If you have been involved in a car crash, had an individual slip and fall on your property, or perhaps been accused of being negligent and letting your dog bite another person, chances are you will be facing legal action very soon from the person or persons who claim your negligence resulted in their injuries. If you are wondering whether to hire a lawyer, here are some things to keep in mind.
Gathering Evidence
If you immediately hire an attorney to represent you in any legal action, they will be able to gather evidence that may quickly turn the case in your favor. This can include interviewing witnesses, examining police reports, and hiring expert witnesses to conduct tests and testify in court if necessary. In any type of case, evidence can disappear quickly, so obtaining legal representation immediately is imperative.
Protecting Your Rights
Whenever you are accused of being negligent and are staring at the possibility of being sued by others, knowing your legal rights can ensure you don’t make mistakes that could cost you financially and otherwise. When you hire a personal injury lawyer, your attorney can discuss key parts of the case with you, advise you of your legal rights, suggest possible outcomes to the case, and provide advice on how they believe you should proceed.
Protecting Your Reputation
When others state you were negligent and caused them to be injured, it is essentially an attack on your reputation. To keep such an attack from spinning out of control, your attorney can begin compiling documentation that shows the court you are not the person others are making you out to be. For example, if you were involved in an auto accident, your lawyer can provide documentation showing you have an excellent driving record. In other situations, character witnesses can testify or write letters on your behalf, all of which can go a long way toward swaying a jury in your favor.
Peace of Mind
Finally, hiring a lawyer when you have been accused of negligence can instantly provide you with peace of mind. Remember, you may have not only the alleged victims pressuring you but their attorneys and perhaps even insurance companies may as well. By having a personal injury lawyer on your side from day one, they can act as a buffer and make sure you are not harassed or intimidated into making a poor decision.
If you have been accused of negligence but know you did nothing wrong, don’t hesitate to hire a lawyer immediately to protect your Constitutional rights.
Author information: Anica Oaks is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty.
