Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Lansing

Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Lansing

Legal claims for fall injuries

Navigating these legal complexities isn't easy, but it's necessary for seeking justice. Our clients' stories speak volumes about the dedication and results The Clark Law Office delivers. Read more about Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Lansing here This is where the experienced personal injury lawyers at Clark Law in Lansing come into play, leading the way with a blend of compassion and legal acumen.

Pedestrian injury attorney

  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Motorcycle accident lawyer
  • Injury lawyer for victims
  • Legal support for injury claims
  • Pedestrian injury attorney
  • Injury compensation lawyer
  • Bicycle accident lawyer
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Free injury case review
  • Insurance claim disputes
  • Accident attorney
  • Injury lawyer for medical bills
  • Workers’ compensation lawyer
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Injury law firm
  • Neck injury lawyer
  • Personal injury litigation
  • Injured worker lawyer
  • Injury claims lawyer
They're not just your attorneys; they're your advocates, your champions, and your best shot at turning a dire situation into a story of triumph. Next, consider joining or supporting organizations dedicated to improving maternal and infant health.
You're embarking on a quest for justice, one that demands both courage and a formidable ally. 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. This personalized approach ensures that our strategies aren't only effective but also aligned with your expectations and comfort level. First, there's economic damages.

Legal help for injured individuals

  • Insurance claim disputes
  • Accident attorney
  • Injury lawyer for medical bills
  • Workers’ compensation lawyer
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Injury law firm
  • Neck injury lawyer
  • Personal injury litigation
  • Injured worker lawyer
  • Injury claims lawyer
  • Workplace injury attorney
  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
  • Assault lawyer
  • Contingency fee lawyer
  • Medical expense lawyer

Whether it's negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, we're here to fight for the compensation you're entitled to. You're never left in the dark, wondering what's happening with your case. They also connect you with local support groups, offering a community that understands your struggles. A police report offers an official account of the accident, which can be invaluable during the legal process. Learn more about The Clark Law Office here.
It's time to make an informed decision about moving forward. After preparing your wrongful death claim, choosing the right legal representation is crucial, and Clark Law stands out as a top choice for many reasons. Next, you'll need to prove a breach of that duty.

Insurance dispute lawyer

  1. Personal injury lawyer with experience
  2. Assault lawyer
  3. Contingency fee lawyer
  4. Medical expense lawyer
  5. Personal injury damage recovery
  6. Personal injury appeal lawyer
  7. Bus accident attorney
  8. Serious injury attorney
  9. Liability claims attorney
  10. Legal advocacy for injured clients
  11. Personal injury lawyer
  12. Injury lawsuit help
  13. Motor vehicle accident claims
  14. Car accident attorney
  15. No win no fee lawyer
  16. Bicycle accident lawyer
  17. Law firm for personal injury cases
Here's to more years of groundbreaking advocacy and unparalleled success. Learn more about Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Lansing here

You're expected to contribute through leadership roles, publications, and by providing pro bono services. Their ambitions don't stop there. This isn't just about legal representation; it's about providing support and guidance through one of the most challenging times in your life. If you've ever found yourself hurt while working, you're likely eligible for these benefits, regardless of who was at fault for the injury. This distinction is crucial because it directly impacts your eligibility.

Remember, you're not just a file on someone's desk; you're fighting for what's rightfully yours. Just as David stood against Goliath, armed only with unwavering courage and a simple slingshot, The Clark Law Office has stood as a beacon of justice in Lansing, offering a stronghold of support to those facing the Goliaths of personal injury battles for over 30 years. Instead, they use their knowledge of Michigan's legal system to level the playing field for you.

