Common Mistakes Made When Hiring a Los Angeles Accident Attorney
Have you been injured in a personal injury accident in Los Angeles, Stockton, Fresno, or the surrounding areas? Is the insurance company for the other party delaying, denying, or underpaying your claim? Do you feel alone? If so, you need a California personal injury attorney to help you fight the insurance company for the money you deserve.
However, you want to hire the right attorney for your needs. Below are several mistakes that you want to avoid when hiring a personal injury law firm in California.
Hiring an attorney who gives you a settlement number during the consultation.
Some attorneys will tell potential clients they can get thousands of dollars in compensation for them. While an experienced attorney might be able to look at a case and give an estimate of the value of the case, a truly experienced and knowledgeable personal injury attorney will not attempt to calculate the value of a case until all medical bills have been received, a thorough investigation has been completed, and the client has reached maximum medical improvement. Calculating the value of a case sooner could result in the client losing thousands of dollars in compensation.
Hiring an attorney because he is a family member or friend of the family.
Many times, an injury victim turns to a family member or friend who just happens to be an attorney for help. While this might work in some cases, you still need to do your due diligence in researching the attorney before hiring him. Because it can be challenging to research a family member or friend who is an attorney, we suggest calling the office and asking for references without introducing yourself. Search online for reviews and contact the state bar association to check for complaints. Remember, there are reasons why many people avoid working with family and friends. Sometimes it is best to retain the services of an attorney who comes highly recommended by a trusted friend or family member.
Hiring an attorney who “dabbles” in personal injury law.
You want to retain an attorney who spends all of his time handling personal injury claims. An attorney who tries to juggle several types of law may not be up-to-date on the latest case law and changes to the code that could impact your personal injury case. Furthermore, an attorney who limits his practice to only personal injury claims gains a great deal of experience and knowledge about the insurance companies and how they operate. They also put together resources and experts they can work with, when necessary, to help prove your case and get you more money for your damages.
Hiring a law firm based on size.
Bigger is better and smaller is better — confused? Who wouldn’t be confused when they listen to large firms say they are good because they are larger and smaller firms say they are good because they are small. While there are pros and cons for large and small firms, you want to hire an attorney.
When you meet with the attorney, make sure that you ask him or her who will be handling your case. If the attorney transfers the case to a junior associate or a paralegal, you might want to consider another firm. Experienced attorneys utilize support staff effectively to improve legal services; however, you want your file to remain under the direct control and supervision of the attorney you retain. Make sure that you can call your attorney with questions before you hire any law firm to represent you in settling your accident claim.
Call Now for a Free Appointment with a California Personal Injury Lawyer
The Fresno personal injury attorneys at Torem & Associates provide personalized legal services for injury victims and their families. We believe that our clients deserve a legal team on their side who will fight aggressively for their right to receive full compensation for their injuries while we provide compassionate support as they continue to recover from their injuries.
Please call (888) 500-5000 or use the contact form on our website to schedule a free consultation with a California personal injury lawyer.
We have offices in Los Angles, Stockton, and Fresno for your convenience.
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