Things to Look for in a Philadelphia Injury Attorney
A a general rule, personal injury attorneys hope you never need their services. If you do, however, there are things to look for in a Philadelphia personal injury attorney that you choose to represent you. Every client has certain priorities, and you are entitled to a lawyer who meets your specific criteria.
Ultimately, if you or someone you know is injured in an accident and needs legal representation, nothing is going to feel particularly good. But some key attributes can help the process of filing a claim or pursuing a lawsuit slightly less painful.
For the best experience, there are some very important things to consider when you need a personal injury lawyer in Philadelphia.
Credentials
While every attorney has a law degree and has been admitted to the bar in the state where they practice, there are additional credentials you may want to verify– board certifications, years in practice, peer review and recognition, and expertise in the specific area of law you are looking for.
John is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, of which less than 1% of all US attorneys belong. He has also been named to the list of Pennsylvania Super Lawyers, and Pennsylvania Rising Stars by Super Lawyers.
Experience
Experience is not necessarily one of the most important things to look for in a Philadelphia personal injury attorney, but experience does contribute to the overall picture. It might seem like a good idea to give your case to someone young and hungry, but the practice of law is complex and nuanced.
When hiring a personal injury lawyer, you need to consider that – although it is most likely that your case will be settled out of court – it might end up going to trial. It is a good idea to look for an attorney with experience in both settlement negotiation and trials. A seasoned attorney will also have experience working with all different types of clients and will therefore be both more knowledgeable and more flexible.
Reputation
Gossip is certainly not a reliable source of information, but it is a good idea to put your ear to the grapevine. What is the word around town? If the lawyer you are considering has been in practice for a while, there will be talk. It’s not always the whole truth, but it probably contains some degree of truth. Next, check the law firm’s website for client testimonials. A quick Google search will also produce public reviews, both negative and positive.
Personal Chemistry
Personal chemistry might not be at the top of your list of things to look for in a Philadelphia personal injury attorney, but maybe it should be. Consider that you will be spending a lot of time with your legal team over the next several months. It is pretty important that you like each other. It doesn’t have to be like lunch with your best friend, but you need to trust your lawyers because they are representing your interests.
Trust your gut; If a lawyer you are interviewing makes you uncomfortable for any reason, move on. You have a right to expect professional conduct and personal service, putting you at ease during this difficult process and giving you confidence that you are in good hands.
Accessibility
Your need to speak with your attorney might not always happen during business hours or on weekdays. Hire an attorney with flexible hours that work for you. Your lawyer should be comfortable communicating with you in whatever way is most comfortable and convenient for you, be it phone, email, in the office, or at your home.
If you are physically challenged – especially if it is due to your accident – accommodations are definitely one of the things to look for in a Philadelphia personal injury attorney. Your attorney should be willing to come and meet with you wherever you are comfortable, including your hospital room. In addition, your attorney’s office should be accessible by wheelchair and have accommodations for sight and hearing-impaired clients.
Fees
Many personal injury attorneys work on contingency – meaning they only get paid if and when you collect your compensation. One of the major things to look for in a Philadelphia personal injury attorney is when they are asking for their fee. Make sure that all of the services are free until you get money – even if the case goes to trial. There should be no hidden costs or surprises along the way. Everything we do for you is free, from the first phone call until the case is closed. That is when we collect our fees.
Hire a Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorney You Can Trust
Perhaps the most important things to look for in an Philadelphia personal injury attorney is one that you can’t necessarily measure – trustworthiness. In the difficult and stressful time immediately following an accident, you need a personal injury lawyer who truly represents your interests. At Mattiacci Law, LLC., we know what it takes to earn your trust.
We act with integrity in every situation, and we gain your confidence by understanding and advocating for your specific needs. Contact us to set up an initial consultation. You deserve nothing less.