Between medical bills and other costs, accidents can be costly. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you file a compensation claim.
They will conduct a thorough investigation, prove liability and negotiate with the insurance company to get you maximum compensation.
Find a Reputable Firm
It’s always a good idea to consult with a personal injury lawyer when you have questions about an accident that caused injuries. However, you should avoid relying solely on recommendations from friends or family members. They may have different responses to lawyers’ personalities and styles.
Likewise, don’t choose a personal injury lawyer who advertises on television or sends solicitation letters to your home. Many of these firms operate on a high-volume, quick turnover basis and are eager to grab your case because they offer low fees.
Before you meet with an attorney, write down a list of frequently asked questions to ask. This will help you determine whether they fit your case well. For example, you should find out if they have experience handling personal injury cases like yours and their success rate. Also, learn about their policy on expense reimbursement if they lose your case. Most reputable personal injury lawyers reimburse their clients for expenses related to their cases.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation
One of the best things you can do to help yourself get the information you need to make an intelligent decision is to schedule a free consultation. A law firm offering these initial meetings without a fee is a good sign that they respect their clients’ time and money.
You should bring any documents about your injury and its consequences during the meeting. This includes medical records, accident reports, and insurance information. It’s also helpful to bring pay stubs and other proof of income, which can help the attorney calculate lost wages from your injury.
Although legal consultations can include legal advice and a case evaluation, they do not count as hiring an attorney to represent you. If the attorney decides they cannot represent you, they will likely recommend that you seek representation with another firm specialized in your specific type of case. Nevertheless, it is essential, to be honest during the consultation and avoid embellishing your situation.
Ask Questions About Their Fee Agreement
It is essential to understand the specifics of a firm’s fee agreement. For example, do they charge a flat fee or an hourly rate? If they do, it is essential to ask if these fees will increase or decrease during representation and how far in advance a client would be notified of such changes.
In addition, a fee agreement should clearly state which costs you will be responsible for and which your lawyer will pay on your behalf. Some lawyers in contingency fee cases will front these costs and be reimbursed by the award, while others may require you to pay them directly.
Finally, it would be best to consider whether a particular law firm’s size will impact the level of service you receive. While most injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, large firms typically have more significant resources and can provide additional support to their client’s cases. This can make the difference in obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Get a Written Estimate
When negotiating with insurance companies, it is essential to have someone representing you. Insurance companies are notorious for trying to nickel and dime in every way possible, and they will often try to save their company money to your detriment. A personal injury law firm will be your best ally in these negotiations.
When meeting with a potential attorney, ask for a detailed breakdown of their fees and any other costs associated with your case. Writing this before you decide to retain an attorney is also wise.
Another factor to consider is the size of a firm. Some larger firms will have multiple attorneys and a team of paralegals that do much of the legwork. This can work out well for a client because there is a lot of experience behind the scenes, but it could mean that an attorney will have less time to devote to your case.