4 Things to Consider Before Hiring an Automobile Accident Injury Lawyer

Jason B. Goldman • January 18, 2021
4 Things to Consider Before Hiring an Automobile Accident Injury Lawyer

According to the National Safety Council, about 38,800 people lost their lives to car crashes in 2019. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, of the 409,925 personal injury claims, 52% were from motor vehicle accidents, establishing them as the leading cause of accidental injuries. 

Hiring an auto accident attorney in Port Charlotte can improve your chances of claiming financial and physical damages caused by another driver’s negligence. Therefore, here we give you a low-down on the four things you need to keep in mind when hiring an automobile accident injury lawyer. 

Free consultations to find the right attorney

Most law firms do not charge a consultation fee for motor collisions. Unless you require immediate legal advice, schedule meetings with four to five Port Charlotte car accident attorneys to find a lawyer that understands your case. You will need to communicate frequently with this attorney, so hire someone who is professional, prompt, and has your best interest in mind. 

Attorney’s experience and background

The attorney assigned to your case should have credible experience in fighting automobile accident cases. In large firms, the consulting attorney will not be the one who would represent you in court. Ask about the lawyer who will represent you in the court to ensure that they are well-versed in personal injury and automobile injury law. 

Fees and payment arrangement

The most expensive lawyer is not necessarily the best. Similarly, a bargain fee does not always end in benefit. Lawyers charge either a flat fee for all services or offer alternative payment methods. Each payment type has its advantages and risks:

Contingency fee : In this arrangement, the lawyer gets a percentage of the compensation you receive for your case. If you lose the case and do not get any payment, the lawyer receives nothing either. 

Flat fee : For simple matters such as writing a will or filing for bankruptcy, lawyers usually charge a flat fee. 

Hourly rate : Hourly rates vary from lawyer to lawyer, and the final cost of legal representation depends on how long it takes to complete your work. An experienced lawyer will charge a higher rate but will get the job done quickly. The hours spent on your case can vary. Therefore, get a rough estimate of the total time your case would take, so you have a fair idea of the total billing amount. 

Retainer : If you hire a lawyer on a retainer basis, they will ask you to make a down payment that will cover various expenses and costs. 

Public legal services : Depending on your financial situation, you might qualify for free or low-cost legal services through legal clinics with accredited law schools. 

Prepaid legal plans : A few firms offer prepaid legal plans for specific services for a monthly fee. 

Duration of the process

Automobile injury cases take time. Depending on your car accident circumstances, it might take months or years before you receive compensation. So prepare accordingly; taking someone to court is a lengthy process.

About Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges

We practice in a wide range of areas, including automobile accidents, uninsured motorist claims, personal injury, wrongful death, civil litigation, real estate, business/corporations, criminal and traffic defense, and mediation. Every lawyer at our firm is AV rated by Martindale-Hubbell. You can call us at 941.625.6666 or email us at info@gtslawfirm.com to know more.

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By Jason B. Goldman February 17, 2025
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By Jason B. Goldman February 17, 2025
When seeking legal representation in Charlotte County, Florida, it’s essential to choose a law firm with a proven track record. One of the most prestigious distinctions an attorney can achieve is the AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell. This rating signifies the highest level of professional recognition, ethical standards, and legal ability. At GTS Law Firm, we take immense pride in our AV-rated attorneys who consistently demonstrate expertise, integrity, and dedication to their clients. What is an AV Rating? Martindale-Hubbell has been evaluating attorneys for more than 130 years, providing an objective measure of their capabilities and reputation. The AV Preeminent Rating is the highest peer rating standard, awarded to lawyers who exhibit superior legal knowledge, analytical capabilities, judgment, communication skills, and ethical standards. This rating is determined through a meticulous peer review process involving other attorneys and members of the judiciary. Why AV Ratings Matter Selecting an attorney with an AV rating ensures that you are working with a highly regarded professional recognized by their peers for outstanding legal ability and ethical conduct. Here’s why AV-rated attorneys stand out: Proven Expertise – AV-rated attorneys have demonstrated their knowledge and skills through years of practice and successful case outcomes. Ethical Standards – Integrity and professionalism are crucial in the legal field. AV-rated lawyers uphold the highest ethical principles. Respected by Peers – These ratings are based on peer reviews, meaning that other attorneys and judges acknowledge the lawyer’s exceptional abilities. Client Confidence – Knowing that your attorney has earned such a prestigious distinction provides peace of mind and confidence in their representation. GTS Law Firm: Your Trusted AV-Rated Legal Team in Charlotte County At GTS Law Firm, our commitment to client advocacy has earned us recognition in the legal community. Our AV-rated attorneys bring a wealth of experience in various practice areas, ensuring that our clients receive top-tier representation tailored to their unique needs. Whether you need assistance with personal injury, business law, estate planning, or litigation, our team is equipped with the expertise and dedication to achieve favorable outcomes. When legal matters arise, you deserve representation from attorneys who have been recognized for their outstanding skills and ethical commitment. The AV rating serves as a benchmark of legal recognition, and at GTS Law Firm, we are proud to uphold this standard for our clients in Charlotte County and beyond. If you are seeking legal counsel from a trusted, AV-rated law firm, contact GTS Law Firm today. Let us put our expertise, integrity, and dedication to work for you. (941) 625-6666
By Jason B. Goldman January 15, 2025
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By Jason B. Goldman January 15, 2025
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