Checklist for Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

1. Personal Injury Lawyers - Areas of Expertise

Personal Injury Lawyers operate in a specific area of the law. They independently advise and represent clients from the beginning of the claims process through to the final verdict. There are various types of claim that fall under the remit of Personal Injury Lawyers. Some of these include:

* Road Traffic Accidents that result in bodily injuries e.g. whiplash
* Industrial Related Illnesses such as exposure to asbestos, chemical accidents and white finger caused by vibrations
* Accidents/Illnesses caused in the Workplace including Slips & Trips, RSI or those sustained "on-site" in the construction industry
* Accidents resulting in serious injury, such as back injuries
* Medical Negligence

In general, when an injury has been sustained as a result of someone else's actions or negligence, then a Personal Injury Lawyer will be able to help qualify a claim.

2. How to Find an Injury Lawyer

When hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer it is important to ascertain that they have experience in the type of claim that is being pursued and are based locally.

There are a number of legal firms who specialize in the Personal Injury sector. Reputable firms who specialize in any given sector, who are also local to the claimant can be sourced from an injury claims specialist, or claims management company. These companies can quickly clarify the potential of the claim in terms of whether it meets lawful criteria and is thus worthy of pursuit. Many of these specialists operate on a 'No Win No Fee' or 'Conditional Fee Arrangement' basis. If for some reason a claim doesn't fall under this criteria it can still potentially be pursued through other channels.

An alternative to using a claims management company would be to independently research qualified and experienced lawyers in the claimant's local area. This can be carried out on-line or by contacting other independent bodies for help and guidance such as the Citizens Advice Bureau.