Lawyers map
>275
experienced lawyers
Filter by
03 Oct, 2024 by Mara s.
I had a time sensitive matter that Atty. Townley handled by reviewing my case and promptly meeting with me. He provided sound legal advice and guidance that gave me peace of mind. Office personnel Anna was also very kind snd helpful.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by John ciambelli
Went way out of their way to help us! Very impressed!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Davine west
Definitely recommend Zeigler law !!
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Mara s.
I had a time sensitive matter that Atty. Townley handled by reviewing my case and promptly meeting with me. He provided sound legal advice and guidance that gave me peace of mind. Office personnel Anna was also very kind snd helpful.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by John ciambelli
Went way out of their way to help us! Very impressed!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Davine west
Definitely recommend Zeigler law !!
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Mara s.
I had a time sensitive matter that Atty. Townley handled by reviewing my case and promptly meeting with me. He provided sound legal advice and guidance that gave me peace of mind. Office personnel Anna was also very kind snd helpful.
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by John ciambelli
Went way out of their way to help us! Very impressed!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Davine west
Definitely recommend Zeigler law !!
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Elizabeth collison
Jim represented me in an auto accident case. He was very professional. He was very quick to respond to my questions I had during the entire process. He fought for me to get me what I deserved for the injures is suffered.
Read more
22 Jan, 2024 by Sharon behrens
James Elliott, my personal injury attorney, listened to my concerns patiently and was very professional and knowledgeable throughout the process. He was always just a phone call away and kept me informed on the progress of my case. He got me a very good settlement and I would highly recommend him to anyone! Thanks Jim.
Read more
16 Nov, 2023 by Heather clifford
I highly recommend Mr. Elliott as a personal injury attorney. He's attention to detail is suburb. He researched my injury (femur fracture) and went above and beyond. I could not have asked for a better man to represent my husband and I. He's experience is top notch. Thank you Jim for taking care of me and my family I will forever be grateful 🙏
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
Read more
26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
Read more
26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
Read more
26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
Read more
26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
Read more
26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
Read more
26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
Read more
26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
Read more
26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
Read more
26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Chris shipley
Went through a tumultuous divorce with unnecessary conflict caused by opposing counsel. Matt Weaver helped me out tremendously and is a great compassionate lawyer.
Read more
05 Jun, 2024 by Mohammad muhsin chisti
18 Feb, 2024 by Katie rogers
04 Oct, 2024 by Chris shipley
Went through a tumultuous divorce with unnecessary conflict caused by opposing counsel. Matt Weaver helped me out tremendously and is a great compassionate lawyer.
Read more
05 Jun, 2024 by Mohammad muhsin chisti
18 Feb, 2024 by Katie rogers
01 Oct, 2024 by Hunter kosnik
10 Jul, 2024 by Ronald
Recently I reported bad news about kemp klein law firm. Things have improved and I am happier with the services provided giving the circumstances involved. They are doing well good with my money and I want it to stay that way. Thanks sorry for any misunderstanding.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Rodney wasmuth
18 Apr, 2024 by Old orchard
Matt Paletz and staff are outstanding professional. I can’t speak enough about them.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Stephanie johnson
08 Mar, 2024 by George wells
Matt is the utmost professional, and is very knowledgeable in his field of expertise.
Read more
25 Jul, 2023 by Swat sud
Mark Schwartz has been diligently on the top of the issues relating to the case and kept me informed all along. He was doing the right things from beginning till the end. He was honest, very caring and emphatic during my recovery. He was always concerned about me getting better and get right treatment after the auto accident injuries.
Read more
22 Mar, 2022 by Matt schultz
I was referred to this office through another larger firm. I left multiple voicemails and no one ever bothered to contact me back. I wasted three weeks of my time trying to get in contact with them.
Read more
20 Sep, 2021 by Dennis l hopkins
In October 2019 I had to sue my local airport manager and airport board for an egregious violation of my First Amendment rights when they wrongfully evicted me from my airplane hangar after I criticized the management of the airport. Aviation attorney Mark Schwartz was referred by a close friend of mine, also a satisfied client. Mark provided exceptional legal representation resulting in not only a significant monetary settlement, but also forced the airport to agree to that they would not enforce any further “at will” termination provisions in other airport tenants’ leases. Helping me celebrate moving into my "new" hangar in October 2020 was my flying buddy and granddaughter! If a client has aviation issues to be adjudicated, Mark Schwartz is the attorney to call!!
