Local Personal Injury Law Firm Lansing

Local Personal Injury Law Firm Lansing

Contingency fee lawyer

Time is a critical factor when pursuing compensation in wrongful death cases, as delays can jeopardize your ability to secure the justice and financial support you deserve. Our goal is to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries, including lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term care needs. Read more about Local Personal Injury Law Firm Lansing here Uncover how their dedication to wrongful death cases transforms the quest for justice into a journey towards healing and closure. A lawyer doesn't just fill out paperwork; they're your advocate. Whether it's speeding, neglecting safety protocols, or failing to fix a hazardous condition, you've got to make it clear that the defendant didn't uphold their responsibility.
Their relentless pursuit of justice resulted in a landmark verdict, compelling the company to overhaul its safety measures and preventing future losses of life. Legal rights for injured individuals 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. These aren't meant to compensate you but to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. We're here to ensure that you feel supported and confident in our abilities to secure the compensation you deserve.
It's not just about the emotional toll, although that's immeasurable. Clark Law Office excels in this area, ensuring you're not left navigating these complex waters alone. It's a time when the support of experienced personal injury lawyers becomes invaluable, offering not just legal guidance but also understanding and empathy. Truck accident lawyer Moreover, these attorneys bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to your case, leveraging their expertise to challenge any discrepancies and advocate for the maximum possible settlement.
This can range from car accidents and slip-and-fall incidents to medical malpractice and workplace injuries. It's essential to work with a knowledgeable attorney who can help you understand what compensation you're entitled to and how to maximize your recovery. This documentation is vital for building a strong case. Their attorneys aren't just skilled negotiators; they're also fierce litigators who aren't afraid to take your fight to court if that's what it takes to secure the justice you're owed. Learn more about Experienced Injury Accident Lawyer in Lansing, MI here.

Moreover, the sooner you start the legal process, the quicker you may be able to receive compensation. Navigating insurance claims can seem daunting, but The Clark Law Office is here to guide you through the process step by step.

Legal rights for injured individuals

  • Motorcycle accident lawyer
  • Neck injury lawyer
  • Injury compensation lawyer
  • Injured worker lawyer
  • Defamation lawyer
  • Concussion lawyer
  • Negligence lawyer
  • Workplace injury attorney
  • Personal injury attorney near me
  • Bicycle accident lawyer
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Catastrophic injury attorney
  • Medical expense lawyer
  • Serious car accident lawyer
  • Personal injury claims
  • Back injury lawyer
It's vital you communicate openly with your healthcare provider, asking questions about your care plan and any potential risks associated with your pregnancy. Next, consider the evidence. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is also key in preventing birth injuries.

You're not just another file on their desk; you're a person seeking justice, and they treat you with the compassion and respect you deserve. Beyond these, workplace accidents and product liability cases are also frequent. They're ready to assist in negotiating with insurance companies, securing the medical care you need, and providing support through every phase of your recovery. It was a moment of validation for years of hard work and a signal to clients that they're in capable hands.

Serious injury attorney

  1. Workplace injury attorney
  2. Personal injury attorney near me
  3. Bicycle accident lawyer
  4. Pain and suffering claims
  5. Catastrophic injury attorney
  6. Medical expense lawyer
  7. Serious car accident lawyer
  8. Personal injury claims
  9. Back injury lawyer
  10. Injured worker lawyer
  11. Defamation lawyer
  12. Concussion lawyer
  13. Negligence lawyer
  14. Workplace injury attorney
  15. Personal injury attorney near me


It's important to do this as soon as possible, as there are usually strict deadlines for personal injury claims. They'll offer expert advice on whether to proceed with a lawsuit or consider settlement options. You'll find their approach personalized, focusing on your unique situation. A police report offers an official account of the accident, which can be invaluable during the legal process.

Insurance claim disputes

  • Contingency fee lawyer
  • Injury claim filing assistance
  • Compensation for accident injuries
  • Motor vehicle accident claims
  • Wrongful death lawyer
  • Truck accident lawyer
  • Fall accident lawyer
  • Premises liability attorney
  • Liability claims attorney
  • Serious injury attorney
  • Insurance claim disputes
  • Legal rights for injured individuals
  • Bus accident attorney
  • Burn injury attorney
  • Motorcycle accident lawyer
  • Neck injury lawyer
  • Injury compensation lawyer
  • Injured worker lawyer


Now that we've highlighted the broader implications of birth injury and medical malpractice cases, let's focus on understanding what birth injuries are and how they occur. It's about making sure that you're not left to bear the financial burden of someone else's mistake. While this step is more time-consuming and complex, it may be necessary to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. For them, it's not just about representing clients; it's about being a steadfast ally to the Lansing community, ensuring it grows stronger and more resilient every day.

