Injury Settlement Lawyer Lansing

Injury Settlement Lawyer Lansing

Personal injury trial lawyer

Being aware of these tactics can help you stand your ground. Read more about Injury Settlement Lawyer Lansing here Navigating personal injury claims can often feel overwhelming, but understanding the process is crucial to securing the compensation you're entitled to. You've got the power to fight back and win. This aims to cover the long-term impact of your injury on your ability to earn a living. If a healthcare professional's carelessness has caused you harm, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.
Moreover, we operate on a contingency fee basis. Learn more about The Clark Law Office here. They're not stopping at providing top-notch legal representation; they're setting their sights on becoming a pillar of support, offering workshops and free legal clinics to empower those who mightn't otherwise have access to legal advice. Start by educating yourself about the rights of patients and the standards of care expected during childbirth. Choosing The Clark Law Office means you're backed by a team that's seen it all and won't back down from a challenge. Lawsuit settlement lawyer
Our free consultation ensures you receive professional legal insight without any obligation. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. It's also important to keep a record of any expenses incurred due to the death, including funeral costs and lost wages, which will be vital in calculating the compensation you're seeking. Law firm for personal injury cases With years of experience winning substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients, we've established ourselves as a formidable opponent in the courtroom.
Medical malpractice is another area where you might find yourself needing legal help. These corporations have deep pockets and teams of lawyers whose main job is to minimize what they pay out, regardless of your suffering or needs. We'll break down the legal jargon, keep you informed at every step, and fight tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected. Brain injury lawyer In one notable case, a family received a multimillion-dollar settlement after their baby suffered severe brain damage due to delayed delivery.

It's because they dive deep into the intricacies of each case, employing a meticulous approach that leaves no stone unturned. This dual approach of personal care and community advocacy is what sets them apart. We believe that keeping you informed and involved in your case not only eases your anxiety but also leads to better outcomes. You're not just seeking justice; you're navigating a path through a system that's filled with statutes of limitations, procedural requirements, and evidentiary standards that can seem insurmountable.

Slip and fall lawyer

  • Burn injury attorney
  • Insurance dispute lawyer
  • Motorcycle accident lawyer
  • Legal consultation for injury
  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Workers’ compensation lawyer
  • Medical expense lawyer
  • Accident lawyer for settlement
  • Product liability lawyer
  • Local personal injury lawyer
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Personal injury settlement attorney
  • Consultation for personal injury
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Personal injury damage recovery
  • Pedestrian injury attorney
  • Personal injury defense attorney
This is where medical records, expert testimonies, and evidence of financial losses become invaluable.

That's where we come in, transforming uncertainty into victory. Next, consider the evidence. They're counting on you not having the energy or resources to fight back. It's important to do this as soon as possible, as there are usually strict deadlines for personal injury claims.

You've likely heard their name synonymous with success, especially if you're navigating the tricky waters of personal injury law in Lansing. Having equipped yourself with knowledge of personal injury law, it's crucial to explore how to navigate the claims process effectively. With a strong legal strategy, you're better positioned to navigate the complexities of your case, making it harder for the opposing side to undermine your claim. Legal representation for injuries While this step is more time-consuming and complex, it may be necessary to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

As you navigate through the complexities of understanding birth injuries and identifying medical malpractice, you'll uncover the vast emotional and financial strains these incidents place on families. Personal injury lawsuit If you're more comfortable starting the conversation online, our website offers a simple contact form. Contact your representatives, participate in public forums, and support legislative initiatives aimed at reducing birth injuries.

Nursing home abuse attorney

  1. Insurance dispute lawyer
  2. Motorcycle accident lawyer
  3. Legal consultation for injury
  4. Legal help for injured individuals
  5. Pain and suffering claims
  6. Workers’ compensation lawyer
  7. Medical expense lawyer
  8. Accident lawyer for settlement
  9. Product liability lawyer
  10. Local personal injury lawyer
  11. Medical malpractice attorney
  12. Personal injury settlement attorney
  13. Consultation for personal injury
  14. Personal injury appeal lawyer
  15. Personal injury damage recovery
  16. Pedestrian injury attorney
  17. Personal injury defense attorney
  18. Premises liability attorney
  19. Lawsuit settlement lawyer
Without the right legal representation, you might find yourself accepting a settlement that's far below what you're entitled to.

