Top personal injury attorneys Okemos

Top personal injury attorneys Okemos

Injury compensation lawyer

They've teams of experts whose job is to save them money, which means they're not always on your side. Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting. Learn more about The Clark Law Office here. Truck accident lawyer Moreover, community organizations and fellow legal professionals alike have recognized The Clark Law Office for their contributions to justice and community welfare. Read more about Top personal injury attorneys Okemos here They've got the experience to know that no two injuries, and thus no two claims, are the same. Missing this can mean forfeiting your right to compensation altogether.
Similarly, you need a lawyer who specializes in personal injury to handle your case. First, the jury selection occurs, where individuals are chosen to decide the outcome of your case. Lastly, expert testimonies, often from medical professionals or accident reconstruction specialists, offer an authoritative perspective on how the incident occurred and the impact it has had on your life. They'll help you gather the necessary evidence, including medical records, the defective product itself, and expert testimony to build a strong case.

Top personal injury attorneys Okemos - Legal support for injury claims

  1. Fall accident lawyer
  2. Injury law firm
  3. Accident attorney
  4. Personal injury legal expert
  5. Personal injury lawsuit
  6. Spinal cord injury attorney
  7. Negligence lawyer
  8. Legal consultation for injury
  9. Legal help for injured individuals
  10. Medical expense lawyer
  11. Fall accident lawyer
  12. Injury law firm
  13. Accident attorney
  14. Personal injury legal expert
  15. Personal injury lawsuit

We prioritize your convenience and peace of mind. Reading through the testimonials, you'll quickly see why this attorney is regarded as the top personal injury lawyer in Top personal injury attorneys Okemos. Negligence lawyer Learn more about Top personal injury attorneys Okemos here They'll listen to your story, gather the necessary medical records, and consult with medical experts to build a strong case. It's a testament to their confidence in their ability to represent and win for their clients.
Don't rush into accepting the first offer; it's usually not the best they can do. Also, if there were any witnesses, try to get their contact information; their accounts may help support your case later on. This means you'll have a robust support system, equipped to tackle any challenge that comes your way. With The Clark Law Office by your side, you're equipped with decades of experience, a tireless work ethic, and a genuine care for your well-being.

In an era where horse-drawn carriages were the norm, The Clark Law Office embarked on its journey. You're a person, with a story and a need for justice, and they're there to amplify your voice. Injury compensation lawyer Having gathered and analyzed crucial evidence for your case, it's now your attorney's role to engage in settlement negotiations to seek the compensation you deserve. Remember, you're not alone.

If you've suffered an injury, your first step should be to seek medical attention, even if the injuries seem minor. Whether it's a minor fender-bender or a major collision, they'll help you navigate the complexities of insurance and compensation. Whether it's mentoring young professionals or simply lending an ear to those who need it, they're there.

Your attorney's dedication means they're not just working on your case; they're invested in it. At The Clark Law Office, we understand that every client's situation is unique, and so are their needs. Personal injury lawsuit Whether you've suffered due to an accident, negligence, or any form of injustice that has left you or a loved one injured, the expertise of The Clark Law Office is now within your reach.

You're not just getting a lawyer; you're gaining a team committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. From car accidents to workplace injuries, their track record speaks volumes. Now, over 30 years later, you'd find it challenging to discover a personal injury attorney in Top personal injury attorneys Okemos with a more trusted reputation.



Top personal injury attorneys Okemos - Injury compensation lawyer

  1. Accident attorney
  2. Personal injury legal expert
  3. Personal injury lawsuit
  4. Spinal cord injury attorney
  5. Fall accident lawyer
  6. Injury law firm
  7. Accident attorney
  8. Personal injury legal expert
  9. Personal injury lawsuit
  10. Spinal cord injury attorney
  11. Fall accident lawyer
  12. Injury law firm
  13. Accident attorney
  14. Personal injury legal expert
  15. Personal injury lawsuit
  16. Spinal cord injury attorney
  17. Fall accident lawyer

