How to Choose the Right Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Case
How to Choose the Right Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Case
If you have been wrongfully injured at the hands of another individual or company, you may be entitled to receive compensation from those responsible. But before you go out and hire the first personal injury lawyer you find online or in the classifieds, you need to do your homework and make sure you choose the right attorney for your case. Choosing the right personal injury lawyer can mean the differences between winning and losing your case, so you can’t afford not to take your time in choosing legal representation. Here are some ways to make sure you select the right personal injury attorney in San Jose.
Ask for Referrals and References
Sometimes the best way to choose a lawyer is by asking your friends, family, and coworkers for referrals. Even if your network can’t recommend a good personal injury lawyer, your friends and family may at least be able to tell you of attorneys to avoid (which can be just as helpful). When you finally begin to contact lawyers in your area, ask for references so you can speak with previous clients about the experience they had.
Consider Some Important Factors
Not all personal injury lawyers are equal, so the challenge is figuring out which lawyers are a cut above the rest. There are some important factors you should keep in mind when comparing different personal injury attorneys in San Jose, including experience, credentials, and prior case history. One of the most important factors is the lawyer’s experience handling similar personal injury claims and the results of those cases.
Ask the Right Questions
The best way to choose a lawyer is by making it personal. In other words, don’t just rely on information you see on the attorney’s website or anecdotes you’ve heard from friends and family. Instead, schedule a consultation and ask the lawyer a few important questions to decide if he or she is the right lawyer for you. Some important questions to ask during the initial consultation are:
- Are you board-certified in personal injury litigation?
- How long have you been practicing personal injury law?
- What is your current caseload?
- How often do you go to trial?
- Will you ever accept an offer behind my back?
- What is your fee and payment structure?