Top Accident Attorney Lansing

Lansing is the only U.S. state capital (among the 47 located in counties) that is not also a county seat. The seat of government of Ingham County is Mason, but the county maintains some offices in Lansing.

Intersection Accident Lawyer Lansing

Nearby Personal Injury Lawyer Lansing

Hughes Mathews Legal Group

Personal injury attorney, Attorney referral service, Civil law attorney, Insurance attorney, Law firm, Attorney, Legal services, Trial attorney
Hughes Mathews Legal Group, 6639 Centurion Dr #122, Lansing, MI 48917

McGinty, Hitch, Person, Anderson & Revore, P.C.

Law firm, Estate planning attorney, Insurance attorney
McGinty, Hitch, Person, Anderson & Revore, P.C., 3410 Belle Chase Way Suite 600, Lansing, MI 48911


Citations and other links

Experienced Accident Lawyer Lansing MI

Understanding the legal process involved in birth injury cases is crucial for families seeking justice and compensation. In short, Michigan's legal landscape for accident claims is filled with specific rules that can significantly influence your case's outcome. With our seasoned attorneys by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details. With these enhancements, you're not just a case number; you're a valued client receiving top-tier legal support tailored to your unique situation.

It was a testament to their refusal to be bullied by big insurance.

Nursing home abuse attorney

  1. Slip and fall lawyer
  2. Back injury lawyer
  3. Brain injury lawyer
  4. Legal representation for injuries
  5. Assault lawyer
  6. Personal injury lawsuit
  7. Nursing home abuse attorney
  8. Law firm for personal injury cases
  9. Recover damages lawyer
  10. Fall accident lawyer
  11. Injury claim filing assistance
  12. Insurance claim lawyer
  13. Injury lawyer for medical bills
  14. Legal rights for injured individuals
  15. Personal injury lawsuit advice
  16. Head injury lawyer
  17. Burn injury attorney
Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if something feels off or if you're unsure about the advice you've received. How can you find justice beyond the courtroom's walls?

Their commitment goes beyond the courtroom; it's about uplifting the entire community. Discover how their approach could make a significant difference in your case and why their client testimonials speak volumes. Moreover, their expertise in negotiating with insurance companies can be a game-changer for your case.

By harnessing the power of virtual reality, we can reconstruct accident scenes with pinpoint accuracy, providing compelling evidence that can make a significant difference in the courtroom. This step is vital as it forms the foundation of your claim. At The Clark Law Office, we understand the challenges you're facing, and we're here to help you navigate every step of the legal process. Injury law firm

Experienced Accident Lawyer Lansing MI
Family Wrongful Death Lawyer Lansing

Family Wrongful Death Lawyer Lansing

It's crucial to act swiftly after an injury. Personal injury claims By working on public safety initiatives, they help bring about changes that protect everyone. Reporting the incident to your employer immediately is the first step, but consulting a lawyer as soon as possible can make a significant difference in your case. Whether injured on the job or harmed by a defective product, you have options for pursuing justice and compensation. Emotionally, the impact is immeasurable.
The financial stress associated with ongoing medical care, therapy, and potential lifestyle adjustments only adds to the emotional burden. Lastly, you must demonstrate damages. You've likely heard their name whispered in corridors of courts and lauded in the stories of those they've championed, but what sets them apart in a sea of legal eagles? However, for damages not covered by insurance, like pain and suffering, you may step outside this no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver directly.
Our team at The Clark Law Office is committed to providing you with the personalized attention and expert advice you deserve. Learn more about Injury Settlement Lawyer Lansing here Clark Law Office's track record of success in these cases sends a powerful message about their commitment to fighting for the rights of the injured and their families. The Clark Law Office has streamlined its communication channels to ensure you're always a click or a call away from the help you need. Our goal is to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries, including lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term care needs.
Whether it's negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, we're here to fight for the compensation you're entitled to. Moreover, they're not intimidated by tough negotiations or taking your case to trial if that's what's needed to secure justice for you.

