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Choosing
The Right Lawyer
The
importance of choosing the right lawyer cannot be overstated.
In a personal injury case, the right lawyer can mean the difference
between a fair settlement and one that is wholly inadequate.
Not
all lawyers are alike. The lawyer you choose should be an experienced
personal injury lawyer with a proven record of success. The key
to winning a personal injury case is knowledge and preparation.
There is simply no substitute for doing your homework, knowing the
law and knowing the facts. You should feel that your lawyer is performing
beyond your expectations.
Choosing
a lawyer is an important decision -- following these suggestions
will help you make the right choice.
Choose a lawyer who concentrates in personal injury law.
As with most areas of the law, personal injury law has become highly
specialized. It takes a full time effort to stay current in the
field. An attorney who does not concentrate in personal injury law
is at a disadvantage when it comes to maximizing the value of your
case. Make sure you choose a lawyer who has substantial knowledge
and experience in personal injury law.
Choose
a lawyer who has proven experience trying cases before juries.
Although most cases settle without going to a jury trial, a small
percentage of cases do go to trial if the insurance company's settlement
offer is not fair. Most lawyers do not try cases before juries.
Make sure that the lawyer you choose is an effective trial lawyer
with real jury trial experience.
Choose
a lawyer who has proven experience negotiating settlements with
insurance companies. Negotiating with insurance companies and
corporate defendants can be difficult. Often, these companies will
take very hard line negotiating positions. Successful negotiating
is like any other skill - the more you do it, the better you become
at it. Most personal injury cases settle out of court. If you don't
have a lawyer who knows the fine art of negotiation, you will not
get full value for your claim. You will be well served to hire a
lawyer who has a proven record of successful negotiations.
Choose
a lawyer who guarantees personal service and client satisfaction.
The lawyer you choose must not only promise good service, but must
also deliver on that promise. This includes promptly returning your
telephone calls and keeping you advised of the status of your case
on a regular basis. You should choose a lawyer who delivers consistent
personal service, personal attention and client satisfaction. Also,
if you're dissatisfied with your lawyer, you should speak with him
or her immediately about the problem. If you continue to be dissatisfied,
you have the right to change lawyers. Although a lawyer cannot guarantee
the outcome of a case, every lawyer should be fully accountable
for the satisfaction of their clients.
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