After a serious accident, choosing the right personal injury lawyer may be one of the most important decisions you ever make. The attorney you hire can impact not only the size of your settlement but also how smoothly the legal process goes—and how confident you feel throughout your case.
Whether you’re dealing with a car accident, slip and fall, workplace injury, or medical malpractice claim, an experienced attorney can make all the difference. If you’re searching for a personal injury lawyer in Peoria, Illinois, here are five essential tips to guide your choice.
1. Look for Experience With Cases Like Yours
Not all personal injury cases are the same. Some involve negligence by a careless driver, while others center on premises liability, medical malpractice, or wrongful death. Each type of claim requires a deep understanding of specific legal principles, medical evidence, and litigation strategies.
Before hiring an attorney, ask about their experience handling cases similar to yours. How many have they successfully resolved? What kinds of settlements or verdicts have they achieved?
In Illinois, personal injury law generally gives injury victims two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. A lawyer familiar with these time limits and how they apply to different types of cases can help ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines—and that your case is built on a solid legal foundation.
2. Evaluate Communication and Accessibility
Communication is a key part of any attorney-client relationship. A good personal injury lawyer should not only be skilled in the courtroom but also responsive and transparent with their clients.
Ask potential lawyers how they prefer to communicate—by phone, email, or in-person meetings—and how quickly they typically respond to inquiries. Do they explain legal terms clearly? Do they keep you updated on the progress of your case?
Remember, your case may take months (or even years) to resolve. Choosing a lawyer who is approachable, patient, and willing to answer your questions will make the process far less stressful. They should be a partner in your recovery, not just your legal representative.
3. Consider Their Reputation and Client Reviews
A lawyer’s reputation says a lot about the quality of their work and their commitment to clients. Start by reading online reviews and testimonials from past clients. Look for patterns in the feedback—do people praise their professionalism, negotiation skills, and compassion? Or do they mention poor communication and lack of results?
You should also check the attorney’s record with the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission (ARDC) to make sure they are in good standing and have not faced disciplinary action.
Additionally, ask the attorney for references or examples of past cases. A reputable personal injury lawyer will be happy to share their successes and explain how they approach challenging claims.
4. Understand Their Fee Structure
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they recover compensation for you. However, it’s still essential to understand the specifics before signing a retainer agreement.
Ask about their contingency fee percentage and whether you’ll be responsible for any court costs, filing fees, or expert witness expenses if the case is unsuccessful. Transparency about fees upfront will help you avoid surprises later.
In Illinois, damages can include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of normal life, depending on the specifics of your case. A knowledgeable attorney will explain how these damages are calculated and how they will pursue the maximum recovery on your behalf.
5. Prioritize Trial Experience and Negotiation Skills
While many personal injury cases are settled out of court, some require litigation to achieve a fair result. That’s why it’s important to choose a lawyer who is not only an experienced negotiator but also a skilled trial advocate.
Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial—and which ones will settle quickly. If they know your attorney has a strong courtroom track record, they are more likely to offer a fair settlement early in the process.
Contact Joel E. Brown, P.C. for a Free Consultation
Selecting the right personal injury lawyer in Peoria isn’t just about credentials—it’s about trust, communication, and confidence. You want someone who listens to your story, understands your goals, and fights tirelessly for your rights.
The best attorney will treat your case with the care and attention it deserves, guiding you through each step of the legal process while working to secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Contact Joel E. Brown, P.C. today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
To learn more, contact our skilled personal injury attorney at Joel E. Brown, P.C to schedule a free consultation. We are conveniently located in Peoria and proudly serve Peoria County, IL, and the neighboring communities.
Joel E. Brown, P.C
416 Main Street Suite 1300, Peoria, IL 61602
(309) 673 4357
Available 24/7