Being injured in an accident can turn your life upside down. One moment, everything’s normal, the next, you’re juggling doctor’s visits, insurance forms, police reports, and phone calls from adjusters… all while trying to heal and keep your life on track.
It can feel overwhelming, and you might be wondering:
Who can help quiet the chaos? Who will protect my rights and make sure I’m treated fairly?
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and finding the right lawyer can make all the difference.
Why Having the Right Lawyer Matters
Every year, thousands of Albertans are injured because of someone else’s negligence. Some get fair compensation. Others miss deadlines, sign settlements that are far too low, or give up because the process feels too complicated.
In fact, research from the Insurance Research Council found that people represented by a personal injury lawyer receive nearly four times more compensation on average than those who handle their claims alone.*
So how do you find the best personal injury lawyer for your situation? Start by asking the right questions.
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Does the Lawyer Focus on Personal Injury Law?
In Alberta, lawyers can’t claim to be “specialists.” But the best personal injury lawyers tend to focus exclusively on injury law.
That means their time, training, and experience all go toward helping people injured in accidents, not juggling other types of cases on the side.
Look for a lawyer who has dedicated their career to personal injury law and truly understands how Alberta’s legal and insurance systems work.
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Do They Work With a Dedicated Injury Law Firm?
There’s a big difference between a general law firm that sometimes takes injury cases and a team that lives and breathes personal injury law every day.
Lawyers who collaborate with other injury lawyers benefit from shared experience, ongoing mentorship, and collective strategy – all of which can directly impact your case results.
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How Long Have They Been Practicing?
Experience matters. Over time, injury lawyers develop relationships with experts, refine their negotiation skills, and learn how to handle complex claims.
A newer lawyer can still be excellent, especially if they’re backed by a long-standing, reputable firm. But it’s worth asking how long they’ve been practicing in this area of law.
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Is the Firm Established and Trusted?
When researching firms, longevity can say a lot. A personal injury law firm that has been around for decades has likely built that reputation through consistent service, results, and community trust.
You can check reviews, testimonials, and word-of-mouth recommendations to get a sense of what working with them feels like.
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Do They Have Courtroom Experience?
Most injury claims settle outside of court, but you still want a firm that’s not afraid to go to trial when needed.
Insurance companies pay close attention to which firms are willing to litigate. If your lawyer has a strong reputation for taking cases to court (and winning), insurers are more likely to offer fair settlements early on.
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How Do They Get Most of Their Clients?
Advertising can help you find a lawyer, but it shouldn’t be the only thing a firm relies on.
The best personal injury lawyers in Alberta often get new clients through referrals and word of mouth, not just flashy ads. Check client testimonials, talk to friends or family, and if you know a lawyer in another field, ask who they would recommend.
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Do They Offer Contingency Fees (No Win, No Fee)?
Almost all injury lawyers in Alberta work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront, and the lawyer’s fee is a percentage of your settlement.
But not all agreements are the same. Ask whether the fee is tiered (where the percentage increases at certain stages of the claim) and what happens if your case goes to court. The best firms will explain their fee structure clearly and transparently.
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Who Pays the Upfront Costs?
Running a personal injury claim often involves expenses like medical reports, expert opinions, and filing fees. These are called disbursements.
Ask whether the firm covers these costs for you, and whether they charge interest on them. The best injury lawyers will front those costs so you can focus on healing, not invoices.
At Litco Law, we cover the cost of disbursements during your claim so that you don’t have to worry about unexpected legal costs.
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Will You Get Regular Updates and Access to a Lawyer?
Your lawyer should never feel out of reach. Ask how often you’ll receive updates, whether you can contact them directly, and how long it typically takes for calls or emails to be returned.
The best firms make communication a priority. You should never feel left in the dark about your own case.
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Do You Feel Comfortable With Them?
This one’s simple but crucial. After meeting your lawyer, ask yourself:
- Do they seem genuine and empathetic?
- Do they explain things clearly?
- Do they make you feel heard or “sold”?
The best lawyer for you is one who listens, builds trust, and genuinely cares about your recovery, not just your case.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Lawyer for You
Choosing a personal injury lawyer is an important decision, especially during an already stressful time. Take your time, ask questions, and follow your instincts.
At Litco Law, we’re Alberta’s largest personal injury law firm and we’ve been helping injured Albertans since 1976. We believe in empowering you with information, whether or not you choose us. If you’re looking for a lawyer who will listen, explain your options clearly, and fight for what’s fair – we’re here for you.
Contact us to speak with our legal team today for free. Consultations are always free. And if a claim isn’t in your best interest, we’ll tell you that too.
Meet our personal injury lawyers here.
*Insurance Research Council, Auto Injuries: Claiming Behaviour and Its Impact on Insurance Costs