If you were injured in a car crash, slip-and-fall accident, medical malpractice, or other event that was not your fault, you may be considering filing a lawsuit. While you may understand the importance of seeking an experienced attorney with positive reviews, what about the location of their practice? This post discusses why hiring a local personal injury lawyer in Orange County, CA, can make a difference in your case.

Advantages of Working With a Local Personal Injury Lawyer in Orange County, CA

When filing personal injury claims, your choice of legal representation can strongly influence the outcome of your case. The advantages of choosing a local attorney include the following:

Understanding of the Legal Landscape

Each court system has its own rules and practices. A lawyer from elsewhere may not understand the finer points of local law or the procedures of a specific courtroom. In addition, local attorneys know the judges, clerks, and other court staff. This intimate knowledge can help them navigate the legal process more smoothly.

Familiarity With Local Insurance Companies

Much of an attorney’s work in seeking accident compensation involves negotiating injury settlements with insurance companies. While general negotiation skills are important, so is familiarity with local insurers. If the person who injured you has a local carrier, your attorney’s knowledge of (and reputation with) that insurance company may influence the outcome of your case.

Access to Local Resources

Successful negligence lawsuits involve many people besides your attorney. Product liability cases and medical malpractice lawsuits often require the opinion of industry consultants. Car accident claims may involve local body shops and third-party appraisers. A personal injury lawyer in Orange County, CA, likely has access to a network of local resources. This may help streamline the case and lower costs.

Qualities To Look For When Evaluating a Personal Injury Lawyer in Orange County, CA

Now that you know why you should hire a local attorney, what do you look for when choosing one?

• License to practice: The State Bar of California licenses attorneys to practice, investigates complaints, and disciplines attorneys for unethical conduct. Ensure the attorney you’re considering is licensed to practice in the state.
• Truly local experience: Many large firms have satellite offices in various locations, making attorneys appear local — even if they don’t spend much time in the area. Before hiring an attorney, ask them how often they work in Orange County, CA.
• Focus on personal injury: While a lawyer may accept personal injury cases, that doesn’t mean they focus on them. Ask potential attorneys how much of their practice they devote to personal injury law.
• Relevant background: Personal injury is a broad field that encompasses everything from auto accidents to nursing home abuse. Although a focus on personal injury law is essential, you’ll also want to ask an attorney about their background in cases similar to yours.
• Satisfied clients: The internet makes it easy to see what previous clients say about attorneys. Read the law firm’s website for testimonials (and case outcomes) and look on sites like Google and Yelp to read customer reviews.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Orange County, CA, Today

Based in Irvine, The Cifarelli Law Firm has been protecting the rights of accident victims since 1979. We can help you seek compensation from the at-fault party, including pursuing lost income, property damage, and medical expenses recovery in Orange County, CA. 

Call us today at (949) 502-8600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Orange County, CA.