How to choose a personal injury lawyer
1. Verify the license
Every state bar (or state supreme court) offers a public lookup of licensed attorneys, often including any public discipline. Confirm the lawyer is licensed in the state where your claim will be filed.
2. Look for relevant experience
Ask how many cases like yours (car crash, truck, slip and fall, medical malpractice) the lawyer has handled, and how many went to trial versus settled.
3. Questions for the free consultation
- Who will actually work on my case day to day?
- What is your fee percentage, and does it change if the case goes to trial?
- Are case costs (filing fees, experts, records) deducted before or after the fee is calculated? Who pays them if we lose?
- What deadlines apply to my case?
- How often will you update me, and how?
4. Get the fee agreement in writing
Many states require contingency fee agreements to be in writing and signed. Read it fully before signing. See contingency fees explained.
Red flags
- Guarantees of a specific result or dollar amount.
- Someone contacting you uninvited right after an accident to sign you up (many states restrict in-person and live phone solicitation of accident victims).
- Pressure to sign on the spot, or vague answers about fees and costs.
- Offers of money or gifts to get you to hire them.
Prefer an independent route? Your state bar's lawyer referral service can recommend screened attorneys.