Free injury case review

  1. Injury compensation lawyer
  2. Bicycle accident lawyer
  3. Law firm for personal injury cases
  4. Free injury case review
  5. Insurance claim disputes
  6. Accident attorney
  7. Injury lawyer for medical bills
  8. Workers’ compensation lawyer
  9. Medical malpractice attorney
  10. Injury law firm
  11. Neck injury lawyer
  12. Personal injury litigation
  13. Injured worker lawyer
  14. Injury claims lawyer
  15. Workplace injury attorney
  16. Personal injury lawyer with experience
  17. Assault lawyer
Harnessing the latest legal technologies is just one part of our strategy; equally crucial is our commitment to providing you with personalized representation. Bicycle accident lawyer

You need to act swiftly not just because of legal deadlines. We'll assess your claim's value accurately, taking into account your medical expenses, lost wages, and any other impacts your injury has had on your life. Moreover, Clark Law Office hasn't just expanded their services; they've refined their approach to ensure you're getting more personalized attention. Moreover, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won't pay any attorney fees unless we win your case.

Law firm for personal injury cases

  • Car accident attorney
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Injury compensation lawyer
  • Bicycle accident lawyer
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Free injury case review
  • Insurance claim disputes
  • Accident attorney
  • Injury lawyer for medical bills
  • Workers’ compensation lawyer
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Injury law firm
  • Neck injury lawyer
  • Personal injury litigation
  • Injured worker lawyer
  • Injury claims lawyer
  • Workplace injury attorney


With years of experience in Lansing car accident and injury cases, we've developed a keen insight into how to maneuver through the intricacies of the legal system to secure the best outcomes for you. 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. These stories aren't just examples of their success; they're a testament to The Clark Law Office's dedication to their clients. If your claim is denied, they'll also represent you in appeals, armed with the expertise to challenge the decision effectively.

Free Injury Case Evaluation Lansing

The Lansing metropolitan area, colloquially referred to as "Mid-Michigan", is an important center for educational, cultural, governmental, commercial, and industrial functions. Neighboring East Lansing is home to Michigan State University, a public research university with an enrollment of more than 50,000. The area features two medical schools, one veterinary school, two nursing schools, and two law schools. It is the site of the Michigan State Capitol, the state Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, a federal court, the Library of Michigan and Historical Center, and headquarters of four national insurance companies.

Experienced Injury Lawyer Lansing

Nearby Personal Injury Lawyer Lansing

Wood & Associates PLLC

Attorney, Bankruptcy attorney, Divorce lawyer, Estate planning attorney, Family law attorney, Law firm, Paralegal services provider
Wood & Associates PLLC, 901 N Washington Ave, Lansing, MI 48906

Basiga Law Firm

Criminal justice attorney, Civil law attorney, Divorce lawyer, Family law attorney, General practice attorney, Immigration attorney, Law firm, Attorney, Legal services, Trial attorney
Basiga Law Firm, 909 N Washington Ave, Lansing, MI 48906


Citations and other links

Uber Accident Lawyer Lansing

Let the Clark Law Office be your guide and protector through this challenging time. If you're unsure about the process, consider hiring a workers' compensation lawyer. With their expertise, you can build a compelling case that seeks the justice your loved one deserves. What comes next in this journey could change the course of your claim, and we're here to guide you through what to expect. These visual records can be powerful evidence for your case.

Clark Law Office takes pride in sharing the triumphant stories of clients who've transformed their lives through successful legal battles. The Clark Law Office's legal strategies aren't just about winning; they're about restoring your life to what it was before. It's not just about gathering evidence; it's about presenting it in a way that unambiguously shows the extent of your losses and the other party's liability. Through meticulous investigation and aggressive representation, we won Jake a settlement that acknowledged his ordeal and facilitated his recovery.

Whether it's a wet floor in a supermarket or an icy sidewalk, property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe. With a commitment to providing personalized and effective legal assistance, they're ready to assist with everything from car accidents to workplace injuries. They understand that no two cases are the same, and neither should their handling be. First off, don't delay.

