Hiring a personal injury attorney helps ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve. Don’t just go with the first attorney you find online or in the phone book. Take time to research potential options, so you make an informed decision. Search online for personal injury attorneys in your area and read reviews from past clients. Look for lawyers experienced in your type of injury claim, such as motor vehicle accidents, slips, and falls, medical malpractice, etc. Narrow down your options to 3-5 attorneys with relevant experience and positive reviews.
Make sure any lawyer you consider hiring has the proper credentials, accreditations, and experience. Personal injury law is complex, so you want an attorney well-versed in this specialty. Verify the attorney has an active license to practice law in your state. Also, check that they have sufficient experience handling personal injury cases similar to yours. Lawyers who are board-certified in civil trial law or personal injury law have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise.
Schedule consultations
Once you’ve identified some potential attorneys, schedule initial consultations. Most personal injury lawyers provide free case evaluations, so take advantage of these. Come prepared with key details about your injury and treatment. The consultation lets you meet the attorney in person and get a feel for their communication style, personality, and knowledge of personal injury law. Be sure to ask plenty of questions to make an informed hiring decision.
Ask about fees
During the consultation, inquire about each lawyer’s fee structure. Most personal injury lawsuit attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. It means they only get paid if they recover compensation for you. Contingency fees are typically a percentage of your final settlement amount, often around 33%. Understand all fee details so there are no surprises. Be wary of attorneys asking for retainers or hourly fees upfront. Contingency fee arrangements are typical for these types of cases.
Consider compatibility
An attorney’s skill and experience are crucial. However, you should also pick someone you feel comfortable working with. You want a responsive lawyer, understanding, and makes you feel like a priority. Evaluate how well you communicate with and connect personally with each attorney. This working relationship lasts months or even years, so compatibility is key. Ask prospective attorneys for references from past personal injury clients. Reputable lawyers should be able and willing to provide you with these referrals. Speaking with former clients offers valuable insight into an attorney’s skills, communication style, and track record of success. Be sure to follow up with these referrals before making any hiring decisions.
Review settlement history
How much compensation an attorney has obtained for past clients offers crucial information. During your consultation, ask about recent case results and settlements secured. Top Cleveland Personal Injury Attorney consistently achieve substantial compensation for clients. Settlement amounts indicate if an attorney has the resources and trial experience to maximize your claim’s value. An attorney with an impressive resume or firm not always be the right one for your specific needs and case. Trust your instincts when deciding on legal representation.
