Thousands of people file different personal injury claims in Illinois each year. Considering how stressful and sometimes time-consuming these cases can be, selecting the right personal injury lawyer can provide significant assistance. Choosing the wrong lawyer can impact your case negatively, could delay you, reduce your settlement, or even leave you without a claim.
How do you ensure that you pick the right attorney to represent you? What should you avoid to ensure you do not make costly mistakes? This article discusses five key things you should never do when choosing a personal injury lawyer in Illinois.
Table of Contents
Do Not Be In a Hurry to Pick the First Lawyer You Find
Not every lawyer is the right fit for your case, as some may lack the experience or dedication needed to handle your specific injury claim. “Instead of settling right away for the first lawyer you meet, take some time to think through your options,” says Elizabeth Kaveny of Kaveny + Kroll Trial Lawyers. Book a consultation with several personal injury lawyers in Illinois to discuss your case.
During consultations, inquire about how they approach cases like yours and what their results have been. Check out reviews and references, as this helps you have a clearer sense of who they are and what they do.
Do Not Ignore Their Experience in Personal Injury Law
When choosing a lawyer, ask how many personal injury cases they have handled and what types of cases they have experience with. An attorney who handles cases similar to yours will be familiar with the details of Illinois personal injury law that relate to your case. On the contrary, a lawyer who is inexperienced in personal injury cases can cost you a lot due to limited knowledge of the law and trends.
A lawyer with experience can spot essential details that could make or break your case. They might also know how to handle insurance companies if they have to negotiate and opposing lawyers if the case goes to trial.
Do Not Forget to Check How They Communicate
Before hiring, pay attention to how the lawyer talks to and with you about your case. Do they take time to understand your situation? Are they patient when you ask questions? Are your calls and messages being returned quickly?
These may seem like minor details, but they can make a significant difference in a personal injury case. Good communication fosters trust, making you feel more confident and less stressed.
Do Not Choose a Lawyer Without Discussing Fees
A lot of personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means that they only get paid if you win the case. While that may sound simple, it is essential to be aware that other costs may still be involved. This can be court filing fees or payments for professional witnesses.
That’s why, before getting started, it’s essential to have an honest conversation about the full scope of costs involved. Ask the lawyer to walk through all potential expenses and clarify how and when payment is expected. If anything is unclear, seek answers right away. Discussing costs early helps prevent surprises and sets the foundation for a relationship built on transparency and trust.
Do Not Overlook Respect for Your Views
After a personal injury, you spend a lot of time with your lawyer. Therefore, feeling at ease with them matters. If they seem rushed, do not listen, or brush off your concerns, that is not something to wave off. Your lawyer should respect your desires, take time to explain things, and truly listen to what you are saying. Without that, you might hesitate to share vital details that may be helpful to your case.
Conclusion
At first, choosing a personal injury lawyer might feel overwhelming. However, with each question you ask, clarity emerges on whether the person you have is the right choice. More importantly, with proper guidance, you have a chance of receiving adequate compensation. So, before you settle for a personal injury lawyer in Illinois, ensure you know what to do and what to avoid.
