Hiring a Houston car accident attorney should be easy, right? With so many to choose from, every victim of a car accident should be able to hire an attorney they feel comfortable with. However, there are certain red flags to look for when meeting with attorneys. If you notice any of these flags, select another attorney.
Although an experienced attorney can give an estimate as to how much a car accident victim may be able to obtain in compensation, they should never guarantee an amount. Too many factors go into determining the settlement, and no person can predict what others will do in the courtroom. If an attorney states that they can guarantee a particular amount, it’s time to look elsewhere for representation.
Lack of Communication
Being unable to reach the attorney when a problem arises is frustrating, and in certain situations, time may be of the essence. Not being able to reach the attorney in these situations can be disastrous for the case. While attorneys do spend time in court and are sometimes unreachable as a result, they should be able to return a phone call or an email within 24 hours during the week. One missed appointment is usually enough to hire a new attorney.
Billing Questions
When hiring an accident attorney, clients must ask about billing practices. Most attorneys taking on car accident cases work on a contingency basis. However, the client may be responsible for certain expenses, regardless of whether the case is won or lost. This may include court filing fees, fees for expert witnesses, and more. Be sure this information is included in the written contract, or that it clearly states the client is not responsible for anything if the case is lost, to ensure no disputes arise in the future.
Set up a consultation with an attorney from a reputable firm, like Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner. Doing so allows you to compare and contrast the different styles and personalities of these individuals. By meeting with multiple professionals in the field, you’ll be able to find the right one for your situation.
