When you file an insurance claim—whether it’s for your home, car, health, or business—you expect your insurer to follow through. After all, that’s what you’ve been paying premiums for, right? But unfortunately, many policyholders discover too late that their claim is being delayed, underpaid, or flat-out denied.
An experienced insurance attorney can help you level the playing field and fight for the payout you deserve. So how do you know when it’s time to stop waiting on hold and start talking to a lawyer?
Here are five clear signs it’s time to bring in legal help.
1. Your Claim Was Denied Without a Clear Reason
One of the biggest red flags in any insurance dispute is a denial letter that offers little to no explanation—or uses vague policy language to justify a rejection. Insurance companies often bet that most policyholders won’t challenge a denial, even if it’s completely unjustified.
Why You Need a Lawyer:
An insurance attorney can analyze your policy in detail, identify bad faith tactics, and initiate an appeal or litigation if the insurer acted unfairly. They’ll make sure the denial is challenged with proper documentation and legal leverage.
2. The Insurer Keeps Delaying Payment
If your insurer is dragging out the claims process for weeks—or even months—without valid reasons, you may be dealing with a stall tactic. Some companies slow-walk legitimate claims in hopes that frustrated policyholders will give up or settle for less than they’re owed.
Why You Need a Lawyer:
Legal representation shows the insurer you mean business. Your attorney will demand answers, set enforceable deadlines, and escalate the issue if necessary. This often results in faster resolutions and larger payouts.
3. You’re Offered a Lowball Settlement
You did everything right: submitted all the documentation, followed the rules, and waited patiently. But when the offer comes in, it doesn’t even begin to cover your losses.
Sound familiar?
Lowball offers are incredibly common—and they’re designed to protect the insurance company’s bottom line.
Why You Need a Lawyer:
An insurance attorney can conduct an independent valuation of your damages and negotiate for a fair settlement. If the insurer won’t budge, your attorney can file a lawsuit to pursue the full amount you’re entitled to.
4. You’re Dealing With a Complex or High-Value Claim
Not all insurance claims are straightforward. If you’re dealing with a large property loss, a denied business interruption claim, or extensive medical bills, the insurer may start looking for ways to limit their payout.
Why You Need a Lawyer:
Large and complex claims are exactly where legal strategy matters most. An experienced attorney can navigate policy exclusions, gather expert evidence, and make sure your claim is thoroughly supported and aggressively pursued.
5. The Insurer Is Accusing You of Misrepresentation or Fraud
Nothing raises the stakes like an insurance company accusing you of misrepresenting information or committing fraud. Whether it’s a discrepancy on your application or a dispute over the cause of loss, these accusations can result in denied claims—or worse, legal action.
Why You Need a Lawyer:
Don’t try to defend yourself alone. A skilled insurance attorney will protect your rights, handle all communication, and present a clear, credible case backed by facts. Their involvement may be the key to preserving your reputation and your claim.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
The sooner you involve an insurance attorney, the more options you’ll have. Waiting too long to get legal help can lead to missed deadlines, lost evidence, and weaker negotiating power.
At SJJ Law, we advocate fiercely for policyholders across Colorado. Whether you’re dealing with property damage, life insurance disputes, business interruption claims, or bad faith insurance practices, our team is here to ensure you’re treated fairly.
Schedule a free consultation today. Let’s make sure your insurance company keeps its promises.