They say that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” but when accidents happen, and you’re left injured, it’s crucial to have someone on your side who will fight for the compensation you deserve. personal injury lawyers are experts in navigating the complex legal system and ensuring their clients receive justice for any harm they’ve suffered.
For New Yorkers seeking representation, there are specific things you should expect from a first-rate accident attorney like the New York personal injury lawyers at Morelli Law. You may be wondering what sets apart a great personal injury attorney in New York; after all, we all want someone with our best interests at heart.
This article will delve into the qualities and services these dedicated professionals provide while advocating for those who need them most. From understanding local laws to negotiating with insurance companies, let’s explore how an experienced New York personal injury lawyer can help turn your life around by fighting passionately for your rights.
What Can I Expect From a New York Personal Injury Lawyer?
When you hire a New York personal injury lawyer, you benefit from professional representation in the courtroom.
An experienced lawyer can provide valuable guidance as you seek compensation for your injuries. In addition, with the help of a lawyer, you have a better chance of receiving the maximum amount of compensatory damages.
Professional Representation
Imagine walking into a courtroom alone, nervous and unsure how to navigate the complex legal system. Wouldn’t you feel more confident with professional representation by your side?
A NY personal injury lawyer is that reliable ally who will fight for your rights, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve after an accident. These skilled attorneys are masters at negotiating settlements, presenting evidence effectively in court, and providing invaluable guidance throughout each step of the process.
With their expertise in handling cases like yours, they offer peace of mind knowing that someone has your back; when it comes to securing justice for victims, teamwork makes all the difference.
Experienced Guidance
The experienced guidance of a personal injury lawyer can make all the difference in navigating the complex landscape of New York’s legal system. As a personal injury victim, you might not be well-versed with the intricate laws and regulations surrounding your case, but that’s where an attorney can help.
They possess vast knowledge about various aspects of personal injury law and years of experience handling similar cases. With this expertise, they can efficiently evaluate your situation, advise on possible outcomes based on past results, and devise a strategic plan tailored to your needs.
Moreover, working closely with such an expert lets you focus on recovering from your injuries. At the same time, they champion your cause because serving others drives them forward.
Have You Been Injured In An Accident? Contact Morelli Law
877-751-9800What Damages Can I Recover?
When seeking justice and fair compensation for your injury, it is important to understand what damages may be available. A skilled New York personal injury lawyer like the ones at Morelli Law will work diligently to secure the most comprehensive recovery possible for you.
By identifying all potential avenues for financial restitution, these legal professionals help ensure that you receive the monetary support you need and the opportunity to restore a sense of normalcy in your life.
As each case unfolds, an experienced personal injury attorney will leave no stone unturned while fighting on your behalf. The process often involves conducting thorough investigations, securing expert testimony, and presenting compelling evidence in court or during negotiations with insurance companies.
This dedication to advocacy makes such lawyers invaluable partners when pursuing compensation.
The following table spells out the types of damages you may be eligible to recover:
Types of Damages | Definition | Examples |
Medical expenses | Payment for medical bills related to the injuries | Hospitalization, surgery, medication |
Lost wages | Remuneration for income lost due to inability to work | Lost income, reduced earning capacity |
Pain and suffering | Damages for physical and emotional distress | Chronic pain, anxiety, loss of enjoyment |
Property damage | Restitution for damage to property | Car repairs, property repairs or replacement |
Loss of consortium | Compensation for loss of ability to maintain relationships | Loss of companionship, loss of support |
Punitive damages | Exemplary damages designed to punish and deter | Intentional or egregious conduct |
As you follow your own path toward healing and closure following a traumatic event in New York, remember that partnering with a compassionate personal injury lawyer can make all the difference.
Compensatory Damages
In personal injury cases, the primary goal is often to obtain compensatory damages that make you whole again. A skilled New York personal injury lawyer understands how crucial this aspect of your case is and will diligently work toward securing a fair settlement on your behalf.
They’ll consider all aspects of the harm, from physical pain and emotional trauma to lost wages and property damage. Then, by meticulously evaluating each monetary impact, they can present a strong argument for why you deserve every penny necessary to rebuild your life after such a devastating experience.
