When you're seriously injured by someone else's negligence, Georgia law gives you two years to file a personal injury lawsuit — so you need to act quickly. Two years may sound like plenty, but gathering evidence can take months, and the sooner you begin, the more time you and your attorney have to prove negligence.
Start With a Short List
Begin by listing attorneys in the Marietta area who specialize in personal injury law. Their experience differs considerably from other lawyers': they bring negotiation and trial experience, deep medical knowledge related to injury, and an in-depth understanding of Georgia's personal injury and tort law.
The Factors That Matter Most
- Experience and track record There's no substitute for experience. Ask about years in practice, legal education, and how many cases like yours the attorney has tried and won. A lawyer who wins far more than they lose shows a commitment to proper procedure and the tenacity to build a winning case.
- Trial record vs. settlements Most personal injury cases settle before trial — but you want an attorney who will aggressively represent you in court if it comes to that. Ask about courtroom experience whether or not you expect to go to trial.
- Reputation and disciplinary record Online reviews are a great way to get unbiased feedback before your first meeting. It's also smart to check whether the lawyer has faced any disciplinary action, suspension, or disbarment — the easiest way is to search their name on the State Bar of Georgia website.
Meet in Person
An attorney can meet all your qualifications on paper and still not be the right fit — the only way to know is to meet in person. It benefits both sides to learn whether you'd work well together.