Wrongful Death Attorney In Lansing MI

Wrongful Death Attorney In Lansing MI

Injury lawyers near me

You'll find them tirelessly gathering witness statements, surveillance footage, and expert testimonies to build a compelling case on your behalf. Learn more about The Clark Law Office here. Laws known as statutes of limitations set strict deadlines for filing claims. Read more about Wrongful Death Attorney In Lansing MI here Another success story involves a newborn who sustained nerve damage during delivery, leading to permanent arm weakness. One notable case involved a newborn who suffered severe brain damage due to delayed cesarean section. Hearing from those who've already walked the path can offer invaluable insights into the benefits of enlisting a skilled personal injury lawyer.
Exploring the concept of free evaluations, it's important to know that they offer an initial assessment of your case without any financial obligation. They're not just about getting you compensation; they're about making the process as stress-free as possible for you.

Nursing home abuse attorney

  • Legal representation for accidents
  • Injury claim filing assistance
  • Wrongful termination injury lawyer
  • Personal injury lawsuit advice
  • Truck accident lawyer
  • Injury lawyer for medical bills
  • Concussion lawyer
  • Injury lawyer for victims
  • Pedestrian injury attorney
  • Defamation lawyer
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Medical expense lawyer
  • Motor vehicle accident claims
  • Personal injury claims
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Personal injury lawsuit
The insurance company tried to pin the blame on him, threatening to leave him without the compensation he deserved. Next, consider the financial aspects.
Whether it's a wet floor in a supermarket or an icy sidewalk, property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe. Start by educating yourself about the rights of patients and the standards of care expected during childbirth. That's why Lansing personal injury lawyers at The Clark Law Office have launched free case evaluations. This approach allows you to pursue justice without financial risk.
With Clark Law Office, you're never alone in this fight. Essentially, if you're injured at work, you should report the incident to your employer as soon as possible. With our seasoned attorneys by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details. While we prioritize your well-being and clear communication, we're also adept at handling the complexities of litigation on your behalf.

Nursing home abuse attorney

They'll also sift through your social media, looking for any photos or posts that could suggest you're not as injured as you claim. It's a game of pressure, and they're playing to win. Our team at The Clark Law Office is committed to providing you with the personalized attention and expert advice you deserve. The process is daunting, but knowing what steps to take can help you navigate through this challenging time. Our team is equipped with the knowledge, experience, and resources to tackle even the most challenging cases head-on.

That's exactly what you'll find here. Next, you must file a claim with the responsible party's insurance company. They'll present an offer that's way below what you deserve, hoping you'll take it out of desperation. These case studies underscore the critical role that experienced legal representation plays in navigating the complexities of birth injury lawsuits.

Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages. That's where we come in. Stick around to uncover how The Clark Law Office has not just endured but thrived, marking a legacy that promises to shape the future of legal advocacy for years to come. Compensation for accident injuries This isn't just about showing that an injury occurred.

It's about making sure that you're not left to bear the financial burden of someone else's mistake. So, if you're ever in need of expert legal representation for a car accident or injury case, you know who to turn to. They're not just about legal representation; they're advocates for your right to compensation and healing. There's also the loss of income, companionship, and support to consider.

Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Lansing

Entity Name Description Source Link
Personal injury A legal term for injury to the body, mind, or emotions, and can refer to any damage to an individual's person, usually as a result of negligence or wrongdoing. Source
Lawyer A professional who is qualified to practice law and provides legal advice and representation to clients. Source
No-fault insurance A type of car insurance system where each party's insurance covers their own damages, regardless of fault, in the event of an accident. Source
Insurance A financial product that provides protection against financial loss or risk in exchange for regular payments, known as premiums. Source
Negligence The failure to take proper care in doing something, leading to harm or injury to others. Source
Lansing, Michigan The capital city of the U.S. state of Michigan, known for its role in government and industry. Source
Wrongful death claim A legal claim filed when someone dies as a result of the negligence or misconduct of another party. Source
Medical malpractice A form of negligence where a healthcare professional's actions or inactions cause harm to a patient. Source

Best Injury Lawyer In Lansing

The Lansing metropolitan area, colloquially referred to as "Mid-Michigan", is an important center for educational, cultural, governmental, commercial, and industrial functions. Neighboring East Lansing is home to Michigan State University, a public research university with an enrollment of more than 50,000. The area features two medical schools, one veterinary school, two nursing schools, and two law schools. It is the site of the Michigan State Capitol, the state Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, a federal court, the Library of Michigan and Historical Center, and headquarters of four national insurance companies.

