Choosing the right personal injury attorney is one of the most important decisions you will make after an accident. The attorney you hire will have a direct impact on the outcome of your case, the amount of compensation you receive, and your overall experience throughout the legal process. Unfortunately, not all personal injury lawyers are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can cost you dearly.
Key Factors to Consider
Experience and Specialization
Personal injury law is a specialized field, and you want an attorney who focuses primarily on personal injury cases. While a general practitioner may handle a variety of legal matters, a dedicated personal injury attorney will have deeper knowledge of the applicable laws, established relationships with medical experts, and more experience negotiating with insurance companies and trying cases before juries.
Look for an attorney who has specific experience with the type of case you have. Trucking accident cases, medical malpractice cases, and workers' compensation cases each require specialized knowledge that not every personal injury attorney possesses.
Track Record
Results matter. Ask about the attorney's track record of verdicts and settlements, particularly in cases similar to yours. While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, a strong track record demonstrates that the attorney has the skills and experience to handle complex cases effectively.
Resources
Serious personal injury cases require significant resources. Investigations, expert witnesses, medical evaluations, and trial preparation can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Make sure the firm you choose has the financial resources to invest in your case without cutting corners.
Communication
Your attorney should be someone who communicates clearly, returns your calls promptly, and keeps you informed about the progress of your case. During your initial consultation, pay attention to whether the attorney listens carefully to your story, answers your questions thoroughly, and treats you with respect.
Questions to Ask During a Consultation
- How many personal injury cases have you handled?
- Do you have experience with cases like mine?
- What is your track record of verdicts and settlements?
- Will you personally handle my case, or will it be delegated to a junior attorney or paralegal?
- How do you communicate with clients, and how often can I expect updates?
- What are your fees, and how are expenses handled?
- Are you willing to take my case to trial if necessary?
- What is your honest assessment of my case?
Red Flags to Watch For
- Guaranteeing a specific result: No ethical attorney can guarantee the outcome of a case. If an attorney promises you a specific settlement amount, be wary.
- Pressuring you to sign immediately: A reputable attorney will give you time to make an informed decision.
- Lack of trial experience: If an attorney has never taken a case to trial, insurance companies know it and will offer less.
- Advertising volume over quality: Be cautious of firms that advertise heavily but may treat clients as case numbers rather than people.
- Poor communication during the consultation: If the attorney does not return your calls or respond to your emails before you even hire them, it will only get worse once they have your case.
Why Choose Dr. Ted Injury Law
At Dr. Ted Injury Law, we combine decades of experience, a proven track record of more than $500 million in recoveries, and a genuine commitment to every client we serve. Our team of eight experienced attorneys brings specialized expertise across all areas of personal injury law, and we have the resources to take on the largest corporations and insurance companies. Contact us at (800) 555-HURT for a free consultation.
