When you are involved in an accident or injured because of someone else’s negligence, hiring the right personal injury lawyer is a crucial step to take. Whether the injury was the result of a car accident, a slip and fall, or any other type of personal injury, you deserve to have the best representation possible. The process of choosing a lawyer can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the pain and stress of an injury. In New York, the decision becomes even more important due to the complexity of the legal system and the number of lawyers available. Making an informed decision is key to getting the compensation you deserve.
To help guide you through this important choice, here are five key things you should keep in mind when looking for a personal injury lawyer. At, Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Consider Their Experience with Personal Injury Cases
One of the first things you should think about when hiring a personal injury lawyer is their experience with cases similar to yours. Personal injury law can be very broad, covering everything from car accidents and workplace injuries to medical malpractice and product defects. Some lawyers may have handled hundreds of cases related to car accidents but may not have much experience in dealing with medical malpractice claims. The more familiar your lawyer is with the specific type of injury and claim you are dealing with, the better they can represent you.
This means it’s important to take a look at their history. Ask if they have dealt with cases like yours and what the outcomes of those cases were. If a lawyer has a successful track record with cases similar to yours, that can give you confidence in their ability to handle your case. While experience is important, you also want to make sure the lawyer has kept up-to-date with any changes in personal injury laws in New York. A lawyer who regularly handles cases like yours will likely be more familiar with current legal trends, which can make a significant difference in how your case is managed.
Evaluate Their Communication Style and Availability
When hiring a personal injury lawyer, communication is key. You want a lawyer who is not only a strong advocate in court but also someone who can clearly explain things to you. Throughout the course of your case, you will have many questions and concerns. A good personal injury lawyer should be easy to reach and willing to communicate regularly to keep you informed about your case’s progress. It’s important that your lawyer is available when you need them and takes the time to explain the legal process in a way you can understand. This will help reduce your stress and give you more confidence in how your case is being handled.
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Benjamin J.
Andrews
Robert
Maranto
Tom
Kotrys
Norton
Lowe
Amanda
Blum
Anthony
Iacono
Robert J.
Maranto, III
Some lawyers can be very busy, and you may end up feeling like you are not getting the attention your case deserves. Before you hire a lawyer, you should ask about their current caseload and how much time they can dedicate to your case. If the lawyer seems too busy or difficult to reach, you may want to consider other options. Having open and regular communication with your lawyer helps ensure you are kept in the loop and makes it easier for you to make informed decisions about your case.
Understand Their Fee Structure
Personal injury lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means that the lawyer only gets paid if you win your case. While this can be a relief to many clients because they do not have to worry about upfront costs, it’s still important to fully understand how the lawyer’s fees work. Different lawyers have different fee structures, so it’s a good idea to discuss the percentage they will take if you win the case. In most cases, personal injury lawyers take a percentage of your settlement or award. However, you should also ask about other costs that may arise during the case, such as court filing fees or costs for expert witnesses.
It’s crucial to get all the financial details in writing before agreeing to hire a lawyer. This will help avoid any surprises down the road and ensure that you are fully aware of what you will be responsible for paying. A trustworthy personal injury lawyer should be upfront about all costs and explain their fee structure clearly, making sure you feel comfortable with the arrangement. Remember that while the fee is important, it should not be the only factor you consider. A lower fee does not necessarily mean better representation, so be sure to weigh this along with the other factors.
The team is very personable, patient and empathetic with their clients. They are upfront with you and will explain the entire process with you, they never lead you to believe otherwise, they tell you like it is and will not sell you a million dollar dream. Trust in Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, they work for you and he looks out for your best interest.” - Jane D.
Consider Their Reputation
The reputation of a personal injury lawyer can tell you a lot about how they may handle your case. A lawyer with a good reputation is likely to have built that reputation through strong advocacy for their clients and positive results. You can learn a lot about a lawyer’s reputation by looking at client reviews, asking for references, or checking their standing with the local bar association. It can be helpful to ask for recommendations from people you trust who may have gone through similar experiences. This can give you insight into how the lawyer works with clients, whether they are easy to communicate with, and if they have a history of getting favorable results for their clients.
You can also look for any awards or recognition the lawyer has received within the legal community. While these accolades don’t guarantee a successful outcome, they can provide some reassurance that the lawyer is well-regarded by their peers and is known for delivering good results. A lawyer with a solid reputation will likely be more committed to providing you with the best possible representation, as they have a reputation to uphold.
Assess Their Resources and Team
Personal injury cases can sometimes require extensive resources to investigate and build a strong case. This can involve hiring medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, or other professionals to support your claim. A law firm with ample resources will be better positioned to handle the demands of your case. It’s important to find out if the lawyer you are considering has the support staff and resources needed to properly handle your case. This may include paralegals, investigators, and access to professionals who can testify on your behalf.
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Having a well-rounded team working on your case can make a significant difference in how efficiently and effectively your case is handled. A lawyer who is supported by a strong team is better able to focus on the key aspects of your case and can devote more time to strategizing on your behalf. Before hiring a lawyer, you should ask about their resources and the people who will be assisting with your case. This will give you a better idea of how prepared the lawyer is to take on your case and how well they can handle any challenges that arise.
Verdicts & Settlements
Choosing the right personal injury lawyer is a critical decision that can greatly impact the outcome of your case. From experience and communication to reputation and resources, there are several factors to keep in mind when making your decision. Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, understands the challenges you face when dealing with a personal injury and is committed to providing you with the dedicated representation you deserve. If you have been injured in New York and are looking for legal representation, contact Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, today to discuss your case. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.