Medical Malpractice Lawyer Lansing

Nearby Personal Injury Lawyer Lansing

Attorney Donald Waldron Jr.

Personal injury attorney, Attorney, Employment attorney, Social security attorney
Attorney Donald Waldron Jr., 741 N Cedar St #101, Lansing, MI 48906

Annette E. Skinner, Attorney at Law, PLLC

Social security attorney
Annette E. Skinner, Attorney at Law, PLLC, 1103 N Washington Ave, Lansing, MI 48906

Stuart R Shafer Divorce Lawyers

Divorce lawyer, Criminal justice attorney
Stuart R Shafer Divorce Lawyers, 1223 Turner Rd #333, Lansing, MI 48906


Citations and other links

Lansing MI Injury And Accident Lawyer

It's this dedication to their clients' well-being that truly sets them apart in the realm of personal injury law. Amputation lawyer Now, imagine having a team that not only understands what you're going through but also fights tirelessly to ensure you're compensated for your pain and losses. Being respected by your fellow lawyers says a lot about your professionalism and expertise. In wrongful death cases, you may be entitled to significant compensation for the loss of your loved one. Next, you'll initiate the claim by notifying the responsible party's insurance company.

Nursing home abuse attorney

  1. Injury lawsuit help
  2. Best personal injury attorneys
  3. Legal representation for accidents
  4. Injury claim filing assistance
  5. Wrongful termination injury lawyer
  6. Personal injury lawsuit advice
  7. Truck accident lawyer
  8. Injury lawyer for medical bills
  9. Concussion lawyer
  10. Injury lawyer for victims
  11. Pedestrian injury attorney
  12. Defamation lawyer
  13. Medical malpractice attorney
  14. Medical expense lawyer
  15. Motor vehicle accident claims
  16. Personal injury claims
  17. Personal injury legal expert
  18. Personal injury lawsuit
  19. Premises liability attorney


You're not left in the dark either; they'll keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring you understand your options and the legal process. Through these stories, Clark Law Office reaffirms its commitment to fighting for what's right, one case at a time. They offer a holistic approach to your case, ensuring that you receive comprehensive support both in and out of the courtroom. To identify malpractice, you'll need to look for signs that the care provided fell short.

Firstly, discuss the evaluation's outcome with your attorney. In one notable instance, they represented a family who lost a loved one due to medical negligence. When a newborn suffers an injury during birth, the immediate and long-term financial implications can be staggering.

Car accident attorney

  • Injury lawyers near me
  • Car accident attorney
  • Nursing home abuse attorney
  • Compensation for accident injuries
  • Personal injury trial lawyer
  • Defective product lawyer
  • Neck injury lawyer
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Liability claims attorney
  • Wrongful death lawyer
  • Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  • Personal injury lawyer
  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Amputation lawyer
You might find yourself adjusting work schedules, reducing hours, or even quitting jobs to provide necessary care, leading to lost wages and benefits.

They don't just stop at the paperwork; they dive deeper, ensuring every aspect of your case is meticulously handled. You've got to grasp that Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that your own insurance covers your damages, regardless of who caused the accident. Let's move forward together. They understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of your injuries, and they're relentless in their pursuit of justice.

