When you've suffered an injury due to someone else's negligence, the law gives you the right to seek compensation for your damages. However, getting a fair settlement isn't always straightforward, and insurance companies invest a significant amount of time and money ensuring accident victims collect as little as possible. 

Because they're the only one representing your interests, your personal injury lawyer can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. When hiring a personal injury lawyer, it's important that you:

• DO Your Research: Ask friends, family members, and colleagues if they can recommend someone they've had a good experience with. Online review sites can also be a valuable resource, along with your local bar association.
• DON'T Hire an Inexperienced Attorney: The field of personal injury law is extremely complex, so an attorney with years of relevant experience will usually provide superior service. When interviewing candidates, find out what percentage of their practice is devoted to injury law and whether they've handled cases like yours.
• DO Ask Plenty of Questions: Treat your consultation like a job interview, and be prepared to ask plenty of questions. Find out how long the attorney expects your case to take, what your projected outcomes might be, and whether they anticipate any obstacles.
• DON'T Allow Your Attorney to Hand Off Your Case: In some larger law firms, it's not unusual for a lawyer to hand a case over to a junior associate or lower-level personal injury lawyer. Always verify that the person who you’re meeting with is the one who will be handling your case.
• DO Ask About Fees: Most personal injury lawyers don't collect a fee unless they succeed in collecting compensation for you, but you may still be responsible for upfront filing fees and other expenses.

For over 25 years, the Woodlawn Law Offices in O'Fallon, MO, has helped those injured due to the carelessness of another collect compensation for their damages. Visit the website to learn more about their reputation for highly effective representation, follow the law firm on Facebook, or call (636) 240-6667 to speak with a skilled personal injury lawyer today.