What Should I Consider When Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Finding the right attorney to handle your injury claim is an important decision that requires careful research and evaluation. But with 450k law firms in the US to choose from, there are some things to bear in mind. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when hiring a personal injury lawyer.

Experience Handling Similar Cases

One of the most important things to consider is the lawyer's experience with cases similar to yours. Personal injury law covers many types of accidents and injuries, and lawyers often specialize in certain areas. For example, look for a lawyer who frequently handles cases involving car accidents or medical malpractice if you have suffered those types of injuries. Ask about the number of cases the lawyer has handled that are comparable to yours as well as the results obtained. One report found that some lawyers handle as many as 500 cases at once.

An experienced personal injury attorney will have the skills and knowledge needed to successfully prove liability and get maximum compensation.

Resources and Trial Experience

Proving liability and getting full compensation often requires extensive resources and willingness to take a case to trial. According to Justin Watkins, a Las Vegas injury attorney, you should choose a lawyer who has sufficient financial resources to cover case expenses like investigations, medical expert testimony, and trial costs. Also, find out if the lawyer has actual trial experience. While around 95% of cases settle out of court, a lawyer who is not afraid to take a case to trial if necessary may gain more leverage in settlement negotiations.

Contingency Fee Structure

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they don't get paid any legal fees unless they achieve a settlement on your behalf. Typical contingency fees range between 33-40% of the amount recovered. Make sure you understand the fee structure and ask questions if anything is unclear. Beware of any lawyers who ask for money upfront, as this could be a sign they won't have the resources to properly represent your case.

Objectivity and Honesty

Find a personal injury attorney who is honest about the prospects of your case. While you want an advocate on your side, be wary of any lawyer who guarantees a big payout or seems overly confident without reviewing the evidence. The right lawyer will evaluate your case objectively in the beginning and lay out reasonable expectations. They will inform you of the challenges as well as the strengths to develop a strong claim.

Communication and Responsiveness

Hiring a personal injury lawyer means entrusting your case to someone else's expertise. You should feel confident that the attorney will keep you informed, return phone calls and emails promptly, listen to your concerns, and explain the process in terms you understand. Clear communication and responsiveness are key to a positive attorney-client relationship.

Evaluating personal injury lawyers based on these key factors will help you find the best legal representation. Be sure to interview more than one attorney before deciding. Retaining the right lawyer can make a big difference in obtaining fair compensation when you've been injured through no fault of your own.