Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer

Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer

Personal injury lawsuit advice

Selecting the right car accident lawyer can significantly influence the outcome of your case, ensuring you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Next, it's essential to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Your medical records will be a cornerstone of your claim, linking your injuries directly to the accident. From the moment you reach out to us, you're not just a case number; you're part of our legal family. Understanding your case's progress is crucial, and The Clark Law Office ensures you're never left in the dark through their commitment to continuous communication. Law firm for personal injury cases Read more about Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer here
You need a lawyer who's responsive and communicates clearly. Moreover, The Clark Law Office's involvement doesn't stop at one-time events. Lastly, understanding the legal arguments your opposing counsel might present is key.

Legal advocacy for injured clients

  • Accident compensation lawyer
  • Injury compensation lawyer
  • Fall accident lawyer
  • Burn injury attorney
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Injury lawyer for medical bills
  • Injury lawyer for victims
  • Legal services for personal injury victims
  • Legal claims for fall injuries
  • Negligence lawyer
  • Workplace injury attorney
  • Neck injury lawyer
  • Personal injury appeal lawyer
  • Injury lawsuit help
Typically, you'll need to establish four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages.
Lastly, spinal cord injuries could result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly altering your life. They not only help in accurately assessing your injuries and the impact on your life but also in providing expert testimonies that can be crucial in proving fault and securing the compensation you deserve. This evidence helps establish the other party's negligence. Their team is equipped to connect you with medical professionals who understand the nuances of your case, ensuring you receive the care you need without upfront costs.
This insider knowledge gives them a unique edge in negotiating and fighting for your rights. It's important you don't rush into accepting the first offer they present. Learn more about Trusted Okemos Personal Injury Lawyer near 4121 Okemos Rd here. That's where accident reconstruction experts come in.

Injury lawyer for medical bills

  • Legal services for personal injury victims
  • Legal claims for fall injuries
  • Negligence lawyer
  • Workplace injury attorney
  • Neck injury lawyer
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  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Legal representation for accidents
An attorney from a reputable place like The Clark Law Office can advocate on your behalf, ensuring that you're not taken advantage of and that you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Local personal injury lawyer

  1. Accident compensation lawyer
  2. Injury compensation lawyer
  3. Fall accident lawyer
  4. Burn injury attorney
  5. Dog bite injury lawyer
  6. Negligence lawyer
  7. Workplace injury attorney
  8. Neck injury lawyer
  9. Personal injury appeal lawyer
  10. Injury lawsuit help
  11. Premises liability attorney
  12. Recover damages lawyer
  13. Defective product lawyer
  14. Construction accident lawyer
  15. Legal help for accident victims

They don't just represent you in court; they're by your side, offering guidance on how to navigate these turbulent times. Remember, acknowledging and seeking restitution for these non-economic damages is a critical step in your journey towards healing and recovery. You'll also benefit from their established relationships with top medical professionals and accident reconstruction experts.

Bus accident attorney

  • Legal representation for accidents
  • Accident compensation lawyer
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  • Legal advocacy for injured clients
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However, settlements might result in lower compensation than what a trial could potentially offer. It's this blend of professionalism and compassion that's cemented their reputation as the go-to car accident lawyers in and beyond Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer.
They become your advocate, fighting to make sure your rights are protected and your voice is heard. Let's handle the legal burdens, so you can focus on healing. This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any other evidence that supports your claim. Choosing The Clark Law Office means you're getting a partner committed to your cause, equipped to fight tirelessly for your rights with a strategy designed just for you.
Moreover, their track record of successful outcomes speaks volumes.

Personal injury lawsuit advice

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  • Defective product lawyer
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  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Legal representation for accidents
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You're not just getting a lawyer; you're gaining allies who understand the intricacies of car accident laws in Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer and beyond. They don't just aim to win; they aim to secure the compensation you rightfully deserve, making them a reliable choice in your time of need. Remember, insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, so it's essential to understand the true value of your claim before agreeing to any settlement. Learn more about Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer here
Yet, the question remains: how have they sustained this level of excellence and client satisfaction over such an extended period, and more intriguingly, what does the future hold for them and those they represent? They've set up scholarships for local students aspiring to enter the legal field, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing the next generation of legal professionals.

Burn injury attorney

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Selecting an Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer lawyer for your car accident case can significantly influence the outcome, ensuring you have expert representation familiar with local laws and courts. This isn't just about knowing the letter of the law; it's about understanding how it's applied in real life.

