If you want to find the best personal injury lawyer for your case, follow these simple steps.
1. Do Your Research
Step one for finding the right personal injury lawyers for your case is to do your research. First, you want to identify attorneys working in your local area that specialize in personal injury cases. Most law offices focus on specific subsections of the law referred to as specialties. To ensure you get the most capable representation, it is ideal to choose an attorney with a thorough understanding of the case law involved. Next, you need to research any local personal injury firms that you have identified. Check out what is listed on their business websites, and check review websites for feedback from previous clients. The reason you need to complete this kind of research is to narrow down your current options. Large cities have a wide selection of attorneys from which to choose, and it isn’t feasible to contact everyone on the list. Your research will help determine who you should call, and who you should pass over.
2. Make the Calls and Schedule Consultations
Now that you have a list narrowed down, it is time to make some phone calls. Your initial inquiry should focus on discovering details regarding the firm’s consultation services. Many law firms offer free consultations to potential new clients, but that isn’t necessarily the standard. During your call, you need to determine whether the cost associated (if any) is reasonable based on your needs. If you decide that the fee is manageable, or find out the consultation is free, schedule an appointment. Once the appointment is made, move on to the next law office on your list. Repeat until you have covered every attorney on your list. It is better to schedule several consultations so you can get different perspectives regarding your case.
3. Prepare for the Consultations
Before heading to any appointments, gather up any pertinent information regarding your case. This can include accident reports, medical records, police statements, photographs, and any other demonstrative evidence that helps support your case. By collecting everything in advance, you are prepared to provide any information that is currently available to assist the personal injury lawyer during the discussion. You also need to create a list of standard questions for the attorneys. This should include questions about any fees or hourly rates, what services they are willing to provide, and what will be expected of you as things progress.
4. Attend the Consultation Meetings
When your appointment times arrive, bring your prepared information and list of questions to review with the attorney. Make sure to bring extra paper and a pen to take notes as your questions are answered, and the information is reviewed. After each appointment, gather your notes and keep them in a safe place. Regardless of the success of your first appointment, it is important to attend every consultation you have scheduled. That way, you can compare the costs and services offered to make the ideal selection for your case.
Compare Your Options
After all of your consultations are complete, bring out your notes and compare. Choose the attorney that meets your financial requirements and that inspires confidence in their abilities. Ultimately, they will work closely with you throughout the case, so you need to make sure that all expectations are well aligned and that the financial component is manageable based on your current situation. Once you have identified your top choice from the list of personal injury lawyers, make the call and secure their services. Then you can go forward with your case knowing you have made the best selection for you.
