Call for Consultation (337) 366-8994
Call for Consultation (337) 366-8994
Car accidents can be life-altering events, leading to significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. When faced with such a situation, choosing the right lawyer is essential to making sure that you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.
Chad Ikerd and the Ikerd Law Firm have years of experience helping persons injured in car wrecks, who, through no fault of their own, have life-altering, forever-lasting pain.
A relationship with an attorney and a law firm is just that, it’s a “relationship.” It will most likely last for a long time, possibly years. You will talk and meet frequently, work together as a team, and need to trust one another.
An unhappy relationship, whether with a spouse or an attorney, is never fun. That is why you want to find someone who is the right fit for you!
Someone who believes in communication with their clients, someone who will take the time to explain the confusing litigation process, and someone who gives a damn about you and your case. You do not want some billboard lawyer who only knows you as a case number.
At the Ikerd Law Firm, we pride ourselves on client-centered representation.
We strive to communicate with our clients in whatever way is best for them. We are always accessible for a detailed meeting breaking down the case, or a quick text with an update on settlement negotiations.
These are the types of features you should look for in a personal injury attorney. In fact, you must insist on them. If you only hear from your attorney when something goes wrong, or when the insurance adjuster is ready to settle, there is no way to guarantee your attorney knows your story well enough to advocate for full compensation.
Below are some of the things we think you should consider when hiring your attorney after a wreck or injury.
Louisiana’s legal landscape presents unique challenges and opportunities for car accident victims. The state follows a comparative fault system—this means a plaintiff’s compensation can be reduced by their percentage of fault in the accident.
Additionally, Louisiana’s liberative prescription (or “statutes of limitations,” as it are known in other states) deadlines for filing car accident claims are relatively strict. Up until July 1, 2024, Louisiana had one of the shortest time periods in the country: 1 year from the wreck or injury.
However, the Legislature changed the law in 2024 to increase the time to 2 years to file a lawsuit from the date of the accident. See La. Civil Code arts. 3493.11 – 3493.12. This change will give you and your attorney more time to develop your case, complete medical treatment, and gather facts before filing suit.
These factors, combined with the state’s distinct insurance laws and legal procedures, underscore the importance of securing knowledgeable legal representation.
A car accident lawyer’s primary role is to provide legal representation and advocacy for their clients. This includes representing you in all legal proceedings, ensuring that your rights are protected, and working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
A competent lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to negotiating with insurance companies and presenting your case in court if necessary.
Part of a car accident lawyer’s job involves negotiating settlements with insurance companies and opposing parties. Negotiation can secure a fair and just settlement that compensates you for your losses. Your lawyer will leverage their knowledge and experience to advocate for your best interests and aim to resolve your case without the need for lengthy litigation.
In cases where a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will prepare to take your case to court. This involves gathering evidence, deposing witnesses, and formulating a strong legal strategy. Your lawyer’s ability to present a compelling case in court can significantly impact the outcome, making it essential to choose someone with trial experience and a track record of success in litigation.
You need a car accident lawyer who has a deep understanding of the specific laws, procedures, and strategies relevant to your case. They will be familiar with the common challenges and nuances of car accident claims, allowing them to provide more effective representation.
The law school a lawyer attended can provide some insight into their background and training. While it is not the only factor to consider, attending a reputable law school can indicate a strong legal foundation.
Continuing legal education (CLE) is essential for lawyers to keep abreast of the latest legal developments. Make sure your prospective lawyer consistently engages in CLE programs to keep their knowledge and skills current. This dedication to ongoing education reflects a commitment to offering the highest quality representation for their clients.
Membership in legal organizations, such as the Louisiana Association for Justice or the American Association for Justice, can indicate a lawyer’s commitment to their profession and their clients. These organizations also provide resources, training, and support that can enhance a lawyer’s ability to represent you effectively.
Recognition and awards from reputable organizations can further validate a lawyer’s skills and achievements. Look for lawyers who have received accolades for their work in personal injury law; this can be a strong indicator of their competence and dedication.
A lawyer’s track record of successful outcomes or cases is a strong indicator of their competence and effectiveness. Look for a lawyer who has consistently achieved favorable settlements and verdicts for their clients. This demonstrates their ability to handle cases similar to yours and achieve positive results.
Client testimonials provide valuable insights into a lawyer’s performance and client satisfaction. Positive reviews and testimonials from previous clients can give you confidence in the lawyer’s ability to handle your case effectively.
Pay attention to comments about the lawyer’s communication skills, responsiveness, and overall professionalism.
In addition to client testimonials, peer reviews from other lawyers can offer an objective assessment of a lawyer’s skills and reputation within the legal community.
