Annual emergency room visits for injuries top over 40 million, and if negligence is involved, it may be worth consulting with an attorney. Hiring a personal injury lawyer saves you time, money and the stress of dealing with opposing insurers and lawyers.
Attorneys will handle:
- Contact with insurers and lawyers
- Negotiations on your behalf
Your goal is to focus on healing, and the first step is seeking damages from the negligent party. Hiring a personal injury lawyer for the first time? There’s a lot to think about before choosing your attorney.
8 Things to Know Before Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
Your attorney needs to be a strategic fit for your case. Strong communication policies, a winning reputation and a focus on personal injury law are a good start. Consult with a lawyer, learn more about them, and find a firm that you’re confident will help you reach the highest settlement possible.
Schedule your 100% free case evaluation with Keller Swam today.
1. What is Their Reputation and Success Rate?
You have a case or claim to win. Ask your potential lawyer about their success rate (i.e., their win-loss record), but don’t put too much weight on this ratio. A lawyer may “lose” but lower a judgment against a client by 90%, which many would consider a win.
Instead, start your own research by reading through reviews on:
- Yelp
- Elite Litigators
If clients complain about poor results or lack of communication, it may be worth consulting with more lawyers in your area.
Before hiring a lawyer, ask questions.
You should ask if the lawyer you’re speaking to will be the one representing you or if someone else in the firm will handle your case. Also, ask the lawyer for testimonials from previous clients who had similar cases to your own.
Questions are the best way to get a feel for the attorney you’re about to hire and learn if they’re a good fit for you.
2. Do They Focus on Personal Injury Law?
One of the benefits of hiring a personal injury lawyer is that this is their area of focus. You want a lawyer who deals in personal injury law day in and day out. Nearly 10% of all practicing attorneys focus on personal injury law, so you can find someone to take on your case.
You can narrow personal injury down even further to a legal professional who focuses on
- Boating accidents
- Car accidents
- Dog bites
- Slip and fall accidents
- Other areas of personal injury
Lawyers who focus on personal injury will know the best approach in your case to maximize your settlement and work through your claim as quickly as possible.
3. What is Their Communication Policy?
You have questions, and your case is a priority. The lawyer you choose should have a clear communication policy. Ask your attorney:
- How will they communicate with you?
- How often can you expect updates?
Make sure their communication policy aligns with your expectations to avoid confusion and disappointment.
4. Do They Have the Resources to Support Your Case?
Complex cases involving multiple parties and/or severe injuries are more resource-intensive. Will the firm have the bandwidth and resources to support a case like this?
Ensure the lawyer will be able to give your case the time and attention it deserves.
5. What Does Their Case Process Look Like?
Before you hire an attorney, you may want to get a clear picture of what the process will entail. How does the lawyer handle cases like yours? What steps will be followed to pursue compensation?
Typically, a personal injury lawyer will:
- Start with an investigation and gather evidence to support your claim, including police reports, eyewitness testimonies and video footage.
- Consult with experts to get a clearer picture of the value of your claim and medical care needs (present and future).
- Handle negotiations and fight to secure a fair settlement.
- Take the case to trial if necessary to achieve the best possible outcome.
Make sure the lawyer you’re considering will be taking a similar path and a thorough approach to your case.
6. Are They Willing to Go to Trial if Necessary?
Most personal injury cases settle outside of the courtroom, but what if you are unable to come to a fair settlement with the other party or parties? In some cases, going to trial is the optimal way to achieve the best possible outcome.
When consulting with attorneys, find out if they are willing to go to trial if that’s what it takes to achieve the outcome you deserve.
You want a lawyer who will put your best interests first – not settling your case as quickly as possible.
7. What Will Your Responsibilities Be (As the Client)?
Before hiring a lawyer and proceeding with your claim, make sure you understand what the process entails. Specifically, clarify what your responsibilities will be as the client for:
- Documentation
- Attending medical appointments
- Communication with the firm and the lawyer
Understanding these requirements will ensure everyone is on the same page and you know what will be expected of you throughout the entire process.
8. Do You Feel Comfortable With the Lawyer?
It is crucial to work with someone you feel is trustworthy, so don’t overlook the importance of feeling comfortable with your lawyer.
If they aren’t a good personality fit or you don’t feel comfortable sharing personal details related to your case, don’t be afraid to go with someone else instead. Follow your gut and look for someone you can trust.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a personal injury lawyer is a big decision that should be made with care and intention. Having all the facts and weighing your options will help you choose a lawyer who will advocate for your best interests and fight for the compensation you are entitled to.
The best way to start your journey of finding a lawyer is to begin scheduling consultations.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
The experienced personal injury attorneys at Keller Swan have handled every type of personal injury claim. We have the resources and skills to pursue the settlement you deserve.