Negligence Attorney In Lansing MI

Negligence Attorney In Lansing MI

Brain injury lawyer

It's a time when the support of experienced personal injury lawyers becomes invaluable, offering not just legal guidance but also understanding and empathy. You're not just another case file on our desk; you're a person with a story that deserves to be heard and respected. Start by compiling any medical records, police reports, and photographs of the scene and injuries.

Injury lawyers near me

  • Best personal injury attorneys
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Auto accident lawyer
  • Injury lawsuit help
  • Motor vehicle accident claims
  • Accident compensation lawyer
  • Consultation for personal injury
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Pedestrian injury attorney
  • Workers’ compensation lawyer
  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Back injury lawyer
  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
It's about more than compensation; it's about advocating for safer healthcare practices and holding professionals accountable. We understand that navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, which is why we're here to shoulder the burden for you. Read more about Negligence Attorney In Lansing MI here
At Clark Law, you're not just getting a lawyer; you're gaining a support system. Our attorneys have secured millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients, demonstrating our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. Injury lawyers near me After an injury, you're already dealing with enough stress; you shouldn't have to worry about the complexities of insurance claims. Their ambitions don't stop there.
They'll keep you informed, prepare you for depositions, and guide you through negotiations or trial proceedings. They can offer the guidance and representation needed to fight for your rights and ensure that justice is served. Learn more about The Clark Law Office here. You're not left in the dark either; they'll keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring you understand your options and the legal process. They understand that no two cases are the same, and neither should their handling be.
They're not just looking at the immediate impacts but also considering the long-term needs of your child, ensuring that any settlement or verdict reflects the full extent of your damages. After preparing for your evaluation, it's crucial to understand the specialized expertise The Clark Law Office offers in handling personal injury cases.

Law firm for personal injury cases

  1. Brain injury lawyer
  2. Injury lawyer for victims
  3. Personal injury trial lawyer
  4. Accident lawyer for settlement
  5. Train accident lawyer
  6. Personal injury attorney near me
  7. Product liability lawyer
  8. Medical expense lawyer
  9. Injury lawyers near me
  10. Medical malpractice attorney
  11. Personal injury defense attorney
  12. Insurance dispute lawyer
  13. Personal injury lawsuit
  14. Catastrophic injury attorney
  15. Serious injury attorney
It's vital you communicate openly with your healthcare provider, asking questions about your care plan and any potential risks associated with your pregnancy. The family's settlement covered ongoing therapy and care, ensuring the child's needs were met.

Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, we're relentless in our pursuit of justice on your behalf. Their team coordinates all the moving parts of your case, from gathering and analyzing evidence to consulting with medical experts who can testify about your injuries. Catastrophic injury attorney Insurance companies often use a variety of strategies to minimize the amount they pay out on claims. Or consider another scenario where they fought for a worker injured on the job, overcoming challenges to prove negligence. They aren't just lawyers; they're allies in your fight for justice, standing by your side every step of the way.

They're not just lawyers; they're advocates who'll stand by you, ensuring you're informed and empowered throughout your legal journey.

Product liability lawyer

Intersection Accident Lawyer 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.

Wrongful Death Attorney Lansing

Nearby Personal Injury Lawyer Lansing

Foster and Harmon P.C.

Law firm, Bankruptcy attorney, Social security attorney
Foster and Harmon P.C., 139 W Lake Lansing Rd Unit 210, East Lansing, MI 48823

Ben Hall Law

Criminal justice attorney, Law firm, Lawyers association, Legal services
Ben Hall Law, 139 W Lake Lansing Rd Suite 140, East Lansing, MI 48823

Nichols Law Firm

Personal injury attorney, Criminal justice attorney, Family law attorney, General practice attorney, Law firm, Trial attorney
Nichols Law Firm, 3452 E Lake Lansing Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823

Lansing Legal Group

Civil law attorney, Estate planning attorney, Attorney, Real estate attorney
Lansing Legal Group, 612 S Creyts Rd Suite C, Lansing, MI 48917


Citations and other links

Truck Accident Wrongful Death Attorney Lansing

As the firm sets its sights on future growth and community contribution, here's how you can reach out to them for any legal assistance you might need. They underscore the difference a dedicated personal injury lawyer can make, turning daunting legal battles into stories of triumph. Michigan's threshold for stepping outside the no-fault system is strict. For property damage, the timeframe is the same. Train accident lawyer Let's explore why Clark Law Office's approach could be a beacon for those seeking legal redress in similar circumstances.

This wasn't just about the money; it was about holding the responsible parties accountable and ensuring the client could cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In Michigan, you generally have three years from the date of death to take legal action, but exceptions can shorten or extend this period. You're looking at a meticulous process that evaluates each candidate's performance, client satisfaction, and their contribution to the legal community. They'll negotiate with insurance companies and employers on your behalf, ensuring you're not pressured into accepting a settlement that's less than what you deserve.

