(908)402-4770Personal injury cases can be overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll of your injuries. When you’re navigating these challenges, choosing the right personal injury lawyer in New Jersey becomes crucial. A skilled attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve, guiding you through the legal process with confidence.
But with so many law firms, how do you know which personal injury lawyer is right for you? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to finding the best attorney for your case, and why selecting the right legal representation can make all the difference.
Look for a Lawyer with Specific Experience in Personal Injury Law
Not all lawyers handle personal injury cases. When you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence, you need a lawyer with experience in personal injury law. Personal injury encompasses various cases, including car accidents, slip and fall incidents, workplace injuries, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and more.
When searching for an attorney in New Jersey, ensure that they focus on personal injury law, as these cases require specific legal knowledge. A lawyer who routinely handles personal injury cases should understand the complexities of these claims and have a clear strategy for securing the compensation you need.
Key questions to ask and points to consider:
How many personal injury cases have you handled? Do you handle cases similar to mine, such as car accidents or slips and falls?
A law firm’s website may showcase case results and settlements. Look for examples of significant verdicts and settlements, especially those similar to your situation. It’s important to ask about the firm’s experience with cases that have gone to trial as well. While most personal injury cases are settled out of court, your lawyer should be prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
Consider Client Testimonials and Reviews
Client reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insight into a lawyer’s professionalism, communication, and success. Reading online reviews can help you gauge client satisfaction and learn about others’ experiences with the attorney. While a lawyer’s website may feature positive testimonials, also check independent review sites such as Google Reviews, Avvo, or Yelp.
Pay attention to comments about communication and responsiveness. The legal process can be stressful, and you want a lawyer who will keep you informed and answer your questions throughout your case.
Evaluate Their Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial in any legal case, especially personal injury claims. Your lawyer should keep you informed about the progress of your case, explain legal terms clearly, and ensure you understand the next steps in the process.
When you first meet with a potential lawyer, pay attention to how they communicate. Are they attentive, empathetic, and thorough in explaining your legal options? A skilled attorney will listen to your concerns, ask relevant questions, and clearly outline your case strategy. You want someone who will take the time to understand your case and keep you updated throughout the legal process. You should ask: “How will you keep me informed about my case?” and “How often will we communicate, and what methods will we use (phone, email, in-person meetings)?”
Assess Their Resources and Support Staff
Personal injury cases often require substantial resources to build a strong case, including investigators, medical experts, and accident reconstruction specialists. When considering a law firm, ask whether they have access to these resources and how they plan to use them to support your claim. Larger firms tend to have more resources and staff members, while smaller firms may provide more personalized attention. Be sure to understand how the firm operates and who will handle your case. Will you be working directly with the attorney, or will much of the communication be through paralegals or support staff? Consider asking, “Do you have access to medical experts, investigators, or other specialists to strengthen my case?”, and “Who will be handling my case day-to-day, and who will I communicate with regularly?”
Ask About Fees and Payment Structures
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle your case. This can be beneficial, as it means your lawyer is motivated to secure the best possible outcome for you. Be sure to clarify the percentage of the settlement or award the lawyer will take as their fee. There may also be an upfront retainer.
It’s also important to ask about any additional costs that might arise, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or court costs. Make sure you fully understand the financial arrangement before signing a contract with your attorney. Ask: “What is your contingency fee percentage?”, “Is there a retainer?,” and “Are there any other costs I should be aware of, and how will those be handled?”
Ensure They Have a Deep Understanding of New Jersey Law, Insurance Carriers, and the Court System
Personal injury laws can vary from state to state, so it’s essential to hire a lawyer who is up to date with changes to statutes and regulations, industry standards, and the latest court decisions that could affect your claim. Yoru attorney should also have a keen understanding of how insurance companies operate in New Jersey.
A lawyer familiar with the nuances of New Jersey’s legal system, including the Courts and/or the presiding Judge will be better equipped to handle your case efficiently. This can be advantageous when anticipating how the court will make decisions about your case and negotiating settlements.
Trust Schiller, Pittenger & Galvin, P.C. to Handle Your Personal Injury Case
Choosing the right personal injury lawyer in New Jersey can be the difference between a stressful legal experience and a successful case outcome. The team at Schiller, Pittenger & Galvin, P.C. has years of experience handling personal injury cases, including car accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, wrongful deaths, and more.
With a proven track record of success, extensive resources, and a deep understanding of New Jersey law, Schiller, Pittenger & Galvin, P.C. is committed to providing the personalized legal representation you deserve. We will fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Contact us today for a free consultation at (908)402-4770. Let our experienced personal injury attorneys guide you through this challenging time and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.