Lansing MI Injury And Accident Lawyer
Affordable Wrongful Death Lawyer Lansing

Affordable Wrongful Death Lawyer Lansing

Facing a wrongful death claim requires careful preparation and emotional resilience, as you'll need to gather crucial evidence and legal documents to build a strong case. They've successfully navigated countless cases, securing significant settlements and verdicts for their clients. With the right support, it's possible to challenge negligence and win. They'll work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served and that you receive the compensation you and your family deserve for funeral expenses, lost income, and the emotional distress you've been forced to endure.
Then there's Mike, a construction worker injured on the job. Navigating these legal complexities isn't easy, but it's necessary for seeking justice. You need glowing recommendations that highlight your dedication, empathy, and effectiveness.
We take the time to listen to your story, understand the specifics of your situation, and tailor our strategy to suit your specific goals. Defective product lawyer Learn more about Wrongful Death Attorney In Lansing MI here If the initial offer is too low, which it often is, you're entitled to negotiate for more. In cases of severe injury, you might also need to consider the price of future surgeries or treatments, adding to an already overwhelming financial scenario.
These evaluations aren't just about numbers; they're a chance for you to meet your potential lawyer, understand their approach, and gauge whether they're the right fit for you. Harnessing their deep legal knowledge, The Clark Law Office employs strategies that consistently yield positive outcomes for victims. You're not alone in this journey.

Personal Injury Litigation Firm Lansing

Moreover, this initial meeting allows you to assess the lawyer's experience, expertise, and personality. The team at Clark Law Office aggressively pursued justice, securing a multimillion-dollar settlement that covered the child's lifelong care needs. Personal injury lawyer They're not just personal tragedies but also indicators of areas within the healthcare system that require urgent attention and improvement. This document is essential for moving your claim forward.

You can also expect The Clark Law Office to leverage the latest technology to enhance their services. It's crucial to act swiftly after an injury. You might find yourself grappling with a range of feelings, from deep sadness to anger, perhaps even guilt or regret.

Another tactic is disputing your claim's validity. We're here to listen, advise, and act on your behalf, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected.

Compensation for accident injuries

  • Defective product lawyer
  • Neck injury lawyer
  • Pain and suffering claims
  • Liability claims attorney
  • Wrongful death lawyer
  • Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  • Personal injury lawyer
  • Personal injury lawyer with experience
  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Amputation lawyer
  • Personal injury damage recovery
  • Accident lawyer for settlement
  • Serious car accident lawyer
  • Injury law firm
  • Contingency fee lawyer
  • Workplace injury attorney
  • Dog bite injury lawyer
  • Free injury case review
  • Brain injury lawyer
  • Accident attorney
These feelings are natural, yet they can strain your relationships, impacting your bond with your partner, your child, and even with your wider family and friends.

Clark Law Office's team brings unparalleled expertise to Lansing's car accident and injury law landscape. These stories highlight that you're not alone. It was a testament to their refusal to be bullied by big insurance.

Personal Injury Litigation Firm Lansing
Truck Accident Compensation Attorney Lansing
Truck Accident Compensation Attorney Lansing

When you're seeking representation, knowing you have an 'Advocate for Justice' by your side is incredibly reassuring. You'll find that their approach is both personal and professional, a balance that's hard to come by. First and foremost, you've got to be an employee.

Liability claims attorney

  1. Injury lawyer for medical bills
  2. Concussion lawyer
  3. Injury lawyer for victims
  4. Pedestrian injury attorney
  5. Defamation lawyer
  6. Medical malpractice attorney
  7. Medical expense lawyer
  8. Motor vehicle accident claims
  9. Personal injury claims
  10. Personal injury legal expert
  11. Personal injury lawsuit
  12. Premises liability attorney
  13. Local personal injury lawyer
  14. Disability lawyer
  15. Accident compensation lawyer
  16. Product liability lawyer
  17. Train accident lawyer
  18. Injured worker lawyer
They might argue your injuries aren't as severe as you claim or that you'd pre-existing conditions. Most law firms offer free initial consultations, so take advantage of this opportunity to discuss your case.

You'll need documentation of the care received, expert opinions on the standard of care expected, and proof of the harm suffered. The Clark Law Office specializes in understanding your rights and providing a tailored approach that addresses the unique challenges of each case, including dealing with insurance companies. For property damage, the timeframe is the same. They understand the intricacies of the law and use this to your advantage, crafting a compelling case that highlights the negligence of the other party.