Injury Attorney Lansing

Entity Name Description Source Link
Personal injury A legal term for injury to the body, mind, or emotions, and can refer to any damage to an individual's person, usually as a result of negligence or wrongdoing. Source
Lawyer A professional who is qualified to practice law and provides legal advice and representation to clients. Source
No-fault insurance A type of car insurance system where each party's insurance covers their own damages, regardless of fault, in the event of an accident. Source
Insurance A financial product that provides protection against financial loss or risk in exchange for regular payments, known as premiums. Source
Negligence The failure to take proper care in doing something, leading to harm or injury to others. Source
Lansing, Michigan The capital city of the U.S. state of Michigan, known for its role in government and industry. Source
Wrongful death claim A legal claim filed when someone dies as a result of the negligence or misconduct of another party. Source
Medical malpractice A form of negligence where a healthcare professional's actions or inactions cause harm to a patient. Source

Medical Malpractice 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.

Rear-End Collision Lawyer Lansing

Nearby Personal Injury Lawyer Lansing

Christopher Trainor & Associates Accident Lawyers

Downtown
Personal injury attorney
Christopher Trainor & Associates Accident Lawyers, 120 N Washington Square #300, PMB 5001, Lansing, MI 48933


Citations and other links

Lansing Accident Claim Lawyer

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. 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. Burn injury attorney 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.

Wrongful death lawyer

  1. Defamation lawyer
  2. Concussion lawyer
  3. Negligence lawyer
  4. Workplace injury attorney
  5. Personal injury attorney near me
  6. Bicycle accident lawyer
  7. Pain and suffering claims
  8. Catastrophic injury attorney
  9. Medical expense lawyer
  10. Serious car accident lawyer
  11. Personal injury claims
  12. Back injury lawyer
  13. Compensation for accident injuries
  14. Motor vehicle accident claims
  15. Wrongful death lawyer
  16. Truck accident lawyer
  17. Fall accident lawyer
  18. Premises liability attorney
  19. Liability claims attorney
  20. Serious injury attorney
Beyond their legal victories, this law firm has significantly impacted the Lansing community by providing unwavering support and advocacy for those in need.

Lansing Accident Claim Lawyer
Personal Injury Litigation Firm Lansing

Personal Injury Litigation Firm Lansing

Their thorough preparation and aggressive advocacy are designed to put you in the strongest possible position, whether at the negotiating table or in the courtroom. They've successfully navigated countless cases, securing significant settlements and verdicts for their clients. If you're more comfortable starting the conversation online, our website offers a simple contact form. 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. Your involvement, whether through volunteering, fundraising, or spreading the word, amplifies their efforts and contributes to broader change.

If the initial offer is too low, which it often is, you're entitled to negotiate for more. Serious injury attorney In one notable instance, they represented a family who lost a loved one due to medical negligence. They'll present an offer that's way below what you deserve, hoping you'll take it out of desperation. You've only got a three-year window from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury.

This document is essential for moving your claim forward. First, they're deeply committed to your case. Navigating the aftermath of a personal injury isn't just about legal battles; it's also about finding emotional support and guidance. It's also about fighting for your rightful compensation, a battle that often pits you against powerful insurance companies.

Your attorney can then take over the communication, ensuring you don't settle for less than you deserve. You're not just a case number to them; you're a person who deserves justice. Understanding the various types of compensation you're entitled to can significantly impact your recovery journey after a workplace injury. Motor vehicle accident claims Let the Clark Law Office be your guide and protector through this challenging time.

Lansing Insurance Dispute Lawyer

From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, they work tirelessly to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected. It's not just about winning a case; it's about restoring your life. 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.

Injury claim filing assistance

  1. Injury compensation lawyer
  2. Injured worker lawyer
  3. Defamation lawyer
  4. Concussion lawyer
  5. Negligence lawyer
  6. Workplace injury attorney
  7. Personal injury attorney near me
  8. Bicycle accident lawyer
  9. Pain and suffering claims
  10. Catastrophic injury attorney
  11. Medical expense lawyer
  12. Serious car accident lawyer
  13. Personal injury claims
  14. Back injury lawyer
  15. Injury compensation lawyer
  16. Injured worker lawyer
  17. Defamation lawyer
  18. Concussion lawyer
  19. Negligence lawyer
This law firm's future in Lansing looks not only promising but also transformative, for both the firm and the community it serves.

It's vital to check whether your workplace is required to have this insurance. Their response times are quick, ensuring you won't be left waiting for the answers you need. Consider the case of Sarah, whose car accident left her facing a mountain of medical bills and a lowball settlement offer.

Insurance companies often use a variety of strategies to minimize the amount they pay out on claims. As we consider the emotional turmoil birth injuries inflict, it's crucial to also recognize the financial strains these events often trigger for families. You're not just hiring a law firm; you're teaming up with a powerhouse that knows exactly how to navigate the murky waters of personal injury claims.

With The Clark Law Office by your side, you're not just a case number-you're a priority. Bus accident attorney Together, we can navigate this challenging time and work towards the justice and recovery you deserve. So, if you're ever in need of expert legal representation for a car accident or injury case, you know who to turn to.



