How To Choose a Law Firm For Your Injury Lawsuit, Class Action or Mass Tort Case

• What is the firm's track record of success in cases like mine?
• Are the attorneys at the firm experienced in handling personal injury or mass tort cases?
• How much do the attorneys at the firm charge, and what is the firm's billing structure?
• How will the firm keep me informed about the progress of my case?
• What is the firm's approach to negotiating settlements and going to trial?
• Can the firm provide references or testimonials from other clients who have been satisfied with their services?
• How does the firm handle communication and client service?
• Is the firm conveniently located and accessible?

These questions are not included in the comparison matrix provided earlier, as they are focused on more specific aspects of the law firm and its services. By asking these questions and seeking answers from the law firms that you are considering, you can gain a better understanding of the firm's experience, approach, and client service, and make an informed decision about which firm is the best fit for your needs.

What are some pitfalls to watch out for in a lawyer engagement contract?

There are several potential pitfalls to watch out for in a lawyer engagement contract for personal injury claims. Some common pitfalls include:

• Unclear or ambiguous language: The contract should be written in clear and concise language that is easy to understand. Avoid contracts with vague or ambiguous terms that could be open to interpretation or leave room for misunderstandings.
• Unreasonable fees or billing practices: Be wary of contracts that include high fees or billing practices that are not transparent or fair. For example, some contracts may include hidden fees, such as administrative or overhead costs, that are not clearly disclosed.
• Limited scope of services: Some contracts may limit the scope of services that the lawyer will provide, which could impact the quality of representation and the outcome of your case. Make sure the contract clearly outlines the services that the lawyer will provide, and that these services are sufficient to meet your needs.
• Unfavorable dispute resolution provisions: Be careful of contracts that include dispute resolution provisions that are not favorable to you. For example, some contracts may require you to waive your right to a trial by jury or to participate in arbitration or mediation, which could limit your ability to seek justice and compensation.
• Unfair termination clauses: Be cautious of contracts that include termination clauses that are not fair or reasonable. For example, some contracts may allow the lawyer to terminate the contract at any time, without cause, which could leave you without representation and vulnerable to losing your case.

By carefully reviewing the contract and watching out for these potential pitfalls, you can protect your rights and interests and ensure that you receive the best possible representation for your personal injury claim.

What is a contingency fee and how do they work?

Contingency fee structures are commonplace throughout the legal industry. If you have never heard of this term, it basically means that the lawyer offering you services will only charge a fee if your claim is successful. Therefore, the fee itself is "contingent" on victory.

Contingent fees allow for greater flexibility, as most people do not have the liquid assets needed to pay a lawyer upfront. Although you cannot get out of paying if you win the case, lawyers who offer contingent fee structures will not cost you anything if you lose.

Why do some law firms charge 40% and others only charge 20%?

The percentage of fees that a law firm charges for personal injury or mass tort cases can vary for a number of reasons. Some factors that may affect the percentage of fees that a law firm charges include:

• The firm's experience and reputation: Law firms with more experience and a strong reputation may charge higher fees, as they may have a track record of success and be able to provide high-quality representation.
• The complexity of the case: Cases that are more complex, such as those involving multiple parties or significant damages, may require more time and resources, and may therefore be subject to higher fees.
• The location of the firm: Law firms in larger cities or areas with higher costs of living may charge higher fees to cover their overhead expenses.
• The firm's billing structure: Some law firms may charge a higher percentage of fees, but offer more flexible or transparent billing practices, such as contingency fees or flat fees.

Overall, the percentage of fees that a law firm charges can vary depending on a number of factors, and it is important to carefully review the terms of the contract and compare fees from different firms before making a decision.