Truck accident lawyer Okemos

Entity Name Description Source
Okemos, Michigan Okemos is a census-designated place in Michigan, known for its educational institutions and suburban lifestyle. Source
Personal injury Personal injury refers to harm caused to a person’s body, mind, or emotions due to someone else's negligence or wrongdoing. Source
Insurance Insurance is a contractual arrangement for financial protection against potential future losses or damages. Source
Negligence Negligence is the failure to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm or injury to others. Source
Personal injury lawyer A personal injury lawyer specializes in representing individuals who have been harmed due to negligence or wrongful acts. Source
Attorney at law An attorney at law is a legal professional authorized to practice law and represent clients in legal matters. Source
Police misconduct Police misconduct involves inappropriate actions taken by police officers, such as abuse of authority, corruption, or violation of rights. Source
Wrongful death claim A wrongful death claim is a legal action brought when someone's negligence or misconduct causes another person's death. Source
Traumatic brain injury A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious injury to the brain caused by a sudden impact, leading to temporary or permanent impairment. Source

Personal injury attorney Okemos

Okemos (/ˈoʊkəməs/ OH-kə-məss) is a census-designated place (CDP) in Ingham County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population of the CDP was 25,121 at the 2020 census. Okemos is part of the urban area of Lansing–East Lansing, and is located nearby the campus of Michigan State University. Okemos is located mostly within Meridian Charter Township, with a small portion extending south into Alaiedon Township and east into Williamstown Township.

Okemos accident compensation attorney

Nearby Historic Landmarks

Nearby Historic Landmarks

Delta Center Methodist Church Historical Marker

Historical landmark
Delta Center Methodist Church Historical Marker, 704 S Canal Rd, Lansing, MI 48917

Delta Mills Park Historical Marker

Historical landmark

Historic Grand Ledge Water Tower

Historical landmark
Historic Grand Ledge Water Tower, Q744+F77, Grand Ledge, MI 48837


Citations and other links

Negligent death attorney Top personal injury attorneys Okemos

Negligent death attorney Top personal injury attorneys Okemos

Their team emphasizes the importance of acting swiftly. However, it's a good idea to call ahead and make an appointment to ensure you receive the undivided attention you deserve. And for those suffering due to medical mistakes or workplace accidents, The Clark Law Office brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, ensuring no stone is left unturned in your quest for justice. The landscape of personal injury law is constantly evolving, and having a top attorney by your side means you're equipped with someone who's not just skilled in the courtroom but also stays ahead of legal trends and changes. They take the time to understand the nuances of your case, diving deep into the details to build a strong foundation for your claim.

You've got the flexibility to call them directly or, if you prefer a bit more convenience, fill out the contact form available on their website. Moreover, your legal representative will handle all the heavy lifting, from meticulously gathering evidence to engaging with insurance companies. It involves standing up for your rights, ensuring your voice is heard, and pushing back against any attempts to minimize your suffering.

Top personal injury attorneys Okemos - Negligence lawyer

  • Personal injury lawsuit
  • Spinal cord injury attorney
  • Medical malpractice attorney
  • Free injury case review
  • Legal support for injury claims
  • Insurance claim lawyer
  • Negligence lawyer
  • Legal consultation for injury
  • Legal help for injured individuals
  • Medical expense lawyer
  • Fall accident lawyer
  • Injury law firm
  • Accident attorney
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Personal injury lawsuit
This is where The Clark Law Office shines, meticulously preparing to showcase the evidence that supports your claim.

This isn't just about the immediate aftermath but also the long-term effects on your health, employment, and overall well-being. This proactive approach ensures that you're not just another case number but a priority whose rights are vigorously defended. As we unpack the elements of their success, from the nuances of winning strategies to the pivotal role of evidence and the critical difference between settlements and verdicts, you'll discover the layers that contribute to their unparalleled track record. Their track record speaks for itself.

One standout victory involved a complex auto accident case, where they navigated the intricacies of Michigan's no-fault law to secure a seven-figure settlement for a client who suffered life-altering injuries. They don't just represent you in court; they're your neighbors, actively working to make Top personal injury attorneys Okemos a better place for everyone. We'll meticulously prepare your claim, ensuring it's backed by robust evidence and a clear argument for why you deserve more. Moreover, they're always available to answer your questions.

Personal injury legal expert

Insurance dispute attorney Top personal injury attorneys Okemos

From the moment you walk through their doors in Top personal injury attorneys Okemos, you're not just getting a lawyer; you're gaining a team dedicated to every aspect of your case. This attention to detail is crucial for building a strong case that truly represents your needs. However, settlements often result in lower compensation than what might be awarded by a jury verdict. Then there's Mike, who suffered a workplace injury that left him unable to return to his job. Legal help for injured individuals While our legal expertise sets us apart, it's our personalized client support that truly makes a difference in your journey to justice.

They understand the emotional and financial turmoil you're facing and are committed to standing by your side every step of the way.

