Choosing a personal injury lawyer following a serious accident is a big decision. You want to be sure you have a lawyer who will meet your needs, from communicating and sharing information with you throughout the process to helping you get the best possible settlement from your claim. Are you looking for a personal injury attorney? Try these key steps.
1. Talk to friends and family who have used a personal injury attorney in the past.
Often, personal recommendations–or personal warnings–are the best way to get a good idea of the right personal injury attorney for you. Talking with a trusted friend or family member can also give you a better idea of what to expect from the whole claims process.
2. Look it up online.
Sites like Avvo will offer a list of lawyers in your area, complete with ratings. Take a look at other clients’ reviews of the attorney. Choosing a personal injury lawyer is a big decision, and you want to be sure that you choose one who will work well for you. Online reviews can provide just as much information as personal reviews from friends and family members–and the online format offers you access to far more reviews than you would get from asking friends and family alone. Make sure that you:
- Read both high and low reviews to see what people like and dislike about the attorney.
- Carefully consider more than just a star rating, which can be impacted by disgruntled individuals who lost their case.
- Evaluate the number of reviews an attorney has, which could indicate a longer history.
3. Ask the Right Questions
When you choose a personal injury attorney, there are several key things you want to know about them. Some questions can be answered by the attorney’s website; others, however, may require you to make a phone call or set up a free consultation. Ask these key questions of the attorney you’re considering:
How do you handle payment arrangements? How much do you think my claim will cost?You want to know the anticipated cost of legal fees to file your claim as well as what payment arrangements the attorney will make available to you. Some attorneys, for example, will take payment out of your settlement, rather than requiring up-front payment. Others may require payment even if you lose your claim. Make sure you fully understand your payment options before choosing an attorney.
What cases like mine have you handled in the past? What were the results? The attorney’s website may provide you with a look at past successes. Talking with the attorney can also give you a better idea of what cases like yours they may have handled in the past. You want a personal injury attorney who has experience with similar cases to help improve your results.
Who will actually handle my case? Many law firms have several lawyers on the payroll. Make sure you know who will be handling your case and that you feel confident in your choice.
Do you have enough time to devote to my case? An attorney or law firm that is currently overbooked, for example, may not be able to give your claim the time and attention it deserves.
How do you handle client communications? Look for an attorney that will use your preferred method of communication, whether that means calling, texting, or emailing. Also, ask about how often you can expect the attorney to communicate with you, especially if you expect ongoing contact throughout the process.
Are you struggling to find a personal injury attorney? Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer and whether we are a good fit for you.