So, enlisting their expert support not only increases your chances of obtaining justice but also allows you to be more involved in helping others because when we come together as a community, everyone benefits in the long run.
Why Choose the Legal Team at Morelli Law?
At Morelli Law, clients benefit from an experienced team of lawyers who have achieved success in high-profile cases. We have a track record of securing multi-million-dollar awards for our clients, ensuring they get the justice and compensation they deserve.
With Morelli Law, you can rest assured experienced professionals will fiercely defend your rights.
A Legal Team with Experience
In a world where legal battles are often complex and challenging, having experienced lawyers by your side is crucial.
At Morelli Law Firm, we pride ourselves on our team of highly skilled personal injury attorneys who dedicate themselves to serving those in need. As skilled injury lawyers, we understand the intricacies and nuances of navigating the justice system to ensure that our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
Our engaging approach allows us to connect with our audience on a deeper level as we work to champion their rights.
With seasoned expertise and an unwavering commitment to advocacy, choosing Morelli Law for your personal injury case is a decision you won’t regret.
High-Profile Cases
When it comes to high-profile cases, you can trust that our New York personal injury lawyers at Morelli Law Firm have the experience and determination necessary to represent your interests effectively.
We’re not intimidated by the challenge of taking on powerful corporations or navigating complex legal scenarios; we thrive on it. Our team’s impressive track record demonstrates our ability to secure substantial settlements for clients wronged by others’ negligence.
As personal injury attorneys and accomplished trial lawyers passionate about serving those in need, we’ll ensure you stay informed and empowered throughout the process.
So when you choose Morelli Law as your partner in seeking justice, rest assured knowing you’re entrusting your case to a firm with proven success in high-stakes litigation.
Multi-Million-Dollar Awards
At Morelli Law Firm, our New York personal injury lawyers’ dedication to advocating for those harmed by another’s negligence extends beyond high-profile cases. We’re proud of our numerous multi-million-dollar awards that reflect the tireless efforts we put into every case we undertake.
As top-rated personal injury attorneys committed to serving others, it’s not just about winning; it’s about ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve to rebuild your life after suffering injuries or losses due to someone else’s recklessness.
With us in your corner, you’ll have a team that knows what it takes to achieve substantial settlements and won’t back down until justice is served.
Contact our personal injury lawyers today
877-751-9800What Practice Areas Do We Handle?
When it comes to accident-related injuries, you need to know what a New York personal injury lawyer can do for you.
They can make a huge difference in fighting for your rights, from proving negligence to helping you get the compensation you deserve.
Car Accidents In New York
Imagine the chaos and confusion of a busy New York intersection, with cars honking, pedestrians hustling across crosswalks, and bicyclists weaving through traffic.
Now picture yourself in that scene when suddenly you’re involved in a motor vehicle accident. It’s disorienting and scary, but you’re not alone. A skilled New York personal injury lawyer will guide you through this difficult time by fighting for your rights and working to get you justice and compensation.
In today’s world, where we often feel like just another number, finding an attorney who truly cares about their clients’ well-being is priceless. So if you’ve been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, rest assured knowing there are compassionate legal experts ready to stand up for your cause.
Truck Accidents In New York
But car accidents are just one of the many cases that Morelli Law Firm can handle. Truck accidents, for example, often result in devastating injuries due to their size and weight compared to passenger vehicles.
Victims may face long-term physical, emotional, and financial burdens as they try to recover from these life-altering events.
An experienced legal professional from our firm will help if you were wronged by truck drivers or companies. We make it our mission to ensure justice is served and that you receive the support you need during this difficult time.
