When you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident or have suffered a loss of transportation due to an accident stemming from another driver’s negligence, the last thing you want to worry about is if the lawyer you choose to represent you has the necessary expertise.
Although it can be overwhelming to choose a lawyer, many offer free or low-cost consultations that allow you to get more information on how your case may be handled and what kind of experience they would bring. Here are the qualities to look for in a consultation with a car accident lawyer in Texas to help you find the best attorney to represent your case.
1. Experience
Every state has its specific laws surrounding car accidents, especially concerning determining fault. So you’ll need to find a lawyer who’s not only registered and credentialed in Texas but has a detailed understanding of car accident law.
They’ll also need to be experienced in handling personal injury cases that go to trial and those that are settled out of court. They should have standout mediation skills, as settling out of court requires a lawyer who’s savvy and willing to compromise. A good lawyer should have an understanding of how to balance the possibility of escalating a case with the expenses and length of time that going to court might incur.
2. Empathy
Judging their empathy and compassion on your initial call with them is an extremely important step in choosing a lawyer. A lawyer should understand the stressful situation you’re going through and empathize with any injuries you may have or financial issues you may be facing because of the accident.
While there’s a benefit to them if they win your case, their primary concern should be listening to your side of the story and your concerns, along with any other information that might be relevant. Because you or a loved one has had a traumatic experience, your lawyer should be able to display compassion while maintaining professionalism and speaking candidly about your case.
3. Communication and Transparency
One of the main things you’ll need to look for in a lawyer is a dedication to communication and transparency. Many people aren’t familiar with the laws regarding car accidents in Texas, or any of the laws that apply to their specific county or city. So lawyers are in a unique position to educate those who may be looking for this information.
A lawyer should speak in terms that you understand and be willing to explain legal concepts so you can make an informed decision on whether or not to hire them. You’ll also want to judge if they’re honest about their fees and pay structure, as well as how they plan on handling your case and what options are most likely in your situation.
A lawyer who attempts to keep you in the dark about your options or their opinion on the outcome of your case isn’t someone you want representing you. This suggests that they’re more likely to take advantage of you, as you’re in a vulnerable situation where you may not have other options for lawyers or you feel as if you don’t.
In addition to this, the lawyer or someone working in their office should be willing and able to send you updates and ask for additional information within a reasonable timeframe. You shouldn’t have to worry about whether or not the office needs more information from you to complete their investigation or if they’ll update you on what steps they recommend taking after they evaluate your case.
4. Commitment to Further Education
Law isn’t a static industry. Instead, it’s constantly evolving with the times and new ways of thinking about how the legal system should operate.
This includes the personal injury and accident laws in Texas too. Because of this, any reputable lawyer should make an effort to stay up-to-date with all of the relevant statutes and regulations regarding their practice.
5. Research Skills
Although the police report is an important part of the case, that’s not the entire picture. A good car accident lawyer will review any medical records, speak to witnesses, and gather other relevant evidence to build out a comprehensive case on your behalf.
This is especially important for more complicated cases where the party who’s more at fault isn’t as obvious, or where all parties may share the fault to varying degrees. Your lawyer should be able to look over all of the details and determine the best course of action moving forward.
Know How to Seek Qualified Legal Representation
If you’re in a situation where you need to hire an attorney, you’ll want to do your research to find the best fit for you. There are a few signals and personality traits that point to an attorney being the proper fit, such as their experience, research skills, and empathy. Knowing how to judge the quality of a lawyer for your personal injury case can put you on the path to receiving the amount of compensation you deserve.