Motorcycle accident lawyer

  • Personal injury lawyer
  • Injury lawsuit help
  • Motor vehicle accident claims
  • Car accident attorney
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Insurance dispute lawyer
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Brain injury lawyer
  • Disability lawyer
  • Serious car accident lawyer
  • Consultation for personal injury
  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Motorcycle accident lawyer
  • Injury lawyer for victims
  • Legal support for injury claims
  • Pedestrian injury attorney
  • Injury compensation lawyer
  • Bicycle accident lawyer
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Free injury case review


Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful substances contribute to a healthier pregnancy outcome. Initially, you'll need to gather evidence related to your injury, such as medical reports, witness statements, and any relevant photographs. This is where having a skilled personal injury lawyer by your side can make a significant difference. This collaborative approach not only keeps you in the loop but also tailors the strategy to fit your unique circumstances and goals.

Uber Accident Lawyer Lansing
Parking Lot Slip And Fall Lawyer Lansing

Parking Lot Slip And Fall Lawyer Lansing

To maximize your compensation, Clark Law Office meticulously crafts a strategy tailored specifically to your case's unique circumstances. Your involvement, whether through volunteering, fundraising, or spreading the word, amplifies their efforts and contributes to broader change. This could include errors in diagnosis, treatment, aftercare, or health management. Look for attorneys with a proven track record of handling similar cases successfully. Motorcycle accident lawyer

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. Identifying medical malpractice involves understanding when a healthcare provider's actions or inactions deviate from accepted standards of practice, potentially harming a patient. Injury lawyer for victims It's a crucial first step in your journey to seeking justice and compensation, made accessible and straightforward by The Clark Law Office. Disability lawyer

They'll also sift through your social media, looking for any photos or posts that could suggest you're not as injured as you claim. You'll also need to document your injuries and treatments meticulously. First, knowing the statute of limitations is key. Legal help for injured individuals

Imagine receiving support not just legally, but also emotionally and financially. Free injury case review Clark Law Office excels in this area, ensuring you're not left navigating these complex waters alone. Client reviews and testimonials play a critical role too.

Homeowners Insurance Claim Attorney Lansing

Discover how their approach could make a significant difference in your case and why their client testimonials speak volumes. When you're seeking representation, knowing you have an 'Advocate for Justice' by your side is incredibly reassuring. 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. Legal claims for fall injuries Whether it's dealing with insurance adjusters, filing claims for property damage and medical expenses, or negotiating fair settlements, we've got your back. Slip and fall cases, on the other hand, usually occur on someone else's property.

Their journey hasn't been without challenges. Next, you'll need to file an appeal. These benefits usually amount to a percentage of your regular wages, ensuring you still have an income stream while you recover. The team at Clark Law Office aggressively pursued justice, securing a multimillion-dollar settlement that covered the child's lifelong care needs. Law firm for personal injury cases

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. By shedding light on eligibility criteria, explaining how to file your claim successfully, and offering insights into the types of compensation available, this expert is not just talking the talk. Together, we can navigate this challenging time and work towards the justice and recovery you deserve. Workers' compensation is a type of insurance that provides financial support and medical care for employees who get injured on the job.

What sets them apart isn't just their longevity; it's their unwavering commitment to fighting for your rights. Our commitment to personalized attention means you're not just another case number. For example, if a doctor uses excessive force with forceps or a vacuum, it can lead to severe injuries. They've honed their skills over the years, adapting to changes in the law while maintaining a steadfast dedication to their clients.

Homeowners Insurance Claim Attorney Lansing
Truck Accident Lawsuit Lawyer Lansing
Truck Accident Lawsuit Lawyer Lansing

Our office is located in Lansing, making it convenient for local residents to visit us.

Legal help for injured individuals

  1. Injury lawyer for medical bills
  2. Workers’ compensation lawyer
  3. Medical malpractice attorney
  4. Injury law firm
  5. Neck injury lawyer
  6. Personal injury litigation
  7. Injured worker lawyer
  8. Injury claims lawyer
  9. Workplace injury attorney
  10. Personal injury lawyer with experience
  11. Assault lawyer
  12. Contingency fee lawyer
  13. Medical expense lawyer
  14. Personal injury damage recovery
  15. Personal injury appeal lawyer
  16. Bus accident attorney
  17. Serious injury attorney
  18. Liability claims attorney
  19. Legal advocacy for injured clients
It's crucial to know what's available to help you make informed decisions. Start by gathering all medical records related to the pregnancy, birth, and any treatments following the injury. The attorneys argued that the medical team failed to follow standard protocols.