Other Practice Areas Covered by the Skilled NY Lawyers at Morelli Law
The following table outlines other practice areas covered by Morelli Law:
Personal Injury Type | Description | Examples |
Motorcycle crashes | Injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident | Head trauma, broken bones, spinal cord injuries |
Wrongful death claim | Death caused by another’s negligence or wrongdoing | Fatal car accidents, medical malpractice |
Construction accidents | Injuries sustained by construction workers on a job site | Falls, electrocution, equipment malfunction |
Medical malpractice | Negligence or error by a healthcare provider | Misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication errors |
Nursing home abuse | Neglect, abuse, or mistreatment of nursing home residents | Physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect |
Defective drugs or devices | Injuries caused by a defective drug or medical device | Heart attacks caused by defective heart stents, complications from hip replacements |
Railroad accidents | Injuries sustained in a train or railroad accident | Derailments, collisions with other trains or vehicles |
Bicycle accidents | Injuries sustained in a bicycle accident | Head trauma, broken bones, spinal cord injuries |
Pedestrian accidents | Injuries sustained in an accident involving a pedestrian | Broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries |
With our team of experienced attorneys, Morelli Law is dedicated to providing you with high-quality legal representation if you were injured or wronged due to negligence or misconduct. Our focus on these practice areas allows us to offer in-depth knowledge and skill to clients seeking justice and compensation.
What Types of Evidence Are Used in a New York Civil Lawsuit?
After exploring the various practice areas that New York personal injury attorneys handle, it’s important to delve into the types of evidence used in these cases. As you seek justice for your injuries and fight for your rights, having a strong arsenal of evidence is crucial in building a solid case.
From medical records that showcase the extent of your injuries to witness statements shedding light on accident circumstances, each piece plays a vital role in strengthening your case. For example, expert testimony adds weight by establishing causation, while photographs and videos offer visual proof of the incident.
Police reports and official documents provide further context, complemented by physical evidence like damaged vehicles or defective products that may have contributed to the accident.
Moreover, employment records help demonstrate how your life has been affected personally and professionally due to your inability to work.
By collaborating with a dedicated personal injury attorney who understands the nuances of New York law, you’ll stand a better chance at obtaining fair financial compensation for your losses while serving others by seeking accountability from those responsible for causing harm.
Evidence to Support Your Claim
In any New York personal injury lawsuit, an array of evidence can be utilized to support your claim. The following are five types of evidence that can support your New York personal injury case:
- Medical records: Medical records and witness statements play a vital role in strengthening a personal injury case in New York.
- Expert testimony: Expert testimony can establish causation. In many cases, expert witnesses are called upon to provide testimony that helps to explain the cause of an accident or injury or to evaluate the extent of the injuries sustained by the victim.
- Physical evidence: Physical evidence like damaged vehicles or defective products may have contributed to the accident.
- Photos and videos: Photographs, videos, and other visual evidence can be powerful tools in illustrating the extent of your injuries. These types of evidence can make a huge difference, from documenting accident scenes to demonstrating medical care and progress.
- Police report: Police reports and official documents provide further context, and physical evidence like damaged vehicles or defective products can contribute to the accident.
Collaborating with a dedicated personal injury attorney who understands New York law can increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation and seeking accountability from those responsible for causing harm.
What Are Common Causes of Injury in New York?
Car accidents frequently cause injury in New York, especially in densely populated areas.
Slip and fall accidents are also common in New York, often due to hazardous conditions on a property owner’s premises.
Car Accidents
In the bustling metropolis of New York City, it’s no surprise that car accidents are a leading cause of personal injuries.
With millions of vehicles traversing its streets daily, collisions between cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians are all too common.
Unfortunately for those involved in these harrowing incidents, they can result in serious physical trauma and emotional distress.
That’s where a skilled New York personal injury lawyer steps in, fighting to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve while navigating the complexities of accident claims with grace and expertise.
Moreover, by advocating for their clients’ well-being, these legal professionals fulfill an innate desire to serve others and help them overcome life-altering challenges brought about by car accidents.
Slip And Fall Accidents
But car accidents aren’t the only source of anguish for New Yorkers; slip and fall accidents are another all-too-common cause of personal injuries in the city that never sleeps.
We’ve all been there: one moment, you’re walking along, minding your own business, and the next thing you know, you’re flat on your back after slipping on a wet floor or tripping over an uneven surface.
That’s when having a skilled New York personal injury lawyer by your side becomes crucial to navigate the legal intricacies surrounding premises liability cases.
