There are now over 179,000 personal injury lawyers across the US. If you need to file a personal injury claim, don’t hire the first lawyer you call. Instead, use these tips to find the best personal injury lawyer in town.
With these tips, you can find a lawyer who will win your case and maximize your payout. Hire a lawyer who has your goals in mind today.
Gather Referrals
Talk to friends and family members who were recently in an accident. Ask if they can refer you to a personal injury lawyer. If they hired a lawyer in the past, ask about the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit.
Learning from their past experiences will help you manage your expectations about the road ahead.
Prepare a list of questions you want to ask each person about the lawyer they hired. For example:
- Is the lawyer experienced
- Do they specialize
- How long have they practiced
- Did they win your case
- How much did they win
- Did you encounter any problems
Asking these questions can help you determine if the lawyer is worth pursuing further. If the client experienced issues after hiring the lawyer, ask for details. For example, was the lawyer difficult to get in contact with?
Try to find a lawyer who will keep you informed. If the lawyer ignores your needs or concerns, they don’t have your best interests in mind.
If you’re unable to build a list of local lawyers through referrals, start searching online. Visit your local bar association website to review their directory. You can also find personal injury lawyers using the Martindale-Hubbell law firm directory.
Look for client reviews online for each lawyer you add to your list. Make sure each lawyer you’re considering has a strong reputation. Their professional reputation can help you determine if they’re worthy of your trust.
If they have a history of complaints behind them, review them from your list.
Check Qualifications
Don’t hire a lawyer without reviewing their qualifications first.
Confirm that each lawyer on your list is licensed to practice in the state by visiting your local bar association website. Determine if they’re a member of any legal organizations specific to personal injury claims. For example, you might find a lawyer who is a member of the American Association of Justice.
Try to find board-certified civil trial lawyers. They should have certifications from the National Board of Trial Advocacy. These lawyers will have extensive courtroom experience, making it easier for them to argue on your behalf.
Finding a lawyer with the proper qualifications can help you feel more confident in their abilities to handle your case.
Consider Experience and Speciality
Determine how long each lawyer has practiced in the state. Confirm that they have years of local experience. Local lawyers will understand local laws and procedures.
They’ll also have local contacts that might strengthen your personal injury lawsuit. For example, they might call a medical expert to discuss your injuries and future quality of life. They might have an investigator gather evidence to prove the other party was at fault.
Consider the details surrounding your personal injury case. Personal injury law covers:
- Auto accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Premise liability
- Product liability
- Medical malpractice
- Elder abuse and neglect
- Liable and slander
- Animal bites
You can break some of these categories down further.
For example, medical practice includes medication errors, inaccurate diagnoses, and surgical errors. Auto accidents cover Lyfts, Ubers, bikes, motorcycles, cars, trucks, and pedestrians. You can find a motorcycle accident attorney here.
Find a lawyer who specializes in cases like yours. Determine how often they handle those cases. If they lack relevant experience, remove them from your list of options.
Look for Courtroom Experience
You can’t anticipate whether or not your case will go to court. To cover your bases, look for a lawyer with courtroom experience. Ask them how often their lawsuits go to court.
Some lawyers are apprehensive about arguing cases in front of a judge and jury. These lawyers are more likely to settle their cases out of court. They might rush to accept a lowball offer on your behalf instead of fighting for more.
A lawyer with courtroom experience will ensure you receive the maximum payout.
Review Success Rates
Ask each lawyer how many cases like yours they’ve handled and won. Compare their wins and losses to find a lawyer capable of winning your case.
Ask how much they were able to win for each case, too.
A lawyer with extensive experience has likely learned over time. They won’t make the same mistakes they made in the past. Instead, they’ll have a better understanding of the legal strategies that can help you win your lawsuit.
Schedule a Consultation
Choose three local lawyers on your list and schedule a consultation at their offices.
Prepare a list of questions you want to ask each lawyer about their:
- Experience and area of expertise
- Qualifications
- Courtroom experience
- Recent cases
- Success rate
- Professional contacts and resources
Discuss the details surrounding your case and ask each lawyer what legal strategy they would recommend. A lawyer with strong analytical skills will have an easy time recommending a strategy.
Listen to how the lawyer talks and consider how they hold themselves. Look for someone with strong communication skills and confidence. After all, you’ll need to trust them to speak on your behalf.
Finally, ask each lawyer about their fee structure. Look for lawyers who work on a contingency fee basis (meaning they accept payment if they win your case).
Find the Best Personal Injury Lawyer in Town Today
Don’t make the mistake of hiring the first lawyer you call. Instead, use these tips to find the best personal injury lawyer around. A talented, experienced lawyer will have an easier time winning your case.
They’ll maximize your payout to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
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