When looking for a Personal Injury Attorney in Sacramento, CA, there are many different qualifications to consider. There are several resources you can use such as the internet or the phone book, to find personal injury lawyers. Be sure to check with friends, family or even lawyers you have used in the past for recommendations on a lawyer who practices in personal injury. There are also referral services that specialize in lawyer recommendations. The local bar association can also be a helpful resource to use in your search. Always make sure that the personal injury attorney in Sacramento, CA you are considering is qualified to represent you in a personal injury case.
Consultations
After you have narrowed down your search, the next step is to set up some consultations with the prospective lawyers. Many lawyers do not charge for the initial consultation but it is wise to ask before you schedule about any costs or fees. Generally a lawyer that charges you for the initial consultation will also require you to pay a retainer fee.
What to Ask
When first meeting a lawyer, you need to be sure to take all documentation involving your case including police reports and medical records. You will also want to take whatever correspondence that you have had with the insurance company that is handling your accident. You should inquire about the lawyer’s educational background and how many personal injury law cases they have handled and won. Also inquire whether the lawyer generally represents victims or insurance companies. The most important thing to consider is how willing is the lawyer to work on the case and if they will respect your request even if they include taking a settlement rather than going to court.
Red Flags
The most obvious red flag will be any lawyer who asks for money upfront. Most lawyers will only get money if you receive a settlement from the insurance company. Also, you should avoid any lawyer that refuses to sign a retainer agreement which states the specifics of the client lawyer financial split. Be sure to take notice of these red flags when searching for a personal injury lawyer.
Careful selection of a personal injury attorney can help ensure you win your case and get the compensation you need for your injuries. Sevey, Donahue & Talcott are aggressive trial attorneys handling all matters of personal injury cases in Sacramento, CA.
