In 2024, around 400,000 personal injury claims were filed in the United States. As more people file personal injury claims, having an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side can make a big difference in getting fair payment. But what exactly makes someone a good personal injury lawyer? There are a few key qualities to look for when picking the right lawyer to handle your case. With the prevalence of personal injury cases on the rise, it’s important to understand how to select an attorney who can maximize your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Contents
Experience and Specialization
One very important factor is choosing a lawyer who exclusively handles personal injury cases. Personal injury law is complicated, so lawyers need many years of specialized experience to develop the legal skills and knowledge required. Over the past 5 years, the amount of money made by personal injury lawyers grew by about 2% each year, reaching approximately $57.3 billion in 2024. With revenue rising steadily in this field, lawyers are increasingly able to focus entirely on personal injury litigation and become experts. Go with a lawyer whose whole practice is dedicated to personal injury cases.
Resources and Reputation
The right personal injury lawyer will have the staff and resources to thoroughly examine your claim, build a strong case, and be ready to go to court if needed. Look for a personal injury lawyer with a good reputation for getting favorable results and settlements for previous clients. A lawyer who has a proven history of success in getting large settlements and court wins in similar cases shows they have the skills and resources to effectively argue your case too.
Negotiation Skills
While some personal injury cases do end up going to trial, many are settled outside of court through lawyers negotiating. It’s key to have a personal injury lawyer who is a skilled negotiator, pushing for the maximum payment you deserve while resolving your claim efficiently. Strong negotiation skills are especially important given that the average personal injury settlement amount has steadily risen to around $113,391 based on 2016 to 2023 data. An experienced negotiator can often get you a larger settlement, avoiding a lengthy trial.
Compassion and Communication
Beyond legal expertise, the ideal personal injury lawyer will show real compassion and concern for you as their client. They will listen carefully, clearly explain legal processes, and consistently update you on your case. As your claim aims to compensate you for injuries and losses that have disrupted your life, your lawyer should handle your case sensitively and caringly.
With the number of adults 65 and over expected to rise between 2025 and 2030, potentially increasing malpractice cases and expanding the market for personal injury lawyers, having a lawyer with the right legal acumen and people skills becomes even more important. Keep these factors in mind as you evaluate personal injury lawyers and select the best one to fight for the payment you deserve. With the right lawyer on your side, you can move forward with your claim confidently.
