How to choose a personal injury lawyer?
Whenever we advise clients on how to choose the best personal injury lawyer, we always say pick someone you trust. You should be able to get an almost immediate free consultation with a California personal injury lawyer. During the consultation, you should feel the lawyer is honest and upfront about the nature of the case and the risks and benefits of proceeding. Additionally, you should be offered a legal agreement in writing to sign. If at the end of the consultation, you aren’t certain you trust the lawyer, keep looking.
When to get a personal injury lawyer?
If you were injured in an accident, you should retain a personal injury lawyer right away. Typically, the insurance company for the person at fault will want to take your statement before you’ve had time to think through exactly what happened or before you know the full extent of your injuries. Having a lawyer right away can help deflect insurance companies away from you so that the lawyer gives the earliest statements which can help get the highest reserves set on your case right from the beginning.
How do personal injury lawyers charge?
Plaintiffs personal injury lawyers charge a contingency fee. A contingency fee is a fee that only gets paid if there is a settlement or judgment on the case. The fees typically range from 1/3 to 40% or more depending on the nature and complexity of the case.
What can a personal injury lawyer do for you?
A personal injury lawyer can assist you in presenting your best legal and factual arguments to prove liability of the opposing party and establishing the maximum amount of damages you could be awarded. Both liability and damages are the key components to obtaining the best result for you and your case.
Can you switch personal injury lawyers?
At any time during your representation, you can switch lawyers and hire someone else. If you ever feel that you don’t trust that your lawyer is acting solely in your best interest, you are free to hire someone you do trust. Your prior lawyer may have a lien on your case depending on the amount of work they performed and a reasonable hourly rate.