Personal injury lawsuit

  • Burn injury attorney
  • Insurance dispute lawyer
  • Motorcycle accident lawyer
  • Legal consultation for injury
  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Workers’ compensation lawyer
  • Medical expense lawyer
  • Accident lawyer for settlement
  • Product liability lawyer
  • Local personal injury lawyer
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Personal injury settlement attorney
  • Consultation for personal injury
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Personal injury damage recovery
  • Pedestrian injury attorney
Truck accident lawyer Look for attorneys with a proven track record of handling similar cases successfully. You can trust that they're always a step ahead, anticipating challenges and strategizing for the best possible outcome.

Affordable Car Accident Lawyer Lansing

It's surprising how a simple picture can be twisted to undermine your case. First, you'll need to gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. We're well-versed in the nuances of Michigan's workers' compensation laws and are prepared to challenge any unfair decisions made by insurance companies or employers. Building on their unmatched expertise, the Clark Law Office has also achieved record-setting verdicts and settlements in Lansing's car accident and injury cases. They've successfully navigated countless cases, securing significant settlements and verdicts for their clients.

Ensure you're attending all scheduled prenatal appointments. However, this doesn't have to be your story. Looking toward the future, this law firm's commitment to Lansing is expected to deepen even further, with plans to expand their community support and legal advocacy. To maximize your compensation, Clark Law Office meticulously crafts a strategy tailored specifically to your case's unique circumstances.

Their team dives deep into the investigation, leveraging their extensive legal expertise and resources to uncover every piece of evidence. If you've suffered a similar fate or experienced a slip-and-fall accident, you're likely navigating a complex legal landscape that seems daunting at first glance. In one notable instance, they represented a family who lost a loved one due to medical negligence. Mastering successful insurance negotiations often marks the difference between a satisfactory settlement and one that truly covers all your needs after a car accident.

Just fill it out with your details and a brief description of your situation, and we'll get back to you promptly. Navigating the complexities of workers' compensation can be daunting, especially when you're dealing with the aftermath of an injury.

Defamation lawyer

  • Recover damages lawyer
  • Fall accident lawyer
  • Injury claim filing assistance
  • Insurance claim lawyer
  • Injury lawyer for medical bills
  • Legal rights for injured individuals
  • Personal injury lawsuit advice
  • Head injury lawyer
  • Burn injury attorney
  • Insurance dispute lawyer
  • Motorcycle accident lawyer
  • Legal consultation for injury
  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Workers’ compensation lawyer
  • Medical expense lawyer
  • Accident lawyer for settlement
  • Product liability lawyer
  • Local personal injury lawyer
They're walking you through the steps necessary to ensure you're not left in the dark.

Personal injury trial lawyer

  1. Legal representation for injuries
  2. Assault lawyer
  3. Personal injury lawsuit
  4. Nursing home abuse attorney
  5. Law firm for personal injury cases
  6. Recover damages lawyer
  7. Fall accident lawyer
  8. Injury claim filing assistance
  9. Insurance claim lawyer
  10. Injury lawyer for medical bills
  11. Legal rights for injured individuals
  12. Personal injury lawsuit advice
  13. Head injury lawyer
  14. Burn injury attorney
  15. Insurance dispute lawyer
  16. Motorcycle accident lawyer
  17. Legal consultation for injury
They keep you informed, breaking down complex legal jargon into understandable terms, and they're always available to answer your questions.

Affordable Car Accident Lawyer Lansing
Workplace Wrongful Death Attorney Lansing
Workplace Wrongful Death Attorney Lansing

You may find yourself grappling with a range of powerful emotions, from anger and frustration at the medical professionals you trusted, to guilt and helplessness over your child's condition. It's essential to understand the strengths and weaknesses of your case, as well as the possible timelines and outcomes.

Personal injury claims

  1. Personal injury trial lawyer
  2. Workplace injury attorney
  3. Insurance claim disputes
  4. Defamation lawyer
  5. Liability claims attorney
  6. Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  7. Personal injury claims
  8. Injury law firm
  9. Top-rated personal injury lawyer
  10. Injury claims lawyer
  11. Truck accident lawyer
  12. Slip and fall lawyer
  13. Back injury lawyer
  14. Brain injury lawyer
  15. Legal representation for injuries
  16. Assault lawyer
  17. Personal injury lawsuit
  18. Nursing home abuse attorney
  19. Law firm for personal injury cases
Imagine receiving support not just legally, but also emotionally and financially. In addition to these expansions, you'll find that they've bolstered their legal team with experts in each of these areas. Another tactic is disputing your claim's validity.

