If you ever have been injured in an accident, you must know how daunting the legal part can be! From securing the evidence to dealing with the insurance company; things can be pretty overwhelming.
Thus, having a right personal injury lawyer by your side becomes a need, and that too, a genuine one. However, the process can be confusing, especially with the number of lawyers advertising their services.
But, guess what? We’re here to help! To ensure you pick a reliable and effective attorney, watch out for these seven red flags.
Go on reading!
1. Lack of Personal Injury Focus
The first red flag is a lawyer who doesn’t specialize in personal injury law. Personal injury cases, such as car accidents, slip and fall incidents, and workplace injuries, require specific legal expertise.
If a lawyer dabbles in multiple areas of law, they might not have the depth of knowledge necessary to handle the complex nuances of personal injury claims effectively. Look for a lawyer who primarily handles personal injury cases, as this focus will likely lead to better outcomes for you.
2. No Track Record of Success
When choosing a personal injury lawyer, their track record matters. Be wary of a lawyer who cannot provide examples of cases they have successfully settled or won at trial.
Joel A. Gordon, the expert of personal injury cases, suggests that a competent attorney should be able to show you case results that demonstrate their ability to secure substantial settlements or verdicts. If they’re hesitant to discuss past successes, it might be a sign that their track record is not as strong as you’d need it to be.
3. Poor Communication
Effective communication is key in any legal representation. If you find it difficult to get a hold of a lawyer, or they fail to respond to your emails or calls within a reasonable time, consider it a red flag.
Your lawyer should keep you informed about your case’s progress and explain legal processes in a way you can understand. A lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings and could negatively impact the outcome of your case.
4. Pressure to Settle Quickly
Some lawyers might pressure you to settle your case quickly to move on to their next client. This is a major red flag. Quick settlements can often lead to less compensation than you rightfully deserve.
A good personal injury lawyer will take the time to thoroughly investigate your case, consult with medical experts, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the maximum possible compensation. Be cautious of lawyers who seem overly eager to settle if it doesn’t seem in your best interest.
5. Unclear Fee Structure
Before you hire a personal injury lawyer, make sure you understand how they charge. Most reputable personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.
Avoid lawyers who request a large amount of money upfront or who have hidden fees. A clear and straightforward fee agreement is crucial to avoid any surprises when the legal bill comes.
6. No Personal Connection
Your lawyer should be someone you trust and feel comfortable working with throughout your case. If you feel that the lawyer doesn’t really listen to you or seems to disregard your concerns, it might be best to look elsewhere.
Your lawyer should show genuine concern for your well-being and be committed to getting you justice. A lack of a personal connection can often translate to a lack of commitment in fighting for your rights.
7. Negative Reviews or Disciplinary Actions
Finally, do a thorough background check on any lawyer you consider hiring. Look for online reviews and testimonials from previous clients. While one or two bad reviews aren’t necessarily a dealbreaker, a pattern of negative feedback can be a strong warning.
Additionally, check for any disciplinary actions against the lawyer. This information can usually be found on the state bar association’s website. Disciplinary actions could indicate ethical issues that could undermine your case.
The Final Words
Choosing the right personal injury lawyer is critical to the success of your case. By being aware of these red flags, you can filter out less qualified candidates and select a lawyer who will diligently work on your behalf.
Remember, a good personal injury lawyer will have a strong track record, communicate effectively, show personal interest in your case, and operate with a transparent fee structure. Take your time to find someone who meets these criteria and makes you feel confident about your chances of winning your case.
