Your personal injury attorney will protect your rights if you were injured in an auto accident by a defective product or other cause. This may include negotiating with the responsible party’s insurance company or filing a lawsuit.
Choosing the right lawyer is an important decision. During your meetings, you should consider the following factors:
Experience
Choosing an attorney to represent you in a personal injury case is a big decision. A skilled and experienced attorney handling your case can make all the difference in how it turns out.
Determining how long an attorney or firm has been in business is essential. A firm like Schilling & Silvers, PLLC, which has been around for a long time, probably has a good track record and the resources to help you get the best possible results.
Another consideration is whether firm or individual lawyers specialize in personal injury cases. A personal injury lawyer specializing in this area of law will better understand the laws that apply to your case and have the resources to build a strong claim.
Also, ask the attorneys you are considering how many personal injury cases they have handled. The more personal injury cases a lawyer has dealt with, the more likely they will succeed.
Reputation
A lawyer’s reputation can make a massive difference in the outcome of your case. Find out whether they are known for treating clients fairly if they return phone calls promptly, and keep you updated. Find out if they have any ethics complaints or suspensions against them with your state bar or licensing body.
Finding a personal injury lawyer with experience managing situations like yours is also crucial. For example, some attorneys specialize in car accident cases, while others focus on medical malpractice claims. This can help ensure your attorney understands the laws that apply to your lawsuit.
Seek advice from your friends, family, and workplace, and search online to learn more about personal injury attorneys in your area. Once you have found several candidates, schedule a free consultation to discuss your situation. This way, you can decide if they are the right fit for your legal needs.
Fees
The costs of a personal injury claim can add up quickly. You want a lawyer willing to work within your budget and clearly explain all the expenses related to your case.
Finding a lawyer with a professional office and organization is also essential. This shows they take their job seriously and have processes to keep up with deadlines.
If you know of a friend or coworker who has worked with an attorney on a similar case, ask them to provide feedback. However, don’t make a decision solely on a recommendation. Every attorney has a different style and personality, so it is essential to meet with potential candidates before deciding.
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they don’t get paid unless they successfully win your case. Ensure the lawyer’s fee agreement specifies their percentage share of the final award and defines what types of costs and expenses will be deducted.
Personality
It is essential to choose an attorney with a personality that is compatible with your own. You will work closely with your attorney for several months, so you want to be comfortable and feel like they have your best interests at heart.
It may also be helpful to ask friends, family members, and coworkers about their experiences with personal injury lawyers. This can give you a good idea of the experience you should expect from an attorney.
In addition, you should ask an attorney about their success rate and whether they typically handle cases from pre-litigation through trial. A lawyer who only negotiates with insurance companies and never takes a case to trial could miss substantial compensation for their clients. Sometimes, a problem is necessary to get the total payment you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.