When you get injured, an additional layer of stress is added to every aspect of your life. There’s the physical pain and discomfort you experience while performing everyday activities. There’s the lost time and wages stacking up with each day you need to recuperate. Knowing how to handle these situations and having the right personal injury lawyer on your side helping you navigate the complexities of seeking compensation is key in order to stay sane. Here are some of the most common myths our clients often repeat when they come to our office, so you know what’s real and what’s not.

Common Myths In Personal Injury Law

1. A “no fee guarantee” is not the norm

Unfortunately, many law firms themselves perpetuate this myth in bad faith. Some less savory attorneys may use their “no win, no fee” arrangement as a selling point when trying to snag clients - without pointing out how this model is actually the industry standard. If a personal injury firm does NOT work on a contingency fee basis, you need to start asking questions. The majority of personal injury lawyers take their fee out of the settlement, so they don’t get paid unless your case is successfully settled. This means they should only take on cases they believe will win. Some law firms may demand up-front fees and insist on you covering expenses out-of-pocket, even if they lose - you should avoid them (excuse the pun) at all costs.

2. Legal fees are up for negotiation

The maxim “You get what you pay for” holds true with legal representation. Law firms that offer a discount on their fees should be side-eyed. Remember that discounts are typically only possible if the firm is taking shortcuts or cutting corners in ways that lessen its likelihood of success and may lower your settlement. If the law firm offers to process your case for a lower fee than should be profitable for them, they may be neglecting essential leads and damage the outcome of your case.

3. All personal injury law firms are the same

Personal injury and employment law are vast and complex fields. Having a personal injury lawyer who is not just experienced, but has a good track record in your particular type of injury is essential. Laws and regulations vary significantly from state to state, so it’s important to find a local law firm who is familiar with the specific set of circumstances surrounding your case. Some law firms may claim to be a specialist in a specific field, and then outsource the case to a cheaper lawyer. This means you could end up being represented by a lawyer who is less experienced and has zero personal connection to you, while the larger firm takes a hefty chunk of commission. You should always speak to the attorney who is handling your case personally, and they should always be open to communication and answering any questions you have.

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Finding a good personal injury lawyer can feel daunting while recovering from your injuries and trying to piece your life back together. Unfortunately, there are less scrupulous law firms out there that take advantage of individuals going through a tough time and perpetuate these myths. The Law Office of Ball & Yorke has extensive experience in California personal injury and employment law and a proven track record of helping clients successfully recover the compensation that they deserve. Call The Law Office of Ball & Yorke to schedule a consultation today.