If you’ve been injured in an accident, you could have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. The money you can collect could cover your medical fees, and lost wages, and help you pay off debts as a result of your injury.
To win your case, you need to hire the right attorney. But with so many lawyers out there, how do you know you’re hiring the right one?
Believe it or not, there are some major mistakes you can make when picking a personal injury attorney. To avoid that, you need to understand what to look for when hiring one.
Personal Injury Attorney
Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
1. Not Researching the Attorney’s Experience
It is important to make sure that the attorney you select has a proven record of success. You need to gain a proper understanding of their experience in personal injury cases.
When conducting research, it is also important to consider if the attorney has experience in the types of personal injuries similar to yours, and areas relevant to your situation. If you are uncertain, ask questions to get to know their expertise.
With so many lawyers out there, you need to find someone who has successfully represented a wide range of clients and litigated complex cases. Taking the time to do this will ensure that you’ll find a reputable lawyer who can provide the best legal representation possible.
2. Not Comparing Attorney Fees
It is wise to compare the fees of multiple attorneys to identify which may offer the best value to your specific case. These types of attorneys usually charge a contingency fee, meaning they receive a percentage of a successful settlement.
However, different attorneys can charge anywhere from a low of 33% to a high of 50% or more. Therefore, researching several lawyers to find one who works within your budget can help you to avoid this common mistake.
Finally, they may also charge for additional services such as filing documents or filing a lawsuit. Avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and hassle down the line.
3. Failure to Verify Credentials
It is crucial to confirm a lawyer’s qualifications and verify their experience levels. Also, make sure that the lawyer you are considering has a current license in the state where you’re filing the case.
Don’t rely solely on an internet search or take an attorney’s word that they are experienced in the field. It is best to look for someone who has a background that is suited to your case.
Even if you are certain you have located the right attorney, take the time to research their credentials. Failing to verify them can not only cost you additional time and money but can also put your case in jeopardy.
4. Not Checking Online Reviews
Another mistake when choosing a personal injury attorney is not checking online reviews. This is dangerous and can result in hiring someone who may not have the skills and knowledge necessary to handle your case.
In addition, take time to read feedback and comments to get a good overview of the:
- Attorney’s history
- How successful they’ve been
- How difficult they are to deal with
Many attorneys may have extensive experience and good qualifications, but this doesn’t guarantee they continually provide good quality work. Ultimately, testimonials from former clients can provide insight to help you determine if they are a good fit.
5. Rushing the Process
Rushing the process often leads to not having enough information about the attorneys or their track records. It is important to do the research and not merely base your decision on a few reviews or a single phone call.
Also, you have to build a good rapport with the attorney so that you feel comfortable discussing the case. Additionally, be wary of those who seem too eager to take your case and will not answer your questions unless you sign a contract.
Remember, you should never rush the process. Always take the time to choose the right individual so that your case has the best chance of success.
6. Making a Decision Solely on Price
Focusing on the cost of services can be tempting as it may be hard to differentiate one from another. However, the cheapest one isn’t necessarily the best option.
Cost should only be considered after researching the attorney’s qualifications, experience, and reviews. Rather than picking the least expensive, it is best to look for a lawyer who can provide personal attention, resources, and the experience you need.
Lastly, checking for good customer service and how quickly your calls are returned are also important factors. This will give you the feeling that you can trust them to handle your case with the same dedication you would have.
7. Failure to Research the Attorneys Reputation
It is very common for individuals to select lawyers based on the case fees, location, contact with the attorney, or non-legal methods. However, this can present serious risks as many times a lack of research can result in a bad attorney-client relationship.
To avoid such issues, one should look for an attorney with a solid reputation and good ratings online. Additionally, don’t forget to check the state bar association record to make sure there are no conflicts of interest or disciplinary issues.
Most importantly, don’t make a knee-jerk decision, but rather use the selection process as an opportunity to learn and find the best lawyer for your specific case.
8. Not Reading the Fine Print
Make sure you read over and understand the legal services agreement between you and your attorney. Ensure that the agreement clearly outlines:
- Compensation
- Fees
- Expected outcomes
- Scope of services provided
Taking the time to read the fine print and research attorneys after a car accident can help you pick the best professional for your personal injury case.
Knowing the Top Mistakes in Picking a Personal Injury Attorney
When picking a personal injury attorney, it’s essential to understand their background and credentials to ensure the best possible outcome. Always do your research, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and find time to meet them in person.
Doing so will help you avoid these common mistakes in selecting the best attorney for your case. Reach out to a specialist today to secure fair compensation and justice for your personal injury claims.
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