The right attorney can make all the difference in a personal injury case. This is especially true in cases involving significant injuries or those where the long-term effects are not yet known.
While most personal injury cases are settled without a trial, you want an attorney with jury trial experience if your case needs to go to court.
Experience
A skilled personal injury attorney will understand the laws that pertain to your case. They will also have experience dealing with insurance companies and other opposing parties in a way that protects your rights to fair compensation.
Ideally, your attorney will have extensive trial experience. Although most cases settle out of court, having a lawyer who can stand before a jury and present a compelling case for you to win is essential.
Another important consideration is the size of the law firm. A large firm may have more resources, but it can also mean less personalized service.
It would help to consider how easy it will be to communicate with your potential personal injury attorney. Do they return calls promptly and keep you informed? This is a vital part of any client-attorney relationship. Some clients prefer frequent communication, while others want more of a hands-off approach and occasional updates on their case’s status.
Fees
Whether or not an attorney charges a flat fee or on a contingency basis, there are other costs involved in bringing a personal injury case to trial. These include medical records copies, filing fees, and hiring expert witnesses. Attorneys often deduct these expenses before calculating their fee percentage.
When choosing the best injury attorney, consider their experience with the accident or incident that caused your injury. Many law firms will have information on their websites on the kinds of injuries and accidents they specialize in. Still, asking potential attorneys about their experience with specific cases is a good idea.
In addition, if an attorney rejects your case or indicates it may be too difficult to win, get a second opinion. A hopeless case to one attorney may be a strong contender for a settlement award in another attorney’s hands. Lawyers often work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid when their clients win.
Reputation
One way to narrow your search for an injury lawyer is by looking at how they set their fees. Some lawyers charge hourly while others work on a contingency basis, where they are paid only when they win your case. Narrowing your search to the lawyers who set their fees this way can help you find an affordable attorney.
It is also essential to look at a personal injury attorney’s track record and trial experience. Even though most cases end in a settlement out of court, a strong trial record can guarantee that your attorney is prepared to fight for the money you are entitled to.
It is also good to check online reviews of potential injury lawyers and firms. Doing so can give you a good idea of how well an attorney will communicate with you throughout the legal process. They should be open and honest about how much they charge for their services and any other underlying expenses they might incur.
Personality
As important as experience, reputation, and fees are when choosing an injury attorney, personality is also a factor. Throughout the case, you will collaborate closely with your lawyer. Therefore, you need to feel at ease around them.
Look for an attorney who genuinely cares about your case. They should be able to tell your story and convey how the accident has affected you personally. An attorney who is a good listener and communicates well can help ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Finally, ensure the attorney has adequate jury trial experience if your case goes to court. While most personal injury cases are settled outside of court, your attorney must be prepared to try the case before a jury. It would be best to consider whether the attorney has limited their practice to injury cases. Someone who tries to handle several different areas of law may need help to give your case the attention it deserves.
Originally posted 2023-11-22 06:58:34.