Car Accident Lawyer In Lansing MI

This isn't by chance. It's important to act swiftly, as there are statutes of limitations that limit the time frame within which you can take legal action. While The Clark Law Office may work on a contingency fee basis, ensuring you don't pay unless you win, be clear about any additional costs that could arise during the litigation process. From the moment you reach out to us, we'll listen to your story, assess your situation, and provide you with a clear understanding of your legal options. Read more about Car Accident Lawyer In Lansing MI here
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. Next, your employer must carry workers' compensation insurance. We're not just your legal advisors; we're your steadfast allies, committed to securing the best possible outcome for you.

Fall accident lawyer

  • Brain injury lawyer
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Nursing home abuse attorney
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Slip and fall lawyer
  • Back injury lawyer
  • Concussion lawyer
  • Personal injury defense attorney
  • Bicycle accident lawyer
  • Injury claim filing assistance
  • Assault lawyer
  • Accident compensation lawyer
  • Legal claims for fall injuries
  • Personal injury lawsuit advice
  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
  • Injury compensation lawyer
  • Personal injury litigation
  • Personal injury lawyer
  • Head injury lawyer

Navigating the aftermath of an injury can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone.

Disability lawyer

  • Insurance dispute lawyer
  • Train accident lawyer
  • Liability claims attorney
  • Personal injury damage recovery
  • Legal support for injury claims
  • Legal representation for injuries
  • Personal injury settlement attorney
  • Top-rated personal injury lawyer
  • Product liability lawyer
  • Disability lawyer
  • Spinal cord injury attorney
  • Negligence lawyer
  • Legal consultation for injury
  • Personal injury attorney near me
  • Recover damages lawyer
  • Defamation lawyer
  • Fall accident lawyer
Navigating the personal injury claim process can be daunting, especially when dealing with insurance giants. Our approach is personalized; we know that every case is unique, and we tailor our strategies to meet your specific needs.
This is where medical records, expert testimonies, and evidence of financial losses become invaluable. With the right legal support, you can make informed decisions and move forward. Discover how their approach could make a significant difference in your case and why their client testimonials speak volumes.

Learn more about Experienced Injury Accident Lawyer in Lansing, MI here.

They've also established a scholarship program for local students aspiring to careers in law, ensuring the next generation has the support they need to succeed. Our goal is to take the burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we focus on winning your case.

Bus accident attorney

  • Personal injury litigation
  • Personal injury lawyer
  • Head injury lawyer
  • Car accident attorney
  • Premises liability attorney
  • Injury law firm
  • Legal help for accident victims
  • Legal representation for accidents
  • Recover damages lawyer
  • Defamation lawyer
  • Fall accident lawyer
  • Bus accident attorney
  • Personal injury claims
  • Serious injury attorney
  • Medical malpractice attorney
If you're intrigued by how they've managed to consistently achieve justice beyond the courtroom and the importance they place on personalized representation, you're in for an illuminating journey that showcases not just their professional prowess but also celebrates the success stories of their clients. As you move forward with The Clark Law Office, you're not just getting a lawyer; you're partnering with a powerhouse of legal expertise determined to keep setting the standard for excellence in personal injury law.

If your claim is denied, they'll also represent you in appeals, armed with the expertise to challenge the decision effectively. You're never left in the dark, wondering what's happening with your case. It's because they dive deep into the intricacies of each case, employing a meticulous approach that leaves no stone unturned.

If you or a loved one has suffered a birth injury, seeking legal assistance is a critical step in obtaining justice and compensation. Their approach is thorough and personalized, ensuring that each client's case is treated with the utmost importance. This means faster response times for you and a more personalized approach to your case.

Next, you must file a claim with the responsible party's insurance company. It's this dedication to their clients' well-being that truly sets them apart in the realm of personal injury law. Liability claims attorney Beyond their legal victories, this law firm has significantly impacted the Lansing community by providing unwavering support and advocacy for those in need.

Head And Brain Injury Attorney Lansing

Lansing (/ˈlænsɪŋ/) is the capital of the U.S. state of Michigan and the most populous city in Ingham County. It is mostly in the county, although portions of the city extend west into Eaton County and north into Clinton County. The 2020 census placed the city's population at 112,644, making it the sixth most populous city in Michigan. The population of its metropolitan statistical area (MSA) was 541,297 at the 2020 census, the third largest in the state after metropolitan Detroit and Grand Rapids. It was named the new state capital of Michigan in 1847, ten years after Michigan became a state.

Workplace Injury Attorney 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

Insurance Policy Dispute Lawyer Lansing

So, when you're looking for a personal injury lawyer who offers comprehensive services and a commitment to justice, The Clark Law Office is the partner you need. Legal representation for injuries A substantial settlement that covered all of Mike's medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Top-rated personal injury lawyer You're not just facing initial hospital stays and treatments; there are often ongoing therapies, specialized care, and sometimes lifelong support needs. Bus accident attorney We're here to fight for your rights and secure the justice you deserve.

