Personal injury clients, much like a majority of people, form opinions and expectations based on what they’ve seen on movies, TV or hearsay from friends and family. While some of these expectations are valid, others are unrealistic and can lead to conflict or dissatisfaction with your personal injury lawyer. To avoid this, it is vital to be aware of and manage these expectations. In this article, we’ll discuss the top five unrealistic expectations that personal injury clients have regarding their lawyers.
- Immediate Results and a Quick Settlement
Many clients believe that once a lawyer takes on their case, all necessary actions will be taken, and compensation will follow immediately. However, the reality is that personal injury cases require time, effort, and patience. A lawyer will need to collect evidence, contact witnesses, assess damages and determine the appropriate compensation. Since every situation is unique, clients should avoid setting timelines and, instead, remain patient and trust the process.
- Lawyers Can Guarantee Results
While an attorney can promise to work diligently on a case, no lawyer can guarantee specific results. This unrealistic expectation can create tension between the lawyer and client. The best approach is to have a frank discussion with your lawyer and discuss probable outcomes and what compensation may be available under different circumstances.
- Legal Fees Are Relatively Cheap
Many clients think that the cost of hiring legal services is minimal, while, in reality, the cost of hiring the right personal injury lawyer can be relatively expensive. As clients look for strategies to minimize legal fees, they may end up neglecting quality, and even more, disputes occur. Clients should know that the best lawyers come at a cost, and their experience and ability to navigate legal issues effectively can make the difference in a case.
- Representation Will Guarantee a Large Payout
Undoubtedly, personal injury lawyers will help maximize your settlement’s financial return. However, clients should keep in mind that not every injury is worth millions, and some cases are worth much less. Sometimes, clients may be entitled to only one type of compensation, which may not be enough to meet their financial needs. Therefore, clients should understand the level of compensation available and negotiate with their lawyers accordingly.
- Lawyers Will Offer 24/7 Availability
Finally, few clients will acknowledge that attorneys are regular human beings with regular working hours. Many expect their lawyers to be available round the clock, making unrealistic phone calls or emails. Clients are likely to be disappointed if they believe that the lawyer will work for excessively long hours or offer an immediate response. We recommend establishing clear communication guidelines, ensuring everyone is on the same page in terms of immediate communication, availability and discussion of the best course of action.
To avoid unrealistic expectations with your personal injury lawyer, it is vital that you communicate actual needs, provide all necessary information, and understand the legal process and its timelines. Doing so will reduce potential conflicts, improve communication, and ultimately lead to a favourable outcome. Remember that developing an open and honest relationship with your lawyer is critical and can make a significant difference in the success of your case.