Filing a personal injury claim and getting fair compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company is a daunting ordeal. Victims of negligence and misconduct are already dealing with severe emotional and financial loss, thus legal implications tend to amplify their hardships. In times like these, a competent Personal Injury Attorney in St. Louis, MO, can make life easier by taking the reins of your case. However, finding the right person to represent your case is not that simple either. Here’s how you can ensure that the lawyer you hire is worth your time and money:
Create a Checklist for Qualifications
First of all, you need to understand your needs and preferences in a potential legal advocate. You want a lawyer who has dealt with similar cases in your state, owns a valid practicing license, and possesses a commendable success record. Personal injury law has several branches, including auto accidents, medical practice, and workplace injuries; hence, the lawyer’s working experience should demonstrate relevance to your case.
Review Lawyer/Law firms that meet your Requirements
Looking up personal injury lawyers near you via online search engines is an obvious step, though you can also shop around for referrals. Perhaps a friend, relative, or colleague has been in your shoes and can suggest someone who is dependable and easily accessible. Learn about a legal firm or an individual lawyer by scrutinizing their website and digging up reviews/client feedback. Scan displayed portfolios and form opinions based on your observation.
Shortlist
Once you have gone through a dozen or more company websites, it is time to filter out the least suitable options. Narrow down your list to 3-5 candidates, and enlist them in order of preference. Check the bar association of your shortlisted law firms/attorneys, and make sure there is no bad press attached. Any firm or individual practitioner who has been subject to legal sanctions in the past can produce a negative impact on your case.
Approach and set up a meeting
You may set up a consultancy meeting on the phone or visit the place to see how it appears at first glance. You can guess a lot about a firm’s work ethics by how they attend to you on a call and in person. Your first impression of a person or organization shall go a long way. The environment of the workspace, the level of organization, and the initial interaction with a receptionist/administrator count more than you think. Acknowledge the vibes and contemplate if they match your aura.
Get to know your picks
You should be talking to the person who is going to actually represent you in legal hearings and proceedings. If your lawyer is too busy with a dozen other cases and you are always stuck talking to their assistant, consider it a major red flag. Your personal injury attorney should be someone who is truly interested and invested in your case. They should be willing to answer all your questions, return your calls, and show up on time at all case hearings.
Make your choice and get to work
It is wise to follow your gut when making important decisions. Make your final choice based on compatibility and skill. Your attorney should be a person you feel comfortable confiding in, and someone who has your best interests at heart. Avoid hiring a lawyer who is eager to rush things or seems suspiciously forgetful. Once you have signed a contract, the mission is not completed. Time will tell if the chosen one is capable of fulfilling your expectations; it is plausible to switch lawyers as long as you have not surpassed the discovery phase of the case.
