Factors to consider in selecting a lawyer
You would not get your broken leg set by a plastic surgeon. People buying a car test-drive several and frequently read consumer reviews. But people involved in a trauma often hire a lawyer without looking into the individual’s background or determining what that lawyer specializes in. You need to understand that the person you hire will be with you for quite awhile.
Note that cases typically take more than a year. And the lawyer you select can dramatically affect the value that the insurance company or the other side puts on your case. Don’t make that decision lightly. Contingency fee lawyers—lawyers like us—usually won’t charge to meet with you. Consider speaking to two or three different lawyers to make sure you find one who is the right fit for you. Here are some factors you should think about:
- How many years has the firm or lawyer focused in the particular area of law?
- Is the firm or lawyer a specialist or generalist?
- Does the firm have extensive trial experience? If the other side knows your lawyer settles every case and rarely goes to trial, your case will suffer as a result.
- Does the firm have a winning trial record?
- Has the firm handled similar cases successfully in the past?
- Does the lawyer advance all case costs and charge you nothing unless and until the case is resolved in your favor?
- Are the lawyers members of by invitation-only organizations like the American Board of Trial Advocates, American College of Trial Lawyers, or other similar groups?
- Do the lawyers serve as officers or board members for professional groups?
- Have the lawyers received any awards for their work?
- Is the firm or lawyer willing to let you speak with past or current clients to discuss their experiences?
- Do you like the lawyers and their staff? Do they inspire trust?
