Choosing the best Chicago medical malpractice lawyer is a subjective decision, but there are objective factors plaintiffs should consider. Attorneys are prohibited from claiming they are the best, but clients can determine whether an attorney has the particular skills, qualifications, and experience required to pursue their medical malpractice claim in Illinois.
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Experience Counts
Start your search by examining the experience the attorney has under his or her belt. Look at the number of years the lawyer has represented medical malpractice claims, as well as the types of cases handled. Consider experience with depositions and evidence collection, as well as the number of cases taken to verdict. The “best” Chicago medical malpractice lawyer for you is one who can show you a list of previous cases with similar factors to your own and explain how he or she would prepare and present the case to the court to reach a favorable verdict.
Going on the Record
When you want an attorney who knows how to win, it is a good idea to discuss the attorney’s record of success. In particular, you’ll need to decide whether the attorney has the ability to successfully represent your type of claim. This requires a mix of experience, knowledge, creativity, and dedication. Your attorney should be willing to discuss these factors with you during a consultation.
Reviewing the AVVO Rating
The AVVO rating lets potential clients know whether an attorney has a record of sanctions from the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Committee. The rating is a representation of the attorney’s professional experience, recognition within the legal industry, and reputation of professional conduct. However, it is a rating that should be taken with a grain of salt, as it is not a representation of quality or whether the attorney is qualified to handle your specific case.
Support
Who is the best medical malpractice lawyer? A medical malpractice lawyer in Chicago is not a “Lone Ranger,” and the most effective attorneys in Chicago are those who have a solid team of staff including legal and medical experts backing them up. When you discuss qualifications and experience, be sure to ask about the experience and expertise of the people they work with to prepare and present claims to the court.
How to Find a Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Even with a better understanding of who is the best medical malpractice lawyer, you might not be sure how to find a medical malpractice lawyer. There are multiple places for you to begin your search, with plenty of locations to look online and elsewhere.
Here are some steps to take when seeking a medical malpractice lawyer:
Choose the Right Type of Medical Malpractice Lawyer
The first step to take is to look for an attorney that practices the type of medical malpractice law pertaining to your case. Some medical malpractice lawyers represent patients who have endured harm because of medical errors, while others defend medical professionals in medical malpractice cases.
Take a look at the attorney’s website to read more about the specific types of cases they handle to gauge whether the attorney is capable of representing you.
Call Your Local Bar Association
One of the best ways to locate a medical malpractice lawyer is each state’s bar association. You should be able to call the bar association in your state to request contact information for medical malpractices in your area.
Ask a Doctor
If you see a medical professional who isn’t connected to your case in any way, you can ask this professional about medical malpractice law firms they know about.
Contact Your Insurer
Another potential source for a medical malpractice attorney recommendation is your health insurance provider. Your insurer may be able to provide you with specific recommendations or general tips to help your search.
Get Recommendations from Friends and Family
If someone you know has connections to a medical malpractice lawyer, ask about them.