Car Accident Attorney Okemos

Entity Name Description Source
Okemos, Michigan Okemos is a census-designated place in Michigan, known for its educational institutions and suburban lifestyle. Source
Personal injury Personal injury refers to harm caused to a person’s body, mind, or emotions due to someone else's negligence or wrongdoing. Source
Insurance Insurance is a contractual arrangement for financial protection against potential future losses or damages. Source
Negligence Negligence is the failure to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm or injury to others. Source
Personal injury lawyer A personal injury lawyer specializes in representing individuals who have been harmed due to negligence or wrongful acts. Source
Attorney at law An attorney at law is a legal professional authorized to practice law and represent clients in legal matters. Source
Police misconduct Police misconduct involves inappropriate actions taken by police officers, such as abuse of authority, corruption, or violation of rights. Source
Wrongful death claim A wrongful death claim is a legal action brought when someone's negligence or misconduct causes another person's death. Source
Traumatic brain injury A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious injury to the brain caused by a sudden impact, leading to temporary or permanent impairment. Source

Okemos Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Okemos contains its own post offices with the 48805 and 48864 ZIP Codes, as well as its own school district, Okemos Public Schools, that also serves portions of the surrounding area.

Okemos Slip And Fall Lawyer

Nearby Historic Landmarks

Downtown Charleston Historic District

Business center, Historical landmark
Downtown Charleston Historic District, Quarrier St, Charleston, WV 25301

Angel Mounds State Historic Site

Historical landmark, Hiking area, Museum, Tourist attraction
Angel Mounds State Historic Site, 8215 Pollack Ave, Evansville, IN 47715
Native American town abandoned in 1400s offering history camps, lectures, festivals & hiking trails.

Keweenaw National Historical Park

Historical place, Government office, National museum, Tourist attraction
Keweenaw National Historical Park, 25970 Red Jacket Rd, Calumet, MI 49913
Heritage park in a former copper mining area, with museums, historic buildings & underground tours.

Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument

Historical landmark
Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument, 9020 W Hwy 80, Nancy, KY 42544


Citations and other links

Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer Personal Injury Attorney

Their commitment to personalized case handling extends beyond the courtroom. After gathering all necessary information, contact your insurance company to report the accident. When you're injured, navigating the legal system alone can be overwhelming. This can also include compensation for any loss of enjoyment of life if your injuries prevent you from engaging in hobbies or activities you once loved.

Not seeing a doctor immediately can't only harm your health but also give the impression your injuries aren't serious, reducing your claim's credibility. When your case goes to trial, you'll want The Clark Law Office's seasoned team with their extensive trial experience in your corner. After filing, the discovery phase begins.

They know that after a car accident, you're dealing with enough stress without having to worry about whether your lawyer is paying attention to your case. To get you the compensation you deserve, without you having to worry about the legal jargon and procedures. Whether it's through providing scholarships to local students or supporting small businesses, they're always there to lend a helping hand.

Your attorney at The Clark Law Office can guide you through this process, helping to ensure your story is heard and understood. You might think it's all about tough talk, but it's more nuanced. Personal injury lawsuit advice After learning about the free consultation offer, you might wonder how to get in touch with The Clark Law Office to start your journey toward legal resolution.

Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer Personal Injury Attorney
Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer

Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer

Building on their reputation, The Clark Law Office distinguishes itself through its exceptional legal expertise in handling car accident cases. Don't overlook the emotional and physical pain you've experienced, which is harder to quantify but equally important. They might seem friendly, but their primary goal is to protect their company's bottom line, not your well-being. Here, personalized attention isn't just a promise-it's the foundation of everything they do.

We fought tirelessly, resulting in a settlement that covered their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Firstly, their experience in handling car accident cases in Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer is unmatched. First off, you'll need to tally up your medical expenses. Personal injury damage recovery

Take photos of the accident scene, the vehicles, any visible injuries, and road conditions. Lastly, consider their fees. Most states have a statute of limitations, meaning you've got a limited window to file your claim.

This process isn't just about adding up medical bills. They're prepared to go the extra mile, whether it means reconstructing the accident scene or bringing in expert witnesses. While The Clark Law Office is rooted in Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer, their expertise and legal services extend far beyond its borders, offering unparalleled support to accident victims throughout the state.

Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer Spinal Cord Damage Lawyer

However, if another driver's negligence directly led to your injuries, you might also have the right to pursue a claim against them for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. You're not just hiring a lawyer; you're gaining a team that's as invested in your case as you are. Let's add your story to our growing list of successes, proving that with the right team, you can recover and move forward. Whether you prefer phone calls, emails, or face-to-face meetings, they adapt to your communication style. This ensures you're always in the loop and understand what's happening.