These dedicated attorneys work to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve and fulfill their innate desire to serve others who’ve experienced such distressing situations.
So whether it’s pursuing justice for someone injured in a slip and fall accident at a local grocery store or holding negligent property owners accountable for their oversight, these compassionate professionals are invaluable in helping clients overcome adversity and reclaim control of their lives.
How Does Morelli Law Hold Negligent Parties Responsible?
Proving negligence is essential in any personal injury case, and Morelli Law has an impressive track record of successfully doing so.
Seeking compensation for those affected by the negligence of others is a priority for Morelli Law, and they are dedicated to fighting for their clients’ rights.
Proving Negligence
Imagine being the victim of a terrible accident caused by someone else’s carelessness, and now you’re left to pick up the pieces. It’s not fair, right?
That’s where proving negligence comes into play, and it’s crucial for your case. A skilled New York personal injury lawyer will meticulously investigate your situation to establish that the other party was negligent.
They’ll examine police reports, interview witnesses, review medical records, and consult with experts to pursue justice for you. By building a strong case that demonstrates how the responsible individual or company failed to uphold their duty of care, they can help ensure that those who put your well-being at risk are held accountable for their actions.
So when seeking compensation for your injuries and suffering, remember that having an experienced attorney is invaluable in turning the tables on negligence and pursuing the fairness you deserve.
Seeking Compensation
Seeking compensation for your injuries and losses is not just about getting the money you deserve; it’s also a powerful way to hold negligent individuals and companies responsible for their actions.
A New York personal injury lawyer understands that every case is unique, with its challenges and complexities. So they’ll work on your behalf to negotiate fair settlements, navigate complex legal processes, and even take those who caused your suffering to court, all to ensure justice is served.
In doing so, they send a strong message that carelessness won’t be tolerated, ultimately helping create safer environments for everyone. With such an advocate by your side, you can rest assured knowing someone has got your back while seeking the compensation you rightfully deserve.
What Should I Do After an Injury in New York?
Many people may hesitate to contact a New York personal injury attorney after an accident, fearing that they might not have a strong case or that the process will be too stressful. However, it is crucial to remember that seeking legal advice from a professional can help you navigate the complexities of pursuing compensation and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
By partnering with an experienced lawyer, victims of injuries caused by another’s negligence can rest assured knowing they have someone who genuinely cares about helping them get back on their feet.
When working with a New York personal injury attorney, there are several key aspects of your claim that they will focus on:
- Assessing liability
- Determining who was at fault for the accident
- Investigating whether any third parties contributed to your injuries
- Calculating damages
- Evaluating economic losses such as medical bills and lost wages
- Estimating non-economic damages like pain and suffering
As an advocate for justice in these difficult circumstances, your attorney will provide valuable insights into how best to proceed with your personal injury claim. They will guide you through every step, ensuring all deadlines are met, and necessary documentation is submitted promptly.
Moreover, having a trusted legal adviser by your side sends a powerful message that underscores your determination and commitment to obtaining rightful compensation. It also serves as a reminder that no individual should suffer needlessly due to another party’s carelessness.
How Do I Prove Fault in New York?
New York is home to Broadway shows, world-class cuisine, and, unfortunately, personal injury lawsuits. It’s true; you’re bound to come across someone who has enlisted the help of a New York personal injury lawyer to fight for their rights.
Morelli Law Firm has a reputation for tenacity and is your advocate when it comes time to prove fault to seek justice from at-fault parties.
But how do they accomplish this?
These skilled attorneys gather evidence like photographs and witness statements while collaborating with experts such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals.
They work tirelessly and selflessly on behalf of their clients to ensure that all elements of negligence are established beyond doubt.
Establishing Negligence
To prove fault in a personal injury case in New York, you must establish that the defendant was negligent. Negligence is a legal concept that refers to the failure to take reasonable care to prevent harm to others.
To prove negligence, you will typically need to establish the following four elements:
- Duty of care: The defendant owed you a duty of care, a legal obligation to act reasonably and avoid causing harm.
- Breach of duty: The defendant breached their duty of care by failing to act reasonably or engaging in negligent conduct.