We understand the tactics these corporations use to minimize payouts, and we're prepared to counteract them with proven strategies. These benefits can cover a range of needs, from medical expenses to a portion of your lost wages if you're unable to work. Another key point is the statute of limitations in Michigan.

They communicate regularly, breaking down complex legal jargon into understandable terms, so you're always in the know. It's important to do this as soon as possible, as there are usually strict deadlines for personal injury claims. The Clark Law Office will ensure you're fully informed about your rights and the value of your claim. Consultation for personal injury

Navigating the complex landscape of your legal rights after a birth injury is crucial for securing the compensation you deserve. Like a lighthouse guiding ships through treacherous waters, The Clark Law Office stands as a beacon of hope for those navigating the stormy seas of personal injury in Lansing. 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.

Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer Lansing

She couldn't believe the stress-free experience and the compassionate support she received. It's the result of years of hard work, continuous learning, and adapting to the ever-evolving legal landscape. This isn't just about showing that an injury occurred.

Legal claims for fall injuries

  • Injured worker lawyer
  • Injury claims lawyer
  • Workplace injury attorney
  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
  • Assault lawyer
  • Contingency fee lawyer
  • Medical expense lawyer
  • Personal injury damage recovery
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Bus accident attorney
  • Serious injury attorney
  • Liability claims attorney
  • Legal advocacy for injured clients
  • Personal injury lawyer
  • Injury lawsuit help
  • Motor vehicle accident claims
So, it's wise to consult a personal injury lawyer before discussing any details of the accident or your injuries. You'll find their footprint in various community initiatives, from sponsoring local sports teams to hosting legal awareness seminars.
Choosing The Clark Law Office means partnering with a team that's dedicated, experienced, and fully invested in your success. Lastly, prepare a list of questions you have about the legal process, your rights, and what to expect moving forward. In cases of permanent disability, whether partial or total, you may be entitled to additional compensation.

Truck accident lawyer

  1. Personal injury damage recovery
  2. Personal injury appeal lawyer
  3. Bus accident attorney
  4. Serious injury attorney
  5. Liability claims attorney
  6. Legal advocacy for injured clients
  7. Personal injury lawyer
  8. Injury lawsuit help
  9. Motor vehicle accident claims
  10. Car accident attorney
  11. No win no fee lawyer
  12. Brain injury lawyer
  13. Disability lawyer
  14. Serious car accident lawyer
  15. Consultation for personal injury
  16. Legal help for injured individuals
  17. Motorcycle accident lawyer
  18. Injury lawyer for victims
  19. Legal support for injury claims
  20. Pedestrian injury attorney
Lastly, advocating for policy changes can lead to significant improvements in healthcare quality and safety.
If you have pre-existing health conditions, work closely with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively. Clark Law Office's approach is proactive and client-centered. We understand the emotional and financial toll a birth injury case can take on a family. They've also introduced specialized services for workplace injuries and medical malpractice cases, acknowledging the complex nature of these claims.
At Clark Law Office, we've integrated these innovations to give you a competitive edge. It's your lawyer's job to piece together this evidence, creating a narrative that clearly demonstrates the other party's negligence and your right to compensation. In one notable case, a family received a multimillion-dollar settlement after their baby suffered severe brain damage due to delayed delivery. At The Clark Law Office, the process starts with a comprehensive review of your situation.

Explore Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Lansing here
Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions

To ensure your privacy and confidentiality, the Clark Law Office employs strict data protection protocols, secure communication channels, and a policy of minimal information sharing, only involving essential parties in your personal injury claim process.

They'll guide you through securing compensation for long-term medical care and rehabilitation services. You'll get personalized support aimed at covering your ongoing health needs, ensuring you're not alone in your recovery journey.

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.