They're not just lawyers; they're advocates who'll stand by you, ensuring you're informed and empowered throughout your legal journey. This distinction is crucial because it directly impacts your eligibility. You have to link the breach directly to the injury or death.

Insurance dispute lawyer

  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Nursing home abuse attorney
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Slip and fall lawyer
  • Back injury lawyer
  • Concussion lawyer
  • Personal injury defense attorney
  • Bicycle accident lawyer
  • Injury claim filing assistance
  • Assault lawyer
  • Accident compensation lawyer
  • Legal claims for fall injuries
  • Personal injury lawsuit advice
  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
  • Injury compensation lawyer


These stories highlight that you're not alone. Once this initial assessment is completed, you'll be advised on the best course of action. They're not just advocates; they're fighters, ready to stand up for your rights in court.

When you're facing the aftermath of a personal injury, selecting the right legal team can make all the difference in your case. But here's where having Clark Law Office on your side changes the game. After notifying your employer, you'll need to fill out the necessary paperwork they provide.

Insurance Policy Dispute Lawyer Lansing
Sidewalk Slip And Fall Attorney Lansing

Sidewalk Slip And Fall Attorney Lansing

Our clients' stories speak volumes about the dedication and results The Clark Law Office delivers. Their approach was thorough, leveraging evidence, expert testimonies, and an in-depth understanding of personal injury law to build an unbeatable case.

Insurance dispute lawyer

  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
  • Injury compensation lawyer
  • Personal injury litigation
  • Personal injury lawyer
  • Head injury lawyer
  • Car accident attorney
  • Premises liability attorney
  • Injury law firm
  • Legal help for accident victims
  • Legal representation for accidents
  • Fall accident lawyer
  • Bus accident attorney
  • Personal injury claims
  • Serious injury attorney
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Compensation for accident injuries
  • Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Free injury case review
  • Construction accident lawyer
Beyond the immediate physical pain, you're likely facing financial strain from medical bills and lost wages. You can expect an unwavering dedication to fighting for the underdog, whether it's taking on complex cases or navigating the evolving legal landscape.

Facing resistance from the business owner, he felt his case was hopeless. Whether it's a slip and fall incident or a catastrophic injury, they're equipped to tackle the legal complexities, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way. We take the time to listen to your story, understand the specifics of your situation, and tailor our strategy to suit your specific goals.

Serious injury attorney

  • Brain injury lawyer
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Nursing home abuse attorney
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Slip and fall lawyer
  • Back injury lawyer
  • Concussion lawyer
  • Personal injury defense attorney
  • Bicycle accident lawyer
  • Injury claim filing assistance
  • Assault lawyer
  • Accident compensation lawyer
  • Legal claims for fall injuries
  • Personal injury lawsuit advice
Legal support for injury claims

This means the dog owner is liable for your injuries, regardless of the dog's past behavior.

Legal consultation for injury

  • Personal injury claims
  • Serious injury attorney
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Compensation for accident injuries
  • Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Free injury case review
  • Construction accident lawyer
  • Brain injury lawyer
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Nursing home abuse attorney
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Slip and fall lawyer
  • Back injury lawyer
That's where understanding your rights and the value of your claim comes into play. These services are designed to get you back into the workforce in a capacity that suits your post-injury abilities.

Missing this window can jeopardize your claim.

Personal injury claims

  1. Concussion lawyer
  2. Personal injury defense attorney
  3. Bicycle accident lawyer
  4. Injury claim filing assistance
  5. Assault lawyer
  6. Accident compensation lawyer
  7. Legal claims for fall injuries
  8. Personal injury lawsuit advice
  9. Personal injury lawyer with experience
  10. Injury compensation lawyer
  11. Personal injury litigation
  12. Personal injury lawyer
  13. Head injury lawyer
  14. Car accident attorney
  15. Premises liability attorney
  16. Injury law firm
They're not intimidated by the size or resources of these insurance giants. As an employer, you must adhere to safety protocols and provide training that educates your team on the importance of these measures.

Slip And Fall Claim Lawyer Lansing

This isn't just about legal representation; it's about providing support and guidance through one of the most challenging times in your life. Throughout this process, it's crucial to keep detailed records of all correspondence and expenses related to your injury. Identifying medical malpractice involves understanding when a healthcare provider's actions or inactions deviate from accepted standards of practice, potentially harming a patient. Their expertise spans from car accidents, where the nuances of Michigan's no-fault law come into play, to more complex medical malpractice cases, demanding a deep understanding of healthcare standards and injuries. They're here to help, so reach out in the way that suits you best.
Make sure you gather all relevant medical records, witness statements, and any other evidence that supports your case. If you have pre-existing health conditions, work closely with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively. Product liability lawyer After understanding your legal rights and the importance of gathering evidence, it's crucial to know how to effectively prove negligence in court. Documentation is your best friend here.
It's an easy way to get your questions in front of a legal professional without having to pick up the phone.

