After a serious accident in Massachusetts, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the attorney who will represent you. The right attorney can mean the difference between a fair recovery and a settlement that falls far short of what you actually need. Here is what to look for – and what to watch out for – when selecting a Massachusetts personal injury lawyer.
Look for Relevant Experience
Personal injury law in Massachusetts covers a wide range of claim types: car accidents, truck accidents, slip and fall cases, workers’ compensation, medical malpractice, and more. The legal standards, procedural requirements, and litigation strategies differ significantly between these areas. An attorney who handles mostly car accidents may not have the specialized experience needed for a complex medical malpractice case or a construction accident with multiple liable parties. Ask specifically about experience with your type of case.
Ask About Trial Experience
Many personal injury law firms in Massachusetts resolve the vast majority of their cases through settlement – and most cases do settle. But the key question is whether the attorney is willing and able to take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer. Attorneys who never try cases have less leverage in negotiations, because sophisticated insurance companies know they will settle rather than litigate. Ask directly: how many cases have you taken to trial? What were the results?
Evaluate the Contingency Fee Structure
Most Massachusetts personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis – meaning no upfront cost and no fees unless they win. This arrangement aligns the attorney’s incentives with yours. But contingency fee percentages vary – typically ranging from 25% to 40% depending on whether the case settles or goes to trial – and the agreement should clearly spell out how litigation costs and expert fees are handled. Read the fee agreement carefully before signing.
Assess Communication and Accessibility
A good personal injury attorney keeps clients informed throughout the process and is accessible when questions arise. During your initial consultation, notice whether the attorney or a paralegal will be your primary contact, how quickly calls and emails are returned, and whether the attorney genuinely listens to your concerns or rushes through a scripted pitch. High-volume settlement mills often have very limited attorney-client communication – which can lead to cases being settled quickly without your full informed participation.
Research the Firm’s Reputation
Online reviews, bar association standing, and peer recognition can all provide useful information. Membership in trial lawyer organizations like the Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys (MATA) and the American Association for Justice (AAJ) generally indicates a commitment to plaintiff-side litigation. Be skeptical of firms that claim to be the “best” or “#1” without substantiation – focus instead on specific experience, case results (where available), and what former clients say about the experience of working with the firm.
Trust Your Initial Assessment
The initial consultation is your opportunity to assess whether you feel comfortable with this attorney and confident in their handling of your case. A good attorney will give you an honest assessment – including the weaknesses in your case, not just the strengths – and will explain the process clearly without pressure. If something feels off, trust your instincts and consult with other attorneys before deciding. Initial consultations with personal injury attorneys in Massachusetts are almost always free and carry no obligation.
Results Disclaimer: Past case results, settlements, and verdicts mentioned on this website do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case. Every case is unique and depends on its own facts and legal issues.