Read more
25 Jul, 2023 by Swat sud
Mark Schwartz has been diligently on the top of the issues relating to the case and kept me informed all along. He was doing the right things from beginning till the end. He was honest, very caring and emphatic during my recovery. He was always concerned about me getting better and get right treatment after the auto accident injuries.
Read more
22 Mar, 2022 by Matt schultz
I was referred to this office through another larger firm. I left multiple voicemails and no one ever bothered to contact me back. I wasted three weeks of my time trying to get in contact with them.
Read more
20 Sep, 2021 by Dennis l hopkins
In October 2019 I had to sue my local airport manager and airport board for an egregious violation of my First Amendment rights when they wrongfully evicted me from my airplane hangar after I criticized the management of the airport. Aviation attorney Mark Schwartz was referred by a close friend of mine, also a satisfied client. Mark provided exceptional legal representation resulting in not only a significant monetary settlement, but also forced the airport to agree to that they would not enforce any further “at will” termination provisions in other airport tenants’ leases. Helping me celebrate moving into my "new" hangar in October 2020 was my flying buddy and granddaughter! If a client has aviation issues to be adjudicated, Mark Schwartz is the attorney to call!!
Read more
25 Jul, 2023 by Swat sud
Mark Schwartz has been diligently on the top of the issues relating to the case and kept me informed all along. He was doing the right things from beginning till the end. He was honest, very caring and emphatic during my recovery. He was always concerned about me getting better and get right treatment after the auto accident injuries.
Read more
22 Mar, 2022 by Matt schultz
I was referred to this office through another larger firm. I left multiple voicemails and no one ever bothered to contact me back. I wasted three weeks of my time trying to get in contact with them.
Read more
20 Sep, 2021 by Dennis l hopkins
In October 2019 I had to sue my local airport manager and airport board for an egregious violation of my First Amendment rights when they wrongfully evicted me from my airplane hangar after I criticized the management of the airport. Aviation attorney Mark Schwartz was referred by a close friend of mine, also a satisfied client. Mark provided exceptional legal representation resulting in not only a significant monetary settlement, but also forced the airport to agree to that they would not enforce any further “at will” termination provisions in other airport tenants’ leases. Helping me celebrate moving into my "new" hangar in October 2020 was my flying buddy and granddaughter! If a client has aviation issues to be adjudicated, Mark Schwartz is the attorney to call!!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Fannie craft
Poor communication. He rarely returned calls. Was retained for a post conviction case (appeal) and this attorney presented the same evidence as the trial attorney… no new evidence nor error was presented in the appellate brief….he was not prepared nor did he research the case. Very disappointed.. would not recommend.
Read more
13 Nov, 2018 by Jacqueline
I contacted Attorney Richards regarding my son Malik Lemons who for the first time of his life facing criminal charges, Mr. Richards not only calmed my frantic nerves by being there whenever my son and I called with questions regarding his case explaining as well as teaching he and I of his rights! Thank you Attorney Richards for going above and beyond for your client's!!
Read more
23 May, 2018 by Kevin
Mr. Richards is a Godsend!!! I had know idea what to do!! I just got my second DUI in one of the toughest areas in Oakland County (W, Bloomfield) and I was losing my mind!! First he calm me down and he lead and guided me through the process step by step like he could see the future and was honest with me from the beginning! he let me know that I was going to do jail time, but what was important that we was going to concentrate on trying to do all the right things so I wouldn't have to do the Max!! (Which is 93 Days) His Professionalism and his Guidance got me through the process! I did 14 Days, which was a blessing! He took the time to contact my family that lives out of town to let them know what was going on and also my Employer and I really believe that what help me keep my job!!! And if anyone knows about the process with the courts on DUI's you need money! I can't thank him enough!!! Its nothing easy about this situation or the process, but he made it easier to digest the situation I put myself in!! He's My Friend, My Brother and My Lawyer!! Thank You for Guiding me and getting my life back on track!!!
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
Read more
07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
Read more
07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
Read more
07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
Read more
02 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Whilst I was being represented by Ben Manson, i was repeatedly told he will throw out my case and tell the opposing attorneys to do whatever they see fit. Other than that, no issues.
