3 Ways to Get a Lawyer to Take Your Injury Case

Injury victims often complain that lawyers aren't willing to take their cases. And while some attorneys may simply be too busy to take up your personal injury claim, there are a few things you can do to make yourself a more attractive client.

No, not more physically attractive (although dressing professionally couldn't hurt). Rather, there are ways in which you can make your case more appealing to your prospective attorney.

Here are three good ways to make a lawyer more inclined to take your injury case:

1. Think of Your Case Like a Narrative, Then Read It.

Injury cases can be both emotionally charged and have more minor characters than a season of "Scandal," but you need to distill your case into a coherent, linear narrative that you can deliver to your potential attorney. Be clear and earnest in your retelling of the events of your injury, even if it makes you look bad.

A personal injury attorney isn't going to judge your story for your faults, he or she will be mostly listening for inconsistencies and key facts. So be completely honest, and make sure to highlight:

• Where/how you were injured;
• What treatment you've received and how much it cost; and
• What (if any) communication you've had with the responsible parties.

2. Once You've Told Your Story, Listen and Don't Argue.

One of the main reasons attorneys turn away clients is that they do not listen. Once you've given your potential attorney the facts, take a moment to listen what he or she has to say about your case. And don't argue with him or her about the law -- you came to him or her for legal advice, remember?

Like a good date, attorneys like clients with superb communication skills, and sometimes that means saying nothing at all.

3. Come Prepared With Documents.

Your potential attorney is likely to ask more about certain details of your injury, and you should be prepared to "show" as well as "tell." Bring any medical bills, receipts, emails, police reports, insurance information, paystubs, or legal documents that you have that may be related to your injury.

Arriving to your consultation prepared with these documents will take much of the guesswork out of evaluating your injury case, and it may make taking your case less daunting.

If you present yourself as a client who is organized, honest, and easy to work with, a personal injury attorney is far more likely to take your case.

Related Resources:

• Have an injury claim? Get your claim reviewed for free. (Consumer Injury)
• 5 Things You Should Bring to a Personal Injury Consultation (FindLaw's Injured)
• Hiring an Injury Lawyer? 5 Questions to Ask (FindLaw's Injured)
• Paying for a Personal Injury Lawyer: 3 Things to Know About Fees (FindLaw's Injured)