This process varies by state, but generally, you must submit a written appeal within a certain timeframe after receiving the denial. Here's to more years of groundbreaking advocacy and unparalleled success. You'll be asked to provide details about the accident, including when and where it happened, the extent of your injuries, and any evidence you've managed to gather, such as photos, witness statements, and medical reports. Being proactive in your preparation not only maximizes the effectiveness of the evaluation but also sets the stage for a strong attorney-client relationship.

We're also available for face-to-face meetings by appointment. Our team specializes exclusively in personal injury law, which means we've got the focused expertise to handle your case, no matter how complex. We believe that your participation in the legal process is vital. Choosing The Clark Law Office means partnering with a team that's dedicated, experienced, and fully invested in your success.

Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer In Lansing MI

It's not just about winning a case; it's about restoring your life. We understand the emotional and financial toll a birth injury case can take on a family. Legal help for injured individuals Car accident attorney You've only got a three-year window from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury. Discover how The Clark Law Office can serve as your compass in this challenging time, guiding you towards a resolution that acknowledges your needs and rights. Lawsuit settlement lawyer
They're not just looking at the immediate impacts but also considering the long-term needs of your child, ensuring that any settlement or verdict reflects the full extent of your damages.

Personal injury lawyer with experience

  1. Burn injury attorney
  2. Top-rated personal injury lawyer
  3. Consultation for personal injury
  4. Construction accident lawyer
  5. Personal injury appeal lawyer
  6. Liability claims attorney
  7. Wrongful death lawyer
  8. Lawsuit settlement lawyer
  9. Personal injury lawyer
  10. Personal injury lawyer with experience
  11. Legal help for injured individuals
  12. Amputation lawyer
  13. Personal injury damage recovery
  14. Accident lawyer for settlement
  15. Serious car accident lawyer
  16. Injury law firm
  17. Contingency fee lawyer
  18. Workplace injury attorney
It's the result of years of hard work, continuous learning, and adapting to the ever-evolving legal landscape. They can navigate the legal complexities and improve your chances of overturning the denial.
While most states mandate this coverage for businesses with employees, there are exceptions based on the size of the business, the nature of the work, and other factors. First, there's economic damages. You're invited to celebrate these victories, not as an observer, but as a member of a community that values justice, integrity, and the power of successful legal representation to make a difference.
These aren't meant to compensate you, but rather to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar future actions. Slip and fall cases, on the other hand, usually occur on someone else's property.

Personal injury trial lawyer

  1. Dog bite injury lawyer
  2. Free injury case review
  3. Brain injury lawyer
  4. Accident attorney
  5. Personal injury defense attorney
  6. Motorcycle accident lawyer
  7. Personal injury attorney near me
  8. Injury claims lawyer
  9. Back injury lawyer
  10. Legal help for accident victims
  11. Insurance claim lawyer
  12. Legal rights for injured individuals
  13. Injury compensation lawyer
  14. Insurance claim disputes
  15. Assault lawyer
  16. Slip and fall lawyer
They know how to argue your case, making sure the insurance companies understand the full extent of your needs.

Explore Wrongful Death Attorney In Lansing MI here
Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer In Lansing MI

A personal injury lawyer is a lawyer who provides legal services to those who claim to have been injured, physically or psychologically, as a result of the negligence of another person, company, government agency or any entity. Personal injury lawyers primarily practice in the area of law known as tort law. Examples of common personal injury claims include injuries from slip and fall accidents, traffic collisions, defective products, workplace injuries and professional malpractice.

The term "trial lawyers" is used to refer to personal injury lawyers, even though many other types of lawyers, including defense lawyers and criminal prosecutors also appear in trials and even though most personal injury claims are settled without going to trial.

