How to Find the Right Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Needs

On The Map Marketing shows that there are 39.5 million personal injury cases requiring medical treatment in the US every year, which is roughly 126.3 cases per 1,000. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, only 4% to 5% of personal injury cases proceed to trial.

With thousands of lawyers to choose from, finding one with the right expertise, experience, and dedication to secure the compensation you deserve can be a challenging task.

Sacramento pedestrian accident lawyer Catie Barr says identifying the nature of the injury and the extent of the damage helps establish a solid case.

This article will serve as a guide on how to find a personal injury lawyer that fits your legal needs. 

Understand Your Specific Needs and Legal Goals

Before finding a personal injury lawyer, you need to understand your specific needs and goals related to your case.

Do you want money for your medical bills, lost wages, or emotional distress? Your assessment of these damages will determine the most effective way to advocate for your goals.

According to Jacobs & Jacobs, LLC, you need to find a lawyer who is experienced in all kinds of situations, like car accidents and accidents at work.

Evaluate the level of communication you will require from a lawyer. Do you want to hear from your attorney often, or do you prefer a calm life with minimal communication? 

Research and Evaluate Potential Lawyers

Vigorous research, vetting, and evaluation of potential candidates is an important step for anyone looking for the best personal injury attorney to represent their case.

Compile a list of local lawyers based on the criteria you have established beforehand. Look for online reviews and testimonials to assess their reputation in the legal community. Visit the lawyers’ websites to learn about their legal specialties, cases won, and other accomplishments. 

Ask your friends or family for recommendations. Their personal experiences with lawyers are invaluable and may reveal additional information about the attorney. Meet with the lawyers on your list to assess their communication skills and willingness to listen to your concerns.

Select a lawyer who makes you feel comfortable and confident in achieving a successful case outcome.

Assess Experience and Expertise in Personal Injury Cases

Look for an attorney who specializes in personal injury cases. Make sure you are well-informed about their performance history, including successful settlements and verdicts.

Take into account the length of time they have been practicing law. A seasoned attorney will be familiar with all aspects of personal injury claims, from negotiation to litigation.

Inquire how many cases they have dealt with that were similar to yours. Selecting an experienced lawyer boosts your chances of securing a favorable outcome for your case.

Schedule Consultations and Ask the Right Questions

Setup an appointment with the attorneys you have shortlisted. 

Prepare a list of questions before going to the meeting. Check the lawyer’s track record in securing settlements for their clients. 

Ask about their availability. You need a lawyer who can return your calls and answer urgent concerns and questions. Inquire about how frequently you will receive case updates. 

Review Fees and Payment Structures Before Making a Decision

Payment structures and lawyer fees are important considerations when finding a lawyer.

Most personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency-fee basis. This means they only collect payment if they manage to win the case. To avoid financial surprises, understand what percentage of your settlement your attorney will take as their fee before signing a contingency fee agreement with them.

Request a written breakdown of expenses to help you budget your legal costs. Ask if court costs and expert witness fees are included or are paid separately.

Ask about any payment terms, payment due dates, and any hidden fees. Your lawyer’s answer to these questions will help you make informed decisions regarding your finances. Always check to see if the benefits of hiring a lawyer outweigh the cost.