If you’ve been injured in an accident or incident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may seek legal help from a personal injury lawyer. Most people have no idea what to expect when hiring a lawyer for their personal injury case. Here’s a general overview of what the process may entail.
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The Initial Consultation
The first step in hiring a personal injury attorney is to schedule an initial consultation. Most lawyers offer free consultations to potential clients. During this meeting, you will have the opportunity to discuss the details of your case and ask any questions you may have. It’s essential to come prepared with all relevant documents, including medical records, police reports, and any correspondence from insurance companies.
During the consultation, the attorney will likely ask you a series of questions to determine the strength of your case. They may inquire about your medical history, pre-existing conditions, and injuries’ impact on your daily life. Based on this information, the lawyer will give you an idea of what to expect regarding the legal process, potential outcomes, and the fees involved.
Contingency Fees
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they don’t get paid unless you win your case. If you win, the attorney will take a percentage of the settlement or award as their fee. The percentage varies depending on the lawyer and the case’s complexity, but it’s typically around 33% of the total amount recovered.
It’s important to note that you won’t owe the attorney anything if you don’t win your case. However, you may still be responsible for certain costs, such as court fees and expert witness fees. Your attorney will explain all of this to you during the initial consultation.
Investigation and Discovery
Once you’ve hired a personal injury attorney, they will investigate your case. This may involve gathering additional evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing medical records. The lawyer will also work with your insurance company to ensure your medical bills are paid.
During the discovery process, your attorney will request information from the other party, such as witness statements and insurance policies. They will also prepare and file any necessary legal documents, such as a complaint or a demand letter.
Settlement Negotiations
Most personal injury cases are settled out of court. Your attorney will negotiate with the other party’s insurance company to reach a settlement agreement. Your case may go to trial if a settlement cannot be reached.
During settlement negotiations, your attorney will present evidence to support your claim and argue for a fair settlement amount. They will also consider any future medical costs or lost wages you may incur as a result of your injuries.
Trial
If your case goes to trial, your personal injury lawyer will represent you in court. They will present evidence and argue your case before a judge and jury. The trial length will depend on the case’s complexity, but it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Throughout the trial, your attorney will keep you informed about the progress of your case and what to expect. They will also prepare you for any questions you may be asked if you are called to testify.
Conclusion
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be a daunting process, but it’s an important step if you want to seek compensation for your injuries. By understanding what to expect, you can feel more confident about the legal process and your chances of success. If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your options.