If you are employed by a railroad company, then you are already aware that your industry is the backbone of the United States transportation system. Unfortunately, you probably are also aware of how dangerous your job can be. It is a hard and essential job, but unfortunately, many workers risk their health and wellness every day to make sure it gets done.
What qualities should I look for in a FELA attorney?
If you sustained injuries during the course and scope of your employment as a railroad worker, the road to the financial compensation you need can seem overwhelming, and at times, impossible. You need the help of an experienced and trusted railroad accident attorney to ensure you receive the recovery the law says you deserve.
The Virginia railway injury attorneys at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp can help you win your case. We have been reaching successful conclusions to railroad accident cases for more than four decades. Contact our Virginia Beach law offices today to schedule a free review of your FELA claim.
What Differentiates One FELA Attorney From Another?
Just like any other professional organization, different law firms have different principles, different goals, and different skill levels. They also have different approaches when it comes to prosecuting injury claims.
As you probably know, different attorneys specialize in different areas of law. You wouldn’t hire a probate attorney to handle your child custody case, and you wouldn’t hire a corporate attorney to oversee your motorcycle accident case. So, as an injured railroad worker, the first thing you should be doing is looking for a law firm with experience in dealing with claims brought under the Federal Employers Liability Act.
Although a lot of law firms claim they have experience in handling these claims, the fact is that only a few truly are. You need a law firm with a well-established track record of handling FELA claims because they are completely different than workers’ compensation claims and non-railroad personal injury claims. Don’t jeopardize your FELA claim by trusting it to an attorney who lacks sufficient experience.
The next thing you need to be looking for is a law firm that is able to present your case in front of a jury; specifically, one who prepares your case for trial from the very beginning. Any attorney who is not prepared to dedicate this kind of time to your case is putting you and your family at a serious disadvantage.
What are Some Questions I Should Ask When Choosing a FELA Attorney?
Trying to choose an attorney soon after being injured in a railroad accident can seem absolutely overwhelming. However, if you want your case to be treated fairly and receive the maximum amount of compensation possible, then selecting the right attorney is a vital step. That being said, some good questions to ask your potential legal counsel are:
- Have you handled any other cases against this railroad company?
- Do you have any references or client testimonies?
- What percentage of your settlements are awarded in court?
- Who will be representing me if my case goes to trial?
- Will you be preparing my case for trial as it progresses?
- Have you ever lost a FELA case?
- Have you ever worked on a FELA case similar to mine?
- How long has your law firm been handling FELA claims?
- Do I have to pay you any money upfront?
- Will I be able to get a hold of you when I need to?
- Can you help me with my disability application and benefits?
- Do I have the final say on a settlement offer?
Remember, if the attorney only gives you vague or evasive answers, that’s a red flag.
Considerations
The most important thing to take into account when looking for reliable legal representation is trust. If you work with a law firm that, for whatever reason, you do not trust, you are never going to be satisfied with them. The attorney you hire essentially becomes your representative on all aspects of your case, and you have to trust that they have the ability and integrity to do so.
Your attorney is working for you. If they fail to satisfy your expectations, interview other law firms until you find one that does. The quality of your future could very well rest on this decision and it should not be made in haste or taken lightly.
Talk to a Virginia FELA Attorney Today
If you were injured while working on a railroad, you don’t have to face a FELA claim by yourself. An experienced Virginia FELA attorney can guide you through the phases of the legal process and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your railroad injuries.
The law firm of Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp has been managing FELA cases since 1985. We pride ourselves on working closely with our clients and keeping them updated on the progress and developments in their cases. We are happy to explore all of your legal options in your free case review. Schedule yours today by calling us at (833) 997-1774.