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    FEATURED STORY

    What to Know Before Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

    by Celeste & Selina Padilla


    When considering legal representation for a personal injury case, it is essential to evaluate several factors to ensure that the attorney you choose is well-suited to handle your specific situation.
    An attorney's experience in personal injury law is a critical consideration. Inquire about the number of years they have practiced in this field and the types of cases they have handled. For instance, if your case involves a motor vehicle accident, it is beneficial to work with a lawyer who has a track record of handling similar cases. Their

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    Celeste & Selina Padilla

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Celeste Padilla has practiced law since 2013, following her graduation from the University of Texas–Pan American and Florida Coastal School of Law. She joined the firm in 2012. Selina Padilla became a licensed attorney in 2018 after earning her degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law, having completed her undergraduate studies at UTSA. She has been with the firm since December 2018.

    familiarity with the nuances of such cases can significantly impact the outcome.

    Understanding how your case will be managed is equally important. Ask whether the attorney you are consulting will personally handle your case or delegate it to another member of their firm. Additionally, discuss their communication practices. Regular updates and accessibility are vital for maintaining transparency and trust throughout the legal process.

    Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your

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    What to Know Before Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

    When considering legal representation for a personal injury case, it is essential to evaluate several factors to ensure that the attorney you choose is well-suited to handle your specific situation.
    An attorney's experience in personal injury law is a critical consideration. Inquire about the number of years they have practiced in this field and the types of cases they have handled. For instance, if your case involves a motor vehicle accident, it is beneficial to work with a lawyer who has a track record of handling similar cases. Their familiarity with the nuances of such cases can significantly impact the outcome.

    Understanding how your case will be managed is equally important. Ask whether the attorney you are consulting will personally handle your case or delegate it to another member of their firm. Additionally, discuss their communication practices. Regular updates and accessibility are vital for maintaining transparency and trust throughout the legal process.

    Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. However, it is essential to clarify the percentage they will take from your settlement and whether there are any additional costs you might be responsible for, such as court fees or expenses for expert witnesses. Obtaining a detailed explanation of all potential costs can prevent unexpected financial obligations later on.

    Inquire about the attorney's success rate in personal injury cases and request references from past clients. This information can provide insight into their ability to effectively represent clients and achieve favorable outcomes. Additionally, reviewing testimonials or case studies can help you assess their competence and reliability.

    An attorney's familiarity with local laws, courts, and procedures can be advantageous. Their understanding of the local legal landscape, including judges and opposing counsel, can inform their strategy and potentially expedite the resolution of your case. Moreover, if your case goes to trial, having a lawyer with courtroom experience is crucial.

    Thoroughly vetting a personal injury lawyer's experience, communication practices, and fee structure is essential to ensure effective representation and a favorable outcome.

    Thoroughly vetting a personal injury lawyer's experience, communication practices, and fee structure is essential to ensure effective representation and a favorable outcome.

    case. However, it is essential to clarify the percentage they will take from your settlement and whether there are any additional costs you might be responsible for, such as court fees or expenses for expert witnesses. Obtaining a detailed explanation of all potential costs can prevent unexpected financial obligations later on.

    Inquire about the attorney's success rate in personal injury cases and request references from past clients. This information can provide insight into...