How to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
Have you experienced a car accident, medical malpractice, defective product, or another form of accident? Did it result in pain and suffering or serious injuries? If so, you will want to consult with a personal injury attorney with an excellent track record who is prepared to protect the legal rights of accident victims in any type of case. With the right lawyer, you will be more likely to level the playing field and reach a fair settlement with the insurance company. A personal injury claim can help the victim pay their medical bills and compensate the victim for their non-economic pain and suffering. This guide shows how you can find an experienced personal injury attorney.
You can always look to local databases to find a good lawyer, but we recommend checking out client reviews from a law firm’s Google Reviews page and looking at the AVVO ratings of individual lawyers at a firm to find one that has a great reputation in the local market!
What percentage do most personal injury lawyers take?
An accident attorney’s fees are usually a “contingency fee.” Most personal injury contingency fees are around 33% of the case’s settlement amount. This ensures the client will be able to afford the fee, as you will only have to pay it if you win money in a settlement. There may be additional costs as well, such as postage, paper costs, filing fees, and more. You should discuss specific fees you may have to pay with your attorney.
What should I look for in a lawyer?
The right attorney will be experienced in personal injury cases. Depending on your needs, consider the experience of the personal injury law firm. A local law office often has more time to help you and can provide more attention to your needs. We suggest looking for a lawyer that operates on contingency (also known as charging a contingency fee). This means that your legal fees are paid from your settlement amount instead of being paid upfront. An experienced lawyer with a high success rate is preferred as well.
What questions should I ask an attorney?
Make a phone call to ask if your lawyer can offer you a free case evaluation. You may meet with your lawyer beforehand to begin your attorney-client relationship. Some lawyers may offer a free initial consultation where they will discuss your injury, any potential insurance claim, and the payment you may receive from insurance companies due to your injury. You should ask if they wish to see your medical records and if they have a contingency fee agreement. Most of all, you should ask about the value of your case. The attorney will offer their estimate of whether you have a good case that will bring a fair settlement. If they think you have a case for a larger claim than an insurance company may offer, you may take the case to court. The resolution may take a long time. If your lawyer has had experience with similar cases, you may ask them how long they think the case will take to resolve. Ask them what difficulties they can see with your case. The legal system and insurance claims can be tricky to navigate, so you should work with an attorney who is upfront with you about your case and understands how to work with insurance companies and the legal system!
