Working with an experienced lawyer after a car accident is your best bet for recovering the compensation you deserve and being able to move forward with confidence after a serious injury. Your choice of a car accident attorney can significantly influence the outcome of your case, and with that in mind, you should consider several factors when deciding which lawyer should represent you.
Consider Experience
First, evaluate a prospective attorney’s experience. How long has the attorney practiced law? How long have they practiced personal injury law? How many car accident cases have they handled? How frequently do they take car accident claims to trial?
You may want to ask how much of the lawyer’s caseload consists of car accident or motor vehicle claims. You might prefer hiring an attorney who focuses on personal injury and motor vehicle law, as they may have more in-depth knowledge of that subject area.
Check Credentials and Reputation
Ask about a prospective attorney’s professional credentials. Do they hold any board certifications or other relevant licenses? Have they won any awards or recognition from bar associations or legal groups? You can also ask for references from past clients the attorney has represented. You may also ask the attorney about their track record in car accident claims, including how often they win settlements or trials.
Evaluate Communication Style
Consider the attorney’s communication and working style. Does the attorney take the time to listen to your needs, concerns, and questions? Can they explain your legal rights and options in a clear, easy-to-understand manner? Do they give an honest assessment of your case?
You can also ask the attorney how they plan to communicate with you during your case. How often will the attorney contact you to provide updates? How quickly will they respond to your questions or requests? Will they communicate with you via your preferred method, such as by phone, email, or text? Will you always get to speak directly with your attorney, or will you have to talk to a junior associate, paralegal, or case manager?
Understand Their Availability and Resources
When speaking with a prospective attorney about your car accident claim, ask about their availability and resources for your case. For example, you may ask how many cases the attorney handles on average. You might also ask whether the attorney you speak with will handle your case, whether another attorney in the firm will handle it, or whether the attorney plans to refer your case to another attorney or firm.
Discuss Fees and Payment
Finally, make sure you understand how a prospective attorney’s fees and payment structure works. Most car accident attorneys handle claims on a contingency fee basis, meaning they receive a percentage of any financial recovery they win in your case. However, you should also ask whether you will owe anything if the attorney does not recover compensation or how the attorney handles case expenses like court fees, deposition expenses, or expert witness fees.
Contact a Michigan Car Accident Attorney Today
If you suffered injuries in a car crash, a car accident attorney can help you seek financial recovery for your expenses and losses. Contact Atnip & Associates, PLLC, today for a free consultation with a Michigan car accident lawyer to learn more about the legal process and how we’ll fight for the justice you deserve.
