What Is Premises Liability?

Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners responsible when someone is injured on their property due to unsafe or negligent conditions. Common examples include slip and falls, trip hazards, poor lighting, falling merchandise, negligent security, dog bites, and unsafe stairways or walkways.

Do I Have a Valid Premises Liability Case?

To have a valid claim, you must show that the property owner (or someone in control of the property) knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to address it in a reasonable amount of time. You must also prove that the hazardous condition directly caused your injury. A West Jordan premises liability lawyer can help evaluate your case and determine whether these legal standards are met.

What Kind of Damages Can I Recover in a Premises Liability Claim?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future medical treatment, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any permanent disability or scarring. If the property ownerâs conduct was especially reckless, punitive damages may also be available in rare cases.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

Each state has a statute of limitations for personal injury casesâoften two or three years from the date of the injury. Failing to file your claim within that time could bar you from recovering any compensation. However, some deadlines may be shorter if a government entity is involved, so itâs essential to consult an attorney as soon as possible.

Can I Still File a Claim if I Was Partially at Fault?

Yes, in many states, you can still recover damages even if you were partly responsible for the accident. Under comparative negligence laws, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found 20% at fault, your damages would be reduced by 20%. An attorney can help assess how these rules apply to your situation.

Do I Have to Go to Court to Resolve a Premises Liability Case?

Not necessarily. Many premises liability claims are resolved through out-of-court settlements. A skilled attorney will negotiate with the property ownerâs insurance company to reach a fair agreement. If a settlement isnât possible, your case may go to trial.

What Should I Bring to My First Meeting with a West Jordan Premises Liability Attorney?

Bring any photos of the scene or your injuries, medical records and bills, a copy of the incident report (if available), and contact information for any witnesses. It also helps to have a written summary of what happened, including dates, times, and details about how the injury has impacted your life.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Premises Liability Attorney in West Jordan?

Most West Jordan premises liability lawyers handle these cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you donât pay anything upfront, and the attorney only gets paid if they recover compensation for youâusually a percentage of your settlement or award. Always ask for a clear explanation of the fee agreement during your consultation.

Best West Jordan Premises Liability Attorneys in 2025

	Christopher M. Cockayne Cockayne Law Firm, Inc.	Call Today 801-268-2491	View Profile

Our Selection Process

How to Select the Best Premises Liability Attorney

Step 1: Choose an Attorney With Specific Experience in Premises Liability Law

Premises liability cases involve injuries caused by unsafe conditions on someone else’s property—such as slip and falls, inadequate security, dog attacks, or falling objects. These cases often hinge on proving the property owner’s negligence and knowledge of the hazard. As such, it’s essential to select an attorney who has a strong track record in handling premises liability claims. Ask about their experience with your specific type of case and what results they’ve obtained. The more familiar they are with building codes, inspection protocols, and premises safety standards, the better equipped they’ll be to build a compelling case.

Step 2: Evaluate Their Investigative Resources and Strategy

Premises liability claims often depend on time-sensitive evidence—like surveillance footage, maintenance logs, witness statements, and property records. A qualified West Jordan premises liability attorney should have a clear strategy for collecting this information quickly and preserving it before it disappears. Ask how they plan to investigate your case, whether they work with safety experts or engineers, and how they’ve used similar evidence to win past cases. Their ability to reconstruct the incident and uncover negligence can make all the difference in your claim.

Step 3: Look for Strong Communication and Client Reviews

The best West Jordan premises liability attorneys are not only skilled in the courtroom but also attentive and communicative with their clients. Look for someone who takes the time to explain your rights, answers your questions clearly, and keeps you informed as your case progresses. Read online reviews, ask for referrals, and check their reputation in the legal community. Past client feedback can reveal how supportive and responsive the attorney is throughout the process.

Step 4: Understand the Fee Structure and Level of Personal Attention

Like other personal injury lawyers, most premises liability attorneys in West Jordan work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they recover compensation for you. You will still need to confirm their fee percentage and how expenses are handled. Additionally, you’ll want to ask who will be overseeing your case. The right lawyer will be transparent about costs and personally invested in your outcome.

Recommendations While You Wait to Connect to an Attorney

If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property—whether from a slip and fall, poor lighting, unsafe stairs, or negligent security—your actions before your attorney meeting can significantly impact your claim. Here are up to eight helpful steps to take while you wait:

Seek Medical Treatment: Your health is the priority. Even if the injury seems minor, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, like concussions or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent.
Document the Scene of the Incident: If possible, take photos or videos of the area where you were injured. Capture details like wet floors, missing handrails, poor lighting, uneven surfaces, or lack of warning signs.
Preserve Clothing and Personal Items: Keep the clothes and shoes you were wearing at the time of the incident. Do not wash or alter them, especially if they show dirt, blood, or damage—they could serve as evidence.
Request an Incident Report: If the injury occurred at a business, ask for a written incident report. Try to get a copy or at least note who completed it and when.
Collect Contact Information: If anyone witnessed the incident or helped you afterward, get their names and phone numbers. Eyewitness accounts can strengthen your claim.
Keep a Pain and Recovery Journal: Write down your symptoms, medical visits, missed workdays, and how the injury affects your daily life. This helps support claims for pain and suffering or lost wages.
Avoid Speaking With Insurance Adjusters: Do not give a recorded statement or accept any settlement offers until you speak with your attorney.
Write Down Your Questions: Prepare a list of questions and concerns to bring to your consultation, so you get the most out of your legal meeting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Premises Liability?: Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners responsible when someone is injured on their property due to unsafe or negligent conditions. Common examples include slip and falls, trip hazards, poor lighting, falling merchandise, negligent security, dog bites, and unsafe stairways or walkways.
Do I Have a Valid Premises Liability Case?: To have a valid claim, you must show that the property owner (or someone in control of the property) knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to address it in a reasonable amount of time. You must also prove that the hazardous condition directly caused your injury. A West Jordan premises liability lawyer can help evaluate your case and determine whether these legal standards are met.
What Kind of Damages Can I Recover in a Premises Liability Claim?: You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future medical treatment, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any permanent disability or scarring. If the property owner’s conduct was especially reckless, punitive damages may also be available in rare cases.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?: Each state has a statute of limitations for personal injury cases—often two or three years from the date of the injury. Failing to file your claim within that time could bar you from recovering any compensation. However, some deadlines may be shorter if a government entity is involved, so it’s essential to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Can I Still File a Claim if I Was Partially at Fault?: Yes, in many states, you can still recover damages even if you were partly responsible for the accident. Under comparative negligence laws, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found 20% at fault, your damages would be reduced by 20%. An attorney can help assess how these rules apply to your situation.
Do I Have to Go to Court to Resolve a Premises Liability Case?: Not necessarily. Many premises liability claims are resolved through out-of-court settlements. A skilled attorney will negotiate with the property owner’s insurance company to reach a fair agreement. If a settlement isn’t possible, your case may go to trial.
What Should I Bring to My First Meeting with a West Jordan Premises Liability Attorney?: Bring any photos of the scene or your injuries, medical records and bills, a copy of the incident report (if available), and contact information for any witnesses. It also helps to have a written summary of what happened, including dates, times, and details about how the injury has impacted your life.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Premises Liability Attorney in West Jordan?: Most West Jordan premises liability lawyers handle these cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay anything upfront, and the attorney only gets paid if they recover compensation for you—usually a percentage of your settlement or award. Always ask for a clear explanation of the fee agreement during your consultation.