- Causation: The defendant’s breach of duty caused your injuries.
- Damages: You suffered actual damages due to the defendant’s conduct, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
It is important to note that New York follows a comparative negligence system, which means that your monetary damages may be reduced if you are found to have contributed to your own injuries.
For example, if you were injured in a car accident and were not wearing a seatbelt, according to New York law, your damages are reduced to account for your negligence.
Proving fault in a personal injury case can be complex, and working with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve is important.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in New York?
It’s important to be aware of the statute of limitations in New York when you’re considering filing a personal injury claim. Understanding the deadline and any exceptions is key to ensuring you don’t miss your chance to seek justice.
Understanding the Deadline
Understanding the deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit in New York is crucial to protecting your rights and getting the compensation you deserve.
The statute of limitations sets strict deadlines, typically three years from the accident or incident causing your injuries, for initiating legal action against those responsible. However, for medical malpractice lawsuits, the period is limited to two years, six months, according to NYCourts.gov.
As a compassionate advocate for justice, it’s essential to be aware of these time constraints and act promptly for injured clients who may be counting on a successful resolution to move forward with their lives.
Don’t let this critical window close; seek expert guidance from an experienced New York personal injury lawyer who will fight for your right to fair and just compensation.
Exceptions to the Deadline
As we said, the statute of limitations varies depending on the type of case, but in general, personal injury cases must be filed within three years of the date of the injury.
However, there are some exceptions to New York’s statute of limitations deadline. These exceptions include:
- Discovery of harm: If the plaintiff did not discover the injury until after the three-year statute of limitations has expired, they might still have a valid claim. The clock on the statute of limitations begins when the plaintiff knew or should have known about the injury.
- Minors: If the injured party was a minor at the time of the injury, the statute of limitations does not begin to run until the minor turns 18.
- Mental incapacity: If the plaintiff was mentally incapacitated at the time of the injury, the statute of limitations might be tolled or paused until they regain capacity.
- Governmental entities: If the defendant is a governmental entity, such as a city or state agency, the plaintiff may need to comply with special notice requirements and shorter filing deadlines.
It is important to note that these exceptions can be complex. Therefore, it is always best to consult an experienced personal injury attorney to determine whether you have a valid claim and to ensure you comply with all applicable deadlines and requirements.
What Happens During a Free Consultation with Morelli Law?
When you’ve been injured and are seeking legal representation, finding a personal injury law firm with your best interests in mind is crucial. Morelli Law is one such firm that stands out among the rest, offering free consultations for personal injury accident victims.
But what can you expect during this initial meeting with an experienced attorney from Morelli Law? First, let’s take a look at some key aspects of this all-important first encounter:
- Gathering information: The primary goal of the consultation is for the attorney to gather as much information about your case as possible. This includes understanding how the accident occurred, identifying potentially liable parties, assessing injuries sustained, and estimating medical expenses.
- Evaluating your claim: After collecting relevant details, the attorney will evaluate whether you have a valid claim worth pursuing. They’ll discuss potential strategies and explain any challenges they foresee in bringing your case forward.
- Discussing fees and expectations: Lastly, Morelli Law attorneys value transparency and will openly discuss their fee structure during this session. Additionally, they’ll set realistic expectations regarding potential outcomes and timelines for resolving your case.
Keep in mind that these consultations serve another important purpose: providing an opportunity for both you and your attorney to determine if working together would result in a successful partnership. Therefore, being comfortable with and trusting whoever represents you throughout this complex process is essential.
Throughout each step mentioned above, Morelli Law emphasizes clear communication and compassion toward clients’ suffering through unexpected hardships, ensuring everyone involved understands every detail of what lies ahead.
So when choosing between personal injury firms in New York City, remember that a free consultation with Morelli Law guarantees thorough guidance tailored specifically to your unique situation, without costing you a dime upfront!
Contacting a New York Personal Injury Lawyer
When you contact a New York personal injury lawyer, having the right questions ready is key to ensuring you get the legal representation you need.
It’s also important to understand an attorney’s qualifications to know you’re getting the best help for your case.