With The Clark Law Office by your side, you're not just a case number-you're a priority. Their dedication to achieving the best possible outcome is unwavering, driven by a deep-seated commitment to upholding your rights and dignity. Next, jot down a timeline of events leading up to and following the incident. These emotions are part of the grieving process, yet they can feel overwhelming.

Clark Law Office's track record of pushing for and achieving higher settlements is evidence of their commitment to their clients' well-being. This could stem from a car accident caused by a reckless driver, a fatal slip and fall on an unsafe property, or inadequate medical care leading to death.

Back injury lawyer

  1. Recover damages lawyer
  2. Fall accident lawyer
  3. Injury claim filing assistance
  4. Insurance claim lawyer
  5. Injury lawyer for medical bills
  6. Legal rights for injured individuals
  7. Personal injury lawsuit advice
  8. Head injury lawyer
  9. Burn injury attorney
  10. Insurance dispute lawyer
  11. Motorcycle accident lawyer
  12. Legal consultation for injury
  13. Legal help for injured individuals
  14. Pain and suffering claims
  15. Workers’ compensation lawyer
  16. Medical expense lawyer
  17. Accident lawyer for settlement
  18. Product liability lawyer
  19. Local personal injury lawyer
This personalized approach ensures that our strategies aren't only effective but also aligned with your expectations and comfort level. Starting from humble beginnings, they've tirelessly worked to carve out a niche for themselves, specializing in personal injury law.

When you're faced with such a situation, it's not just the immediate health concerns that weigh heavily on your mind, but also the long-term implications these injuries may have on your child's life. Back injury lawyer They're not just about getting you compensation; they're about making the process as stress-free as possible for you. We take the time to listen to your story, understand the specifics of your situation, and tailor our strategy to suit your specific goals. For instance, if your loved one was a primary earner, the compensation might include future earnings they'd have provided, considering their age, health, and career trajectory at the time of death.

Top Slip And Fall Attorney Lansing

It's an easy way to get your questions in front of a legal professional without having to pick up the phone. These visits are crucial for monitoring the health of you and your baby, allowing for the early detection of issues that could lead to complications if left unaddressed. You're not just another file on their desk; you're a person seeking justice, and they treat you with the compassion and respect you deserve. They'll drag their feet, hoping you'll get frustrated and accept a lower settlement. That's where we come in.
How do you tackle the maze of legal complexities following the loss of a loved one? Quantifying these can be more complex as they're subjective and vary from one case to another. They're not just focused on the courtroom; they're attentive to how this injury has impacted your life. This approach not only aims to secure the compensation you deserve but also strives to make the legal process as stress-free as possible for you.
Whether you're unsure about your eligibility, perplexed by the process of filing a claim, or frustrated by a denial, understanding the ins and outs of workers' compensation is crucial. They dive deep into the nuances of your situation, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Injury claims lawyer One notable case involved a newborn who suffered severe brain damage due to delayed cesarean section. We're here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your voice is heard and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Nursing home abuse attorney

  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Personal injury settlement attorney
  • Consultation for personal injury
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Personal injury damage recovery
  • Pedestrian injury attorney
  • Personal injury defense attorney
  • Premises liability attorney
  • Defamation lawyer
  • Liability claims attorney
  • Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  • Personal injury claims
  • Injury law firm
  • Top-rated personal injury lawyer
  • Injury claims lawyer
  • Truck accident lawyer

We understand the intricacies of Michigan's no-fault insurance laws and how they impact your case. If necessary, they're also ready to take your case to trial, a testament to their commitment to achieving the best outcome for you. Assault lawyer The expertise of these attorneys can greatly influence the outcome of your case. If we decide to work together, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won't pay any attorney's fees unless we win your case.

