Understanding your legal rights and how the legal system works can be complex and daunting regardless of the nature of the legal case.This is particularly true with personal injury cases where anxiety and stress from injury may affect your ability to understand and manage the process yourself. This is why most people turn to an experienced personal injury attorney to represent and guide them through the process.
But how do you choose an attorney that will represent you best?
If you need a Personal Injury Attorney you can start by asking the following few questions to help you decide who is right for you:
1. Years and number of cases
How many years of Personal Injury case work does the attorney have under their belt and how many actual cases has the attorney worked on? Of course, wisdom and expertise comes from actual experience when working with people and legal complexity. An attorney with 10 or 20 years of personal injury experience is likely to be much more familiar with a broader range of cases, issues, “roadblocks” to recovery, and how to overcome them. An experienced attorney is also likely to have a greater reputation and familiarity with the various insurance adjusters and defense counsel in the area.
2. Testimonials and/or references available?
Look for testimonials of previous clients that describe issues like case results, day-to-day interactions, quality of communication and level of satisfaction with the attorney and the firm. Word of mouth and video recommendations can also be an excellent form of reference.
3. Representation strategy (defending victims or representing defendants)
It is useful to understand the types of cases in which the attorney has been involved. Some attorneys specialize in working with the victims of accidents while others will represent people who are seeking defence from prosecution. Find out the attorneys focus and how it fits with your case.
4. Involvement in the Community and Contributions to Public Safety and Education
A good attorney, solidly rooted in his community, will want to dedicate some part of his time and resources to serving the community in which he practices. Look for an attorney who participates in local charities, sponsors or supports worthy community service events, or contributes to furthering public safety and education, particularly in his field of practice. As for my law firm we are proud sponsors local Houston charities such as Reach Unlimited, and we field a riding team in the annual MS150, a charity bike ride from Houston to Austin to fight Multiple Sclerosis. You can also see other Houston related links and resources throughout this website including our interactive Houston accident map.
5. Ask about fee structure and similar cases
You should make yourself aware of the total fee that you are likely to be charged for a case like yours. In some cases the attorney will offer “pay if you win” terms, however be sure to ask about these fees so you know what you are liable for!
Make sure you understand the difference between any legal “settlement”, the attorneys fee for representing you, and what you get at the end of the day.
In short, consider qualifications, experience, references from previous clients, community work, track record and fee structure. If the law firm meets these minimum criteria then you can feel much more comfortable hiring that attorney. Needless to say my Houston Personal Injury Law Firm meets and exceeds all of these requirements so feel free to send us a message or call (281) 664 6500 if you need advice. We’ve been representing personal injury victims in Houston, Tomball, Cypress, The Woodlands, Katy, Spring and throughout Texas for almost 20 years. There is no charge for your initial consultation, and no fee unless we win your case!
