Selecting the right lawyer to represent you is one of the surest ways to help your auto accident claim. With a skilled lawyer on your side, you will get the experience and support needed to achieve a fair outcome. Although there are numerous considerations to make when choosing an accident attorney, the process is relatively straightforward. Here are some things to think about when evaluating your legal options.

Choose the Right Type of Representation

When you’re dealing with a treatable medical condition, the first step is to find a physician who addresses that ailment. The same concept applies to choosing a Columbia car accident lawyer. All lawyers dedicate their practices to certain areas of law, and you should choose an attorney who has handled cases like yours. By finding a dedicated personal injury lawyer, you’re more likely to end up with an attorney who can handle your accident case.

Research Several Firms

Due diligence is a crucial part of the attorney selection process. Begin the research phase by asking friends, coworkers, and family members about their experiences with local attorneys. When you’re evaluating local firms, look for reputation issues that may adversely affect your injury case. Most people have very strong opinions of attorneys. Whether those opinions are positive or negative, you’re sure to find a substantial amount of information on any firm or lawyer you’re thinking of hiring.

Focus on Your Geographic Area

You shouldn’t have to travel a long distance to meet with a lawyer, especially if you’re dealing with a painful injury. Look for a law firm in your area. In some instances, it may be necessary to find an attorney who can travel to your home, hospital room, or other convenient meeting place.

Interview the Lawyer

When you’re choosing a home repair company, you wouldn’t think twice about asking the contractor about their experience and credentials. It shouldn’t be any different when choosing an accident lawyer. During the initial interview, ask the attorney about past case outcomes and find out how they’ll be representing your case. Interviews are an important part of choosing an attorney because they give you more insight into the lawyer’s skills and weaknesses. If you’re not comfortable with the lawyer’s answers, consider continuing the search. However, if you’re at ease with the lawyer, it’s time to take the next step.

Request References

When you’re looking for an accident lawyer, they should be prepared to submit references. Furthermore, they shouldn’t be reluctant to let you reach out to those references. If an attorney doesn’t want to offer references, take it as a warning sign (and consider taking your business elsewhere). Don’t forget to look at the attorney’s online reviews, as they provide a good idea of how satisfied clients typically are.

Ask the Right Questions

Ask the lawyer what they think of your case’s merits. They’ll tell you how they will handle your case and which outcome they’d like to see. Does the lawyer only take cases that will likely settle out of court, or will they go to court if necessary? Consider asking about the lawyer’s communication process and style. Do they occasionally check in, or will they accept frequent status inquiries as your case progresses? If you’re a hands-on client, you may not benefit much from hands-off representation. The final consideration is the most important. An attorney who promises a specific settlement amount likely cannot deliver on that promise. Every injury and every case is different, and there’s no way to predict a case’s outcome. Though a skilled injury attorney can provide “ballpark” figures based on past cases, they should never promise a specific award.

Choose a Firm With the Resources to Take Your Case

When you’re evaluating a law firm, take a look around its offices. Do they look successful, and does the lawyer have the assets needed to properly prepare cases? Personal injury cases are costly to prepare, especially if industry witnesses must be called. Be sure your lawyer has enough resources to compete with other firms in the area.

Review the Paperwork and Ask Follow-Up Questions

Ask enough questions to put yourself at ease. If the lawyer is reluctant to answer your questions or seems rushed, consider moving on. Be sure to carefully review all documents the attorney provides you, as it’s important to understand what you’re signing. Once you’ve signed the documents and accepted the attorney’s services, the contract is legally binding.

Discuss Fees

Most injury lawyers work on contingency, which means they’re not paid until the case settles. Many prospective clients fail to read attorneys’ payment agreements carefully, which can be an expensive mistake. Before signing on with an attorney, ask what percentage of the recovery they will take for their services and how they’ll charge for extra legal fees. Some lawyers charge by the task or by the hour, while others charge more for certain types of accident cases. Be certain that you understand these charges and become comfortable with the lawyer’s fee structure.

Form a Personal Connection

This factor is almost impossible to quantify, but you will know it when you see it. You’ll need to feel comfortable with the attorney you choose, or your case simply won’t work. During the preliminary consultation, you’ll gain insight into the attorney’s personal and professional skills, and you can use that time to ask questions about their history, experience, and strategies.

Look for a Compassionate Lawyer

Not every lawyer demonstrates genuine concern for those who have been injured. If a lawyer comes across as cold and unsympathetic, that attitude may apply to their representation as well. Find a lawyer whose personality puts you at ease about your situation. Your lawyer should be interested in your case, as concern and curiosity are hard to fake. From the conversations you have with your lawyer, you should get a sense that they’re engaged, actively listening, and concerned about your needs.

Hiring a personal injury attorney comes down to trusting your instincts. It’s important to feel as if you’ll receive the representation that you deserve and that your lawyer cares about your case’s outcome. A qualified injury attorney will protect your rights and help you recover for your losses.