Car Crash Lawyer
Can I Represent Myself in California?
Yes. You can represent yourself in California, and all U.S. states. The Constitution permits you to serve as your own legal representative. However, you must meet certain criteria first. You must be at least eighteen, and you must be legally competent. A judge will decide whether you’re legally competent, and there’s not a particular set of factors that determine your competence. Furthermore, you must understand court proceedings. It’s also advisable that you dress professionally and respectfully before the judge (e.g., blazer, suit, tie, slacks, a skirt that at least covers your knees).
Are There Advantages to Representing Myself?
There are more likely to be disadvantages to representing yourself than they are advantages. However, there might be some areas where you see it as a benefit to serve as your own. For example, you might find it cheaper because you aren’t paying lawyer fees. However, if your lawyer wins your case, typically the defendant pays these fees anyway.
What Are The Benefits To Hiring A Car Accident Attorney?
A Woodland Hills car crash lawyer has years, if not decades, of practice studying the law and maneuvering personal injury lawsuits. A lawyer, unlike laypeople, understands legal jargon that is often used in court documents. If you misunderstand these key terms, you may find yourself in contempt of court for failing to respond timely or answer properly. A lawyer is also better suited to know which legal arguments are best suited for your case. Although you may think you’re in the right and share no fault, that doesn’t mean you know the law’s language as it pertains to negligence, reasonable care, and duty.
Is The Cost of A Car Crash Attorney Justified?
Lawyers can be expensive. Fortunately, there’s a higher success rate in personal injury cases if you hire one. You’re likely to recoup the money you lost, such as missed days from work and car repair fees. Moreover, if you win, you can request that the defendant pay for your lawyer fees. Therefore, you money you pay up front you’ll have a good chance of getting back and then some. On the other hand, you have a greater chance of losing yourself if you try to save yourself the money upfront, which can mean you pay more money down the line.
What Will My Legal Representative Do?
A lawyer is not just a person who’s knowledgeable about the law. A lawyer is your personal representative who advocates on your behalf. Your lawyer will:
- Analyze the facts of your case
- Investigate the scene of the car crash
- Interview witnesses of the car crash and request their court appearance
- Assist you in gathering receipts and proof of expenses, such as medical bills
- Keep you informed of the civil court process and what you should expect
- Build evidence
- Strategize on legal arguments that are likelier to have a favorable outcome
Now that you understand the advantages of having a lawyer work on your behalf, choose an experienced personal injury law firm to represent you. If you’re looking for a firm with over 30 years of practice, a respectable reputation, and prestigious awards, Barry P. Goldberg is probably right for you. Contact this law firm today for a consultation.
