Whether you are hurt in a car crash or have suffered because of a defective product in Everett, you should examine if there is a chance to seek financial compensation. Knowing the personal injury laws in Washington is just not enough. You have to think beyond the obvious and find ways to maximize the settlement. For someone who has little to no experience, you should trust an Everett personal injury attorney to fight for you. If hiring an attorney for the first time, avoid these hiring blunders.
#1 – Paying a consultation fee
It would help if you didn't have to pay to get a quick review of your case. Most injury attorneys offer free consultations, and you can meet a lawyer and ask questions about the claim. This is also a great way of knowing their attitude and if you like their credentials and approach.
#2 – Not asking about experience
You should always ask whether an attorney has enough experience to deal with your case. Someone may be an expert with medical malpractice lawsuits but lacks the proficiency to deal with product defect-related injuries. When you go for the consultation, be prepared and ensure you don't miss out on critical details.
#3 – Not discussing the fee
Many claimants are happy that an injury attorney is ready to work on contingency. While that's a norm, you should always discuss the fee with your lawyer. That shouldn't ideally be more than 50%, while 33% is often common for typical injury claims.
#4 – Agreeing to choose someone without ethics
When an injury attorney tells you they want to inflate your losses and seek a higher settlement, you know they are not correct and lack basic professional ethics. The other party and their legal team are no fools to miss out on such tactics.
#5 – Not discussing trial possibilities
While not all claims end up in court, some do. If you are concerned about whether your injury lawsuit will require a trial, it is best to choose a lawyer who has experience. Find out if they have been to courts and what the outcomes of those cases were.
A good lawyer with a great success rate and unmatched communication skills is your best bet for getting fair compensation. They should be your guide and mentor as you recover from your injuries and deal with the circumstances, and more importantly, they will reduce your burden and stress.
