Every year, there are millions of lawsuits filed. If you are going to file a civil case, such as a personal injury case, you need an experienced tort lawyer to ensure that you are successful.
If you have experienced a personal injury and need an attorney, read on to learn more about what you should look for in a tort lawyer.
- Experience
Experience is important when filing a lawsuit. Choose a lawyer who specializes in tort law, particularly personal injury claims. Don’t go with a general practice lawyer, as they may not know the ins and outs of personal injuries.
Not only do you want an attorney who specializes in tort law, but you should also look for one who is experienced with your particular type of accident or injury. Some personal injury firms specialize in car accidents while others specialize in wrongful death or aviation injuries. Pick one with experience representing clients with cases similar to yours.
- Client Reviews and Referrals
Take advantage of all of the information available on the internet. Read Google reviews, client testimonials on the attorney’s website, and ask in community groups for recommendations of tort lawyers that others have used before.
Don’t just rely on reviews and referrals, though. Do your own research as well, perusing their websites, checking your local bar association to make sure they are in good standing, and meeting with them before you agree to work with them.
- Fees
You will have to speak to most attorneys in person to determine their fee structure. Many tort attorneys work on a contingency basis, which means they don’t get paid unless you win. If you win your case (either at trial or agree to a settlement), they get a percentage of that settlement amount as payment. This is typically 1/3 of the settlement, but it can vary.
There may be other fees associated with your case, such as getting copies of medical records, special medical exams, expert witnesses, accident reconstruction experts, etc. Ask potential attorneys who will be responsible for these fees, whether they have to be paid upfront or paid after a settlement is received, and whether you are responsible for them if you lose the case.