With 214,133 people and 62 constituent neighborhoods, Des Moines is a relatively big city located in the state of Iowa.
If you have ever been injured in an accident, you may be considering hiring a personal injury lawyer. If this is the problem, you should keep a few things in mind before deciding.
This blog post will discuss how to hire a Des Moines personal injury lawyer and what to consider when making your decision. It will provide some tips for choosing the right lawyer for your needs.
1. Experience
You want to find a lawyer with experience in this type of case. They will know what to expect and how to represent you best if they have handled similar cases before.
You also want to consider if the lawyer is a good fit for you personally. Do you feel comfortable with them? Do they seem like they care about your case and you as a person?
For example, there are many personal injury cases like:
- Car accidents
- Slip and fall cases
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace injuries
If you were in an accident, you would want to find a lawyer who has experience with that case. The same applies to the other types of cases. Make sure to ask about their experience when you meet them.
2. Reputation
Personal injury lawyers that have been in practice for many years and have a good reputation are usually a safe bet. You can ask around town or check online to see what others have said about the lawyer.
When looking at reviews, try to find detailed ones and give specific examples of what the lawyer did well or things they could improve on.
The first step is to do research and ask around for referrals. Once you have a few potential lawyers in mind, schedule consultations with each one so you can learn more about their experience and evaluate whether they would be a good fit for your case.
3. Fees
The average salary is $1,01,853 in Des Moines, IA. How much you pay your lawyer depends on their experience and the severity of your case. If you have a complicated legal issue, you can expect to pay more than if you have a simple one. You should also consider whether you want to hire a lawyer who works on contingency or charges an hourly rate.
Contingency fees are fixed in personal injury cases. Your lawyer will not charge you for their services unless they win your case. They will take a percentage of the settlement or verdict if they win. The average contingency fee is 33%, but it can range from 25% to 40%.
Hourly rates vary based on the lawyer’s experience and location. In Des Moines, the average hourly rate for an attorney is $270. If you have a simple case, you may be able to get it by paying a lower hourly rate. However, if your case is complex, you will likely have to pay a higher rate.
4. Hours of Operation
What are the hours of operation for the firm? Are they available 24/-hours a day? Is there someone on call in case of an emergency? You will want to know that you can reach someone when you need them from the firm.
When hiring a Des Moines personal injury lawyer, hours of operation are essential. You will want to make sure that the firm you consider is available when you need them.
5. Communication Skills
Does the lawyer or their staff return your calls promptly? Do they keep you updated on your case? Are they available to answer your questions?
It is essential to communicate with your injury lawyer easily and feel comfortable asking anything about the case.
6. What Is The Strategy Of Their Work?
The law firm’s strategy should be designed specifically for your case, and it should be clear how they plan on handling it.
For example, a strategy will include:
- Investigating the accident and collecting evidence
- Locating and interviewing witnesses
- Identifying all liable parties
- Calculating your damages (medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, etc.)
- Drafting demand letters to the at-fault party’s insurance company
- Negotiating a fair settlement on your behalf
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit, if necessary
The attorney should be able to explain their strategy in detail and answer any questions you have.
Conclusion
Personal injury lawyers in Des Moines can be found through many mediums. The crucial factor in finding the best fit for you is researching and ensuring that you are comfortable with your choice. Ask for recommendations, and be sure to read reviews online before deciding.