When determining which best San Diego car accident lawyer to use after a collision, do not take the decision lightly. Not only could the decision mean a large number of dollars pretty much in your banking account upon arrangement, it could also mean the difference between sleepless nights thinking 'did I screw up this decision' to sleeping like a baby knowing you are in good hands.
Here is what to look for when making your decision of who to work with as an injury attorney.
1. Don't look for the biggest billboard you will find and make your choice based away from that criteria. That attorney may not be the one best suited to you, and also may be too busy to handle your situation 'hands on' enough. You might be forced off entirely on to a senior associate who does not have the knowledge or free mindedness to do what is right for you. She or he may have scripted mandates from the firm showing what to do, and that script may perhaps not take your best interest.
2. Request referrals from friends or family who have had claims. What better way to check out real experiences and results?
3. What's the history of your attorney at recovering damages? You want an established track record and an attorney who isn't afraid of standing up for you enough to take your case to court if necessary. Ask questions about court cases and effects.
4. Professional companies. Which ones does the attorney belong to?
5. Does the attorney charge a price up-front for the case? Some do, some don't. Having the attorney focus on contingency will effectively give him or her 'skin in the sport' and make the outcome that much more important.
6. How much experience does the attorney have in accidental injury and what percentage of their practice does it compromise? Keep looking, when it is a hobby in the scope of the practice.
7. Attorney's philosophy. If the idea appears to be sign up as many as absolutely possible and then push off on the junior affiliate, keep looking. If the philosophy is to work closely with you and then the law firm requires a 'hit' at the end of the case to get you a greater settlement, then finish the meeting!
8. Prevent companies employing contract athletes. You must sit face to face with the lawyer you are hiring to sign the agreement for representation and discuss your case. This could be the most important meeting you will have along with your attorney. Some higher size firms use commitment athletes, and might refer to them as 'investigators.' You ought not agree to an agreement runner and insist on meeting with your lawyer prior to hiring. Contract runners are often not lawyers, and thus not allowed to answer any legal questions you may have about the agreement or the representation.
9. Ask the attorney if she or he will reduce their fees.
A personal injury attorney will make additional money at the end-of the case than the consumer. Doesn't appear fair does it? This happens when the attorney takes his full 1 / 3 price, and then medical bills take up the rest of the settlement. The client may not even break even and have income still owed on medical bills! You must ask when they will cut their fee at the end-of the situation in order that this won't happen. If the lawyer is reluctant to do this, consider choosing a law firm that can.
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10. Ask if your property damage claim will be handled by your attorney at no cost.
If your case contains a property damage claim (vehicle) consult your best San Diego car accident lawyer if they'll manage this for free, help with finding a rental vehicle, and look after dealing with the insurance company that is paying for the dilemmas with your vehicle.
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