Why You Need a Lawyer With Experience and Expertise

It’s likely that when you’re searching for a new doctor, a hair stylist, a mechanic or a vet, you put a fair amount of research into the process. You check reviews, “best of” lists and ask friends and family for their recommendations. But all too often, people choose a lawyer by calling up the number they remember from the billboard or bus ad. It’s not surprising—after you’ve been injured in an accident, your to-do list can seem endless just at the moment when you most need to rest and recover.

But it’s worth taking the time to find an experienced lawyer who best fits your needs. Remember, your lawyer works for you, so it’s important to choose someone who delivers expertise, a thorough understanding of your case type and plenty of experience with the process.

What should I look for when hiring a lawyer?

There are plenty of lawyers out there, but how do you find one who can help you win your case or get the best settlement possible? Start by taking the approach suggested above—the same one you’d probably take for any other professional service provider. Look up top-rated attorneys. Check community recommendations. Ask your family members, friends and coworkers. At Buzzell, Welsh & Hill, referrals are key to our business.

Once you have a few options, ask the right questions. You’ll want to ask:

• How long have you been in practice? A newer lawyer with less experience may charge the same way as an experienced attorney who’s been in the business for years. It’s important to have a good understanding of how many cases your prospective attorney has tried.

• Can this case be settled out of court? When you’re going up against an insurance company after a car crash, the best way to reach a good settlement is to have a lawyer with proven experience on your side. Insurance companies are simply more likely to back down early if they know they have to face an expert attorney in court. What your attorney’s settlement record?

• What percentage of your caseload is focused on personal injury or workers’ compensation? Some lawyers set up shop as jacks-of-all-trades, practicing several areas of law in order to reach the most clients. Unfortunately, personal injury and workers’ comp cases are complex enough on their own that an attorney could spend a career learning the ins and outs of each area. Look for someone who has a focus—and a proven settlement record to back it up.

• How many cases have you worked similar to mine? After you’re sure your lawyer is already a specialist, ask about subject-specific lawyer experience. For example, if you’re suffering from a spinal injury after a crash or on-the-job accident, ask if the attorney has worked these cases in the past. A strong candidate should understand not only the legal implications of your case, but the medical side as well.

If you need to speak with a personal injury attorney or workers’ compensation lawyer because you’ve been injured in a wreck or on the job, we’re here to help. The Macon lawyers at Buzzell, Welsh & Hill understand these types of cases. Contact us for a free consultation today.