Five Qualities to Look For When Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’re involved in an accident, your life can change in the blink of an eye. Should you be in the wrong place at the wrong time, you’re going to need a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer to get you the compensation you deserve. You shouldn’t suffer as a result of a third-party’s negligence. With so many lawyers to choose from, the process of choosing the correct one can be challenging. Considering that you’ve been through a traumatic experience, the last thing you want to do is deal with more stress. Thankfully, you don’t have to if you understand the best qualities to search for in a personal injury attorney in Las Vegas. Below, we will provide you with some things to consider.

1. They have a solid reputation

There are many factors to consider, but the reputation of the law firm is at the very top. The best lawyers in Las Vegas are revered and respected by their peers. Why is this an essential quality? It’s because they have no reason to lie - there is zero vested interest. Sometimes, an hourly rate, whether low or high, may disguise glaring flaws. The same applies to reviews on the firm’s website as there’s no telling which ones they’ve omitted to paint themselves in a better light. Law firms, on the other hand, see through smoke and mirrors. As a result, they know when a competitor is lying or bending the truth. This, in conjunction with customer satisfaction, is an excellent first sign.

2. They are motivated by more than money

Money can be a decent motivator, but it can lead to bad decisions. For instance, once there is no fee for a lawyer, they may decide to stop working as hard. This happens a lot as Las Vegas attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. The best law offices in Las Vegas keep the interests of their client’s in mind at all times. Usually, this is because they hate injustice, yet it could be that they have an undying will to win, too. You need to see a fire in them.

3. They have local knowledge

Knowledge of the personal injury sector is a must. Just because a lawyer has passed the bar doesn’t mean their expertise lies in every area of law. Therefore, you should look for a referral from a law firm that understands the ins and outs of the specific legislation. On top of this, you also need an attorney with local contacts. From judges to clerks, it helps to know who will be overlooking the case to prepare a better case. Plus, a lawyer who has extensive experience in the courts will understand the intricacies of the system to your benefit. Nevada’s bar exam may make an attorney eligible to practice law in the state, yet it doesn’t mean they are the best choice for you.

4. Experience in & out of the courtroom

Personal injury claims are usually settled out of court. So, this means that an attorney who can negotiate with opposing lawyers and insurance companies is vital. The latter is especially important as insurers play hardball. Having experience and knowledge in correctly valuing cases is critical to make sure you settle for a fair value. Of course, courtroom skills are crucial, too. A lot of lawyers have never been in a courtroom, and that puts you at a severe disadvantage. Having a lawyer willing to file a lawsuit will help you to possibly settle your claim for a higher amount of money. If you have to go to trial, an experienced trial attorney is a must.

5. Find a good collaborator

Finally, remember that you and your lawyer are a team. While your attorney is the expert in handling legal matters, they shouldn’t make decisions without your input. This includes explaining technical legal terms and practices in plain English and asking how you would prefer to proceed. Cases may take many months or even years to settle. It is important that you feel comfortable with your attorney as you will be working closely together during this time.

Summary

It’s imperative that you choose the right law firm for your needs, and these five qualities will help you make an informed decision. At Edward M. Bernstein & Associates, we are passionate about assisting our clients in Las Vegas. So, please get in touch with us today for your free consultation by calling 702-240-0000.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ed Bernstein

Edward M. Bernstein, Esq. is the owner and founding partner of Edward M. Bernstein & Associates, and one of the most recognizable figures in Nevada. Ed is one of state’s premier personal injury attorneys and has hosted The Ed Bernstein Show for over 31 years. He has served the Las Vegas community for decades with dozens of community appointments and terms of service. In the year 2000, he was Nevada’s Democratic nominee for the United States Senate.

Ed received his B.A. from Long Island University in 1971 and his J.D. from Widener University in 1975. Since then, Ed’s professional accolades include numerous publications, honors and awards, court appointments, and has been named one of America’s Top 100 High Stakes Litigators.