Explore Injury Settlement Lawyer Lansing here
Top Slip And Fall Attorney Lansing

A personal injury lawyer is a lawyer who provides legal services to those who claim to have been injured, physically or psychologically, as a result of the negligence of another person, company, government agency or any entity. Personal injury lawyers primarily practice in the area of law known as tort law. Examples of common personal injury claims include injuries from slip and fall accidents, traffic collisions, defective products, workplace injuries and professional malpractice.

The term "trial lawyers" is used to refer to personal injury lawyers, even though many other types of lawyers, including defense lawyers and criminal prosecutors also appear in trials and even though most personal injury claims are settled without going to trial.

Qualification

[edit]

A personal injury lawyer must qualify to practice law in the jurisdiction in which the lawyer practices. In many states, they must also pass a written ethics examination.[1]

Lawyers may take continuing legal education (CLE) classes in order to learn about developments in the law or to learn about new practice areas. In states that require lawyers to attend CLE, personal injury lawyers may take CLE courses relevant to personal injury law, but are not required to do so.[2]

United States

[edit]

Certain bar associations and attorney organizations offer certifications, including certification of lawyers in the field of personal injury.[3] Certification is not required to practice personal injury law, but may help a lawyer demonstrate knowledge in the field to potential clients. Within the U.S., not all state bars offer certification for personal injury law. Some states, such as New Jersey,[4] allow lawyers to become Certified Trial Attorneys, a credential that is available to both plaintiff and defense attorneys. Some states, such as Arizona,[5] restrict the use of the words "specialist" or "specialize" to lawyers who have obtained a certification from the State Bar Board of Legal Specialization in a specific field of law, with one such certification being in the area of personal injury law.

Practice

[edit]

Lawyers may concentrate their practice to specific areas of law, including personal injury law.[6] Some lawyers may further specialize to a specific area of personal injury, such as medical malpractice law. By limiting the range of cases they handle, personal injury lawyers are able to acquire specialized knowledge and experience.

Client relations

[edit]

Before accepting a new case, a personal injury lawyer typically interviews a prospective client and evaluates the client's case to determine the basic facts and potential legal claims that might be made, identifies possible defendants, and evaluates the strength of the case.[7] A lawyer may decline to accept a case if the lawyer believes that the legal claims will not succeed in court, if the cost of litigation is expected to exceed the amount that can reasonably be recovered from the defendants as compensation for the client's injury.[8]

Compensation

[edit]

Lawyer fees may be charged in a number of ways, including contingency fees, hourly rates, and flat fees. In many countries, personal injury lawyers work primarily on a contingency fee basis, sometimes called an if-come fee, through which the lawyer receives a percentage of a client's recovery as a fee, but does not recover a fee if the claim is not successful.[7]

In some jurisdictions, or by virtue of the retainer agreement between an attorney and client, the amount of the legal fee may vary depending upon whether a case settles before a lawsuit is filed, after a lawsuit is filed but before trial, or if the case goes to trial.[9] For example, a retainer agreement might provide that a lawyer will receive a 33 and 1/3% contingency fee if a case settles before a lawsuit is filed, a 40% contingency fee if the case settles after the lawsuit is filed, or up to 45% if the lawsuit goes to trial.

Due to the high cost of litigation, personal injury lawyers are rarely retained to work based on an hourly fee.[10] However, defense attorneys who are hired to contest personal injury claims are often paid on an hourly basis.

Ethics

[edit]

An attorney should provide diligent representation to clients, and the ultimate professional responsibility of a personal injury lawyer is to help plaintiffs obtain just compensation for their losses. As with all lawyers, the attorney-client relationship is governed by rules of ethics.[11]

In the United States, lawyers are regulated by codes of conduct established by state bar associations, which have the power to take disciplinary action against lawyers who violate professional or ethical regulations.[12] States normally require all contingency agreements between lawyers and their clients to be in writing, and may limit the amount that may be charged as a contingency fee to a specific maximum percentage of the recovery.

