Don’t Be a Victim Twice – Picking the Wrong Personal Injury Law Firm
Choosing the right personal injury attorney after an accident is critical. The attorney you hire can directly impact your compensation and the overall outcome of your case. Many people make avoidable mistakes when selecting a lawyer, such as rushing the process, failing to research, or choosing based on convenience or advertising alone. Below are the most common pitfalls — and how to avoid them — so you can make an informed decision and protect your rights.
National Firms Aren’t Always Better
National personal injury firms often:
- Focus on volume rather than individual attention
- Assign your case to junior attorneys or staff
- Deliver delayed or generic updates
Clients may feel like just another case file. Local firms, on the other hand, often provide more responsive and personalized service.
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Personal Injury Lawyer
- Hiring a Lawyer Without Personal Injury Experience
Personal injury law requires specific skills like investigating liability, understanding medical evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and courtroom experience. Not all lawyers have this focus or expertise. Always ask about the attorney’s experience with personal injury cases, trial history, and success with claims similar to yours. - Assuming All Attorneys Are the Same
Lawyers specialize in different areas. An attorney skilled in family law or criminal defense may not be suited for complex personal injury claims, which often involve medical and legal nuances. Don’t assume any licensed attorney can handle your case well—ask about their personal injury background and compare several attorneys before deciding. - Choosing Based on Location Alone
While proximity is convenient, the best personal injury lawyers often handle cases across counties and offer virtual consultations. Experience, resources, and dedication matter more than office location. - Ignoring Communication and Accessibility
Poor communication is a top complaint against lawyers. Your attorney should:
- Clearly explain who handles your case day to day
- Provide regular updates
- Be accessible for questions
Feeling informed and supported is crucial.
- Overlooking Resources and Support Staff
A strong case requires more than legal knowledge; it often involves experts like medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and investigators. Solo attorneys without these resources may struggle to build a strong claim. Ask how the lawyer plans to investigate and support your case. - Being Swayed by Advertising or Firm Size
Don’t choose a lawyer just because of flashy ads or a big firm name. Large firms might have many clients, limiting personal attention. Smaller or boutique firms can provide more dedicated service. - Failing to Check Credentials, Reputation, and Track Record
Research attorneys’ disciplinary records, client reviews, and past case results. Avoid lawyers with questionable conduct or poor reviews. Look for consistent success in settlements and trials. - Choosing Based Solely on Cost
Many personal injury lawyers work on contingency (usually 33%-40% of settlement). Don’t pick a lawyer just because their fee is lowest—experience and skill can mean much higher compensation overall. - Ignoring Compatibility and Comfort
A good attorney-client relationship builds trust and collaboration. Choose someone who listens, involves you in decisions, and makes you feel valued. - Waiting Too Long to Hire an Attorney
Personal injury claims are time-sensitive due to statutes of limitations and the need to preserve evidence. Early consultation strengthens your case.
Why Hiring the Wrong Lawyer Can Ruin Your Case
- Rare or no direct contact with your lawyer; mostly staff communication
- Feeling like just a number in a large client pool
- Referrals to unqualified medical providers
- Pressure to accept low settlement offers early
- Lack of proper investigation or expert involvement
- Inadequate trial preparation
- Poor communication causing misunderstandings and delays
Insurance companies have vast resources and aggressive defenses; a poorly prepared case is likely to fail or result in low compensation.
Tips for Selecting the Right Personal Injury Lawyer
- Specialization Matters: Choose a lawyer focused on personal injury law.
- Check Reviews and Testimonials: Look for positive client feedback and be alert for red flags.
- Verify Credentials: Confirm licensing and clean disciplinary history.
- Ask the Right Questions: Experience, case handling, communication, and strategy.
- Evaluate Communication Style: Ensure timely, clear updates and accessibility.
- Compare Multiple Lawyers: Don’t settle for the first option.
- Discuss Case Timeline: Understand how long your case might take to set realistic expectations.
Don’t Be a Victim Twice – Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462)
At Greenstein & Pittari, we specialize exclusively in personal injury law, with a proven track record of results, responsiveness, and relentless advocacy. We offer free consultations, work on contingency, and fight for clients every day across New York. Our firm’s motto is “Don’t Be a Victim Twice”. If you are a victim of an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured car, call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) to schedule a confidential consultation. Successful
We have seven convenient locations throughout New York. We maintain offices in Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County. Your convenience is our top priority!
Call us today at 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward the compensation and justice you deserve. The call is free. The consultation is free. You don’t pay us unless we are successful. That’s our “Our Fee Guarantee – No Fee Unless.
Top-Rated, Award-Winning Lawyers
Since our founding, Greenstein & Pittari have recovered millions in compensation for accident injury victims. Our legal strategies, dedication to detail, and client-first approach have earned us a reputation as trusted, results-driven personal injury advocates.
Our nationally recognized personal injury lawyers have earned top ratings and awards from respected legal publications and professional review services such as:
Best Lawyers
Super Lawyers