How to choose the right personal injury attorney
A personal injury attorney is a professional who will represent a client who brings a case for injuries caused on them by someone or to defend a client who has just a lawsuit brought on them. It is essential for one to find the right lawyer who will represent their interests. One needs to look for an attorney who they are comfortable with and can afford them. Lawsuits should be filed within a certain period, one needs to be aware of this and not take a lot of time to file a case. If you are looking to hire a personal injury attorney below is what to look for.
Choosing the right personal injury attorney
Know your need
It is important that one establishes why they need to hire a personal injury attorney. Have you been injured or have you injured someone else? What is the nature of the injury and the facts of the incident? All this are important information that one needs to have to establish their need of an attorney and also to present it to the lawyer who will be able to determine if the case has the likelihood to succeed.
Licensing and lawyers practice focus
It is essential to establish that the attorney has the relevant license to practice and represent clients. Together with this, one needs to verify the area of practice the lawyer is focused in. Personal injury lawyers will specialize in one particular area, pick an attorney who is versed in the type of accident that you have a claim on. For, instance, an attorney can be specialized in motorcycle injuries, while another in big rig accidents and another on defective product injuries.
Check on experience and reputation
An important factor to consider is the experience of the attorney. How many years of practice do they have and what experience do they have with cases similar to the one you have. An experienced attorney will know what to look for as they investigate the case, where to find it and what to analyze to help in the claim.
Together with this find out whether they have a winning record of cases and also if they have trial experience. Most cases may not end up being settled out of court. However, it is important to hire a lawyer who is not afraid to go to trial. Finally, get to find out if any disciplinary action has been brought against the attorney. Has there been any complaint filed? One can get this information from their states bar websites.
Location
Hire a lawyer who is licensed to practice in the state that the injury happened. This is because they will have the knowledge and experience of the law and will know how to navigate the court system.
Cost
Get to understand how the lawyer’s fee works. Do they charge an hourly rate or a contingent fee of a specific percentage after the case has been concluded? As a client, one needs to feel comfortable with the rate being asked.
Personal preference
Lastly, once personal preference matters. Considering that one will be meeting with their lawyer regularly, to discuss the case. One needs to feel comfortable with the attorney, their personality and how they communicate.