Contact Us
Scott Thorson
With over 12 years of dedicated legal practice, Scott Thorson specializes in personal injury, criminal defense, and probate law, serving individuals and families in need with unwavering commitment and expertise.
Beyond the courtroom, Scott is a devoted family man, blessed with a wonderful wife and two amazing boys. Coaching his sons in sports is not just a pastime but a passion. As the pitching coach of his oldest son’s youth baseball team, Scott travels across Iowa and Nebraska, competing against some of the best athletes in the Midwest.
Away from the legal arena and the ball field, Scott finds joy in the great outdoors. Whether it’s scuba diving in the Pacific or hiking Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, family adventures are the cornerstone of his life.
Amanda Devito
Amanda Devito is Scott Thorson’s assistant. Amanda has over 15 years of experience in the legal field. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a keen eye for detail to her role at Thorson Law Office. Outside of the office, Amanda enjoys spending time with her three daughters.
FAQ’s
Car Accident and Wrongful Death
Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved, take photos of the accident scene and any damages, and collect contact information from witnesses. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, and report the accident to your insurance company. It’s also a good idea to consult with an attorney to understand your legal options.
You may have a case if you’ve suffered injuries or damages due to another driver’s negligence. Factors include proving that the other party was at fault and that you incurred damages or injuries. An attorney can evaluate your case based on the evidence and circumstances surrounding your accident.
Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related costs. In some cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages if the at-fault party’s actions were particularly egregious.
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still have options. You can pursue a claim through your own insurance policy if you have uninsured motorist coverage. Additionally, you might be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver, though collecting compensation can be more challenging.
At Thorson Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win your case. The fee is typically a percentage of the compensation awarded.
Most car accident and wrongful death cases are settled out of court through negotiations. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial. At Thorson Law, we will guide you through the process and represent your interests whether your case settles or proceeds to court.
In many states, you can still file a claim if you were partially at fault, though your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. Comparative negligence laws vary by state, so it’s important to consult with an attorney to understand how these laws apply to your case.
Workers Compensation
Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides financial benefits and medical care to employees who are injured or become ill due to their job.
Coverage typically includes injuries that occur on the job, repetitive stress injuries, occupational diseases, and illnesses caused by exposure to hazardous materials.
Eligibility usually depends on whether you are classified as an employee (rather than an independent contractor) and if your injury or illness is work-related.
Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible and seek medical treatment.
Benefits may include medical expenses coverage, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and death benefits for dependents.
In some states, you can choose your own doctor, while in others, you may need to see a doctor approved by the workers’ compensation insurance. For example, in Iowa, employers have the right to choose your workers’ compensation doctor, while in Nebraska you may be able to choose your treating physician, depending on certain factors.
It is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees for filing a claim. If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated, you may have grounds for legal action. At Thorson Law, we have successfully represented many clients in cases of retaliation from filing a workers compensation claim.
Workers’ compensation can cover occupational illnesses and repetitive stress injuries, but you may need to demonstrate a clear connection between your condition and your work.
Yes, but if you return to work in a limited capacity or modified role, it may affect the amount of your benefits. Your employer and insurer need to be informed about your work status.
Probate
Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered and distributed. It involves validating the deceased’s will, if there is one, paying off debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to heirs or beneficiaries.
While it’s not always required, having an attorney can help navigate complex legal requirements, ensure that the process is handled correctly, and address any disputes that may arise. Given the extensive paperwork required in probate matters, hiring an experienced probate attorney is highly recommended.
The duration of probate can vary widely depending on the complexity of the estate. It can take anywhere from a few months to several years.
Costs can include court fees, attorney fees, and fees for other professionals like appraisers. These costs can vary depending on the size and complexity of the estate.
If there is no will, the estate is distributed according to state intestacy laws, which dictate how assets are divided among relatives.
If someone challenges the validity of the will, it can lead to a legal dispute that may need to be resolved in court. Common grounds for contesting a will include allegations of undue influence, lack of capacity, or improper execution.
Debts of the deceased are typically paid from the estate before any distributions are made to beneficiaries. Creditors may need to file claims against the estate within a specific time frame.
The executor (or personal representative) is responsible for managing the estate, including paying debts and taxes, distributing assets, and ensuring that the probate process is completed according to the law.
Certain estate planning tools, such as living trusts, can help avoid probate. However, the specifics depend on individual circumstances and the assets involved.
Disputes over asset distribution can lead to litigation. A probate attorney can help resolve conflicts and ensure that the estate is administered fairly.
Keeping detailed records of all transactions, communications, and documents related to the estate is crucial for transparency and compliance with legal requirements.