Qualification

[edit]

A personal injury lawyer must qualify to practice law in the jurisdiction in which the lawyer practices. In many states, they must also pass a written ethics examination.[1]

Lawyers may take continuing legal education (CLE) classes in order to learn about developments in the law or to learn about new practice areas. In states that require lawyers to attend CLE, personal injury lawyers may take CLE courses relevant to personal injury law, but are not required to do so.[2]

United States

[edit]

Certain bar associations and attorney organizations offer certifications, including certification of lawyers in the field of personal injury.[3] Certification is not required to practice personal injury law, but may help a lawyer demonstrate knowledge in the field to potential clients. Within the U.S., not all state bars offer certification for personal injury law. Some states, such as New Jersey,[4] allow lawyers to become Certified Trial Attorneys, a credential that is available to both plaintiff and defense attorneys. Some states, such as Arizona,[5] restrict the use of the words "specialist" or "specialize" to lawyers who have obtained a certification from the State Bar Board of Legal Specialization in a specific field of law, with one such certification being in the area of personal injury law.

Practice

[edit]

Lawyers may concentrate their practice to specific areas of law, including personal injury law.[6] Some lawyers may further specialize to a specific area of personal injury, such as medical malpractice law. By limiting the range of cases they handle, personal injury lawyers are able to acquire specialized knowledge and experience.

Client relations

[edit]

Before accepting a new case, a personal injury lawyer typically interviews a prospective client and evaluates the client's case to determine the basic facts and potential legal claims that might be made, identifies possible defendants, and evaluates the strength of the case.[7] A lawyer may decline to accept a case if the lawyer believes that the legal claims will not succeed in court, if the cost of litigation is expected to exceed the amount that can reasonably be recovered from the defendants as compensation for the client's injury.[8]

Compensation

[edit]

Lawyer fees may be charged in a number of ways, including contingency fees, hourly rates, and flat fees. In many countries, personal injury lawyers work primarily on a contingency fee basis, sometimes called an if-come fee, through which the lawyer receives a percentage of a client's recovery as a fee, but does not recover a fee if the claim is not successful.[7]

In some jurisdictions, or by virtue of the retainer agreement between an attorney and client, the amount of the legal fee may vary depending upon whether a case settles before a lawsuit is filed, after a lawsuit is filed but before trial, or if the case goes to trial.[9] For example, a retainer agreement might provide that a lawyer will receive a 33 and 1/3% contingency fee if a case settles before a lawsuit is filed, a 40% contingency fee if the case settles after the lawsuit is filed, or up to 45% if the lawsuit goes to trial.

Due to the high cost of litigation, personal injury lawyers are rarely retained to work based on an hourly fee.[10] However, defense attorneys who are hired to contest personal injury claims are often paid on an hourly basis.

Ethics

[edit]

An attorney should provide diligent representation to clients, and the ultimate professional responsibility of a personal injury lawyer is to help plaintiffs obtain just compensation for their losses. As with all lawyers, the attorney-client relationship is governed by rules of ethics.[11]

In the United States, lawyers are regulated by codes of conduct established by state bar associations, which have the power to take disciplinary action against lawyers who violate professional or ethical regulations.[12] States normally require all contingency agreements between lawyers and their clients to be in writing, and may limit the amount that may be charged as a contingency fee to a specific maximum percentage of the recovery.

Organizations

[edit]

Although membership is not required for personal injury practice, many personal injury lawyers join professional associations. For example:

  • American Bar Association – a professional association dedicated to improving the legal system and providing accreditation for law schools and continuing legal education programs
  • Association of Personal Injury Lawyers – an association based in Nottingham, England; founded in 1990 by personal injury lawyers on behalf of accident victims
  • Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles – CAALA is one of the largest associations of plaintiffs' lawyers in the United States and hosts one of the largest annual attorneys' conventions.
  • American Association for Justice – an association of trial lawyers that was founded in 1946 by a group of plaintiffs' attorneys committed to safeguarding victims' rights. Prior to 2007, this organization was called the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, or ATLA.[13]
  • The National Trial Lawyers – a national organization composed of trial lawyers, offering networking opportunities, advocacy training and educational programs for trial lawyers.[14]
  • Personal Injuries Bar Association (PIBA) - a specialist bar association for UK barristers who practise in the field of personal injuries.[15]

