Thousands of car accidents occur in Charleston alone every year, with many resulting in a personal injury lawsuit. If you were involved in a car accident in Charleston, you might be able to pursue a claim for compensation. You might also want to consult a car accident attorney, depending on your case’s complexity and the injury’s severity.
Working with a lawyer in your case helps to protect your rights and increases your chances of winning the case. However, you should consider a few factors before you choose a lawyer. This article, therefore, highlights six factors to consider when talking to a car accident lawyer.
What is the Lawyer’s Focus Practice Area?
Not every lawyer you see can handle a car accident lawyer because that is not the only aspect of law there is. While some lawyers are very experienced in family law, some others focus on medical malpractice, while some only deal with divorces. The beauty of every case leading to its eventual success is knowing what lawyer fits the particular area of law you need. Speaking to Charleston car accident lawyer Jan Dils is a great move during this time.
Retaining an attorney who specializes in car accidents is advisable because it means they are well-versed on the subject. As such, they are much more equipped and qualified to represent you than a medical malpractice or even general practice lawyer.
How Much Experience Do They Have In That Area?
Now that you are sure the lawyer is an experienced car accident lawyer, the next question is: How many car accident claims have they handled in Charleston, and how many of those did they win? Research the firm you want to work with and the lawyer to learn about their experience and qualifications.
Furthermore, check how often the lawyer goes to trial and how many cases they settle out of court. Too many trials may mean the lawyer is not a skilled negotiator, and too many out-of-court settlements may mean the lawyer is afraid of trial. Therefore, there should be a balance, with preferably no more than ten trials per year.
How Accessible Is the Lawyer?
As with experience, there should be equilibrium in the accessibility rate of the lawyer you want to employ. First, they should be active so that you know you are working with a lawyer with experience in legal matters. At the same time, they should not be so busy that you have to climb mountains and cross rivers to see them.
What Strategy Do They Employ When Handling Cases?
A competent car accident lawyer knows they need a strong, well-thought-out strategy to effectively represent you in a Charleston personal injury case. Their strategy can mark the difference between monetary losses and a case where you go home sufficiently content.
Choose a lawyer who is confident enough to share their tactics with you and who communicates well with the legal process. While you are at it, check the lawyer’s communication skills; they must be able to explain legal jargon clearly. Communication is an aspect often overlooked but highly essential as it helps you make informed decisions as the case unfolds.
How Well Do People Refer the Lawyer for Cases In That Area?
If you need help finding lawyers in Charleston, reach out to friends, colleagues, and family for referrals. They will likely have someone or know someone who has used a reliable and competent car accident attorney. They can recommend you to an honest, transparent, and dependable car accident Charleston attorney who will represent you.
How Much Do They Charge As Professional Fees?
The majority of car accident attorneys in Charleston do not charge a fee upfront; they work on a contingency basis. That means they operate on a “no win, no fee” rule such that you only pay them if you win.
Regardless, you should review payment terms with your prospective attorney before you sign the contract with them. Also, reviewing the terms helps you know what percentage of the compensation award the attorney intends to take.
Conclusion
Finding the right car accident lawyer in Charleston requires you to do diligent homework and take your time to interview prospects. As you do that, we advise that you consider these factors, as they will make the process easier.