A first point to note is that it is not only law firms who are competing for your business, but also claim referral agencies. These agencies act as middlemen by selling on your claim to law firms. It is advisable to go to a law firm directly, as referral agencies may sell on your claim to the highest bidding firm rather than the firm that will give you the best service and representation. So – do your own research, and choose the right firm for you. I have listed below some things to look out for when choosing your lawyers:
100% of your compensation – the compensation you are awarded is meant to put you in the position you would have been in had the accident not taken place. Therefore, it is only right that you get 100% of it – no deductions, no hidden chares.
No costs to pay – before you instruct any firm and agree to their no win, no fee agreement, you should check the paperwork fully to ensure that you will not have to pay any of your solicitor’s costs. A good place to check is if the costs are restricted – if they are not, your solicitor may be able to come to you for the remainder of what they are not able to recover from the other side.
Service Standards – You should ask your law firm what standards they have in place in order to give good client care. If they are unable to answer you, this may tell you a lot about the firm. What you are looking for are fantastic standards, such as updating you, say every 2 weeks for example, or returning your calls within 24 hours.
Extras – There may be some added extras which a good law firm will offer to set themselves apart from the rest. These extras may be that they will arrange private medical treatment at no cost to yourself, or arrange for your vehicle repairs to be sorted out as part of your claim.