If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, hiring the right personal injury attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The attorney you choose can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case—determining whether you receive fair compensation or walk away with less than you deserve.
But how do you know which lawyer is right for your situation? Not all personal injury attorneys are created equal, and the wrong choice could mean a frustrating legal experience, delays, or even losing out on compensation.
To make sure you’re putting your case in the right hands, here are key factors to consider when choosing a personal injury attorney.
1. Look for Experience in Personal Injury Law
Personal injury law is complex, and you don’t want an attorney who is just “familiar” with it – you want someone who specializes in it. Some attorneys handle a variety of cases, from criminal defense to divorce, but personal injury law requires specific expertise, including understanding medical records, insurance policies, and negotiation tactics.
Ask any potential attorney these key questions:
- How many years have you been practicing personal injury law?
- What percentage of your cases are personal injury claims?
- Have you handled cases similar to mine?
- What were the outcomes of those cases?
An experienced personal injury attorney will know how to negotiate with insurance companies, gather the necessary evidence, and present a strong case in court if needed. The more experience they have, the better prepared they’ll be to get you the best possible outcome.
2. Choose a Local Attorney Who Knows Your Jurisdiction
Location matters more than you might think when choosing a personal injury attorney. Laws, court procedures, and even how cases are handled can vary from one jurisdiction to another. An attorney who practices in your area will be familiar with local laws and how specific judges and courts operate.
For example, if you’re in Hazleton, PA, you don’t want to hire an attorney who is 100 miles away in West Chester, PA. Instead, you want a Hazleton injury law firm that is five minutes from the courthouse – lawyers who know the local legal landscape, have relationships with the judges, and understand how insurance companies operate in your area.
A local attorney will also have built connections with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals who can strengthen your case. This level of familiarity and accessibility can make a significant difference in the speed and success of your claim.
3. Read Client Reviews and Testimonials
One of the best ways to gauge an attorney’s effectiveness is by hearing from people who have already worked with them. Online reviews, testimonials, and word-of-mouth recommendations can give you insight into how an attorney interacts with clients and handles cases.
Look for patterns in the reviews. Do clients mention good communication and responsiveness? Do they highlight the attorney’s negotiation skills and ability to get results? If multiple reviews mention that the lawyer was difficult to reach or didn’t provide updates, that’s a red flag.
Aside from checking Google and Yelp, look at reviews on legal-specific websites like Avoo, Martindale-Hubbel, and The Better Business Bureau (BBB). You can also ask for references. (A reputable attorney should have no problem providing contact information for past clients who are willing to share their experiences.)
4. Ask About Their Fee Structure
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. Typically, they take a percentage of your settlement – usually around 30 to 40 percent. However, it’s important to clarify the details upfront.
Inquire about the percentage they’re going to take from your settlement or award, if your case is won. Also ask about any additional fees related to things like filing costs, expert witness fees, etc. And what happens if you lose, or your case is unsuccessful?
5. Schedule a Free Consultation and Ask the Right Questions
Most personal injury attorneys offer a free consultation to discuss your case. This meeting is your chance to evaluate whether they’re the right fit. Come prepared with questions, such as:
- What is your strategy for my case?
- How long do you think it will take to resolve?
- How will you keep me updated on progress?
6. Make Sure They Have Trial Experience
Most personal injury cases settle out of court, but there’s always a chance yours could go to trial. If that happens, you’ll want an attorney who is comfortable in a courtroom and has experience presenting cases before a judge and jury.
Some lawyers are great at negotiating settlements but lack trial experience. Insurance companies know this and they may try to offer lowball settlements, knowing the attorney won’t push for a better outcome in court.
Putting it All Together
Personal injury claims can be complicated from every side and angle. Your attorney is the one who will help you navigate all of the different facets of your case. By taking the time to carefully consider different options, you can make sure you end up with the right person in your corner.
