Have you filed or are you thinking about filing a personal injury case? What are some of the things that will likely come your way over the course of your case? Although you cannot see into the future, it will nonetheless benefit you to examine things that are typical in personal injury cases so you will know what to expect.

Asking for a referral for a reputable attorney from a family member, friend, neighbor or colleague is a great way to find a personal injury lawyer. If you can find someone who has gone through a personal injury case, he will be able to help provide you with valuable information including how he found his attorney and how their court case went.

Take a second to ask your friends and family about any recommendations that they might have. Personal injury lawyers come in all shapes, sizes, and varieties: you might need a trusted friend’s opinion to find the right one for you. Make sure it’s someone you know is trustworthy and has no financial motivations.

Contact your local state bar and ask whether they have any referral services with relevant recommendations. Of course, you still need to spend a few moments researching any referral that you receive. Check the recommendation’s background and qualifications prior to establishing contacts. This is a great way to find reputable professionals in the industry.

Although personal injury lawyers advertise in the yellow pages, the better way to find a good lawyer is through word of mouth. If you don’t know anyone who has used a personal injury lawyer, check with the local bar association. They may be able to point you in the right direction.

Getting along with your lawyer is key, but there is something more you have to look for. Choose an attorney who truly listens to what you say. If they ever appear to not be listening, don’t choose that lawyer. While they may think they know it all, typically people with that belief are those who know the least.

If you set up an initial appointment with an attorney, ask about their fees upfront. You do not want any surprises later. Some lawyers will work on a contingency basis for personal injuries. That means you will not need any money upfront, and the lawyer gets paid only if you do as well.

Choose a lawyer who talks less and listens more. You’ll find that a lawyer who talks your ear off is one who also talks too much at trial, which can be to the detriment of your case. A lawyer who listens to what you have to say will be able to use your evidence better at trial.

One of the first things people often want to know when they approach a lawyer about a personal injury case is what exactly they can expect to happen over the course of their case. You have already been through enough with your injury! You owe it to yourself to take some of the guesswork and mystery out of this legal process.