Previously, we discussed objective guideposts, markers, and reasons for hiring a lawyer. In this second installment of Bicyclist's Guide to Hiring an Injury Lawyer, learn about more hiring tips, questions to ask, and pitfalls you need to watch out for to help you in your decision making.
“Remember you get to make the call whether you settle or not, but having a good lawyer and getting to a good lawyer right away makes a big difference.” - Richard Duquette
Fee discounts seem very tempting from the outset. However, you need to tread carefully in order to avoid being deceived. First and foremost, you want to probe for a written, clearly defined fee structure of these discount lawyers.
Why demand a clear fee structure? There are a few hazards that you might overlook if you don’t. You can be lured into saying yes to a discount entailing non-quality service, the risk of getting stuck with a losing case, and false promises of high net recovery.
Riding the coattails of a credible non-profit organization is one of the most common ways by which discount lawyers secure clients. You contact this group referral program and you may be passed to an inexperienced attorney. Some discount lawyers get placements by paying for endorsements or splitting fees with marketing lawyers under the table. Ask for written disclosures of the total fee structure and referral incentives. There are laws that govern “fee splitting” and “referral services”.
This kind of “referral program” will not only hurt your wallet, it feeds lawyers who bear no actual responsibility for your case. They also put you at the mercy of an attorney with no real case interest or responsibility.
Your trial lawyer needs to understand your perspective as a bicyclist so they can convince the jury with your story. How else will they be able to defend your case without knowledge of your personal cycling experience while on the road?
Download and listen to Bicyclist's Guide to Hiring an Injury Lawyer, Part 2 to understand better why you shouldn’t settle for discount lawyers
Links for Bicyclist's Guide to Hiring an Injury Lawyer, Part 2:
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