Criticism

[edit]

Critics of personal injury lawyers claim that litigation increases the cost of products and services and the cost of doing business.[16] For example, critics of medical malpractice lawyers argue that lawsuits increase the cost of healthcare, and that lawsuits may inspire doctors to leave medical practice or create doctor shortages. These concerns, often raised in response to efforts to reform healthcare, have not been well substantiated. A publication by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found little evidence that traditional tort reforms affect medical liability costs or defensive medicine.[17] A study conducted on a bipartisan basis in Texas has found that tort reform, once enacted, had no impact on reducing the cost of medical care, tending to throw doubt on claims made by tort reform advocates.[18]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Becoming a Lawyer: Frequently Asked Questions". State Bar of Texas.
  2. ^ Lowenthal, Werner (1981). "Continuing Education for Professionals: Voluntary or Mandatory?". The Journal of Higher Education. 52 (5): 519–538.
  3. ^ "A Concise Guide to Lawyer Specialty Certification" (PDF). ABA Standing Committee on Specialization. American Bar Association. June 2007. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  4. ^ "Board on Attorney Certification". New Jersey Courts. New Jersey Judiciary. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  5. ^ "Certified Specialists". State Bar of Arizona. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  6. ^ Nelson, Robert L. (1988). Partners with Power: The Social Transformation of the Large Law Firm. University of California Press. pp. 174–175. ISBN 0520058445. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  7. ^ a b Goodman, Peggy. "Initial Interview with a Potential Client". LexisNexis. Relx Group. Retrieved 21 January 2008.
  8. ^ Coffee, John C. (May 1986). "Understanding the Plaintiff's Attorney: The Implications of Economic Theory for Private Enforcement of Law through Class and Derivative Actions". Columbia Law Review. 86 (4): 669–727. doi:10.2307/1122577. JSTOR 1122577. S2CID 158524103.
  9. ^ Danzon, Patricia M. (1983). "Contingent Fees for Personal Injury Litigation". The Bell Journal of Economics. 14 (1): 213–224. doi:10.2307/3003548. JSTOR 3003548.
  10. ^ Danzon, Patricia M. (June 1980). "Contingent Fees for Personal Injury Litigation" (PDF). Rand. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  11. ^ Weissman, Herbert N.; Debow, Deborah M. (2003). Ethical Principles and Professional Competencies. Handbook of Psychology. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. pp. 3:33–53. ISBN 047138321X. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  12. ^ Carr, David Cameron (2010). "Attorney Fees: Five Keys to Ethical Compliance". GPSolo. Archived from the original on 2 October 2017. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  13. ^ "American Association for Justice". justice.org. Retrieved 2017-06-27.
  14. ^ "The National Trial Lawyers". Retrieved 2 April 2019.
  15. ^ Personal Injuries Bar Association, accessed 27 September 2022
  16. ^ Hiltzig, Michael (20 September 2014). "New study shows that the savings from 'tort reform' are mythical". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  17. ^ "Medical Malpractice: April 2011 Update". The Synthesis Project. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. 1 April 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2017.
  18. ^ Roser, Mary Ann (20 June 2012). "New study: Tort reform has not reduced health care costs in Texas". Statesman Media. American Statesman. Retrieved 2 July 2017.

A personal injury lawyer is a lawyer who provides legal services to those who claim to have been injured, physically or psychologically, as a result of the negligence of another person, company, government agency or any entity. Personal injury lawyers primarily practice in the area of law known as tort law. Examples of common personal injury claims include injuries from slip and fall accidents, traffic collisions, defective products, workplace injuries and professional malpractice.

The term "trial lawyers" is used to refer to personal injury lawyers, even though many other types of lawyers, including defense lawyers and criminal prosecutors also appear in trials and even though most personal injury claims are settled without going to trial.