Read more
02 Sep, 2021 by Jim
The complaint about 17k is nonsense, designed solely by an abusive alcoholic to smear me. He was convicted of drunk driving twice, went to jail, got out, got drunk and assaulted his wife, who promptly filed for divorce before he went back to jail for 8 months for the assault and alcohol. He hired me before he went to jail. I received an agreed retainer fee, knowing the extensive time required to handle his case while he is in jail. I handled his divorce, custody and friend of the court matters, went to court hearings for him, visited him in jail and spoke with him by phone, kept the case alive so he could see his child when he got out of jail. I accomplished all that, filed pleadings when needed, basically spent 8-9 months handling his case while he sat in jail for alcohol and wife abuse. I successfully fought with court staff to preserve his parenting time, but when he finally was released from jail he didn’t like the very generous parenting time order from the court so he fired me. I sent him a final bill, all hourly rate as agreed. He used up the retainer and still owed 2.5k. Six months later he hadn’t paid, said he never got the bill, asked me to deliver a copy to his home that evening, I did so, he wouldn’t answer the door so I left it in a secure spot on his porch. He still wouldn’t pay. Just an angry and hostile alcoholic who refused to accept responsibility for his actions. I offered several times to meet with him and discuss his issues, but he refused. He complained to the state bar, who agreed with my performance and dismissed his complaint. He of course can write anything he wants in this website, but that doesn’t make it true.
Another complaint is the family friend who hired me to file her divorce, changed her mind, and a year later asked me again, sort of, then didn’t like the timing and the cost. I couldn’t make her happy no matter what I did. More dishonest and one-sided venting , misplaced frustration from an unhappy marriage and divorce. The state bar defended my actions.
I have never mishandled one penny of client funds in 45 years. The lady who claimed “con man” never once mentioned such with me, greatly appreciated my starting her divorce case quickly and without the customary fee, met me at my office twice, voluntarily paid additional fees months later and without being requested, and we talked often to make sure she was safe and protected legally snd financially. I later had an accident and was medically off of work for a few months, and then I suddenly learned she hired another attorney, which is her right, but then defamed me and said all sorts of uncalled for nasty things about me, name-calling, dishonest things, to the court. She never mentioned them to me, wouldn’t talk with me, just vented and attacked, without discussing any of her claims with me. She needed another attorney after I was disabled, but her attacks and name calling were dishonest.
I’ve been in practice for 45 years in all types of cases, and have a completely clean record with the State Bar. My clients virtually always become my long-term friends. Only recently, a few disgruntled divorce clients have decided to vent and attack me. With misplaced hostility. And at times to avoid paying their bills. Their complaints are unfounded, the State Bar complaints have been denied, and the fee obligations have been upheld in court.
I have provided a wide range of legal services for 45 years, with an impeccable reputation for legal service with kindness and efficiency, often with low fee rates. I’m disappointed by the recent baseless complaints written here, efforts to discuss the issues were denied, and this AVVO service does not demand honesty in their complaints.
The out of state people wanted a 5k service for 1.5k, I tried to help them but didn’t get it done timely, they accepted my work then wanted their money back. I did so, thus worked for free for them. I couldn’t make them happy.
Read more
26 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I wish I would have seen the other reviews on this con man before I was suckered. I had the exact same experience with bogus medical excuses, adjourning things without even telling me, ripping me off and never sending one invoice, meeting with me at an office that was not his.
I am currently putting together a detailed report with specific dates to file with the Michigan Bar. I have something called integrity and I will not allow this person to continue to victimize innocent people.
Read more
08 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Jim Williams represented me from Dec 2017 to Aug 2018 for legal divorce proceedings. He requested a retainer payment of $5000.00, which I paid through a colleague of his, since he did not accept credit card. I was referred to him by the same colleague. My situation was complicated, so Jim assured me his expertise, and requested additional money be added to the retainer in the amount of $10,000.00, which brings the total retainer sum to $15,000.00. I had to replace him in August 2018, because he had done nothing substantial, and almost had me placed in legal default to the initial divorce compliant. Fast forward to March 2019, Jim Williams never provided a breakdown of costs, and took advantage of my vulnerable position during a tumultuous divorce proceeding. During this time, Jim authored but 3 documents.
• Motion for Parenting Time.
• Response to initial divorce complaint, 5 months later.
• Response to a motion.
