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What are the common mistakes to avoid when hiring an accident attorney
A comprehensive article on the frequently asked question: What are the common mistakes to avoid when hiring an accident attorney? Hiring the right personal injury lawyer can make or break your case. Unfortunately, many people make costly mistakes when selecting an attorney, often due to misleading advertisements or misconceptions about the legal process. At John Michael Bailey Injury Lawyers in Memphis, we want to ensure you make an informed decision when choosing the right legal representation.
6 Mistakes to avoid when hiring an accident lawyer
Mistake #1: Hiring an Inexperienced or General Practice Lawyer
Not all lawyers specialize in personal injury law. Some lawyers handle a wide variety of cases but lack in-depth knowledge and experience in accident claims.
Why this is a problem: Personal injury law is complex, and insurance companies have aggressive legal teams ready to minimize your settlement. You need a lawyer who focuses exclusively on personal injury cases and understands the nuances of these claims.
What to do instead: Look for a lawyer with a proven track record in personal injury law, particularly with cases similar to yours.
Mistake #2: Choosing a Lawyer Who Avoids Trial
Insurance companies keep records on attorneys. They know which lawyers settle quickly and which are willing to go to court. Lawyers who rarely take cases to trial often settle for lower amounts because insurers know they won’t fight for maximum compensation.
Why this is a problem: If your attorney has a reputation for settling cases quickly, insurance companies may offer you less money, knowing the lawyer won’t push for a fair settlement.
What to do instead: Ask potential attorneys about their trial experience and their willingness to take cases to court if necessary.
Mistake #3: Paying Upfront Fees
Reputable personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. If an attorney asks for money upfront, this is a red flag.
Why this is a problem: An injury claim can take months or even years to resolve. Paying upfront could add unnecessary financial stress during an already difficult time.
What to do instead: Choose a lawyer who works on contingency, so you pay nothing unless they win your case.
Mistake #4: Hiring a Lawyer Without Sufficient Resources
A strong personal injury case requires thorough investigation, expert witnesses, and medical evaluations—all of which require financial investment. Some attorneys lack the resources to build a strong case and may pressure you to accept a lower settlement.
Why this is a problem: If your attorney doesn’t have the financial backing to fight your case properly, they may cut corners or fail to gather critical evidence.
What to do instead: Choose a law firm with the resources to handle your case from start to finish, including medical consultations, accident reconstruction, and expert testimony.
Mistake #5: Hiring a Lawyer Who Doesn’t Prioritize Your Needs
After an accident, you need more than just legal representation—you need support and communication from your attorney. Some lawyers fail to keep clients informed, making an already stressful situation worse.
Why this is a problem: Poor communication can leave you feeling lost and unsure about the status of your case. It may also lead to missed deadlines or incomplete paperwork.
What to do instead: Look for an attorney who is responsive, takes time to answer your questions, and keeps you updated throughout the legal process.
Mistake #6: Falling for “Discount” Lawyers
While some lawyers advertise lower contingency fees, a cheaper lawyer is not always the best choice. Personal injury cases often involve complex negotiations, and discount attorneys may lack the experience or motivation to maximize your settlement.
Why this is a problem: The old saying “you get what you pay for” often applies to legal services. A lawyer offering a deeply discounted fee may cut corners or settle cases quickly to turn over more clients.
What to do instead: Choose a lawyer based on experience, reputation, and results rather than cost alone.
Why Choose John Michael Bailey Injury Lawyers?
At John Michael Bailey Injury Lawyers Memphis, we have decades of experience handling personal injury cases in Memphis. Our team is committed to fighting for maximum compensation while providing personalized support to every client. We take cases to trial when necessary, work on a contingency fee basis, and have the resources to build a strong case on your behalf.
If you’ve been injured, don’t make these common mistakes. Call us today for a free consultation: 901-529-1111. Our team is available 24/7.
Or visit our offices in Memphis: 5978 Knight Arnold Rd #400 Memphis, TN 38115.