What Questions To Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer
It’s essential that you come prepared with questions to ask during your initial consultation. This will ensure that they have the necessary experience and qualifications and help determine if they are a good fit for your case.
Don’t hesitate to inquire about their background in handling cases similar to yours, their approach to negotiations, and what timeline you can expect moving forward.
Remember, choosing the right personal injury lawyer is key to achieving the best possible outcome for your case, so take advantage of these free consultations by asking informed questions that ultimately serve your best interests.
Qualifications of Your New York Lawyer
As you navigate the process of finding a personal injury lawyer, it’s vital to consider their qualifications and expertise in handling cases like yours.
A qualified attorney should have years of experience, a proven track record of success, and an understanding of the laws specific to New York. They should also be able to communicate effectively with clients who are seeking justice after an accident.
By asking informed questions during your free consultation and assessing their qualifications, you can confidently choose the right personal injury lawyer for your case, ensuring that you receive the support and representation needed to achieve the best possible outcome on your journey toward healing and recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions we receive from clients about personal injury law in New York. Whether you have been injured in a car accident, on a construction site, or due to medical malpractice, we are here to help.
If you have any additional questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.
How Does Morelli Law Determine if I Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim?
Our experienced attorneys assess whether the negligence or recklessness of another party caused your injuries.
We also evaluate the extent of any physical, emotional, and financial damages you have suffered due to the incident. Furthermore, we consider various factors, such as statutes of limitations and potential defenses that may affect your claim’s validity.
Ultimately, by delving into every aspect of your situation with compassion and dedication to justice. Morelli Law strives to protect your rights, while those who have wronged you are held accountable for their actions.
Can Morelli Law Help Me with My Personal Injury Case if I Am Not a New York Resident?
Navigating the turbulent waters of a personal injury case can be challenging, especially when you’re not a resident. However, Morelli Law has you covered even if New York isn’t your home.
Our legal experts are well-versed in providing superior representation to clients from diverse geographic backgrounds. With their unwavering commitment to serving justice and protecting your rights, Morelli Law is more than equipped to help out-of-state visitors sail smoothly through their personal injury cases.
So whether you come from sunny California or the mountains of Colorado, our proficient team will go above and beyond to ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
What Is the Average Duration of an Accident Lawsuit Handled By Morelli Law?
The duration of a personal injury lawsuit handled by Morelli Law can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances of each case.
It’s important to remember that no two cases are alike, and factors such as the complexity of the legal issues involved, the amount of evidence to be gathered, and whether or not a settlement can be reached before going to trial all play a role in determining how long a case might take.
In general, however, you should expect your attorney at Morelli Law to work diligently and efficiently to resolve your case as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive adequate compensation for your injuries. After all, their mission is serving others like yourself who have been wronged by another party’s negligence or misconduct.
How Does Morelli Law Work with Insurance Companies During an Accident Claim?
Navigating the complexities of insurance claims during a personal injury case can feel like trying to find your way through a labyrinth. We at Morelli Law, however, skillfully work with insurance companies to ensure our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses.
Our experienced attorneys will fight tooth and nail on behalf of our clients. We understand the intricacies of firmly dealing with insurers while deftly negotiating settlements.
We aim to achieve favorable outcomes even in the most challenging circumstances by effectively advocating for our client’s best interests.
Can I Still Pursue a Claim if I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?
In some cases, you may still pursue a personal injury claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident.
Again, New York follows a comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your responsibility for causing the incident.
For example, if you were found to be 30% responsible and awarded $100,000 in damages, your actual recovery would amount to $70,000.
However, seeking legal advice from an experienced attorney who can help navigate these complex matters and fight for your right to fair compensation despite shared liability is crucial.
Don’t Suffer in Silence: Contact Morelli Law in New York Today
If you or a loved one has been injured due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another party, it’s important to take action and protect your rights. At Morelli Law, we have the knowledge, experience, and resources to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our team of dedicated attorneys is committed to providing personalized attention and aggressive representation to each of our clients. So don’t suffer in silence; contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.
Call or text 877-751-9800 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form