5 Things to Look For in a Personal Injury Lawyer

April 18, 2016  |  Adriel B. Villarreal

If you have been injured in an accident, or if someone is suing you for personal injury, choosing the right attorney to represent you is one of the most important decisions you can make. Here are some important things to consider when choosing your personal injury lawyer:

  1. Experience– Not only should you look for an attorney who has been practicing law for many years, but you should also make sure her area of expertise includes personal injury lawsuits. Even a good lawyer won’t be of much help if their practice focuses mainly on business law or drafting wills.
  2. Ethics– If a potential attorney wishes to charge you for an initial consultation to discuss whether he would take your case, he may not be an ethical lawyer. Most personal injury lawyers offer free initial consultations so you don’t have to come out of pocket before signing the retainer agreement.
  3. Trust– Your personal injury attorney should be someone you feel is trustworthy, who will be dedicated to your best interests during the course of the case. A personal injury lawyer in a large firm may try to pass your case off to a junior attorney or fellow associate after you have established a rapport. Make sure your attorney will have sole responsibility for your case, and ask to meet any other attorneys who may work on your case as well.
  4. ReputationAn attorney’s reputation goes a long way in court. Having a lawyer who is respected within the court system and who has tried cases in court adds value to your case. Conversely, your case may be negatively affected if you are represented by an attorney who is not well liked or respected by insurance companies and court officials.
  5. Personality– Possibly the most important consideration is whether your attorney’s personality suits yours. It is not necessary to become best friends with your lawyer, but a good rapport and mutual respect is key when it comes to establishing a professional relationship that benefits your case.