Organizations

[edit]

Although membership is not required for personal injury practice, many personal injury lawyers join professional associations. For example:

  • American Bar Association – a professional association dedicated to improving the legal system and providing accreditation for law schools and continuing legal education programs
  • Association of Personal Injury Lawyers – an association based in Nottingham, England; founded in 1990 by personal injury lawyers on behalf of accident victims
  • Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles – CAALA is one of the largest associations of plaintiffs' lawyers in the United States and hosts one of the largest annual attorneys' conventions.
  • American Association for Justice – an association of trial lawyers that was founded in 1946 by a group of plaintiffs' attorneys committed to safeguarding victims' rights. Prior to 2007, this organization was called the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, or ATLA.[13]
  • The National Trial Lawyers – a national organization composed of trial lawyers, offering networking opportunities, advocacy training and educational programs for trial lawyers.[14]
  • Personal Injuries Bar Association (PIBA) - a specialist bar association for UK barristers who practise in the field of personal injuries.[15]

Criticism

[edit]

Critics of personal injury lawyers claim that litigation increases the cost of products and services and the cost of doing business.[16] For example, critics of medical malpractice lawyers argue that lawsuits increase the cost of healthcare, and that lawsuits may inspire doctors to leave medical practice or create doctor shortages. These concerns, often raised in response to efforts to reform healthcare, have not been well substantiated. A publication by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found little evidence that traditional tort reforms affect medical liability costs or defensive medicine.[17] A study conducted on a bipartisan basis in Texas has found that tort reform, once enacted, had no impact on reducing the cost of medical care, tending to throw doubt on claims made by tort reform advocates.[18]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Becoming a Lawyer: Frequently Asked Questions". State Bar of Texas.
  2. ^ Lowenthal, Werner (1981). "Continuing Education for Professionals: Voluntary or Mandatory?". The Journal of Higher Education. 52 (5): 519–538.
  3. ^ "A Concise Guide to Lawyer Specialty Certification" (PDF). ABA Standing Committee on Specialization. American Bar Association. June 2007. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  4. ^ "Board on Attorney Certification". New Jersey Courts. New Jersey Judiciary. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  5. ^ "Certified Specialists". State Bar of Arizona. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  6. ^ Nelson, Robert L. (1988). Partners with Power: The Social Transformation of the Large Law Firm. University of California Press. pp. 174–175. ISBN 0520058445. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  7. ^ a b Goodman, Peggy. "Initial Interview with a Potential Client". LexisNexis. Relx Group. Retrieved 21 January 2008.
  8. ^ Coffee, John C. (May 1986). "Understanding the Plaintiff's Attorney: The Implications of Economic Theory for Private Enforcement of Law through Class and Derivative Actions". Columbia Law Review. 86 (4): 669–727. doi:10.2307/1122577. JSTOR 1122577. S2CID 158524103.
  9. ^ Danzon, Patricia M. (1983). "Contingent Fees for Personal Injury Litigation". The Bell Journal of Economics. 14 (1): 213–224. doi:10.2307/3003548. JSTOR 3003548.
  10. ^ Danzon, Patricia M. (June 1980). "Contingent Fees for Personal Injury Litigation" (PDF). Rand. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  11. ^ Weissman, Herbert N.; Debow, Deborah M. (2003). Ethical Principles and Professional Competencies. Handbook of Psychology. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. pp. 3:33–53. ISBN 047138321X. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  12. ^ Carr, David Cameron (2010). "Attorney Fees: Five Keys to Ethical Compliance". GPSolo. Archived from the original on 2 October 2017. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  13. ^ "American Association for Justice". justice.org. Retrieved 2017-06-27.
  14. ^ "The National Trial Lawyers". Retrieved 2 April 2019.
  15. ^ Personal Injuries Bar Association, accessed 27 September 2022
  16. ^ Hiltzig, Michael (20 September 2014). "New study shows that the savings from 'tort reform' are mythical". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  17. ^ "Medical Malpractice: April 2011 Update". The Synthesis Project. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. 1 April 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2017.
  18. ^ Roser, Mary Ann (20 June 2012). "New study: Tort reform has not reduced health care costs in Texas". Statesman Media. American Statesman. Retrieved 2 July 2017.

A personal injury lawyer is a lawyer who provides legal services to those who claim to have been injured, physically or psychologically, as a result of the negligence of another person, company, government agency or any entity. Personal injury lawyers primarily practice in the area of law known as tort law. Examples of common personal injury claims include injuries from slip and fall accidents, traffic collisions, defective products, workplace injuries and professional malpractice.

