have quickly become a popular way to get around in cities like Chicago and throughout Illinois. They offer affordability, convenience, and a more sustainable commute. But with more riders hitting the streets, bike-share accidents are on the rise, and the injuries that result can be serious.

If you’ve been injured while riding a Divvy or another bike-share service, hiring a bike-share accident attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we help victims of bike-share and scooter accidents recover the compensation they deserve.

What Makes Bike-Share Accidents So Legally Complex?

Unlike a typical bike crash, bike-share accidents often involve multiple responsible parties: the rider, a driver, the bike-share company, or even the city. The legal responsibility isn’t always clear, and the insurance coverage isn’t either.

That’s why it’s essential to work with a Divvy accident lawyer who understands the nuances of Illinois personal injury law and the specific policies governing bike-share services.

Benefits of Hiring a Bike-Share Accident Attorney

Expertise in Illinois Bike Accident Law

Our legal team brings years of experience handling personal injury claims across Illinois, including bike-share accidents. We stay current on laws and local ordinances that impact your case; ensuring your claim is built on solid legal ground.

Accurate Liability Assessment

Was the accident caused by a distracted driver? A defective bike? Poorly maintained roads? Our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties and ensure that you are not wrongfully blamed for the incident.

Maximized Compensation for Your Injuries

A serious bike-share injury can result in high medical bills, lost wages, and long-term effects on your quality of life. We seek full compensation for:

• Emergency care and hospital visits

• Physical therapy and ongoing treatment

• Lost income

• Pain and suffering

• Permanent disability or emotional trauma

Our attorneys won’t settle for less than what your case is truly worth.

Strong Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially in cases involving commercial bike-share programs. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who know how to push back and demand fair results.

If necessary, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial. We have a proven record of success in Illinois courts and will advocate aggressively on your behalf.

Less Stress, More Time to Heal

Dealing with medical appointments, bike-share companies, and insurance adjusters can be exhausting. Hiring a lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery while we manage all the legal details—filing claims, gathering evidence, handling communication, and more.

Our Legal Team Builds A Strong Case

The success of a bike-share injury claim often depends on expert testimony and evidence. We work with:

• Accident reconstruction specialists

• Medical experts

• Investigators and safety consultants

This network helps us build a powerful, evidence-backed case that strengthens your position—whether you’re pursuing a settlement or preparing for court.

Don’t Wait, Call/Text Parente & Norem Today

If you’ve been hurt in a Divvy bike accident or injured while using any other bike-share service in Illinois, time is critical. Evidence can disappear, and insurance companies may already be building a case against your claim. An early consultation with a personal injury attorney can make all the difference.

Call or text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation today.

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem was honored to sponsor and participate in the 10th Annual Roofer’s Cup Golf Outing, benefiting the Chicago Roofers and Waterproofers Charitable Foundation. This inspiring event brought together industry professionals for a day of golf, camaraderie, and most importantly, support for a cause that deeply resonates with our firm’s values.

Representing Parente & Norem at the outing was Partner Cole Munvez, who joined fellow attendees in supporting the Foundation’s mission:

Join us as we serve the needs of the innocent children who fight an ongoing battle against pediatric cancer and the devastating toll it takes on them and their families. Support us as we serve our Illinois veterans who defended their nation overseas, but the war continues for them when they return home. PTSD, long-term medical conditions, and the struggle for gainful employment and basic necessity of shelter. Their battles continue, ours has just begun.

Events like the Roofer’s Cup are more than just a chance to hit the links, they’re an opportunity to rally around vulnerable communities and make a real difference. We’re proud to stand with the Chicago Roofers and Waterproofers Charitable Foundation as they continue this important work.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s outing a success. We look forward to supporting the Foundation’s mission for years to come.

We are thrilled to welcome Trevor Granberg as a Partner at the Law Offices of Parente & Norem, where he now leads our Workers’ Compensation Department. With a deep commitment to advocating for injured workers and a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes in complex claims, Trevor brings a powerful blend of experience, insight, and compassion to the firm.

Trevor’s career has been rooted in protecting the rights of injured workers under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, including those facing catastrophic injuries, permanent disabilities, occupational exposure, and wage differential or loss of trade issues. His background is uniquely balanced; he began his legal journey on the petitioner’s side and later represented municipalities and public safety departments on the defense side. This rare dual perspective allows him to anticipate insurance company tactics and tailor smart, results driven litigation strategies.

Throughout his career, Trevor has successfully tried numerous cases before Arbitrators, appealed benefit denials, and deposed a wide range of medical and vocational experts to strengthen his clients’ positions. His thoughtful, thorough approach consistently delivers positive outcomes that restore financial stability and peace of mind to injured workers across the state.

Trevor earned his J.D. from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, where he made the Dean’s List and was actively involved in the Pro Bono Program and the International Human Rights Clinic. He holds a B.S. in Political Science from Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he graduated cum laude.

As the new head of our Workers’ Compensation Department, Trevor is building a client-first practice dedicated to maximizing benefits, restoring lives, and fighting for those who need it most. We are proud to have him on our team and look forward to the outstanding advocacy and leadership he brings to our clients and our firm.

Welcome, Trevor!

Construction sites are dangerous by nature. Heavy machinery, elevated structures, electrical hazards, and countless moving parts all combine to create an environment where accidents can, and often do, happen. When they do, the results can be life-changing for the individuals involved.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury on a construction site, it’s essential to have the right legal support in your corner. The experienced personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to. Here’s why reaching out to a qualified attorney can make all the difference in your recovery journey.

Construction Accidents Can Be A Legal Maze

Construction site injuries often involve more than just a single misstep or moment of bad luck. These cases are wrapped in layers of legal and regulatory complexities. From OSHA violations to third-party liability, determining what went wrong; and who is responsible, requires an attorney with specific experience in construction accident law.