Beyond their legal victories, they've demonstrated a commitment to making Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer a better place. Imagine getting into a car accident and feeling overwhelmed by medical bills, insurance claims, and the possibility of a long recovery.

Injury lawyer for victims

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  • Recover damages lawyer
  • Defective product lawyer
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While the Clark Law Office is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services, it's also earned significant recognition for its positive impact on the community. For those who prefer a more personal approach, visiting their office in Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer might be the best option.

They've dedicated years to mastering the intricacies of Michigan's legal landscape, particularly around car accidents. Following these steps can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages. But here's where they really stand out: they're prepared to go to trial. That's where The Clark Law Office steps in, offering unparalleled expertise and support to those affected by car accidents in the Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer area. Liability claims attorney

You've likely encountered numerous law firms boasting about their services, but this report singles out The Clark Law Office for a reason that goes beyond mere accolades. In essence, their legal expertise isn't just about defending your rights; it's about advocating for your future, ensuring the aftermath of a car accident doesn't leave you stranded. This team isn't just a group of attorneys; they're a collection of seasoned professionals who've spent years honing their skills in the realm of accident and car law. Legal services for personal injury victims Securing a skilled Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer lawyer can significantly enhance your chances of receiving the full compensation you're entitled to after a car accident.

Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer Spinal Cord Damage Lawyer
Affordable Personal Injury Attorney Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer
Affordable Personal Injury Attorney Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer

It's a common tactic for insurance companies to start low, hoping you'll take the quick payout. It's this level of dedication and personal attention that can make all the difference in your case's outcome. Investing in their expertise isn't just smart-it's vital for your peace of mind and financial recovery.

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It's a journey that requires patience, understanding, and often, professional help.

Once you decide to move forward with us, we'll dive deep into gathering evidence. You've likely seen their team volunteering at local events or sponsoring youth sports teams. While The Clark Law Office ensures you're treated with empathy and understanding, they also adopt an aggressive stance in the courtroom to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

First off, you'll need to gather evidence. They've not just been practicing law; they've been perfecting it, ensuring that when you turn to them in your time of need, you're met with a level of service that's second to none. They're not just lawyers; they're seasoned veterans who've seen it all, from straightforward fender-benders to complex, multi-vehicle pile-ups.

This level of service, coupled with the firm's legal expertise, has led to numerous positive reviews and high client satisfaction rates. Moreover, they're responsive. You also have the right to reject a settlement offer from an insurance company if it doesn't fully cover your losses.

Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer Construction Accident Lawyer

This is a firm with seasoned professionals who bring years of hands-on experience to the table, not to mention a profound understanding of car accident law that's hard to match. Injury lawyer for victims Exchange names, contact information, and insurance details with the other driver. You're not just looking for someone who knows their way around the law books; you're searching for a proven track record of handling complex car accident cases successfully. Injury lawyer for medical bills It's crucial to start by looking for a lawyer with extensive experience in car accident cases. They not only highlight the team's legal acumen but also underscore their commitment to treating each case with the attention and respect it deserves.
Communication is key. It's the first step in determining the strength of your claim and the potential compensation you might receive. Insurance dispute lawyer Don't overlook the importance of fault in your case. However, with the right guidance, you can piece together a strategy that not only addresses your immediate concerns but also safeguards your future interests.
Whichever method you choose, reaching out is the key to moving forward with your claim. Now, document everything. At the heart of their success is a group of seasoned attorneys, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. From eyewitness testimonies to medical records and expert opinions, they know how to weave these elements into a compelling narrative that underlines the severity of your situation and the justice you deserve.
From negotiating with insurance companies to fighting for clients in court, they've consistently demonstrated a capacity to exceed expectations. From sponsoring youth sports teams to participating in charity events, they're committed to giving back to the community that supports them. For three decades, the dedicated defenders at The Clark Law Office have honed their expertise as premier accident car lawyers in Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer, offering a beacon of hope to those beleaguered by the aftermath of vehicular accidents. What sets this team apart is their approach to client relationships.

Explore Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer here
Okemos Construction Accident Lawyer Construction Accident Lawyer

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.
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Frequently Asked Questions

You'll find that The Clark Law Office meticulously analyzes complex, multi-vehicle accidents to accurately determine liability, employing expert witnesses and state-of-the-art technology to ensure every angle is considered for a solid case.

Yes, they can help you find medical care or rehabilitation services even if you don't have health insurance or enough coverage. They're skilled at navigating these challenges to ensure you receive the care you need.

If the other driver was uninsured or underinsured, you might still have options. Your own insurance policy could cover your damages under uninsured motorist protection. It's also possible to explore legal avenues for compensation.