Would you be surprised to learn that there are over 1.1 million lawyers practicing in the US? With so many options for attorneys, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when considering hiring personal injury attorneys for your car accident case. And if you’re recovering from a serious injury, you may not have the physical or mental strength to focus on in-depth research.
We’re here to make the process of hiring personal injury attorneys as easy as possible. Keep reading as we outline six clear steps to take in your search for the best lawyer for your case.
1. Positive References and Reviews
Every attorney will claim to be “the best,” so how can you know for sure? The first step in your research is to see what past clients have to say about their experience with the lawyer. Start with reviews and testimonials on the attorney’s website. Then cross-check those references with reviews on third-party sites such as Google or Facebook. As you read, look for answers to questions like:
- Did the client feel comfortable with the attorney?
- Were they treated in a friendly yet professional manner?
- Did the attorney and their staff communicate clearly and promptly?
- Were they satisfied with the outcome of their case?
- Did they feel the attorney’s fees were reasonable?
Remember that almost every business will receive one or two negative comments. But beware of a string of negative reviews, especially if they all cite the same problems. The feedback you read about the lawyer and their practice should be overwhelmingly positive.
2. Personal Injury Case Experience
Just like some doctors practice general medicine while others are specialists, the same is true of attorneys. To have the best chance of winning your personal injury case, you’ll want to choose a lawyer that specializes in personal injury.
Of course, there are many types of personal injuries that fall under this umbrella. Some lawyers specialize in car accidents, while others focus on slip-and-fall incidents. Others narrow their focus even further to workplace injuries, rideshare crashes, or motorcycle accidents.
Look for a lawyer that has relevant personal injury case experience to your situation. They’ll have extensive knowledge of local laws as well as experience in building strong cases.
3. Accessibility and Communication Style
The best lawyer in the world won’t be much help if you can never get a hold of them. Accessibility and good communication habits are key factors you should look for when hiring personal injury attorneys.
Look for reviews that mention fast, efficient communication with the law firm. Then, when you try to schedule your consultation, pay attention to how long it takes to receive a response. Do you get a fast reply to your email or call, or does it take days or weeks to hear anything?
Finally, when you do meet with the lawyer, consider how well they communicate. Do they take the time to really listen to you and then clearly explain your rights and options?
4. Professional Credentials
Most states require lawyers to obtain a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school. They also need to achieve a certain score on the state’s Bar exam. After that, most lawyers are required to complete continuing education every 1-3 years. The most experienced lawyers will also be board certified in personal injury litigation.
Double-check these details on your state’s Bar Association website. Make sure the lawyer you’re considering has a valid license to practice law in your state. You might also check if they have any rewards, accolades, or other professional memberships.
5. The Size of the Law Firm
A large law firm can mean more experience and resources, but it may also mean the lawyers have less time to dedicate to your case. You may also find a lawyer with less experience who’s part of a smaller firm that has decades of collective experience.
There are pros and cons to large and small law firms, so it’s worth considering what’s most important to you. Your number one goal should be hiring personal injury attorneys who will prioritize your case, regardless of the size of their firm.
6. Comparing Attorney Fees
The best injury lawyers will want to work with your best interest in mind. This includes making their services cost-friendly. Some attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay them if they win your case. This setup ensures that legal representation is available to everyone who needs it, regardless of their financial status.
Still, it’s wise to ask specific questions before you hire a lawyer. For example, what percentage do they take if they win? Are there any additional charges or fees you’ll need to pay, such as court costs or filing paperwork?
Hiring Personal Injury Attorneys in Westminster, CA
There’s no shortage of options for attorneys, but that doesn’t mean you should choose the first lawyer you hear about. Take your time and do your due diligence. Follow the steps outlined above as you consider hiring personal injury attorneys in your area. If you do, you’re sure to find the perfect lawyer to handle your case.
Did your search for an accident attorney in Westminster, CA bring you to this page? If so, you’ll be happy to hear that the West Accident Law Group has secured millions of dollars in settlements for our clients.
We can do the same for you. Call our office at 657-400-8003 or use our contact form to schedule your free case evaluation.