The term "trial lawyers" is used to refer to personal injury lawyers, even though many other types of lawyers, including defense lawyers and criminal prosecutors also appear in trials and even though most personal injury claims are settled without going to trial.

Qualification

[edit]

A personal injury lawyer must qualify to practice law in the jurisdiction in which the lawyer practices. In many states, they must also pass a written ethics examination.[1]

Lawyers may take continuing legal education (CLE) classes in order to learn about developments in the law or to learn about new practice areas. In states that require lawyers to attend CLE, personal injury lawyers may take CLE courses relevant to personal injury law, but are not required to do so.[2]

United States

[edit]

Certain bar associations and attorney organizations offer certifications, including certification of lawyers in the field of personal injury.[3] Certification is not required to practice personal injury law, but may help a lawyer demonstrate knowledge in the field to potential clients. Within the U.S., not all state bars offer certification for personal injury law. Some states, such as New Jersey,[4] allow lawyers to become Certified Trial Attorneys, a credential that is available to both plaintiff and defense attorneys. Some states, such as Arizona,[5] restrict the use of the words "specialist" or "specialize" to lawyers who have obtained a certification from the State Bar Board of Legal Specialization in a specific field of law, with one such certification being in the area of personal injury law.

Practice

[edit]

Lawyers may concentrate their practice to specific areas of law, including personal injury law.[6] Some lawyers may further specialize to a specific area of personal injury, such as medical malpractice law. By limiting the range of cases they handle, personal injury lawyers are able to acquire specialized knowledge and experience.

Client relations

[edit]

Before accepting a new case, a personal injury lawyer typically interviews a prospective client and evaluates the client's case to determine the basic facts and potential legal claims that might be made, identifies possible defendants, and evaluates the strength of the case.[7] A lawyer may decline to accept a case if the lawyer believes that the legal claims will not succeed in court, if the cost of litigation is expected to exceed the amount that can reasonably be recovered from the defendants as compensation for the client's injury.[8]

Compensation

[edit]

Lawyer fees may be charged in a number of ways, including contingency fees, hourly rates, and flat fees. In many countries, personal injury lawyers work primarily on a contingency fee basis, sometimes called an if-come fee, through which the lawyer receives a percentage of a client's recovery as a fee, but does not recover a fee if the claim is not successful.[7]

In some jurisdictions, or by virtue of the retainer agreement between an attorney and client, the amount of the legal fee may vary depending upon whether a case settles before a lawsuit is filed, after a lawsuit is filed but before trial, or if the case goes to trial.[9] For example, a retainer agreement might provide that a lawyer will receive a 33 and 1/3% contingency fee if a case settles before a lawsuit is filed, a 40% contingency fee if the case settles after the lawsuit is filed, or up to 45% if the lawsuit goes to trial.

Due to the high cost of litigation, personal injury lawyers are rarely retained to work based on an hourly fee.[10] However, defense attorneys who are hired to contest personal injury claims are often paid on an hourly basis.

Ethics

[edit]

An attorney should provide diligent representation to clients, and the ultimate professional responsibility of a personal injury lawyer is to help plaintiffs obtain just compensation for their losses. As with all lawyers, the attorney-client relationship is governed by rules of ethics.[11]

In the United States, lawyers are regulated by codes of conduct established by state bar associations, which have the power to take disciplinary action against lawyers who violate professional or ethical regulations.[12] States normally require all contingency agreements between lawyers and their clients to be in writing, and may limit the amount that may be charged as a contingency fee to a specific maximum percentage of the recovery.

