If you find yourself in a situation in which you need to hire a personal injury lawyer, be sure to select one who will work for you and get the best results. In order to evaluate an attorney, be prepared to ask direct questions, including the following:
What is your education and experience in this area of law?
Your pre-selection work should narrow your list of potential lawyers to ones who handle your type of case, but it is important to ask the potential attorney to describe their education and experience to you. You want to hire a competent, confident, and experienced lawyer. Listen carefully as they talk to you and follow your instincts. If something is not clear, ask for clarification. Never hire an attorney who cannot talk clearly about their background and how that background is relevant to your situation.
Are you Board Certified in Civil Trial Law?
There are more than 96,000 lawyers who are members of The Florida Bar. However, less than 2% of all lawyers are Board Certified in Civil Trial Law – which includes personal injury law. If you ask only one question of your prospective attorney, ask if he or she is board certified by the Florida Bar in Civil Trial Lawyer. Choose a specialist for your important case.
What is the fee structure for handling my case?
Financial matters need to be discussed early and openly. Most lawyers are forthright about their fee structures, including what they charge and when to expect billing. Many personal injury lawyers will not get paid unless they win your case. Be sure to determine if fees or legal costs are charged in the event your case is lost. The key to handling financial matters is to be clear and consistent in the communication process.
How would you proceed with my case?
A good test for your potential attorney is to have them describe their basic plan for moving forward with your case. They should, if qualified, be familiar with your case and have a unique solution for you. Additionally, you want to have an open and accessible relationship with them. If your lawyer is not forthcoming, unavailable, or at a loss to explain his plan for your case, you may wish to look elsewhere for legal assistance.
The above areas are frameworks to consider as you evaluate potential lawyers to assist you with your personal injury situation. Trust your instincts, above all. If you have misgivings about a lawyer, look elsewhere. Each person has their own style and approach; select someone you can work with and who meets your needs.
