subject: Need A Lawyer? Get Tips On Selecting The Right Legal Counsel [print this page] Locating and retaining a qualified personal injury lawyer is an important factor in the success of your personal injury claim. Following some simple guidelines in the selection of a personal injury lawyer, you increase the potential for success of your case. Factors to consider are experience, achievements, cost, and personality.
Experience
First, choose an attorney whose primary focus is personal injury law. He or she understands the complexities of personal injury lawsuits, knows the ins and outs of the tactics of opposing counsel, and is aware of the latest developments in personal injury law. In addition, an experienced personal injury lawyer has credibility with insurance companies and their lawyers, which can prove to be to your advantage in achieving a favorable settlement for you.
Achievements
Investigate the success of the lawyer and his record for negotiating favorable settlements in cases like yours. Knowing that your attorney is skilled in personal injury litigation and negotiation will boost your confidence in his abilities and increase your assurance that you have picked the right attorney.
Fees
The majority of personal injury lawyers work on a contingent-fee basis, which means that you are responsible for general expenses of your case, but pay attorneys fees only if your attorney obtains a favorable settlement or verdict for you. These fees are calculated as a percentage of the recovery. Be careful not to choose a lawyer because of a low percentage rate because he or she may not be as available to you as others.
Initial Consultations
Many lawyers provide initial consultations free of charge in personal injury cases, allowing you to interview multiple lawyers before selecting the one you want to handle your case. Make sure you ask any questions you may have at the initial visit. Be conscious that you need to make your selection in a timely manner to avoid the loss of key evidence and to ensure that your claim is filed promptly.
Your Attorneys Responsibility to You
Once you have hired your attorney, he or she should be responsive to your needs by answering your questions patiently, returning your phone calls promptly, and representing your interests satisfactorily.
