One of the biggest predicaments when approaching the court is to find the apt lawyer to represent you. Here are some tips that should be considered while doing so:
Size of the firm: People think that by approaching a bigger sized firm they are guaranteed of better services. However this is not at all true. The insurance adjusters are experienced enough not to be stirred by a large law firm. If anything, they are more on the watchful as the norm is for large firms to have the high end clients with unbelievable legal problems. This is also the reason why a small time guy like you may be ignored by these massive firms. You will, in fact, receive better attention and advice from a smaller firm.
Experience with plaintiffs: It is imperative to hire a lawyer who has enough experience representing plaintiffs or claimants in lay mans terms. This works better as against hiring a lawyer experienced in representing defendants, as such lawyers generally have a very narrow outlook and thinking. They will surely seem too soft and fall short against the cold, calculating and ruthless insurance company clients.
Research: Always conduct your own personal research about the lawyer by approaching and inquiring from neighbors and acquaintances that he may have represented. Approach the lawyer only if they have given some good reviews and you are personally at ease.
When you meet the lawyer, always be comfortable in asking him and clearing your various doubts. In the course of the discussion you should try to extract certain facts like: Experience being a lawyer: Preferably he should have at least five years. Anything below that could be problematic.
Experience dealing with your condition: Ascertain the number of cases he has fought that were related to yours, as in personal injury or insurance, etc. Anything less than 75% is an indicator for you to search elsewhere.
Area of expertise: Find out whom he generally represents successfully. If you find that he is more comfortable handling companies or corporation, he is simply a defendant lawyer. Move on, he is no good for you- a plaintiff.
Fees: After you are sure you have found the right lawyer, discuss the charges he is going to impose on you. Remember, if you are at fault, he could charge you heavily for every trick he tries. However if the other party is at fault, he may willingly accept your case, willing to waive all potential charges, as he knows it is a winner. Always discuss the terms and conditions and take the fee agreement in writing. If he refuses to do so, ignore him and look out for another one.
Santiago Hernandez is the creator of http://www.asesoresenlared.com; a website specialized on asesor juridico, resources and articles. More info on asesor juridico at: asesor juridico.
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