Qualification

[edit]

A personal injury lawyer must qualify to practice law in the jurisdiction in which the lawyer practices. In many states, they must also pass a written ethics examination.[1]

Lawyers may take continuing legal education (CLE) classes in order to learn about developments in the law or to learn about new practice areas. In states that require lawyers to attend CLE, personal injury lawyers may take CLE courses relevant to personal injury law, but are not required to do so.[2]

United States

[edit]

Certain bar associations and attorney organizations offer certifications, including certification of lawyers in the field of personal injury.[3] Certification is not required to practice personal injury law, but may help a lawyer demonstrate knowledge in the field to potential clients. Within the U.S., not all state bars offer certification for personal injury law. Some states, such as New Jersey,[4] allow lawyers to become Certified Trial Attorneys, a credential that is available to both plaintiff and defense attorneys. Some states, such as Arizona,[5] restrict the use of the words "specialist" or "specialize" to lawyers who have obtained a certification from the State Bar Board of Legal Specialization in a specific field of law, with one such certification being in the area of personal injury law.

Practice

[edit]

Lawyers may concentrate their practice to specific areas of law, including personal injury law.[6] Some lawyers may further specialize to a specific area of personal injury, such as medical malpractice law. By limiting the range of cases they handle, personal injury lawyers are able to acquire specialized knowledge and experience.

Client relations

[edit]

Before accepting a new case, a personal injury lawyer typically interviews a prospective client and evaluates the client's case to determine the basic facts and potential legal claims that might be made, identifies possible defendants, and evaluates the strength of the case.[7] A lawyer may decline to accept a case if the lawyer believes that the legal claims will not succeed in court, if the cost of litigation is expected to exceed the amount that can reasonably be recovered from the defendants as compensation for the client's injury.[8]

Compensation

[edit]

Lawyer fees may be charged in a number of ways, including contingency fees, hourly rates, and flat fees. In many countries, personal injury lawyers work primarily on a contingency fee basis, sometimes called an if-come fee, through which the lawyer receives a percentage of a client's recovery as a fee, but does not recover a fee if the claim is not successful.[7]

In some jurisdictions, or by virtue of the retainer agreement between an attorney and client, the amount of the legal fee may vary depending upon whether a case settles before a lawsuit is filed, after a lawsuit is filed but before trial, or if the case goes to trial.[9] For example, a retainer agreement might provide that a lawyer will receive a 33 and 1/3% contingency fee if a case settles before a lawsuit is filed, a 40% contingency fee if the case settles after the lawsuit is filed, or up to 45% if the lawsuit goes to trial.

Due to the high cost of litigation, personal injury lawyers are rarely retained to work based on an hourly fee.[10] However, defense attorneys who are hired to contest personal injury claims are often paid on an hourly basis.

Ethics

[edit]

An attorney should provide diligent representation to clients, and the ultimate professional responsibility of a personal injury lawyer is to help plaintiffs obtain just compensation for their losses. As with all lawyers, the attorney-client relationship is governed by rules of ethics.[11]

In the United States, lawyers are regulated by codes of conduct established by state bar associations, which have the power to take disciplinary action against lawyers who violate professional or ethical regulations.[12] States normally require all contingency agreements between lawyers and their clients to be in writing, and may limit the amount that may be charged as a contingency fee to a specific maximum percentage of the recovery.

Organizations

[edit]

Although membership is not required for personal injury practice, many personal injury lawyers join professional associations. For example:

  • American Bar Association – a professional association dedicated to improving the legal system and providing accreditation for law schools and continuing legal education programs
  • Association of Personal Injury Lawyers – an association based in Nottingham, England; founded in 1990 by personal injury lawyers on behalf of accident victims
  • Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles – CAALA is one of the largest associations of plaintiffs' lawyers in the United States and hosts one of the largest annual attorneys' conventions.
  • American Association for Justice – an association of trial lawyers that was founded in 1946 by a group of plaintiffs' attorneys committed to safeguarding victims' rights. Prior to 2007, this organization was called the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, or ATLA.[13]
  • The National Trial Lawyers – a national organization composed of trial lawyers, offering networking opportunities, advocacy training and educational programs for trial lawyers.[14]
  • Personal Injuries Bar Association (PIBA) - a specialist bar association for UK barristers who practise in the field of personal injuries.[15]