The attorneys at Parente & Norem are equipped to untangle these complexities, helping to ensure that all liable parties are identified and held accountable.

Getting a True Picture of Your Damages

The financial toll of a construction accident can go far beyond immediate medical bills. You may be facing lost wages, ongoing therapy, permanent disability, or emotional trauma. An experienced attorney can conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your damages, both present and future, to make sure nothing is overlooked when calculating your claim’s value.

Their goal? To help you secure compensation that reflects the full scope of your loss and supports your long-term recovery.

Identifying Who’s at Fault

On a construction site, liability isn’t always clear-cut. Multiple contractors, subcontractors, equipment providers, and even government agencies may be involved. An attorney will investigate the incident thoroughly;  gathering evidence, reviewing safety procedures, interviewing witnesses, and consulting industry experts to establish exactly who is responsible for your injury.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often move quickly after an accident, and not always in your favor. Their goal is to minimize payouts and close claims fast. That’s why it’s crucial to have a personal injury attorney negotiating on your behalf. At Parente & Norem, our attorneys will protect your interests, push back against lowball offers, and fight for a settlement that actually meets your needs.

Fighting for the Compensation You Deserve

The attorneys at Parente & Norem are skilled negotiators and dedicated advocates. They’ll build a compelling case that highlights the severity of your injuries, the disruption to your life, and the long-term consequences of the accident. Whether your damages involve lost income, medical bills, emotional distress, or long-term disability, they’ll pursue every dollar you’re entitled to under the law.

Ready to Go to Trial, If Necessary

While many cases are resolved through negotiation, some require litigation. If your case goes to court, you’ll want a trial-tested attorney by your side. Our team has the courtroom experience and legal expertise necessary to advocate for you before a judge and jury, and maximize your chance of a favorable outcome.

Don’t Wait to Get the Help You Need

Construction accident claims are time-sensitive. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of preserving crucial evidence and building a strong case. If you or someone you know has been injured on a construction site, don’t navigate this difficult time alone.

Call or text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926, or fill out a contact form here on our website for a free case evaluation. We’re here to stand up for you, and to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Accidents can happen without warning, often leaving a trail of physical pain, emotional stress, and unexpected financial strain. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, taking the right steps early on can make a world of difference; especially when it comes to gathering evidence. The days immediately following an accident are crucial. What you do (or don’t do) in this time frame can significantly impact the strength of your personal injury claim.

In this post, we’ll break down why evidence matters, what types to collect, and how to preserve it effectively, so you’re positioned for the best possible outcome.

Why Evidence Is the Backbone of Your Personal Injury Case

Strong evidence doesn’t just support your case, it is your case. It enables you and your legal team to prove the essential elements that lead to compensation, including:

• Fault Identification: Evidence helps pinpoint who was responsible for the accident, often revealing negligence or carelessness.

• Liability Establishment: To prevail in a personal injury claim, you must show that the other party’s negligence directly caused your injuries. Compelling evidence solidifies this connection.

• Damage Documentation: The right documentation shows the extent of your injuries and losses, from medical expenses and property damage to lost wages and emotional distress.

• Causation Proof: You’ll need to clearly demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship between the incident and your injuries.

• Negotiation Leverage: When dealing with insurance companies or preparing for trial, strong evidence strengthens your negotiating position and can lead to more favorable outcomes.

What Kind of Evidence Should You Gather?

Not all evidence is created equal, but collecting a broad range of it is your best strategy. Here’s what to focus on:

Scene or Accident Evidence

If you’re able, revisit the accident scene as soon as possible. Take photos of environmental conditions, hazards (like uneven surfaces or broken equipment), or anything else that may have contributed to the incident.

Physical Evidence

Tangible items like broken personal belongings, damaged vehicles, or torn clothing help illustrate the impact of the accident. If preserving these items isn’t possible, take detailed photos from multiple angles.

Medical Records

Keep a complete record of all medical visits, treatments, diagnoses, and prescriptions. These documents not only reflect the severity of your injuries but also help establish the financial impact of your recovery.

Witness Statements

Eyewitness accounts can be incredibly persuasive. Speak with anyone who saw what happened and gather their contact information. Their testimonies may confirm your version of events.

Relevant Documents

Organize and retain every document related to the incident: accident reports, medical bills, insurance paperwork, repair estimates, and receipts. These build a timeline and paper trail that can support your claim.

Expert Opinions

In complex cases, you may need insights from medical experts, accident reconstructionists, or industry professionals to strengthen your case. Their expert analysis can clarify technical or disputed elements.

Photos and Video Footage

Visuals are often the most powerful form of evidence. Take clear, timestamped photos and videos of injuries, property damage, and the scene itself.

Tips for Preserving Your Evidence

Collecting evidence is only half the battle, you must also preserve it carefully. Here’s how:

• Create Digital Backups: Store your photos, videos, and documents securely using cloud storage or encrypted drives.

• Organize Chronologically: Keeping everything in order helps build a clear narrative and streamlines the legal process.

• Store Physical Evidence Safely: Items should be kept in a safe, dry place where they won’t be damaged or lost.

• Work with a Legal Professional: A skilled personal injury attorney will know exactly what to collect, how to obtain it, and how to use it most effectively.

Let Your Evidence Speak for You

When it comes to personal injury claims, the smallest detail can make the biggest difference. Gathering and preserving evidence with care gives you the upper hand; ensuring you’re not left at the mercy of insurance adjusters or vague recollections.

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of an accident can be. That’s why we guide our clients every step of the way, from securing critical evidence to negotiating with insurers and, if necessary, fighting in court.

If you or someone you love has been injured due to another’s negligence, don’t wait. Call or text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form on our website. Your path to recovery and justice begins with the right evidence and the right team.