Hiring mistakes when hiring a personal injury lawyer in Huntington Beach

Last Updated on May 12, 2022 by Aaron Thompson

If you have suffered injuries in an accident in Huntington Beach that wasn’t your fault, you should consider consulting an attorney to know if you have a valid injury claim. A personal injury lawsuit could involve different incidents, such as medical malpractice, car accident, slip & fall accident, dog bites, and nursing home abuse. Hiring an attorney can help you get a fair settlement. Below are some common mistakes you must avoid when hiring a Huntington Beach personal injury lawyer.

Mistake 1 – Hiring any random lawyer

A lawyer who helped draft a lease agreement is the best person to guide you on an auto accident claim. You need someone who specializes in personal injury law and has worked on cases of similar nature. Keep in mind that you would be fighting the other side and must prove their fault, and the expertise and experience of your lawyer are extremely important in such circumstances.

Mistake 2 – Not asking for a personal meeting

All law firms in Huntington Beach offer a free consultation for potential clients. A junior from the lawyer’s office may listen to your case on the phone, but don’t make your decision unless you have met the lawyer in person. You need to know about the worth of your personal injury claim and the legal options you can consider.

Mistake 3 – Paying the lawyer immediately

You don’t need to pay a personal injury lawyer right away. Unlike family and criminal attorneys who charge an hourly rate, lawyers practicing personal injury lawyers charge a contingency fee. The lawyer gets paid when you win, and their fee is a share of the settlement, usually one-third of the final compensation. Don’t hire a lawyer who wants an advance.

Mistake 4 – Hiring a lawyer with no trial experience

Most personal injury cases in California don’t go to court, but there are exceptions too. If you hire an attorney with no courtroom experience, you are already taking a risk. Make sure that the lawyer is capable of handling the curveballs and can go to trial and represent you if needed.

Finally, don’t hire a lawyer who promises a lot. While a good lawyer can talk about certain possibilities, they cannot promise an exact outcome. A lawyer who wants to inflate your personal injury claim or wants to use false evidence is not worth considering either. Check on Google to find top-rated law firms in your city.