As you set out to find a personal injury lawyer with a high level of skill and a track record of success, remember that you deserve a law firm that has the experience, resources and other qualities that you and your family need to win your case. We encourage you to read each law firm’s profile and ask questions regarding the law firm’s and attorneys’ expertise and history of successful results before hiring your personal injury lawyer.
Areas to Evaluate
Before you start calling personal injury lawyers in your community, make a list of the qualities you’d like your legal team to embody. Most injury attorneys offer free initial consultations, so use your first meeting as an opportunity to get in-depth information on the way they handle cases, the team’s background, and how they interact with you on a personal level. Here are a few suggested topics with questions to help you get started.
Experience
- How many years have you been practicing personal injury law?
- What law school did you attend?
- How many cases have you tried to a jury in the last year?
- Have you handled other cases like mine and what were the results?
Strategy
- Do the facts in my case have the makings of a strong case?
- How do you go about proving negligence?
- What is your research and investigation process?
- How can you improve my chances of winning?
Outcomes
- What percentage of your personal injury cases has ended in a favorable verdict or settlement?
- What personal injury damages am I eligible for?
- How can you help maximize my settlement?
Resources
- How many staff members will be working on my case?
- Will you use experts to help prove my case?
- What other legal resources might be used to benefit my case?
Personal Service
- Is my legal team reachable and responsive on a daily basis?
- How frequently, will I be updated in regards to progress?
- Can you come to us for meetings and updates?
- Can you give me the contact information for past clients who I can speak with to discuss how you handled their cases?
Fees
- Are you paid on contingency (meaning only after a settlement is won)?
- What percentage of the settlement goes to legal services?
Timing in Personal Injury Cases
There are statutes of limitations that restrict the amount of time an injured person can file a personal injury claim, so don’t delay too long in hiring an attorney. Any of the lawyers you are considering should be able to provide you with immediate information on the statutes of limitations that apply in your jurisdiction.
The law firms listed in the PersonalInjuryLawFirms.org directory are respected in the community and have demonstrated success with notable verdicts and settlements.
If you or a member of your family has been seriously hurt, please click here to find a personal injury lawyer in your area.