Top personal injury attorneys Okemos - Top-rated personal injury lawyer

  1. Personal injury legal expert
  2. Personal injury lawsuit
  3. Spinal cord injury attorney
  4. Personal injury defense attorney
  5. Medical malpractice attorney
  6. Free injury case review
  7. Legal support for injury claims
  8. Insurance claim lawyer
  9. Negligence lawyer
  10. Legal consultation for injury
  11. Legal help for injured individuals
  12. Medical expense lawyer
  13. Fall accident lawyer
  14. Injury law firm
  15. Accident attorney
  16. Personal injury legal expert
The answer might surprise you. They're committed to keeping you informed and involved every step of the way, making sure you understand your options and the legal process ahead. With them by your side, you're not just recovering losses; you're reclaiming your peace of mind and future.

So, when you're faced with legal challenges, remember, having the right attorney can make all the difference in turning those obstacles into stepping stones toward achieving justice and securing your deserved compensation. Personal injury claims have a statute of limitations, meaning you've got a limited window to act. Navigating the treacherous waters of personal injury law can feel like being adrift in a stormy sea, but The Clark Law Office serves as a beacon of hope in Top personal injury attorneys Okemos, MI. With their award-winning personal injury legal services, The Clark Law Office not only aims to demystify the legal process for you but also to secure the compensation you deserve.

Among the legal community in Top personal injury attorneys Okemos, this top personal injury attorney has set a new standard with their unprecedented legal achievements. Their attorneys bring a dynamic blend of experience, skill, and tenacity to the table. Our approach is straightforward yet effective. With a keen eye for nuances in personal injury law, they craft approaches that are as unique as your situation.

Insurance dispute attorney Top personal injury attorneys Okemos
Top personal injury attorneys Okemos injury case attorney
Top personal injury attorneys Okemos injury case attorney

You're not just another case file to us; you're a person who deserves justice and compensation for your suffering. The Clark Law Office will help you compile this, including photos of the scene, witness statements, and medical records that highlight the extent of your injuries. Don't let a slip and fall derail your future; let The Clark Law Office help you stand strong. Don't rush into settlements without fully understanding the value of your claim.

Moreover, they're with you every step of the way. This is where your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering are tallied up to show the financial and emotional impact of their negligence. It's all about a combination of deep legal knowledge, personalized client strategies, and relentless advocacy.

We'll dissect the policy details, ensuring you're fully aware of your entitlements. The team's commitment to understanding and advocating for your compensation rights, backed by a track record of client success stories, signals a new chapter for residents of Top personal injury attorneys Okemos in search of justice. Fall accident lawyer Legal consultation for injury One client remarked, 'After my car accident, I felt overwhelmed.

We'll analyze similar cases and use established formulas to estimate a fair amount. Their approach is personalized, focusing on your specific needs and circumstances. At Clark Law Office, you'll receive unwavering client support that's second to none, ensuring you're never alone through your legal journey. Top-rated personal injury lawyer

trusted personal injury law firm Top personal injury attorneys Okemos

They might deny your claims, argue that someone else is to blame, or even assert that you contributed to your own injuries. At The Clark Law Office, we're committed to securing the financial recovery you deserve. Legal support for injury claims It's the small, everyday acts of kindness and support that truly underline their commitment.

Top personal injury attorneys Okemos - Accident lawyer for settlement

  1. Accident attorney
  2. Personal injury legal expert
  3. Personal injury lawsuit
  4. Spinal cord injury attorney
  5. Top-rated personal injury lawyer
  6. Truck accident lawyer
  7. Legal services for auto accidents
  8. Accident lawyer for settlement
  9. Personal injury defense attorney
  10. Medical malpractice attorney
  11. Free injury case review
  12. Legal support for injury claims
  13. Insurance claim lawyer
  14. Negligence lawyer
  15. Legal consultation for injury
  16. Legal help for injured individuals
  17. Medical expense lawyer
  18. Fall accident lawyer
  19. Injury law firm
Our approach involves gathering all necessary evidence, consulting with experts when needed, and employing cutting-edge legal technologies to strengthen your case. You generally have three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Injury law firm
After gathering all the necessary evidence, we'll guide you through the complex process of navigating insurance claims to ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to. We also consider non-economic damages. Your chosen attorney's ability to adapt and leverage these changes can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case. But remember, every case is unique.
This means you're never left in the dark, wondering what's happening or what comes next. To win your case, you'll need to prove four key elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. That's why they've dedicated resources to educate you on your rights and the legal process. That's why it's essential to get a skilled legal team on your side as soon as possible.
They've the expertise to negotiate with insurance companies, navigate legal complexities, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. The Clark Law Office boasts proven negotiation skills that often result in favorable settlements for their clients. Causation connects the breach directly to your injuries, and damages are the quantifiable losses you've suffered as a result. Their approach is tailored to your unique situation, recognizing that no two cases are alike.