To successfully claim compensation, you'll need to prove that the other party was at fault and that their actions (or lack thereof) directly led to your injuries. They might seem friendly at first, but it's crucial you're aware of their tactics. They'll fight to get you the justice and compensation you rightly deserve, ensuring that your focus remains on healing. From advanced data analytics to AI-driven research tools, we're leveraging technology to dissect complex case information quickly and accurately.

It's crucial to know what's available to help you make informed decisions. With Clark Law Office by your side, you're not just getting a lawyer; you're gaining a dedicated ally committed to achieving the justice you deserve. As you ponder the significance of this achievement, you'll find yourself intrigued by the impact it has not only on the firm's future but also on the lives of those they represent. This involves showing how the defendant's actions or lack thereof deviated from what a reasonably prudent person would have done under similar circumstances.

Truck Accident Wrongful Death Attorney Lansing
Best Injury Attorney Lansing

Best Injury Attorney Lansing

You've likely encountered the daunting process of filing an insurance claim, only to be met with resistance, delays, or outright denials. Missing this window can mean losing your right to file forever. Armed with a deep understanding of Michigan law and a track record of compelling insurance companies to pay what's fair, The Clark Law Office is your ally in this fight. These groups work tirelessly to promote safer childbirth practices and provide resources to families affected by birth injuries. They understand that navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially when you're dealing with the emotional aftermath of a birth injury.

Personal injury trial lawyer

  1. Personal injury legal expert
  2. Back injury lawyer
  3. Personal injury lawyer with experience
  4. Law firm for personal injury cases
  5. Legal advice for personal injury
  6. Bus accident attorney
  7. Personal injury litigation
  8. Best personal injury attorneys
  9. No win no fee lawyer
  10. Dog bite injury lawyer
  11. Auto accident lawyer
  12. Injury lawsuit help
  13. Motor vehicle accident claims
  14. Accident compensation lawyer
  15. Consultation for personal injury
  16. Pain and suffering claims
  17. Pedestrian injury attorney
  18. Workers’ compensation lawyer
  19. Legal help for injured individuals
  20. Personal injury legal expert


In some instances, you might also be eligible for punitive damages. Accident lawyer for settlement In essence, by choosing Clark Law Office, you're not just getting legal representation; you're getting a forward-thinking partner equipped with the tools to navigate the complexities of modern legal challenges effectively. Next, you'll need to find a law firm that specializes in birth injury and medical malpractice cases. Getting in touch with experienced personal injury lawyers like those at Clark Law right away can be a crucial step in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you need to move forward.

This compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. This comprehensive case management means they're prepared to fight for you, whether it's in negotiations or in court. You'll find that our approach is rooted in open communication. Embracing state-of-the-art legal technologies can significantly streamline the process of building your case, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

After reporting, you'll typically need to file a claim. Their track record speaks volumes. Finally, understanding damages is critical. If you prefer a more direct approach, their phone lines are open during business hours, and there's always someone ready to listen to your concerns and guide you on the next steps. Personal injury defense attorney

Elder Abuse Attorney Lansing

Choosing personalized representation means that you're not facing the legal system alone. In wrongful death cases, you may be entitled to significant compensation for the loss of your loved one. The legal team will assess the information you provide to determine the strength of your case. It's essential to do this promptly to avoid any delays.
This could include errors in diagnosis, treatment, aftercare, or health management.

Injury lawyer for victims

  • Workers’ compensation lawyer
  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Back injury lawyer
  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
  • Product liability lawyer
  • Medical expense lawyer
  • Injury lawyers near me
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Personal injury defense attorney
  • Insurance dispute lawyer
  • Personal injury lawsuit
  • Catastrophic injury attorney
  • Serious injury attorney
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
Common reasons include disputes over whether the injury is work-related or if the claim was filed on time. Drawing inspiration from these success stories, it's crucial to consider your next steps once your case has been evaluated.

Law firm for personal injury cases

  1. Legal help for injured individuals
  2. Personal injury legal expert
  3. Back injury lawyer
  4. Personal injury lawyer with experience
  5. Personal injury litigation
  6. Best personal injury attorneys
  7. No win no fee lawyer
  8. Dog bite injury lawyer
  9. Auto accident lawyer
  10. Injury lawsuit help
  11. Motor vehicle accident claims
  12. Accident compensation lawyer
  13. Consultation for personal injury
  14. Pain and suffering claims
  15. Pedestrian injury attorney
  16. Workers’ compensation lawyer
  17. Legal help for injured individuals

When medical professionals don't adhere to the highest standards of care, the consequences can be life-altering for newborns and their families. Choosing The Clark Law Office means partnering with a team that's dedicated, experienced, and fully invested in your success. Insurance dispute lawyer Learn more about Negligence Attorney In Lansing MI here Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a construction accident or need guidance through the intricacies of a product liability claim, they've got you covered.
In essence, when you're up against the might of insurance giants, The Clark Law Office doesn't just level the playing field-they tilt it in your favor. You've got a dedicated team by your side, one that's invested in your success and well-being. If you're facing a similar ordeal, remember these families' victories and consider seeking expert legal advice.



