Every day, there are several accidents happening all over the world. Sadly, if you are involved in an accident that resulted due to the negligence or recklessness of others, it is only right to receive compensation for your pain and suffering.
Having a personal injury lawyer at your side can turn the tide significantly. On your own, it can be difficult to prove that the other party caused the accident. When you have a legal representative, you can use their knowledge, experience, and training in gathering evidence to prove your claim.
Before hiring the first attorney you see, you should do your due diligence first. After all, they are the ones who should help you get fair compensation, and not cause you additional stress and worry.
5 “musts” your personal injury attorney should be
- They must be knowledgeable
Personal injury lawyers have years of education and training under their belt. However, some professionals are more knowledgeable and may specialize in a particular type of injury or accident.
For example, if you have slipped on public property, you should contact an attorney who specializes in premise liability or slip and fall accidents.
Of course, it is not a guarantee that a focused practice is 100% better than a practice that accepts several specialties. However, finding a firm that dedicates itself to personal injury cases is your best bet.
Your lawyer should also be knowledgeable in local and state laws that may apply to your case. If you are located in Fort Lauderdale, working with a Florida-based personal injury attorney is the best way to ensure your case will be handled appropriately. Not only will these injury lawyers in Fort Lauderdale have a deeper understanding of the legal landscape, but they will also be more familiar with local courts and procedures. So, before hiring a personal injury attorney, make sure to ask about their experience and knowledge of the area.
- They must be experienced
Aside from being knowledgeable with your particular personal injury case, it would be extremely helpful if your attorney is proficient not only in the specific practice area but also have trial experience.
This is because although it is rare, the possibility of your case being brought to trial is not impossible. When this happens, your attorney must be able to represent you in court.
- They must be compassionate
When you are an accident victim, the entire process can be emotional and personal. Hence, you should hire an attorney with whom you are comfortable sharing your experiences and will act as a trusted partner in the whole legal ordeal.
If you feel like you are not comfortable with the attorneys you are talking to in the initial process, do not hesitate to look for another one. You should hire an attorney that you can rely on and trust.
- They must be honest
Although your attorney should be understanding of your situation, this does not mean that they have to lie just to keep you placated. Instead, they must be honest in letting you know everything about your case and must be willing to prepare you for the pros and cons and set valid expectations during the process.
- They must be within your budget
Although there are contingent arrangements that you can agree on, make sure that you know how much they will charge your case beforehand.
How much do they charge per hour? Are flat fees possible? Do you need to pay for a retainer? In a contingency arrangement, what is the percentage they will get from your settlement? Since there are a lot of things to consider when determining legal fees and costs, you must be prepared to ask several attorneys in your area for estimates.
Although it may feel uncomfortable to get estimates from different law firms, it is only natural to make sure that you will get value for your payment. Trusted law firms are open to this concept and even offer to give an estimate without any charges.
Note:
You may be wondering why we are firm with the “musts” in this list.
The reason is this: when you have been in an accident, we know that there are many emotions and physical pain you may be feeling. It is easy to settle for a lawyer that hands you their business card.
However, if your quality of life and day-to-day tasks are affected, it is only right to get the best of the best to assist you. Your legal representative should be all the things we have mentioned above. No ifs, no buts.
You have the right to get compensation. You and your family deserve to get relief and support from the pain and suffering you endured and may continue to endure in the next months and years.
In this crucial situation, hire an attorney whom you know will act according to your best interests at heart.
Florida’s personal injury lawyers with a proven track record
If you heard of BC Law, you would know that we are here to represent accident victims and their families.
We know how difficult and traumatizing it is to be involved in an accident that is in no way your fault. We understand how unfair it is to see a loved one suffering due to an untimely situation.
Although each case is unique, we had our fair share of experience in representing victims of truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, bike accidents, car accidents, and more. Call us today for a free estimate. Our legal professionals will listen to your story.