Explore Top personal injury attorneys Okemos here

Top personal injury attorneys Okemos - Fall accident lawyer

  • Spinal cord injury attorney
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Personal injury lawsuit
  • Spinal cord injury attorney
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Personal injury lawsuit
  • Spinal cord injury attorney
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Personal injury lawsuit
  • Spinal cord injury attorney
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Personal injury lawsuit
  • Spinal cord injury attorney
  • Personal injury legal expert
  • Personal injury lawsuit
  • Spinal cord injury attorney
  • Personal injury legal expert
trusted personal injury law firm Top personal injury attorneys Okemos

Okemos, Michigan
The Red Cedar River flowing through Okemos.
The Red Cedar River flowing through Okemos.
Location within Ingham County
Location within Ingham County
Okemos is located in Michigan
Okemos
Okemos
Location within the state of Michigan
Okemos is located in the United States
Okemos
Okemos
Location within the United States
Coordinates: 42°42′21″N 84°24′49″W / 42.70583°N 84.41361°W / 42.70583; -84.41361[1]
CountryUnited States
StateMichigan
CountyIngham
TownshipsAlaiedon, Meridian, and Williamstown
Settled1839
Named forChief Okemos
Area
 • Total
17.01 sq mi (44.06 km2)
 • Land16.86 sq mi (43.66 km2)
 • Water0.15 sq mi (0.40 km2)
Elevation866 ft (264 m)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total
25,121
 • Density1,490.15/sq mi (575.37/km2)
Time zoneUTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
 • Summer (DST)UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP codes
48805, 48864
48895 (Williamston)
Area code517
FIPS code26-60340[3]
GNIS feature ID2393172[1]

Okemos (/ˈkəməs/ OH-kə-məss) is a census-designated place (CDP) in Ingham County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population of the CDP was 25,121 at the 2020 census. Okemos is part of the urban area of Lansing–East Lansing, and is located nearby the campus of Michigan State University. Okemos is located mostly within Meridian Charter Township, with a small portion extending south into Alaiedon Township and east into Williamstown Township.

Okemos contains its own post offices with the 48805 and 48864 ZIP Codes, as well as its own school district, Okemos Public Schools, that also serves portions of the surrounding area.

History

[edit]
Chief Okemos historic marker at the Four Corners of Okemos

Pioneer Freeman Bray platted the village in 1841, giving it the name of Hamilton. Residents called it Okemos, after chief John Okemos ("Little Chief"), of the Ojibway (Chippewa) people. In 1859, the State legislature officially named the village "Okemos" in honor of the chief.[4]

The Red Cedar River, a tributary of the Grand River, flows from east to west through Okemos.

Climate

[edit]

This climatic region is typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Okemos has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.[5]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note
201021,369
202025,12117.6%
U.S. Decennial Census[6]

As of the census[3] of 2010, there were 21,369 people, 8,824 households, and 5,416 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,274.7 inhabitants per square mile (492.2/km2). There were 9,384 housing units at an average density of 554.9 per square mile (214.2/km2). The racial makeup of the CDP was 76.5% White, 14.4% Asian, 5.1% Black or African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 1.1% from other races, and 2.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race were 3.3% of the population.

There were 9,194 households, out of which 31.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.3% were married couples living together, 6.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.6% were non-families. 25.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the CDP, 23.9% of the population was under the age of 18, 14.5% was from 18 to 24, 26.0% from 25 to 44, 25.9% from 45 to 64, and 9.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.1 males.

The median income for an average household in the CDP was $62,810, and the median income for a family was $88,459 (These figures had risen to $75,736 and $101,903 respectively as of a 2007 estimate[7]). Males had a median income of $60,601 versus $41,393 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $33,401. About 3.3% of families and 9.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.0% of those under age 18 and 0.5% of those age 65 or over.

In 2011, CNN Money Magazine rated Okemos as the 12th-best city to live in for "the rich and single".[8]

Education

[edit]
Okemos High School

Most of Okemos is served by Okemos Public Schools,[9] the district which operates Okemos High School.

