Suggestions For Starting A Career As A Lawyer-Mediator
If you've found yourself searching for a lawyer, you want to make sure that you find the right one. You don't want to waste your time, and you don't want to end up losing your case. Instead, you want positive results, and for this you need the best lawyer for the job.
You may find that your friends, family, and coworkers can provide a wealth of information when it comes to finding a lawyer who can best fit your needs. Ask around and see what experiences people have had with particular lawyers, or if they have any advice for you based on their circumstances.
Ask your lawyer for an estimate when you decide they're the one for you. If they say no, walk away immediately. Even if they just give you a range and explain what makes a case more or less expensive, that is good enough. Make sure to get your fee agreement in writing!
Ask your lawyer questions. Great lawyers will thoroughly explain all the details and update you along the way. You may want another lawyer if the one you have will not give you any details.
Any initial meeting or conversation with a lawyer should include four key questions that you ask them. Is the lawyer experienced in your specific type of situation? Do they charge flat rates or hourly fees? How much do they estimate the total cost will be? How long will this take to fully resolve?
Do not hire any lawyer that makes you feel uncomfortable. If you don't feel comfortable with the fee arrangement, don't hire the lawyer. Do not sign over a blank retainer check. The lawyer you choose should be upfront about their fees and the time they will spend on your case.
If your lawyer does or says anything you don't understand, speak up. They should be more than happy to explain anything to you, from what a fee is for to a document they're having you sign. If your lawyer doesn't want to talk about anything related to your case, drop them immediately.
When you are going to a consultation with your lawyer, do not be scared to do your own interview. Ask him or her about their familiarity with the situation you are in, how much success they have, or anything else you feel you should know. If they refuse to answer your questions, they may be trying to hide something, meaning you may want to look elsewhere.
Make sure the lawyer that you chose is licensed in the area that the case will be held. Lawyers must be licensed in a jurisdiction to be allowed to practice there. Most practice in entire states, while others hold licenses around the country. Be sure to know this information before you sign on with a lawyer.
Never sign blank checks or retainer fees that are presented to you by a lawyer. When you do this, you are not agreeing to any sum of money. Instead, you are completely trusting that your lawyer will spend whatever money is necessary for winning your case. Although you want to hire a lawyer you trust, you should not put this much trust into anyone you work with. Instead, agree to set fees so that you know how much money you will spend.
Try to stay away from court appointed lawyers, because their caseloads are really heavy and they will typically not be able to give you as much personal time as a hired attorney. When you are paying for their services they tend to read more be more personally invested in trying to win your case.
Simply because someone is the best at what they do does not mean you should hire them. Of course you are in need of the lawyer's expertise; however, you must also feel comfortable with the lawyer as you will spend a great deal of time with him or her. It's important that he not get on your nerves for things to go smoothly.
A lawyer you are interviewing should be able to provide you with a list of past clients. A great lawyer will comply, as they know they are good at what they do. Contact their clients to get the information you need.
Do not underestimate the importance of your lawyer's personality. An aggressive lawyer can be an advantage but an experienced and confident lawyer could help you win your case too. You should meet with different lawyer and find one who has the kind of personality and philosophy you need for your case.
You really can't go it alone in court and expect to end up with favorable results. The laws are too complicated and the process too confusing. Set yourself up for success by finding the right attorney for the job and following his or her instructions. It will make a big difference in your results.
Personal Injury Claims Rise Despite a Fall in Crashes
An increasing number of people involved in car accidents are making personal injury claims.
The findings are from a report by the Actuarial Profession, which suggests that despite an 11% fall in crashes in 2011, claims rose by 18%.
BBC legal correspondent Clive Coleman said that increases in the number of claims could result in higher insurance premiums.
BBC Radio 5 liveMorning Reports spoke to David Brown from the actuary group.