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When selecting a personal injury lawyer, you want someone specializing in your case type. This is especially important for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Searching online for “personal injury attorney” will likely bring up qualified attorneys near you, but also paid results that may be misleading. Here are some reasons why you should focus on finding a specialist:
Experience
A lawyer’s reputation and experience are critical when seeking legal representation. It is often advised to choose an attorney who specializes in personal injury cases. Specialized attorneys can provide the highest expertise and professionalism needed to achieve a favorable outcome.
In addition, specialized personal injury lawyers know how to deal with insurance companies trying to deny a claim or settle for less money than the victim deserves. They can also thoroughly investigate the accident, gather crucial evidence, and find expert witnesses to strengthen your case.
During the consultation process, look for an attorney who demonstrates empathy and understanding of your circumstances. They should proactively engage by listening attentively and asking questions to clarify their case goals. They will also provide realistic assessments of the time and effort required to navigate your case. Choosing an attorney who works on a contingency fee basis and avoids upfront fees is essential.
Objectivity
The emotional stress of an accident and a personal injury can make maintaining objectivity during the legal process complex. However, a skilled personal injury attorney can do just that. They will be able to help you determine the amount of compensation you deserve, including all your economic damages and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering.
In addition, hiring a specialized personal injury lawyer can be a huge advantage when negotiating with insurance companies. The insurer will know you have a personal injury lawyer and may be more willing to settle for a fair price.
Another important consideration when selecting a personal injury lawyer is their professional reputation and credentials. It would help if you considered asking for references from past clients and exploring specialty associations to find a qualified personal injury attorney. Membership in these organizations often requires passing a rigorous application process and demonstrating proficiency in specific areas of law.
Time
Handling a personal injury case can be a significant undertaking. This is especially true when dealing with the possible pain and time commitment associated with the injury. Hiring an attorney to handle your case can free up your schedule so that you can focus on getting well.
A good lawyer can also provide peace of mind during the legal process, as they can help you understand what to expect from the case, including timelines and potential legal strategies. Additionally, an attorney with a strong communication style will be prompt in returning calls and keeping you informed about the status of your case.
When choosing a lawyer, ask about their experience in cases that are similar to yours. This can give you an idea of how well they would handle your claim. In addition, experienced attorneys may have dealt with insurance companies before and can use that experience to their advantage in negotiations. This can often lead to more favorable settlements.
Money
A specialized personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the minefield of litigation expenses. There are often case expenses for things like expert witness fees, charges for physician reports, and filing fees. These can add up quickly. An experienced attorney will understand the total costs of your injuries and how they will impact your lifetime earnings.
Your lawyer can also negotiate a higher settlement because they know how much your case is worth. Insurance companies know which lawyers will settle and which will take the matter to trial. They understand that the trial lawyers will seek the maximum compensation for their clients.
You should never hire a lawyer who advertises a low fee and does not have substantial experience handling personal injury cases. These lawyers typically process claims like cattle, settling for far less than they are worth. They make money by the sheer volume of patients they take on and not by their quality.
