Thursday, November 25, 2010

How to Choose an Automobile Accident Attorney?

Accidents can be traumatic. It causes immense despair and grief to the family and friends along with the accident victim. We all know many such families where accidents have gravely injured or taken lives of loved ones. Often such losses are irreparable. However, one can take steps to fight for justice. It is prudent to know how you to choose an automobile accident attorney, one that will fight for your legal rights. Whether you are a resident of Pearland, Houston, Texas City, Baytown or anywhere in the greater Houston area, this article has been written to assist you find a good lawyer for automobile accidents. As you read further, you will comprehend that there are some fine details you have to keep in mind when looking for a reputable automobile accident lawyer:

Check references:

You will always find friends or family members who have experienced a similar situation like yours. Such people offer immediate help by giving you names of lawyers that they have spoken and possibly worked with. Consult the list of automobile accident lawyers given by your friends or family and try to meet with each one individually. Make a decision after your meetings by deciding with the attorney you are most comfortable with.

Online search:

When you do not get personal references for automobile accident lawyer, simply make an online search. You will find a list of lawyers who work on accident cases in your city. Make a list of lawyers with the maximum work experience, success rate and credibility of the firm they work for. Take down their numbers, leave online messages and get in touch with the lawyer as soon as possible. Make an appointment and meet each attorney in person.

Look into details:

There are certain things you should know about a lawyer. Take a look at his qualifications and ask the number of years he has been in practice. Provide the lawyer with all of your case details. Listening to him will give you a brief idea about his working process. The lawyer should be like a guiding force. A good lawyer is a person who is willing to fight for your case with all his might and heart. Even if you are planning to settle the automobile accident case outside of court, you should select a lawyer with a strong success record. Check for the prospective lawyer’s membership in their state’s trail lawyers association or the American association of justice.

Fees:

Automobile accident lawyers generally charge contingency fees. This means the lawyer is only compensated when he/she recover a settlement from the insurance company or win at trial. It is typically one-third of the settlement amount received. Avoid lawyers who want up-front payment since this usually means you would have to pay the lawyer even if you lose the case. Lawyers who take contingency fees make sure that you win your case or settle it amicably outside of court. It is always recommended to ask the lawyer about his compensation for the work. Never assume rates and fees.

The above mentioned points are a practical approach to find a promising automobile accident lawyer. If you feel it necessary, you can check with the State Bar on the lawyer’s background. Most often the compensation received is directly proportional to the excellence of the lawyer that you opt for.

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