I was compelled to replace Mr. Williams for more responsive and dutiful legal divorce representation. On 4 separate occasions, in August 2018, September 2018, and February of 2019, I requested an invoice and breakdown of services, and wanted money back. No invoice of any kind had been received. After I notified Jim that he would be replaced, he stated he was owed additional money and an itemized bill would be forthcoming. He said, just pay the $2300, and an invoice could be provided later. He claimed I owed him money via text message, but did not substantiate amount. No further funds have been flowed in direction.
An update as of 3/8/19, Jim Williams, was informed that legal action would be pursued to his non-action, and was given a final attempt to reconcile. He provided an invoice the next day, and placed it onto my parent’s house behind a sign on the porch. This is the first and only invoice he provided. He asserts he sent one back in August 2018, when he was replaced. He now substantiates a bill for over $17K, which is erroneous, and I challenge his assertion of the time and effort placed in the breakdown of his bill. None of the discovery, interrogatories, or any substantial work was completed or even started. I had to hire another attorney to begin the real divorce work. Further, he is attempting to change the narrative that he sent the invoice in the past, claiming I am being dishonest with him. He back-dated his letters to fit his dishonest narrative. “Various phone calls, conference meetings” unsubstantiated line items are now in his invoice. They are nonsense and intellectually dishonest, claiming 3 or 4 hours of work for simple errands. Again, Mr. Williams composed 3 documents, and was given warning that if he did not reply to the original divorce complaint filed in Dec 2017, I would be placed in default. He finally responded five months after the original complaint. Moreover, Mr. Williams is prone to make cancellations and postponements due to convenient and likely bogus claims of ailing health issues, with multiple heart attacks, concussion, car accidents, funerals, as evidenced during the divorce proceeding as well as just recently when he was asked for a cost breakdown. The only motivation that apparently worked was the threat of legal recourse. I will be aggressively following up with the Grievance Board in Michigan with retained legal counsel.
Read more
24 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
This attorney is all about HIS bottom line. He makes it clear that he has no real interest in anything that benefits you, the client. He did not even show up to my hearing or the settlement conference. He used other attorneys that appear to be his pawns and these pawns lack any real knowledge of how to get effective results. He and his "legal team" seem to be very good at keeping the client ill informed. After provider fees and his "costs", there was a remaining balance due to me for under $25. You read that right: UNDER $25. The real kick in the rear is in a letter to me spelling out the "award", he had the nerve to state that I should "consult a financial advisor so I did not squander away the money". I would advise you to seek out other legal counsel, as this attorney has done me a huge irreversible injustice!
Read more
27 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
To be short and to the point, Mr. Timothy M. Hartner was Hired by myself and I after no other Lawyers would take my case.
Mr. Hartner has done everything to make me out to be a liar, like the first attorney, stating he did't tell me to turn down the $1,750.00 settlement for my first party Lawsuit which I still Have the copy and proof of that. Then he came to my house and told me to sign and release State Farm from all Obligations and that he would make the Third Party Lawsuit pay for Damages and $20,000.00 In MRI & Medical Bills so I signed.
Keep in mind he never called me, never kept me abreast on anything,no communication. I'm not going any further, He's also put in his letters of filings that I threatened him while requesting my file to take to another attorney, which he's making it very difficult for me to get and charging me a hundred dollar deposit +++ for additional copies. So before you hire an attorney Here in Michigan anywhere, do your research on that lawyer before you sign him to represent you!
Read more
19 Jul, 2022 by Jason
I consulted with his office regarding status of my relationship with heather Atnip , and he lied to federal judge in Wisconsin ( lynn eddelman ) . Collusion also with heather atnip in relation to lies provided to federal judge …. I contacted places he requested my information, and will have that proof also , as it is part of those medical files he requested. Authorization I gave to him through my attorney, in which he provided to my providers , but stated to judge I did not authorize .. lies about discover attorneys did for 2 years , and colluded lies about my brain injury and ability to mentally function .
Read more
13 May, 2023 by John
Mr Bowen is a very inexperienced lawyer that mismanaged my case. He gave away our leverage, made false statements to me, and he was surprised multiple times by our case. Stay away as he ford not know Rost he is doing.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do for You
A personal injury lawyer specializes in helping individuals who have been physically or emotionally injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another party. Whether you've been hurt in a car accident, suffered a slip and fall, or experienced medical malpractice, a personal injury attorney works to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. They can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.
Personal injury lawyers act as your advocate, navigating the legal system on your behalf and dealing with insurance companies to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. They understand how to handle complex legal matters and help you avoid common pitfalls.
When Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial in many situations where you've been harmed due to another's negligence. Some key scenarios include:
- Severe injuries: If you've suffered significant or permanent injuries that result in substantial medical bills, a lawyer can help ensure you are fairly compensated.
- Long-term or permanent disability: Injuries that affect your ability to work or require ongoing medical treatment are complex, and a lawyer can help estimate long-term damages.
- Disputed liability: If the responsible party or their insurance company denies liability for your injury, a lawyer can gather evidence and advocate on your behalf.
- Insurance company lowball offers: Insurers often try to settle personal injury claims for as little as possible. A lawyer can negotiate to get you a fair settlement.
- Medical malpractice claims: Injuries caused by a doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider due to negligence require a personal injury lawyer experienced in medical malpractice law.
- Exposure to hazardous substances: If you've been injured due to exposure to toxins, chemicals, or dangerous substances, a lawyer can help pursue legal action.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process is crucial, especially if you're unsure of the full extent of your injuries or damages.
What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do?
A personal injury lawyer provides a wide range of services to guide you through the legal process and maximize your compensation. They can:
- Evaluate your case: A lawyer will assess the strength of your claim and determine whether you have a viable case.
- Investigate the incident: Gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions is key to building a strong case.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: Lawyers handle communications with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement and aren't taken advantage of.
- File a lawsuit if necessary: If a fair settlement can't be reached, the lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.
- Help calculate damages: This includes medical expenses, lost wages, future medical needs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
- Prepare and file legal documents: Lawyers handle all the paperwork and deadlines associated with your case, including filing motions and discovery requests.
- Represent you at trial: If your case goes to trial, the lawyer will argue your case before a judge and jury to obtain the compensation you deserve.
How Are Personal Injury Lawyers Paid?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case, either through settlement or a court judgment. Here’s how it works:
- Contingency fee percentage: The lawyer will take a percentage of the settlement or award, typically between 25% and 40%, depending on the complexity of the case and the stage at which it's resolved.
- Costs and expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, the lawyer may deduct other costs associated with the case, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and court costs. These expenses are often advanced by the lawyer and repaid out of the settlement.
- No upfront payment: Since the lawyer’s fee is contingent on winning, you usually don’t pay anything upfront.
Always discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to avoid surprises.
How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer depends on the specifics of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure. However, since most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, the amount you pay will depend on the outcome of your case. Here are some general guidelines:
- Contingency fees: Typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award. The percentage may increase if the case goes to trial or requires an appeal.
- Other costs: In addition to the lawyer's fee, you may be responsible for case-related expenses such as expert witness fees, medical record retrieval fees, and court costs. These are often deducted from your settlement, so you won't have to pay out of pocket.
While the cost may seem high, hiring an experienced lawyer can significantly increase the amount you recover, making it a worthwhile investment.
Top Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer
Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, it's essential to ask questions to ensure you’re choosing the right representation. Here are some important questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents. -
What is your fee structure?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award. -
How long will my case take?
While it's hard to predict, a lawyer can give you an estimate based on similar cases they’ve handled. -
How often do you take cases to trial?
Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior lawyers or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it's important to know who will be managing your claim. -
Do you have references from past clients?
Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insight into the lawyer’s effectiveness and professionalism.
How to Check the Credibility of a Personal Injury Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible personal injury lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any history of disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and Google reviews can provide insight into the lawyer's reputation and client satisfaction.
- Look at their track record: Review their experience with personal injury cases, particularly how many cases they’ve successfully resolved or taken to trial.
- Ask for references: Credible lawyers should be willing to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their work.
- Check professional memberships: Lawyers who are members of respected organizations, like the American Association for Justice (AAJ), often have a solid reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer, prepare the following:
- Detailed account of the accident: Write down everything you remember about the incident, including dates, times, and locations. Include any witnesses or police reports if available.
- Medical records and bills: Bring any documentation of your injuries, treatments, and associated medical costs.
- Insurance information: Provide your insurance details and any communication you’ve had with the other party’s insurance company.
- Employment and income records: If your injury has impacted your ability to work, bring proof of lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
- Photos or videos: If you have photos of the accident scene, your injuries, or property damage, bring them to your consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions to ask, including how the lawyer will handle your case and what you can expect in terms of timeline and outcome.
By preparing thoroughly for your first consultation, you’ll help the lawyer understand your case more quickly and get a better sense of your legal options.
