Getting hurt by someone else’s mistake can turn your world upside down. You might be in pain, missing work, and unsure of what to do next. That’s where a personal injury (PI) lawyer comes in. But not all lawyers are the same. Before hiring one, there are some essential things you should know.
According to the National Center for State Courts, about 400,000 personal injury claims are filed in the U.S. each year. Yet, not all of them lead to fair settlements. Many victims lose out simply because they don’t have the right lawyer. If you’re looking for trusted legal help, Suits & Boots Accident Injury Lawyers is a name many injured people turn to for guidance and results.
Know What a PI Lawyer Does
Personal injury lawyers help people who were who are physically or emotionally injured by someone else’s actions. These cases mainly involve car crashes, slips and falls, medical mistakes, dog bites, or workplace accidents.
It’s essential to hire someone who is well-experienced in personal injury law. Just like you wouldn’t go to a dentist for heart surgery, you shouldn’t hire a general lawyer for a serious personal injury case. The laws around these cases can be tricky, and you need someone who understands them well.
Experience Matters
Check out how many years of experience they have in handling such personal injury cases. A lawyer who has been doing this for many years will likely know what works and what doesn’t. They’ve seen all types of cases and learned how to handle them.
Also, ask if they’ve worked on cases like yours. For example, if you were hurt in a motorcycle crash, ask if they’ve handled any other motorcycle cases beforehand. You’ll feel more at ease knowing your lawyer has dealt with similar situations.
Trial Skills Count
Most cases settle before going to trial, but not all of them. Sometimes, the only way to get fair compensation is by going to court. So, you need a lawyer who’s not afraid to go the distance.
Insurance companies know which lawyers like to settle and which will fight in court. If your lawyer has a strong courtroom history, insurers may be more likely to offer a better deal.
Know How They Get Paid
Most PI lawyers work on a “contingency fee” basis. This means you don’t pay them upfront. Instead, they take a percentage of your money if you win.
Usually, this is between 30% and 40% of the total amount. However, be sure to ask about the percentage and if there are any additional costs. Some lawyers ask clients to pay for filing fees or the costs of expert witnesses, even if the case is ultimately lost.
Good Communication Is Key
You want a lawyer who keeps you updated. Ask how often they’ll check in and how you’ll contact them. Will they call, email, or text? Will they explain things clearly?
Also, find out who you’ll mostly talk to, whether you will have a direct conversation with them. Sometimes, lawyers hand your case to someone else in the office. Knowing if your primary contact will be the lawyer or an assistant is good.
Read Reviews and Ask Around
Online reviews can tell you a lot. Look for honest feedback on reputable sites, such as Google or official legal pages. If many people say the same things, good or bad, it’s worth paying attention to.
You can also ask the lawyer for past client references. A lawyer with a solid track record will happily share success stories.
Be Ready for the First Meeting
The first meeting is your chance to see if the lawyer is a good fit. Bring all documents you have, police reports, medical bills, photos, or letters from the insurance company.
Also, ask thoughtful questions like:
- How long will the case take?
- What’s the plan for handling my case?
- What problems might come up?
If the lawyer promises too much or avoids your questions, that’s a red flag.
Check Their Standing
Make sure the lawyer is in good standing with the state bar. Also, see if they’ve had any complaints or been disciplined. Awards and community work are also signs of someone who cares about their job.
Final Thoughts!
Choosing the right PI lawyer can make a big difference in your case. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your gut. The right lawyer will guide you, fight for you, and help you get the desired outcome.