Organizations

[edit]

Although membership is not required for personal injury practice, many personal injury lawyers join professional associations. For example:

  • American Bar Association – a professional association dedicated to improving the legal system and providing accreditation for law schools and continuing legal education programs
  • Association of Personal Injury Lawyers – an association based in Nottingham, England; founded in 1990 by personal injury lawyers on behalf of accident victims
  • Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles – CAALA is one of the largest associations of plaintiffs' lawyers in the United States and hosts one of the largest annual attorneys' conventions.
  • American Association for Justice – an association of trial lawyers that was founded in 1946 by a group of plaintiffs' attorneys committed to safeguarding victims' rights. Prior to 2007, this organization was called the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, or ATLA.[13]
  • The National Trial Lawyers – a national organization composed of trial lawyers, offering networking opportunities, advocacy training and educational programs for trial lawyers.[14]
  • Personal Injuries Bar Association (PIBA) - a specialist bar association for UK barristers who practise in the field of personal injuries.[15]

Criticism

[edit]

Critics of personal injury lawyers claim that litigation increases the cost of products and services and the cost of doing business.[16] For example, critics of medical malpractice lawyers argue that lawsuits increase the cost of healthcare, and that lawsuits may inspire doctors to leave medical practice or create doctor shortages. These concerns, often raised in response to efforts to reform healthcare, have not been well substantiated. A publication by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found little evidence that traditional tort reforms affect medical liability costs or defensive medicine.[17] A study conducted on a bipartisan basis in Texas has found that tort reform, once enacted, had no impact on reducing the cost of medical care, tending to throw doubt on claims made by tort reform advocates.[18]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Becoming a Lawyer: Frequently Asked Questions". State Bar of Texas.
  2. ^ Lowenthal, Werner (1981). "Continuing Education for Professionals: Voluntary or Mandatory?". The Journal of Higher Education. 52 (5): 519–538.
  3. ^ "A Concise Guide to Lawyer Specialty Certification" (PDF). ABA Standing Committee on Specialization. American Bar Association. June 2007. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  4. ^ "Board on Attorney Certification". New Jersey Courts. New Jersey Judiciary. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  5. ^ "Certified Specialists". State Bar of Arizona. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  6. ^ Nelson, Robert L. (1988). Partners with Power: The Social Transformation of the Large Law Firm. University of California Press. pp. 174–175. ISBN 0520058445. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  7. ^ a b Goodman, Peggy. "Initial Interview with a Potential Client". LexisNexis. Relx Group. Retrieved 21 January 2008.
  8. ^ Coffee, John C. (May 1986). "Understanding the Plaintiff's Attorney: The Implications of Economic Theory for Private Enforcement of Law through Class and Derivative Actions". Columbia Law Review. 86 (4): 669–727. doi:10.2307/1122577. JSTOR 1122577. S2CID 158524103.
  9. ^ Danzon, Patricia M. (1983). "Contingent Fees for Personal Injury Litigation". The Bell Journal of Economics. 14 (1): 213–224. doi:10.2307/3003548. JSTOR 3003548.
  10. ^ Danzon, Patricia M. (June 1980). "Contingent Fees for Personal Injury Litigation" (PDF). Rand. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  11. ^ Weissman, Herbert N.; Debow, Deborah M. (2003). Ethical Principles and Professional Competencies. Handbook of Psychology. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. pp. 3:33–53. ISBN 047138321X. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  12. ^ Carr, David Cameron (2010). "Attorney Fees: Five Keys to Ethical Compliance". GPSolo. Archived from the original on 2 October 2017. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  13. ^ "American Association for Justice". justice.org. Retrieved 2017-06-27.
  14. ^ "The National Trial Lawyers". Retrieved 2 April 2019.
  15. ^ Personal Injuries Bar Association, accessed 27 September 2022
  16. ^ Hiltzig, Michael (20 September 2014). "New study shows that the savings from 'tort reform' are mythical". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  17. ^ "Medical Malpractice: April 2011 Update". The Synthesis Project. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. 1 April 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2017.
  18. ^ Roser, Mary Ann (20 June 2012). "New study: Tort reform has not reduced health care costs in Texas". Statesman Media. American Statesman. Retrieved 2 July 2017.

Frequently Asked Questions

You're wondering if The Clark Law Office offers pro bono services or engages in community legal education for those unable to afford legal help. They're committed to supporting the community through various legal assistance initiatives.

If you share some fault in the accident, they'll assess your case's details to determine how it affects your claim, aiming to maximize your compensation while navigating the complexities of shared fault laws.

You'll need to inquire directly about their financial arrangements, including any contingency fees or other costs. Each case is unique, so it's important to discuss your specific situation with them before making any decisions.