If and when you need to hire a personal injury lawyer, whether it be after a hit-and-run accident or a slip and fall at the grocery store, you can breathe easy knowing that you will have plenty of options for quality representation. But how do you narrow down your search?
After all, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer you feel comfortable with— someone who has seen it all, gathers relevant evidence to build a personalized strategy, and has a compassionate approach.
To help make that search easier, here are a few questions to ask yourself when hiring a personal injury lawyer.
1. Did they offer a free case review?
Many reputable personal injury lawyers and their firms offer clients a chance to discuss cases for free. This shows you and your family that the lawyer you are meeting with is committed to answering your questions honestly and giving you peace of mind on how to move forward rather than being focused on what they can get out of the case.
2. Did we connect?
To piggyback off the first item on this list, you want to ensure you have a true advocate in your corner – someone who sees you as more than a case number. Take note of chemistry, how interested they are in you and your injuries, and if they understand the facts of the case. Did they listen first, speak objectively with you about your goals, and make you feel comfortable?
3. Did they promise the world?
As much as personal injury lawyers would love to win every case they represent, it is just not realistic. Every case, even when you have an extremely good chance of coming out top, involves a give and take from both parties and plenty of emotion. If the lawyer you met with promised you the world, ask a few more questions and proceed only when you feel comfortable. A quality lawyer will be realistic and tell you the truth, even if it is painful to hear.
4. What are other people saying?
When trying to hire a personal injury lawyer, it can be easy to fall into the trap of paying too much attention to lawyer rating agencies. Instead, look online (the firm’s website, social media, and outside review sites) to see what real people say about the lawyer and their firm. Knowing someone who has used them before or knows them in some capacity can help you build comfort.
5. Did the lawyer appear to be solution-minded?
Beyond a personal injury lawyer’s knowledge of the law, you want to hire a solution-minded lawyer. A lawyer who uses words like “we” and “us” instead of “you” and “your” in any personal injury matter means they are working toward a common goal, are bought into your case, and are eager to provide solutions.
6. Did they offer alternatives to a jury trial?
Did the lawyer offer practical advice, including strategies that could get you the justice you deserve without pushing for a lengthy court battle? Your personal injury lawyer could help you avoid the time and complications of a jury trial by seeking out other types of resolutions (arbitration, out-of-court settlement, etc.) that are faster and inexpensive in comparison.
7. Does the lawyer have experience with your type of case?
Not every aspect of a personal injury case is black and white. There is quite a bit of gray area in there, which can make determining the right course of action extremely complicated. Once all the details of your case are on the table, ask the lawyer to provide examples of similar cases and how they handled them. A good lawyer will answer that question.
8. Were they easy to contact?
Good lawyers are busy, but you should never feel like you are jumping through hoops to get a callback or learn more details about your case. A lawyer dedicated to building trusting relationships will not be difficult to find. It is important that a lawyer consistently shows that you are important and that they have time for you. Beyond phone calls, if your consultations are rarely in person or are constantly being interrupted because they insist on taking calls to deal with other people’s cases — while you are sitting there — that is not a good sign. If you feel that they are rushing through conversations, especially early on, that is also a red flag.
9. Will there be anyone else involved in my case?
Depending on which lawyer you choose, they will likely have a team of lawyers, paralegals, and office staff working hard to help you achieve the best possible outcome. While your lawyer should be your primary point of contact, be familiar with anyone else you might receive phone calls and emails from. Their support and compassion can be just as valuable during this difficult time in your life.
10. How do they charge?
Do they charge by the hour or by the case? If hourly, what time increment do they bill at? Are there hidden fees you need to be aware of, especially if the lawyer needs to seek help from an outside professional to give you the representation you deserve? What are the lawyer’s expectations, and do they provide a monthly statement showing services rendered and the itemized charges?
Call Nelson Law Group today!!
Nelson Law Group, PC brings over two decades of experience to each personal injury case we handle. We have extensive bench and jury trial experience in personal injuries arising from a variety of causes that result in a wide array of injuries. Also, we will devise a comprehensive strategy based on our years of experience, intuitive legal skill, and the desired outcome of your case. We will be available to answer your questions or respond to your concerns as they come up.
If you have been injured in an accident and feel someone else is a fault, contact us today to talk about your personal situation and gain the information you need to know to make good decisions moving forward. Give our knowledgeable staff a call if you have any further questions regarding this or any other issue.
Our staff is always available. Give us a call today! For more information about Brett A. Nelson, click here.
