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ToggleLife can be overwhelming if you have been injured in an accident. You may have many questions about what to do next.
Hiring a personal injury lawyer will help you get through this tough time. But what should you expect when working with one? This article will walk you through the process in simple terms.
The First Meeting
The first meeting you have with a personal injury attorney is called a consultation. It’s an opportunity to tell your story. You will provide information about your accident, your injuries, and how it has affected your life.
Skilled personal injury attorneys will listen to the specific details of your situation and ask questions to understand what happened.
Understanding the Agreement
If the lawyer decides to take your case, they’ll explain the next steps. This includes how they get paid. Many personal injury attorneys work on what is called a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if you win your case. If you win, they take a percentage of your settlement or award.
Make sure you understand what you are agreeing to. If you do not understand something, ask questions. A good lawyer will take the time to explain everything to you so that you may feel confident about your next step.
Building Your Case
Once hired, the attorney will start building your case. That is to say, they will have to compile evidence. They will collect police reports, medical records, photographs, and statements from witnesses.
The lawyer will advise on what is required. They will take care of all the paperwork and deadlines, which are, at times, stressful to handle.
Communication is Key
Your attorney will continue to keep you updated on your case as it progresses. They may call, email, or even meet with you in person regarding progress.
Be honest and upfront with your attorney, and let them know if you have new medical bills or any changes in your condition. The better the attorney understands your situation, the better the representation.
If you don’t understand something, don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good lawyer will put things in simple terms so that you are always aware of what’s going on.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Many personal injury cases are settled without going to court. This means your lawyer will negotiate with the other party’s insurance company.
Insurance companies sometimes want to pay as little as possible and may even deny your claim. And that is where your attorney comes in. They fight for fair compensation to help you cover all accident-related expenses.
Going to Court
If a settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to court. That might sound daunting, but rest assured that your attorney will walk you through every step.
In court, your lawyer will present evidence and argue your case in front of a judge or jury. They’ll handle all the legal procedures and make sure your rights are protected.
Although it may take longer, going to court may be in your best interest because you could be awarded more money if you win.
What Happens After the Case is Over
When your case is resolved, you’ll receive your compensation. Your lawyer will take their agreed fee from the settlement. They’ll also ensure any outstanding medical bills or liens are paid.
The rest of the money is yours. You can use it to cover future medical care, pay off debts, or rebuild your life.
Even after your case is over, you can always reach out to your lawyer with questions. They’re there to help and support you.
Final Thoughts
Working with a personal injury lawyer can make a difficult time much easier. They’ll handle the legal side of things so that you can focus on recovery. From the first meeting to the end of your case, they’ll guide you every step of the way.
Take your time to choose a lawyer you trust. Stay involved, ask questions, and be patient. With the right lawyer, you can feel confident knowing someone is fighting for you.