The job of a personal injury attorney varies based on the case. They may conduct research, gather evidence, and hire expert witnesses. Depending on the case, they may even conduct on-site investigations. They may also hire independent investigators to document the accident site, especially if there is evidence that suggests an adverse condition. Moreover, they may even send someone to the site to take pictures of the evidence that is left behind. These images can be crucial evidence for your case.
A basic Google search will yield numerous results; do not be fooled by the free listings as they may not reflect the actual skills of the attorneys. Also, seek recommendations from people who have used personal injury attorneys and learned more about their experience with them. However, each case is different, so you should choose an attorney based on your own unique needs. Fortunately, there are ways to make your search more efficient. Justia’s Lawyer Directory will help you find a qualified attorney and make the process easier.
Before hiring a personal injury attorney, ensure that the lawyer you choose has a proven track record of success. Attorneys must have experience litigating cases to get the compensation that you deserve. Although most cases settle before trial, a few cases do go to a jury verdict. If the case goes to trial, make sure the attorney has successfully represented other clients in similar situations. It also helps if the personal injury attorney has board certifications or membership in professional organizations.
You may be able to recover compensation based on the damages you suffered in a car accident. In such cases, the insurance company may have offered you a settlement, but you must decide whether it is fair. Ask your lawyer whether the settlement is fair, as many personal injury cases are decided by the merits of the case. However, if you feel that it is too small, you may be better off taking your chances with a court case.
You can also receive compensation for emotional distress caused by your accident. While injuries to the body are the most obvious manifestations, emotional distress often goes far beyond the physical. This includes psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. If you can prove that the physical pain caused your emotional distress, you can file a claim for compensation. If you do so, you’ll need extensive medical records, as well as a diagnosis of a specific psychiatric condition.
In addition to practicing the law, personal injury attorneys must undergo continuing education courses. Continuing education courses are designed to keep their knowledge current. Continuing education hours vary from state to state, so the requirements of your state will depend on the area of law you practice. It’s worth remembering that a lawyer has an ethical obligation to protect the best interests of their clients. Personal injury lawyers should follow these rules of conduct. You should always hire a personal injury attorney who has the credentials and experience needed to fight for your case.
