Choose a personal injury lawyer wisely by keeping the following tips in mind:

1) Find a lawyer with experience.
Experience is a lawyer’s most important asset. Research your lawyer’s trial experience and look for a successful track record.

2) Ask trusted friends and colleagues for advice.
Although referrals may be your best source of information, choose the people you ask carefully. Ask people you trust who have experience in legal matters and ask specific questions about what it was like to work with the attorney and whether or not they would hire them again. If you know a defense attorney or can establish contact with one, ask them who their best adversary is. Never choose an attorney solely because they are a friend of a friend, or are related to someone you know. These qualities do not necessarily qualify them to represent you and your case.

3) Only choose a lawyer who bills on a contingent fee agreement. 
This means that if you don’t win your case, you owe your lawyer nothing. A contingent fee agreement is a system in which your lawyer receives a percentage of your settlement as payment. Do not hesitate to approach prominent firms who may appear to be too expensive financially ~ and remember that it is never to your advantage to represent yourself.

4) Hire locally.
A quick Internet search is a great place to start, but be aware that the anonymity of electronic communications enables some law firms to “troll” for cases out-of-state. Always hire an attorney whose practice is based in your state. Make an appointment to meet with the lawyer in person – face to face. Choosing a local attorney is not only the best choice for your case, as their extensive knowledge of your state’s laws and local experience will directly support your claim; it also helps support the local economy.

5) Seek out an expert in your claim area.
If your claim is premises liability or wrongful death for example, choose an attorney who has experience within the specific system of your interest. These systems are often extremely complex, so always choose a lawyer who “does it full time.” Always seek out an expert.