If you need a personal injury lawyer, you’ll soon realize there are dozens in your area, once you start looking online. These tips can help you to find a lawyer who is most suitable for you and your case.
1) Get Referrals From Those You Trust
You probably know somebody at work, in your street or a family member who has worked with a personal injury lawyer before, as unfortunately, accidents are all too common. Getting a recommendation from someone you actually trust is a sensible approach to finding someone to work with; they have actually worked with that lawyer and can give you an idea of how they approach a case, what it’s like to work with them, and how comfortable they were with that lawyer. It’s always recommended to rely on someone else’s experience before you start searching somewhere else, and it’s a much better way to make a more informed decision.
2) Know What You’re Looking For
If you’re looking for a car accident lawyer in Vancouver, you probably want to work with someone who has at least some relevant experience in that specific area. In other words, know what it is you need help with and look for a lawyer who has that specific skill set, although you may also want to consider a convenient and close by location too. The size of the firm is a factor too; you may receive more individual and personalized attention form a small law firm, although you may find your lawyer is working on several different cases at the same time. Quality over quantity is often the preferred approach for many people looking for a personal injury lawyer; it all depends on your requirements and what you are comfortable with.
Most of us place a lot of value on good communication, and it’s one of the most important factors when choosing a lawyer. You should find out whether your case will be handled by a paralegal or assistant and whether you’ll mostly be dealing with them, or whether you will actually be dealing with your chosen lawyer. And of course, you would probably much rather call your lawyer and speak to them directly, rather than have to wait in their office to see them. It can save a lot of valuable time if you are able to send them important documents such as medical bills, or photographs of an accident scene, rather than have to take them somewhere in person. Don’t sign any agreement with a law firm until you’re 100 percent satisfied. It’s someone you feel comfortable working with.
3) Specific Experience
As pointed out previously, your chances of winning your case are higher if you work with a lawyer who has experience in that specific area of the law. A car accident lawyer is probably the best person to consult if you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident and are seeking damages. Some lawyers have an insight into rear-end collision accidents, while others are familiar with motorcycle accidents. It’s better for all concerned if your case doesn’t go to trial, and there is more chance of avoiding a potentially lengthy and costly trial if you work with a lawyer who has the relevant experience. That lawyer also has a better understanding of what might be a realistic and appropriate settlement amount, as well as what to expect from the overall proceedings, what obstacles there might be, and how to overcome these. You need the most experienced lawyer you can find; it’s one occasion where you shouldn’t work with the friend of a friend who happens to be a lawyer.
4) Reputation
There is also less chance of your case going to court and more chance of a favourable settlement if your lawyer has a strong reputation in legal circles. The other side may well be reluctant to fight a lawyer in court who has a reputation for being aggressive and winning more cases than they lose. If a lawyer has a reputation and the other side are well aware of that, they will be more likely to settle out of court, making the entire process go a lot more smoothly.
5) Talk to Several Different Lawyers
We don’t always like everyone we meet, and when it comes to personal injury lawyers, that’s no exception. Take advantage of the free initial consultation offered by most lawyers and meet with them face to face. It’s the perfect opportunity not only to ask any questions that you might have but just as important to get a feel for how they work and decide if you feel comfortable working with them. Of course, the cost is a major concern if you are consulting with a lawyer regarding a personal injury, and that initial meeting also allows you to discuss fees, and how long they anticipate the case to take. You may be working with your lawyer for quite some time, perhaps over a few months, so it’s important that you feel comfortable.
We all want the financial compensation that we feel we are entitled to if we have been injured, and working with the right personal injury lawyer can increase the chances of that. It’s well worth taking the time to make sure you choose the right lawyer; it isn’t a decision that should be based on the first name you see on your computer screen. To ensure a smoother process, work with a lawyer with a great reputation, and one that specializes in that specific area of law. You also want to work with a lawyer who treats your case with the importance it deserves and who communicates clearly with you through every step of the legal proceedings.