If someone injured you or a loved one in an accident, you may pursue compensation for your injuries and financial losses. To recover those losses, you will likely deal with the at-fault person, their insurance company, and probably a team of lawyers.
If you’re wondering how to find a personal injury lawyer to guide you through the injury claim process after an accident, you are not alone. For many people, this crucial decision can feel overwhelming.
To ensure you choose the right personal injury lawyer for you, consider these important steps.
9 Steps to Help You Find a Personal Injury Lawyer
After a car accident, fall, motorcycle crash, trucking collision, or other serious, life-changing accident, your head is probably spinning. Your first priority should be receiving the best medical care and treatment possible for your injuries. However, you may be missing work and watching the pile of bills grow while you wonder how you will pay for everything.
To help you receive the maximum compensation available in your unique situation, you should consider working with an experienced and skilled personal injury lawyer. But do you know how to find the best personal injury lawyer?
Let’s dive in.
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240 Years Of Combined Experience Fighting For Our Clients
Determine Your Personal Needs
Since every accident situation differs, each personal injury claim involves unique circumstances.
For example:
- Were you injured in a car crash?
- Was a commercial trucking company involved?
- Did you slip on public property?
- Did you incur personal property damage, such as a wrecked motorcycle?
- Are your injuries fully treatable, or will you suffer lifelong complications?
- Did you miss work, and are you losing income?
In your search to find a personal injury lawyer suited to your needs, look for someone with prior experience handling cases similar to yours. The more complicated your claim, the more important it is to choose the right injury lawyer.
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What Skill and Experience Does the Lawyer Possess?
You would not ask a dentist to treat you for a broken arm. Instead, you would look for an orthopedic surgeon to set your arm. Similarly, you should choose a lawyer who has experience and special skills when it comes to handling cases like yours.
Not all personal injury attorneys handle every type of case. Find a personal injury attorney with a proven track record of success in cases involving similar parties and scenarios.
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DON’T SETTLE FOR A SINGLE ATTORNEY.
Berry Law’s Team Provides You With Multiple Attorney PerspectivesResearch the Law Firm’s and Attorney’s Success Record and Reputation
Before you meet any legal professionals, do some research. Ask trusted people who know the potential attorney whether they would work with the lawyer again and for details about why that person recommends the law firm. Ask how they were treated and whether they were satisfied with the final results.
Review online legal directories to see unbiased opinions and background information. Search the law firm’s website to read client testimonials and review important case results. Learn about the law firm’s reputation in the legal community and whether they have received any awards or accolades that set them apart from other personal injury practitioners.
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We Have Successfully Helped Thousands Of Clients Fight For Their Future
Ensure the Lawyer Possesses the Necessary Licensing and Credentials
This step may seem obvious, but when you need to find the right injury lawyer for your claim, look for those licensed to practice law in the state where you were injured, affiliated with a licensed lawyer, or have the ability to request special permission to practice in that jurisdiction. You should verify that they are in good standing with their state and local bar associations and are not facing any disciplinary actions.
If your case requires specific training or credentials, ask whether your lawyer has the additional training to handle your claim correctly.
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Understand How You Will Communicate
With modern technology, there are many ways to stay in touch with your lawyer. First, will you have access to the primary attorney handling your case? Or will you need to communicate with an associate or staff member to receive updates or important information?
Does your lawyer prefer email or text messages instead of phone calls to stay in touch? Do you have a preference? Are you comfortable with the procedures suggested by the attorney?
One of the biggest complaints clients have about their legal representation is a need for more communication during the pending case. Clarify how you will contact your lawyer from the start.
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Does the Law Firm Have the Necessary Resources to Handle Your Case?
Personal injury claims can be complicated, expensive, and time-consuming. Determine if the lawyer and law firm have the time and resources to give your claim the attention it deserves. If you feel rushed during the initial consultation or the firm doesn’t appear financially sound, ask whether they can take on your case.
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Is the Lawyer Willing and Able to Go to Trial if Necessary?
Although most personal injury claims settle out of court, occasionally, an insurance company or defense counsel refuses to make a fair settlement offer. In those cases, you need a lawyer who will take your claim to trial to protect your rights.
Consider your final goals. Do you want to receive the most money possible as quickly as possible, or would you rather wait to ensure the outcome covers all of your needs?
Not all lawyers are capable trial attorneys. If the insurance company knows your lawyer will not go to trial, it may offer less because there is no risk of a large jury verdict. Work with an attorney who has a reputation as a tough negotiator and trial attorney who won’t back down to ensure you receive the most compensation possible.
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What are the Financial Arrangements for Your Personal Injury Case?
First, ask if the lawyer offers a free consultation where you can meet and discuss your potential claim without cost or obligation. During this meeting, ask questions about the topics mentioned above and any other issues on your mind. Determine if this is someone you want to work with for several months or even years and if you trust them to put your best interests first.
Next, ask about how and when you will owe legal fees. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, so the clients pay nothing upfront. Your lawyer simply deducts legal fees and costs from a successful settlement or trial verdict.
If the case does not resolve successfully, the client pays no legal fees. This arrangement benefits both the client and the lawyer, since they have the same goal—maximizing the amount the client receives.
Contact the Skilled Team of Personal Injury Lawyers at Berry Law for a Free Consultation
After a serious personal injury, you need to find a personal injury lawyer you can trust. The legal team at Berry Law has fought for our injured clients since 1965. We are ready to go to battle for you and work hard to recover the maximum compensation possible under your unique circumstances.
Call us at (402) 903-4777 or reach out through our online contact page for your free consultation. With our contingency fee arrangement, you won’t pay anything unless we successfully resolve your case. Learn more today.
