If you have been injured, you may want to hire a personal injury lawyer who can advise you of your legal options. When searching for a personal injury lawyer, it is important to know how to determine the lawyer that is right for your case.
At Schmidt Kramer, our Harrisburg personal injury attorneys are committed to representing our clients to the fullest extent of our abilities. We know that every case is different and must be handled with special care. During a free consultation, we can discuss the options available in your case, and why our firm would best represent your interests.
Call us now at (717) 888-8888 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Look for Many Years of Successful Experience
It is important to hire a seasoned lawyer with years of experience handling your type of case. You need someone who knows what to expect in personal injury cases, as each case poses its own unique set of challenges.
Our lawyers have experience in successfully negotiating with area companies, and we know the steps to take to help maximize each client’s recovery of compensation. We know what to look for while investigating your claim, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. We will put our decades of successful experience to use the moment you consult with us.
Look for a Law Firm That Focuses on Personal Injury Cases
The focus of an attorney’s practice can make a significant difference on the outcome of your case. Lawyers who dabble in personal injury cases as well as other areas of law may have a big learning curve. They may not be fully familiar with the various laws and procedures that must be followed in these cases.
In contrast, lawyers who focus primarily on personal injury cases may be better equipped for determining liability, handling insurance claims, and accurately valuing the compensation owed to you. It is imperative that your attorney knows how to negotiate a fair and reasonable settlement so you get the compensation you deserve.
The attorneys at our law firm have experience representing clients who have been injured in situations involving auto accidents, truck accidents, dog bites, slips and falls, and many other situations. Our practice is solely dedicated to personal injury victims, which means we know what it takes to win in these cases.
Look for a Respected Reputation
A personal injury lawyer’s reputation can also have a significant effect on your case. When an attorney has a reputation for taking cases to trial and winning large verdicts, the insurance company may take your claim more seriously. However, if you use a lawyer who always settles cases and never goes to court, the insurance company will likely fight harder against paying the full compensation entitled to you.
Although most personal injury cases are settled out of court, the insurance company weighs the possible cost of the case going to trial. If a personal injury lawyer has a reputation for taking cases all the way to a jury verdict, the insurance company has an incentive to settle the case for a fair compensation amount.
Some indicators that a personal injury lawyer has a strong reputation include that he or she:
- Is well-respected by his or her peers
- Has received recognition or awards for his or her work
- Is active in local legal organizations
- Is part of a trial advocates organization
- Offers references from former clients
You can also read online reviews from past clients for a better idea about how the attorney works directly with the clients and has handled their cases.
Look for a Lawyer Who Will Make Time for You
While experienced personal injury lawyers tend to be very busy handling many cases, a good attorney will stay in touch with you during your case. He or she will call and give you updates about your claim and return calls within a reasonable period of time.
Look for an Attorney With the Resources to Handle Your Case
Personal injury cases can be expensive to prepare and represent. Lawyers may have to devote many hours into researching your claim, gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies. In medical malpractice cases, it may be necessary to hire a medical expert to testify on your behalf.
Other experts may also need to be hired throughout the process to support your claim, such as an accident reconstructionist or economists. Be sure that your prospective lawyer has adequate resources to fully take on your case and that you are aware of how those charges will be covered.
Look for a Lawyer You Can Afford
Before hiring a lawyer, be sure that you understand the fee structure and what expenses you will be required to cover. Schmidt Kramer always works on contingency, which means there are no upfront fees or costs. You only pay for our legal services if we help you recover compensation for your injuries.
We also provide a free consultation to discuss your claim and talk about the options that may be available to you.
Fill out a Free Case Evaluation form or call (717) 888-8888 so we can get started.