Personal injury attorney near me

  1. Back injury lawyer
  2. Personal injury lawyer with experience
  3. Legal advice for personal injury
  4. Bus accident attorney
  5. Personal injury litigation
  6. Best personal injury attorneys
  7. No win no fee lawyer
  8. Dog bite injury lawyer
  9. Auto accident lawyer
  10. Injury lawsuit help
  11. Motor vehicle accident claims
  12. Accident compensation lawyer
  13. Consultation for personal injury
  14. Pain and suffering claims
  15. Pedestrian injury attorney
  16. Workers’ compensation lawyer
Elder Abuse Attorney Lansing
Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney Lansing
Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney Lansing

They've navigated the complexities of countless cases, equipping them with the knowledge to handle yours with the utmost expertise. Building on the expanded legal services offered by Clark Law Office, it's crucial to know the immediate steps to take after an accident to safeguard your rights and ensure a strong legal standing. Their relentless advocacy resulted in a substantial settlement, providing for the child's extensive rehabilitation and special education needs. Medical malpractice attorney Lastly, there's a time factor involved. They understand the intricacies of the law and use this to your advantage, crafting a compelling case that highlights the negligence of the other party.

That's where understanding your rights and the value of your claim comes into play. The Clark Law Office is stepping up precisely because they recognize the devastating impact these financial pressures can have on a family already dealing with so much. It's not just about winning; it's about how much you can win for your clients when the odds are stacked against them. Their success stories speak volumes, showcasing substantial financial recoveries for victims just like you.

Through meticulous investigation and leveraging expert testimonies, they secured a substantial settlement that not only provided financial relief but also prompted changes in hospital procedures, ensuring such a tragedy wouldn't recur. Personal injury trial lawyer They can range from mild, such as minor bruising, to severe, like cerebral palsy or brachial plexus injuries, which can leave lasting physical or cognitive impairments. Let's dive into real-life victories where individuals stood up to insurance giants and won, showcasing the power of persistence and legal expertise. You're entitled to seek compensation if you're injured due to someone else's negligence or failure to control their pet.

Their goal is often to minimize the company's payout. You'll appreciate how they handle every aspect of your case, from the initial consultation to the final verdict or settlement. The Clark Law Office steps into this fray armed with expertise and a commitment to justice for accident victims. It's essential you follow the safety guidelines laid out by your employer and use the protective gear provided.

Injury Compensation Attorney Lansing

They also prioritize clear, open communication with you, keeping you informed and involved at every step. With over 30 years under their belt, The Clark Law Office has consistently delivered outstanding legal services, showcasing decades of legal excellence. This documentation is vital for building a strong case. The advantage of working with Clark Law Office lies in their extensive experience and deep understanding of personal injury law. Choosing The Clark Law Office means partnering with a team that's genuinely invested in your recovery and success.
Understanding the battle against insurance giants sets the stage for appreciating what gives The Clark Law Office a unique advantage in these confrontations. They also understand the emotional and physical toll these incidents take on you. Their response times are quick, ensuring you won't be left waiting for the answers you need. You're in luck, though, as Lansing's leading personal injury lawyer is stepping into the light, ready to guide you through the complexities of your rights and the processes involved. Injury lawyer for victims
This involves a thorough analysis of the applicable laws and precedents that could affect the outcome of your case. Embarking on a new chapter, The Clark Law Office continues to champion the rights of those injured due to the negligence of others. Understanding these criteria can help you navigate the complexities of workers' compensation and ensure that you're taking the right steps following a workplace injury. These services are designed to get you back into the workforce in a capacity that suits your post-injury abilities.
This step is where precision matters. They keep you informed at every step, ensuring you understand your options and the possible outcomes. Understanding the various types of compensation you're entitled to can significantly impact your recovery journey after a workplace injury. This means you won't have to pay out of pocket for hospital visits, medications, or rehabilitation services that are necessary for your recovery.

Explore Negligence Attorney In Lansing MI here

Product liability lawyer

  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Personal injury defense attorney
  • Insurance dispute lawyer
  • Personal injury lawsuit
  • Catastrophic injury attorney
  • Serious injury attorney
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Legal advice for personal injury
  • Bus accident attorney
  • Personal injury litigation
  • Best personal injury attorneys
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Auto accident lawyer
  • Injury lawsuit help
  • Motor vehicle accident claims


Injury lawyers near me

  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Back injury lawyer
  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
  • Bus accident attorney
  • Personal injury litigation
  • Best personal injury attorneys
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Auto accident lawyer
  • Injury lawsuit help
  • Motor vehicle accident claims
  • Accident compensation lawyer
  • Consultation for personal injury
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Pedestrian injury attorney
  • Workers’ compensation lawyer
Injury Compensation 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions

First, ensure you're safe and seek medical attention. Then, document everything about the incident, including photos, and gather witness information. Finally, jot down your personal account of the event before reaching out for legal assistance.

You'd want to know about their success in complex cases. The Clark Law Office has a strong track record in trials, often securing favorable outcomes for their clients. It's a key factor in choosing them.

You're curious about the types of personal injury cases the Clark Law Office handles and what they don't. They specialize in various areas but specifics on what they exclude aren't readily available without further details.