Portions of the district for Okemos Public Schools extends into Alaiedon Township to the south, Williamstown Township to the east, and Haslett to the north.[9]

Notable people

[edit]

Points of interest

[edit]
  • Goetsch–Winckler House. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and of the earlier examples of his "Usonian" houses.
  • The Meridian Historical Village[18]
  • Meridian Farmers' Market[19]
  • Ferguson Park,[20] along the Red Cedar River on Okemos Road, is thought to be the meeting place where Chief Okemos and the war chiefs held their powwows.[citation needed] The park is part of the oldest settlement in the area along the plank road between Detroit and the Capitol in Lansing.[citation needed]
  • The Hamilton Building at 2160 Hamilton Road (near the Four Corners of Okemos), is the oldest commercial building in Okemos, and replaced the old Walker General Store, which was built in 1853. The Hamilton Building held its first ice cream social on June 11, 1904, and was built to house the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, a charity organization. The planks in the building are from the walnut grove on which it sits. Along with Ferguson Park, it is also part of the oldest settlement in the area along the old plank road between Detroit and the Capitol in Lansing.
  • Meridian Mall
  • The Hope Borbas Okemos branch[21] of the Capital Area District Library

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Okemos, Michigan
  2. ^ "2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved May 21, 2022.
  3. ^ a b "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  4. ^ How Okemos Began: A Short History, Retrieved March 17, 2023
  5. ^ "Okemos, Michigan Köppen Climate Classification (Weatherbase)". Weatherbase. Retrieved May 23, 2019.
  6. ^ "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2016.
  7. ^ 2005-2007 American Community Survey 3-Year Estimates, United States Census Bureau
  8. ^ "Best places for the rich and single". CNNMoney. Retrieved May 23, 2019.
  9. ^ a b "2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Ingham County, MI" (PDF). U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved February 27, 2023.
  10. ^ "r/rupaulsdragrace - Cute moment shared between Short Change and Kim Chi". reddit. March 26, 2019. Retrieved May 7, 2020.
  11. ^ a b "Fruity Drag Art Transformation (ft. Kim Chi) + MAKEUP GIVEAWAY". YouTube. Archived from the original on December 5, 2021.
  12. ^ Atwood, Sarah (April 24, 2024). "Okemos grad Alma Cooper crowned Miss Michigan, hopes to uplift 'girls of color'". Lansing State Journal.
  13. ^ "About". James Hynes. Retrieved March 18, 2018.
  14. ^ "SETH MEYERS BIO, CHILDHOOD, FAMILY, EDUCATION, CAREER, RELATIONSHIP, AND ONLINE PRESENCE". Famebytes.com. October 11, 2018. Retrieved January 19, 2020.
  15. ^ Montoya, Maria C. and David Cuthbert. "Theater Guy: Loyola stages Heather Raffo's nine-character monologue play Archived 2014-04-13 at the Wayback Machine." The Times-Picayune. February 23, 2008. Retrieved on April 13, 2014.
  16. ^ Paulson, Steven K. (February 14, 1997). "JonBenet prosecutor vents anger". Lansing State Journal. Associated Press. p. 4A. Retrieved January 10, 2019 – via Newspapers.com. Free access icon
  17. ^ Jennings, Zeke (December 10, 2012). "A Q&A with Okemos native Ben Schneider, whose band Lord Huron is on the rise". mlive. Retrieved September 5, 2023.
  18. ^ "Meridian Historic Village". Archived from the original on September 28, 2007. Retrieved August 2, 2007.
  19. ^ "Meridian Farmers' Market | Meridian Township, MI". June 2, 2024. Archived from the original on June 2, 2024. Retrieved June 2, 2024.
  20. ^ "Ferguson Park - Charter Township of Meridian". Archived from the original on March 20, 2016. Retrieved March 29, 2020.
  21. ^ "Okemos Library — CADL Website". December 12, 2007. Archived from the original on December 12, 2007. Retrieved May 23, 2019.
[edit]

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

Yes, there are specific types of personal injury cases the attorney won't handle. You'd have to check their services or directly ask them to see if your case falls into their area of expertise.

If you're not tech-savvy, The Clark Law Office ensures you're still informed through traditional communication methods like phone calls and postal mail, making sure you receive all updates and information in a way that suits you.

You typically won't pay upfront costs for a personal injury case. Attorneys usually work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case, taking a percentage of the settlement.