Were you injured because of a defective product? Did you sustain injuries in a traffic mishap in Chicago? Did the neighbor’s dog launch an attack on you? Are you a victim of police misconduct? These are some of the typical situations when you may have to file a claim to recover damages. From your medical bills and treatment costs to loss of work and pain & suffering, your compensation is meant to cover everything you had to endure due to someone’s fault. Your first step should be to consult a Chicago personal injury lawyer, and before you hire someone, here are five pointers to remember.
- You don’t pay anything for case review: Most law firms that work on injury claims in the city do not charge a fee for reviewing cases. The first meeting with the lawyer is always free, and it gives you the chance to ask questions and know them better. You can also ask whether the case has merit and what you can expect when filing it.
- You should always pay attention to profiles: Lawyers handle different injury cases. Some are more versed with auto accident claims, while others may deal with product defect or slip & fall claims. Make sure to choose someone who has particular experience and a reasonable success rate.
- You must ask about the trial experience: Lawyers often settle personal injury lawsuits outside of court. However, in some situations, the matter may go to trial, and you must be prepared for that. Ask the attorney if they have represented clients in court and about the outcomes of such trials.
- You will pay a contingency fee: The attorney’s fee is based entirely on the outcome. If you win and recover money, the lawyer gets a percentage, which is agreed upon before they come on board. In other words, you don’t need immediate money to retain a lawyer.
- You should hire a lawyer sooner: The statute of limitations allows a two-year deadline for injury lawsuits in Illinois. However, it is best to engage an attorney immediately, as they will have the time to investigate and gather evidence. Early action is critical after accidents.
Final word
Lawyers can negotiate better with insurance companies and do the paperwork without the usual mistakes. We strongly suggest that you research and choose a law firm that’s based in Chicago and has a team to help you further.