Injury claim filing assistance

  1. Insurance claim disputes
  2. Legal rights for injured individuals
  3. Bus accident attorney
  4. Burn injury attorney
  5. Motorcycle accident lawyer
  6. Neck injury lawyer
  7. Injury compensation lawyer
  8. Injured worker lawyer
  9. Defamation lawyer
  10. Concussion lawyer
  11. Negligence lawyer
  12. Workplace injury attorney
  13. Personal injury attorney near me
  14. Bicycle accident lawyer
  15. Pain and suffering claims
  16. Catastrophic injury attorney
  17. Medical expense lawyer
  18. Serious car accident lawyer
Lansing Insurance Dispute Lawyer
Spinal Cord Injury Attorney Lansing
Spinal Cord Injury Attorney Lansing

Harnessing the latest legal technologies is just one part of our strategy; equally crucial is our commitment to providing you with personalized representation. You'll need to show that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to fix it. Liability claims attorney These pieces of evidence support your claim, demonstrating its validity and the impact the injury has on your life. First, check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 if medical attention is needed. Premises liability attorney After receiving your free evaluation from The Clark Law Office, you'll have a clearer understanding of your case's potential.

They'll evaluate your situation, advise on the best course of action, and represent you throughout the legal process. As you consider your next steps, you'll find that understanding the advantages of their expanded services, the process following an accident, and why their team might be the right choice for your legal support is crucial. Their dedication to achieving the best possible outcome is unwavering, driven by a deep-seated commitment to upholding your rights and dignity. Clark Law Office's track record of pushing for and achieving higher settlements is evidence of their commitment to their clients' well-being.

In wrongful death cases, you may be entitled to significant compensation for the loss of your loved one. You'll find that our approach is rooted in open communication. Essentially, if you're injured at work, you should report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. They understand that you're going through a tough time, and they're there to guide you every step of the way.

Bus accident attorney

  1. Concussion lawyer
  2. Negligence lawyer
  3. Workplace injury attorney
  4. Personal injury attorney near me
  5. Bicycle accident lawyer
  6. Pain and suffering claims
  7. Catastrophic injury attorney
  8. Medical expense lawyer
  9. Serious car accident lawyer
  10. Personal injury claims
  11. Back injury lawyer
  12. Truck accident lawyer
  13. Fall accident lawyer
  14. Premises liability attorney
  15. Liability claims attorney
  16. Serious injury attorney
  17. Insurance claim disputes


As you navigate through the complexities of understanding birth injuries and identifying medical malpractice, you'll uncover the vast emotional and financial strains these incidents place on families. These benefits can cover a range of needs, from medical expenses to a portion of your lost wages if you're unable to work. In Michigan, for example, you typically have three years from the date of death. It's crucial to differentiate between birth injuries that are unavoidable due to natural causes and those that could have been prevented with proper care.

Fatal Crash Wrongful Death Attorney Lansing

With The Clark Law Office by her side, she didn't just accept defeat. For example, if a doctor uses excessive force with forceps or a vacuum, it can lead to severe injuries. Our team is equipped with the knowledge, experience, and resources to tackle even the most challenging cases head-on. When medical professionals don't adhere to the highest standards of care, the consequences can be life-altering for newborns and their families. Explore Local Personal Injury Law Firm Lansing here
One notable case involved a newborn who suffered severe brain damage due to delayed cesarean section. Negotiation is another key aspect of their strategy. They'll help you understand your rights, the statute of limitations for filing a claim, and what to expect throughout the legal proceedings.
This means you can focus on what's most important - your recovery. Learn more about Local Personal Injury Law Firm Lansing here This personalized approach ensures that our strategies aren't only effective but also aligned with your expectations and comfort level.

Legal rights for injured individuals

  1. Premises liability attorney
  2. Liability claims attorney
  3. Serious injury attorney
  4. Insurance claim disputes
  5. Legal rights for injured individuals
  6. Bus accident attorney
  7. Burn injury attorney
  8. Motorcycle accident lawyer
  9. Neck injury lawyer
  10. Injury compensation lawyer
  11. Injured worker lawyer
  12. Defamation lawyer
  13. Concussion lawyer
  14. Negligence lawyer
  15. Workplace injury attorney
  16. Personal injury attorney near me
  17. Bicycle accident lawyer
  18. Pain and suffering claims
One client, Emma, suffered a severe injury from a neighbor's dog.
This compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. We understand that each case carries its unique set of circumstances, emotions, and legal challenges. If you've been hurt in a car crash, you're not alone.

Burn injury attorney

  1. Back injury lawyer
  2. Neck injury lawyer
  3. Injury compensation lawyer
  4. Injured worker lawyer
  5. Defamation lawyer
  6. Concussion lawyer
  7. Negligence lawyer
  8. Workplace injury attorney
  9. Personal injury attorney near me
  10. Bicycle accident lawyer
  11. Pain and suffering claims
  12. Catastrophic injury attorney
  13. Medical expense lawyer
  14. Serious car accident lawyer
  15. Personal injury claims
  16. Back injury lawyer

Fatal Crash Wrongful Death 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.
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