An injury can change your life in an instant—pain, medical bills, time off work, and stress about the future can make life overwhelming. In Ontario, those injured by someone else’s actions have the right to seek compensation, but getting it is rarely easy. That’s why many people turn to a personal injury lawyer.
Choosing the right lawyer is an important step. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Why Experience in Personal Injury Law Matters
Personal Injury law is a specialized area and not all lawyers handle personal injury claims. Choosing a lawyer who focuses on personal injury law means your lawyer will have knowledge of the process and strategies that can make a real difference. Whether your injury comes from a car accident, slip and fall, medical malpractice, or sexual assault, an experienced lawyer will understand the unique challenges of these cases and know how to navigate them effectively.
Choosing a Lawyer with Trial Experience
Not only should your Personal Injury have experience in this unique area of law, but they should also have trial experience. When choosing a lawyer, you want to look at firms and lawyers who have been to trial for clients before. This will reassure you that not only will they know when or whether it’s appropriate to settle your case, but they’ll also be able to take your case to trial if necessary.
Understanding Personal Injury Lawyer Fees in Ontario
Most personal injury lawyers in Ontario work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay upfront—the lawyer is paid a percentage of the settlement or award at the end of your case. If your case is not successful, you don’t pay your lawyer. Always ask for the fee agreement in writing, and make sure the percentage and any extra costs, such as medical reports, are explained clearly. A good lawyer will be upfront about all fees.
Communication: What to Expect From a Personal Injury Lawyer
The right personal injury lawyer should take the time to listen and explain things in plain language. Legal matters can feel complicated, so communication that is clear and respectful is essential. During an initial meeting or call, clients should notice whether the lawyer answers questions, explains the process simply, and makes them feel comfortable. Good communication helps build trust throughout the case.
Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Personal Injury Lawyer
A good way to start thinking about communication is to ask your prospective Personal Injury lawyer lots of questions. Here are a few to get you started:
- How long have you been doing Personal Injury law?
- Do you do any other areas of law?
- Have you done cases like mine before?
- Have you ever been to trial?
- How much is my case worth?
- What does a road map of my case look like?
- Will my case settle?
- How much do I have to pay you if I don’t win?
- How often will you contact me?
- What do I do if I have questions?
Checking Reviews and Reputation of Ontario Lawyers
Reputation is one of the best indicators of a lawyer’s quality. Look for online reviews, ask friends or family for recommendations, and confirm on the Law Society of Ontario website that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing.
Do Personal Injury Lawyers Have the Right Resources?
Strong cases often require medical experts, accident investigators, or rehabilitation specialists. A reliable Ontario personal injury lawyer should have access to these resources and help you access all of them. The right support team can make a major difference in the outcome of a claim.
Choosing a Lawyer Near You in Ontario
While much of your case can be handled by phone, email, or video, having a lawyer nearby is often helpful. Many personal injury lawyers also travel to meet injured clients at home or in hospital, making accessibility a priority.
Trusting Your Instincts When Hiring a Lawyer
Finally, it comes down to trust. The right personal injury lawyer should feel approachable, respectful, and genuinely committed to helping the client. If a lawyer inspires confidence, that is often a good sign they are the right choice.
Final Thoughts: Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in Ontario
Choosing a personal injury lawyer does not need to be overwhelming. By focusing on experience, fees, communication, reputation, resources, and accessibly, you can find a lawyer who will help guide you through the process. Many lawyers offer free consultations, which gives you the chance to ask questions and make the decision that feels right for you. The right lawyer will not only work for fair compensation but also help make the process less stressful.
At Bergeron Clifford, we only do Personal Injury law. If you have been injured and want to know more about your rights, call us today.
