If you are seriously hurt in an accident you will want to choose the best personal injury lawyer to represent you. However, finding the right personal injury lawyer in Philadelphia can be complicated. Should you choose the injury lawyer with a million billboards? Can you trust Avvo attorney reviews? Do you want a Super Lawyer? Or should you use the lawyer your aunt hired to prepare her will?
Certainly, the personal injury lawyer you choose can have a profound impact on your case and the amount of compensation you recover for your injury. Here are some tips to help you make an educated decision.
Ask other Lawyers about your Lawyer’s Reputation
Plaintiffs lawyers who practice personal injury law make up only a small portion of lawyers. Even in major metropolitan areas like Philadelphia, the number of lawyers who focus on personal injury is relatively small. For this reason, personal injury lawyers quickly develop a reputation for the quality of work they do and the way they conduct themselves. If you know a lawyer, ask him or her about a lawyer with a good reputation for excellent results. And more importantly, who to stay away from.
Hire a Lawyer that Regularly Litigates Personal Injury Cases with Proven Results
Some lawyers are “general practitioners” that handle a variety of different matters, such as wills and estates, contracts and an occasional personal injury case. While others, focus solely on personal injury. It is critical to find a lawyer that is well versed in the field of personal injury, as opposed to someone who dabbles in the field. The insurance company knows your lawyer. They know who will try a case and who will take an easy settlement. They know the attorneys that are tenacious, battle tested litigators. As well as attorneys who are meek or inexperienced newcomers. You should search for an attorney who regularly litigates personal injury claims and is known to have excellent results.
Beware of Volume Law Firms
Before hiring an attorney, ask who will handle your case, and how many other clients he or she represents. Some high volume law firms trust a secretary or paralegal to do the majority of the case work. The client may only meet their attorney for the first time at deposition or trial. An attorney is assigned to each case from the beginning and works directly with the client to maximize the value of your claim.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Wieand Law Firm for their insight into personal injury cases.
Disclaimer: This article is not legal advice and is intended for informational purposes only. It may contain mistakes or be out of date.