Defective products are responsible for thousands of deaths and millions of injuries every single year. Thankfully, if you were seriously hurt because something you purchased did not work as intended or was negligently labeled, you may have grounds for a product liability claim.
Of course, with so much at stake, it’s wise to seek legal counsel before getting started. But if you’ve never needed a personal injury attorney before, you may be unsure of what to look for in representation.
Let’s take a look at some of the most important qualities to consider when evaluating lawyers so you’ll know when you’ve found the right one to take your case:
1. Applicable Experience
Not all personal injury firms are equipped to take on product liability cases. Going up against major corporations poses unique challenges that demand strategic solutions.
During your initial consultation, make sure to ask how much of the attorney’s casework pertains to defective products. While every claim is unique, it is important that the law firm has at least handled cases within that practice area.
2. Integrity
A lawyer who practices with integrity will never promise to achieve a particular outcome for a client. You will know that you’ve found an attorney with integrity if he or she is willing to discuss all possible outcomes with openness and honesty. While your legal team may be able to estimate a settlement amount based on the potential value of your claim, they should never guarantee a sizable payout.
3. Availability
Every client deserves to feel like a priority, regardless of how many other clients the lawyer is actually representing. During your first meeting, find out if the attorney will provide you with a direct means of contact. If not, ask how long the team usually takes to respond to inquiries. When questions and concerns arise over the course of the proceedings—and they inevitably will—you deserve answers promptly.
4. Trial Experience
Most personal injury claims are resolved before trial. As long as you are able to present sufficient evidence of liability, causation, and damages, there’s a good chance yours will be, too. Should the opposing party have reason to challenge one or more aspects of your claim, though, the settlement negotiations might not be successful.
If this turns out to be the case, filing a formal lawsuit may be the only way to pursue the compensation you deserve. Therefore, it’s wise to look for a seasoned litigator who’s willing to see your case through to the end, even if that means going to trial.
Call 864-585-3873 for a Free Consultation with a Product Liability Lawyer
At Hodge & Langley Law Firm, we are committed to helping consumers hold negligent product designers, manufacturers, and retailers accountable. If you are recovering from serious injuries after using a defective product, call us at 864-585-3873 or fill out our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a product liability attorney.