Personal injury settlement attorney

  • Legal representation for injuries
  • Personal injury settlement attorney
  • Top-rated personal injury lawyer
  • Product liability lawyer
  • Disability lawyer
  • Spinal cord injury attorney
  • Negligence lawyer
  • Legal consultation for injury
  • Personal injury attorney near me
  • Recover damages lawyer
  • Defamation lawyer
  • Fall accident lawyer
  • Bus accident attorney
  • Personal injury claims
  • Serious injury attorney
Start by compiling any medical records, police reports, and photographs of the scene and injuries. Learn more about Car Accident Lawyer In Lansing MI here Moreover, The Clark Law Office goes beyond the call of duty. They'll fight to get you the justice and compensation you rightly deserve, ensuring that your focus remains on healing.
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. The settlement reached provided the client not just with financial support, but also with a sense of justice and the means to move forward.

Negligence lawyer

  • Car accident attorney
  • Premises liability attorney
  • Injury law firm
  • Legal help for accident victims
  • Legal representation for accidents
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Compensation for accident injuries
  • Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Free injury case review
  • Construction accident lawyer
  • Brain injury lawyer
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Nursing home abuse attorney
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
You're not just getting a lawyer; you're benefiting from a collective powerhouse of knowledge and experience that's hard to beat in Lansing. You're in capable hands with a team that's constantly refining its approach, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and adopting innovative legal strategies to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

Slip And Fall Claim Lawyer Lansing
Trusted Slip And Fall Attorney Lansing
Trusted Slip And Fall Attorney Lansing

Next, exchange information with the other parties involved, including names, contact details, and insurance information.

Serious injury attorney

  • Bus accident attorney
  • Personal injury claims
  • Serious injury attorney
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Compensation for accident injuries
  • Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Free injury case review
  • Construction accident lawyer
  • Brain injury lawyer
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Nursing home abuse attorney
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Slip and fall lawyer
  • Back injury lawyer
  • Concussion lawyer
  • Personal injury defense attorney
  • Bicycle accident lawyer
Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, we're relentless in our pursuit of justice on your behalf. Trust us to navigate the complex litigations that come with your car accident or injury case. 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. Stick around to uncover how The Clark Law Office has not just endured but thrived, marking a legacy that promises to shape the future of legal advocacy for years to come.

Imagine navigating the aftermath of a car accident, dealing with injuries, financial strain, and emotional turmoil. You're involved in every decision, every step of the way. You're looking at compensation for medical expenses incurred before their passing, funeral and burial costs, lost wages and benefits, and the loss of companionship and support they provided. These pieces of evidence can provide a clear picture of what happened and the impact it's had on your life.

You might wonder what that looks like in real life. Another tactic is disputing your claim's validity. Negligence lawyer Understanding the nuances of Michigan's no-fault insurance system is the first step. On the flip side, as an employee, you've got a role to play too.

It aligns the lawyer's interests with yours, motivating them to secure the best possible outcome for you. It's no small feat to stand out in such a competitive crowd. If you're grappling with where to turn for help or seeking solace in success stories of those who've walked this path before, there's a wealth of information and support waiting for you. Lastly, prepare a list of questions you have about the legal process, your rights, and what to expect moving forward.

Lansing Injury Case Consultation

As you navigate the aftermath of an accident, understanding why their approach makes a difference could be the key to securing the compensation you deserve. If your documentation is vague or incomplete, it might lead to delays or denials. 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's time to make an informed decision about moving forward.
Communicating effectively with the insurance adjusters is essential, but remember, they're not on your side. That's why Lansing personal injury lawyers at The Clark Law Office have launched free case evaluations. They work closely with medical professionals to ensure you receive the best treatment for your injuries.
Choosing personalized representation means that you're not facing the legal system alone.

Fall accident lawyer

  • Compensation for accident injuries
  • Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Free injury case review
  • Construction accident lawyer
  • Brain injury lawyer
  • No win no fee lawyer
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Nursing home abuse attorney
  • Law firm for personal injury cases
  • Slip and fall lawyer
  • Back injury lawyer
  • Concussion lawyer
  • Personal injury defense attorney
  • Bicycle accident lawyer
  • Injury claim filing assistance
  • Assault lawyer
  • Accident compensation lawyer
  • Legal claims for fall injuries
  • Personal injury lawsuit advice
Filing a lawsuit is the next step. Personal injury settlement attorney In all, it's a comprehensive vetting process designed to spotlight not just a skilled lawyer, but a true advocate for the injured and wronged.
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. When it comes to selecting the top personal injury lawyer in Lansing, the criteria are as stringent as they're comprehensive, ensuring only the best of the best are recognized. It's essential to understand the strengths and weaknesses of your case, as well as the possible timelines and outcomes.

Explore Car Accident Lawyer In Lansing MI here
Lansing Injury Case Consultation

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.
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Frequently Asked Questions

When handling cases with minors as victims, you'll find The Clark Law Office takes extra care. They ensure the legal process considers the child's best interests, focusing on securing the most beneficial outcome possible.

The Clark Law Office protects your confidentiality by implementing strict privacy policies and using secure communication methods. They ensure sensitive information stays private throughout your case, giving you peace of mind during the legal process.

Yes, they can offer services in languages other than English. You'll need to check with them directly to see which specific languages they support to ensure they can assist you in your preferred language.