Let’s be honest, life can take unexpected turns. In an instant, you could be driving home from work and in the next moment, an accident can change everything. It’s important to have someone on your side who will fight for your legal rights. Who should you call in Bakersfield if you’re unsure? Let’s find that bakersfield personal injury lawyer.
Imagine that I used to believe lawyers were stuffy, robotic people until my friend Joe got into an awful accident. A semi hits his car out of the blue. In the blink of an eye, Joe has a badly broken leg and a pile of medical expenses. Joe, however, found the best help. He was helped by a personal injuries attorney who was like his best friend when he faced a crisis. It’s the goal you are aiming for.
Why Bakersfield in the first place? Bakersfield does have its own legal eagles. Attorneys in Bakersfield know the local laws as well how to deal with insurance companies. They have a good understanding of the local laws and insurance companies, which could make or break your case. You wouldn’t let someone from Timbuktu handle your local incident, would ya?
Immerse yourself in their knowledge, but avoid jargon. Search for someone with experience in a similar situation to yours. If you have a case that is like a rollercoaster then you need someone who knows how to handle the turns and twists. Ask specific questions. Does your attorney have experience with auto accidents? Do they have any wins in courtrooms? You’re on your life’s edge.
Attorneys are much like shoes. Not all sizes fit everyone. If your friend loves their attorney, you’ll want to check out a few. Many firms offer a complimentary initial consultation. Make the most of these consultations. See if there is a good fit between you and a few attorneys. Communication is important. If someone talks to you in a way that makes you feel like a seven-year old or a lawyer, this is a red-flag. You need to find someone who speaks your native language.
Google, Yelp and other search engines are all the same. Same principle applies. Don’t let the glowing 5-star reviews fool you. Note the details. Real feedback looks at the good, the poor, and the ugly. This is a comprehensive picture. It’s just like reading the Amazon reviews before you buy that cool espresso machine.
Oh, the fee issue. Most personal injury attorneys are paid on a contingency fee basis. It means they are only paid if the client is paid. Take this information at face value, but don’t stop there. Dig deeper. What percentage will they charge? What are the hidden costs, which might creep up in the dark? Make sure you have all the costs on the table.
How does the attorney approach the insurance companies then? Some are aggressive, but others go for a more diplomatic approach. It doesn’t matter which way you go, you will need a gladiator. Insurance companies can act like sharks in the water, pounce when they smell weakness. Your attorney can be both a shield and a sword.
Let’s discuss gut feeling. You’re right, your gut feelings are important. If you feel something is off, then it probably is. Trust is as important as expertise. You wouldn’t want to confide with someone who had cold eyes and a sly demeanor. No, what you want is someone who truly cares and who will invest in your case.
Avoid being seduced into buying products or services by fancy offices and salespeople who speak in a smooth manner. Don’t let style overshadow substance, my friend. A modest office with an honest attorney could be more productive that a skyscraper and a lawyer who treats you like another case file.
It can be a very stressful experience to go through a courtroom trial. Imagine an attorney there conducting a symphony. He or she is making sure each note is hit perfectly. The performance is crucial. You want someone who can speak clearly, is persuasive and will not back down from a fight.
Finally, a personal injury attorney must provide more than just legal guidance. The attorney should help you navigate the process like a guide through a dense jungle. Everything from medical appointments to financial pressures is included. This is not an easy task, but it can be done with the help of the right guide.
The person you choose should be someone you can relate to both professionally and personally. Do your research, ask questions, and become involved in the hiring process. You will need this person to help you through one of your most difficult periods. It’s well worth the effort.