Choose a lawyer who is responsive to your inquiries and keeps you informed about the progress of your case. Prompt and clear communication helps build trust and ensures that you are always aware of important developments.
Accessibility is another critical factor to consider. Your lawyer should be available for regular meetings and updates, whether in person, over the phone, or via email. This accessibility allows you to discuss your case, ask questions, and receive timely updates on the status of your claim.
Many car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This arrangement can be beneficial, since it aligns the lawyer’s interests with yours and ensures that you do not have to pay upfront legal fees.
Understand the specific terms of the contingency fee agreement, including the percentage the lawyer will earn from your settlement or verdict. Choose a lawyer who provides clear and detailed information about their fees, including any additional costs that may arise during the course of your case. This transparency will help you make an informed decision and manage your expectations regarding legal expenses.
Before your initial consultation, gather all relevant documents related to your case. This includes police reports, medical records, insurance policies, correspondence with insurance companies, and any other documentation that may support your claim. Providing these documents to your lawyer will help them understand the specifics of your case and offer more accurate advice.
The questions should cover the lawyer’s experience, approach to handling car accident cases, fees, and any other concerns you may have. Asking these questions will help you assess the lawyer’s qualifications and determine if they are the right fit for your case.
During the consultation, pay attention to the lawyer’s communication style.
Are they clear, concise, and easy to understand?
Do they listen to your concerns and answer your questions thoroughly?
A lawyer with a compatible communication style will make the legal process more manageable.
Evaluate the lawyer’s understanding of your case specifics.
Do they grasp the details and complexities of your situation?
Do they offer insights and strategies that align with your goals?
A lawyer who demonstrates a thorough understanding of your case is more likely to provide effective representation.
Assess how nice and welcoming an attorney’s staff (receptionist, secretary, paralegal, junior associate) is when you initially interact with them. Frankly, a lot of your communications will be with staff at the law firm in order to ensure the attorney has time to work the file. If you do not get a good “customer service” vibe from the team around a potential attorney, that may be a sign to look for someone else.
Discuss potential approaches to your case during the consultation.
How does the lawyer plan to handle your claim?
What strategies do they recommend?
Understanding their approach will help you determine if their methods align with your expectations and if they are capable of achieving the desired outcome.
Ask about the expected timeline for your case and the potential outcomes.
While no lawyer can guarantee specific results, they should be able to provide a realistic assessment based on their experience. Understanding the timeline and possible outcomes will help you set realistic expectations and plan accordingly.
Be wary of lawyers who make unrealistic promises or guarantees about the outcome of your case. While confidence is important, no lawyer can guarantee specific results. Honest and realistic assessments are more indicative of a trustworthy and competent lawyer.
Transparency is important in the attorney-client relationship. Avoid lawyers who are evasive or unclear about their fees, billing practices, or case strategy. A lawyer who is not forthcoming with information may not have your best interests at heart.
Effective communication is essential for a successful legal process. If a lawyer has poor communication skills, it can lead to misunderstandings and frustration. Choose a lawyer who communicates clearly, promptly, and professionally.
Research the lawyer’s disciplinary history and any complaints filed against them. Disciplinary actions or a history of complaints can be red flags that indicate potential issues with their practice. Check with the Louisiana State Bar Association or other relevant bodies for this information.
After researching and consulting with multiple lawyers, compare the shortlisted candidates. Weigh the pros and cons of each lawyer based on their experience, reputation, communication style, fees, and any other factors that are important to you. This comparison will help you identify the lawyer who best meets your needs.
Personal comfort and confidence in your lawyer are essential. Choose a lawyer with whom you feel comfortable discussing your case and confident in their ability to represent you effectively. Trust your instincts and consider how you feel about each lawyer after the consultations.
Feeling secure in your choice of lawyer is vital for your peace of mind. Trust your instincts and choose a lawyer who instills confidence and trust. A strong attorney-client relationship is built on mutual respect and trust, which are crucial for a successful outcome.
Remember that your choice of lawyer can have long-term implications for your case and your life. Selecting the right lawyer increases your chances of a favorable outcome and ensures that you receive the compensation and justice you deserve. Take the time to make an informed decision that you will be satisfied with in the long run.
Choosing the right lawyer is a decision that requires careful consideration. Take your time to research, consult, and evaluate potential lawyers to ensure that you make an informed choice. The effort you put into selecting the right lawyer will pay off in the form of better representation and a higher likelihood of a successful outcome.
Need help with your car accident case? Give the Ikerd Law Firm a call at (337) 366-8994.