Criticism

[edit]

Critics of personal injury lawyers claim that litigation increases the cost of products and services and the cost of doing business.[16] For example, critics of medical malpractice lawyers argue that lawsuits increase the cost of healthcare, and that lawsuits may inspire doctors to leave medical practice or create doctor shortages. These concerns, often raised in response to efforts to reform healthcare, have not been well substantiated. A publication by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found little evidence that traditional tort reforms affect medical liability costs or defensive medicine.[17] A study conducted on a bipartisan basis in Texas has found that tort reform, once enacted, had no impact on reducing the cost of medical care, tending to throw doubt on claims made by tort reform advocates.[18]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Becoming a Lawyer: Frequently Asked Questions". State Bar of Texas.
  2. ^ Lowenthal, Werner (1981). "Continuing Education for Professionals: Voluntary or Mandatory?". The Journal of Higher Education. 52 (5): 519–538.
  3. ^ "A Concise Guide to Lawyer Specialty Certification" (PDF). ABA Standing Committee on Specialization. American Bar Association. June 2007. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  4. ^ "Board on Attorney Certification". New Jersey Courts. New Jersey Judiciary. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  5. ^ "Certified Specialists". State Bar of Arizona. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  6. ^ Nelson, Robert L. (1988). Partners with Power: The Social Transformation of the Large Law Firm. University of California Press. pp. 174–175. ISBN 0520058445. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  7. ^ a b Goodman, Peggy. "Initial Interview with a Potential Client". LexisNexis. Relx Group. Retrieved 21 January 2008.
  8. ^ Coffee, John C. (May 1986). "Understanding the Plaintiff's Attorney: The Implications of Economic Theory for Private Enforcement of Law through Class and Derivative Actions". Columbia Law Review. 86 (4): 669–727. doi:10.2307/1122577. JSTOR 1122577. S2CID 158524103.
  9. ^ Danzon, Patricia M. (1983). "Contingent Fees for Personal Injury Litigation". The Bell Journal of Economics. 14 (1): 213–224. doi:10.2307/3003548. JSTOR 3003548.
  10. ^ Danzon, Patricia M. (June 1980). "Contingent Fees for Personal Injury Litigation" (PDF). Rand. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  11. ^ Weissman, Herbert N.; Debow, Deborah M. (2003). Ethical Principles and Professional Competencies. Handbook of Psychology. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. pp. 3:33–53. ISBN 047138321X. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  12. ^ Carr, David Cameron (2010). "Attorney Fees: Five Keys to Ethical Compliance". GPSolo. Archived from the original on 2 October 2017. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  13. ^ "American Association for Justice". justice.org. Retrieved 2017-06-27.
  14. ^ "The National Trial Lawyers". Retrieved 2 April 2019.
  15. ^ Personal Injuries Bar Association, accessed 27 September 2022
  16. ^ Hiltzig, Michael (20 September 2014). "New study shows that the savings from 'tort reform' are mythical". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 3 December 2017.
  17. ^ "Medical Malpractice: April 2011 Update". The Synthesis Project. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. 1 April 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2017.
  18. ^ Roser, Mary Ann (20 June 2012). "New study: Tort reform has not reduced health care costs in Texas". Statesman Media. American Statesman. Retrieved 2 July 2017.

Frequently Asked Questions

You're looking for success stories or testimonials from past clients of the Clark Law Office. They've likely helped many people, so checking their website or asking directly could provide the insights you're after.

To ensure your privacy and confidentiality, the Clark Law Office employs strict data protection protocols, secure communication channels, and a policy of minimal information sharing, only involving essential parties in your personal injury claim process.

If you share some fault in the accident, they'll assess your case's details to determine how it affects your claim, aiming to maximize your compensation while navigating the complexities of shared fault laws.