One of the most challenging parts of dealing with a personal injury case for a victim is hiring the best lawyer for their case. Since all personal injury lawyers consider themselves the best, finding one that can really deliver requires that you take a few additional steps beyond their word.
In this article, we’ll discuss a few things you’ll want to consider when hiring a personal injury lawyer. If anything, these tips should help you shortlist the best attorney for your case.
Ask Family and Friends for a Referral
Many people trust word of mouth and for a good reason. It is one of the most effective ways to zero in on the best personal injury lawyer for your case without having to do too much research. A friend or family member who has been through a similar situation should be able to point you in the right direction.
Some places where you can ask for a referral is friends, Facebook, Google, and a couple of legal online directories. You can also check out Google maps, for nearby personal injury lawyers, and read the reviews left behind by previous clients.
After you have narrowed down your choices, its time to call up the attorneys. A simple phone call can reveal a lot about the type of attorney you’re dealing with, and if you can, work with them. You need to be sure you can be honest and open with the attorney and the attorney is easy to communicate with. It is the little things that count and something you should pay attention to during the selection process.
Discuss and Finalize the Fee Before Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney
While it may seem odd to you, but it is essential to ask about the fee upfront. Most personal injury lawyers are free to hire, but they will charge you a percentage of what you’re compensated. That being said, you need to know the fee percentage up front andyou should get the fee agreement in writing.
Search and Research Online
You will want to research all attorneys in your city online. Ensure that the ones you are checking out are licensed and have a good reputation in the state, especially in the area where the accident occurred.
All states have their own bar association, and almost every attorney is registered with the association that maintains a database. You can check out the attorney’s bar status, to see if they have been sanctioned or if there were any previous disciplinary issues.
You do not want to choose an attorney or a law firm solely based on the number of verdicts which are usually listed on their official website. All cases are different, and so the amount of damages awarded depends on the case and numerous other associated factors. You should always speak with the attorney before hiring them.
Communication is important
Like with any relationship, communication is key. You should pick an attorney who is easy to communicate with and who is easy reach. You should pick an attorney who will return your calls and emails promptly. It can be quite frustrating if you cannot get your questions answered in a timely fashion, especially when you are dealing with a stressful and frustrating injury claim. The last person you want to feel frustrated with is your attorney. That is why at our firm, our clients have the ability to communicate with our attorneys in numerous ways. Each client receives a business card with all of Brian Azemika’s contact information, including his cell phone number. We believe that direct communication with your attorney is key to a great attorney and client relationship.
Find Out About the Lawyer’s Training and How they handle their cases
You will want to find out about an attorney’s legal experience and training, especially with personal injury cases. You should ask the attorney how long they have been a personal injury attorney. You should also ask the attorney if they will personally handle your case or if it will be handled by an associate or other staff member instead.
It is important to hire a personal injury attorney who will handle your case personally. However, if they are going to hand it over to another lawyer, make sure you meet with them too. Many lawyers who run advertisements on TV claim to fight for you, but do they really? Some of these ads are for referral services only, and your case may be referred to another attorney or law firm that you do not know or may be outside of your geographic area. It is important to find out exactly who will be handling your case and where they are located so it is easy and convenient to communicate with them on your case.
Conclusion
The key to hiring the best personal injury attorney is to be well informed and to do your research. You will want to carefully review your research and eliminate attorneys that aren’t a good fit. After you have decided on the right attorney, you will want to get in touch with them and set up a meeting to discuss the case further.
Brian P. Azemika, Esq.
Law Office of Brian P. Azemika
Roseville Location
916-245-5059
Sacramento Location
916-794-5151
Personal Injury Attorney Brian Azemika represents injury victims involved in car/auto accidents, trucking accidents, Uber/Lyft accidents, motorcycle accidents, dog bites, animal attacks, premise liability cases & slip, trip and fall accidents.
Call for a free consultation.