After decades of practicing personal injury law in Chicago, I’ve learned that one of the most important decisions an injured person makes after a crash isn’t about medical care or car repairs — it’s choosing the right lawyer.
The truth is, not all personal injury lawyers handle car accident cases the same way. Some take quick settlements. Others, like our team at Phillips Law Offices, prepare every case as if it will go to trial. That difference can change the entire outcome of your claim.
So, how do you find the right car accident lawyer in Chicago? Here’s my honest, practical guide based on what I’d tell my own family if they were in your shoes.
(If you’re still learning what to do right after a crash, our Chicago car accident lawyer guide covers immediate steps to protect your rights.)
Start by Looking for Experience That Matches Your Case
Experience doesn’t just mean years in practice — it means relevant experience.
If your accident involved a rideshare driver, commercial truck, or multiple vehicles, you need an attorney who has handled those specific kinds of claims before.
In my office, for example, we’ve represented clients in nearly every type of traffic injury case — from simple rear-end collisions to catastrophic crashes involving trucks, Uber drivers, and pedestrians. Each type of case comes with different insurance coverage rules and liability issues.
Ask any lawyer you meet:
“Have you handled car accident cases like mine before?”
“What kinds of results have you achieved in similar cases?”
You want someone who can answer confidently and give you real examples, not vague promises.
If your case involves a rideshare driver, you can learn more about how those claims differ in our Uber and Lyft accident lawyer.
Questions You Should Ask During the Consultation
When you meet a lawyer for the first time — whether it’s in person or virtually — that conversation should help you understand not only their skill, but also their approach. Here are key questions to ask and what to listen for:
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Who will actually handle my case?
Some firms hand cases off to junior associates or outside firms. Make sure you know who will truly be working for you.
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What is your process for investigating car accident claims?
A strong lawyer will mention evidence gathering, accident reconstruction, medical record review, and insurance negotiations.
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How do you communicate with clients?
You should expect regular updates and clear explanations of each stage. Avoid lawyers who are hard to reach or delegate all communication to assistants.
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How do you charge for your services?
Most car accident lawyers in Chicago, including our firm, work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you don’t pay unless we recover money for you. Still, ask what percentage they take and if there are any extra costs.
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How often do you go to trial?
Many personal injury lawyers settle quickly. You want one who’s not afraid to take your case to court if the insurance company won’t make a fair offer.
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What’s your honest assessment of my case?
A good lawyer will tell you both the strengths and weaknesses of your claim. If all you hear are guarantees, that’s a red flag.
Why Local Knowledge Matters in Chicago
Chicago isn’t just any city when it comes to traffic law and court systems. Each county — from Cook to DuPage to Lake — has its own judges, juries, and procedural rules.
Having an attorney who regularly practices in these courts can make a significant difference. They’ll know how local insurance adjusters operate, which defense firms tend to fight harder, and what kind of evidence tends to persuade local juries.
I’ve been trying cases in these courtrooms for decades, and that familiarity helps my clients from the very first filing through trial. It’s something you can’t learn from a book — only from being there.
Check the Firm’s Reputation and Track Record
One of the easiest ways to evaluate a firm is by looking at its results and reputation.
You can ask:
“Have you won verdicts or settlements similar to my case?”
“Have you been recognized by legal organizations or your peers?”
Phillips Law Offices, for example, has been recognized by Super Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and numerous other organizations for excellence in personal injury litigation.
You can also check online reviews from real clients. Look for consistency — do people mention professionalism, communication, and results? A pattern of satisfied clients is a strong sign of credibility.
Pay Attention to How You’re Treated
One thing I always tell people: how a lawyer treats you during the first call is how they’ll treat you throughout the case.
Do they take time to explain things clearly? Do they listen to your concerns instead of rushing through? Do you feel respected and informed?
The attorney-client relationship is built on trust and communication. You should walk away from that first consultation feeling like your case matters — not like you’re just another file on someone’s desk.
Avoid the Common Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Lawyer
Over the years, I’ve seen people make the same few mistakes when choosing a car accident lawyer:
- Hiring based only on flashy ads or billboards.
- Not checking who will actually handle their case day to day.
- Choosing a lawyer who promises fast results rather than fair ones.
- Settling for someone without local experience in Chicago or Illinois law.
These mistakes can cost you valuable time and money — or even lead to an unfair settlement.
Getting the Right Legal Help in Illinois
Choosing the right car accident lawyer in Chicago can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The right attorney will answer your questions, explain your rights, and guide you through the process with honesty and skill.
At Phillips Law Offices, we believe in transparency from day one. We’ll tell you exactly where your case stands, what to expect, and how we plan to fight for your recovery.
If you’ve been injured in a crash — whether it involved another driver, a truck, or a rideshare vehicle — reach out today for a free consultation. Let’s talk about your situation, your options, and how we can help you move forward with confidence.
Call (312) 346-4262
161 N Clark St, Suite 4925, Chicago, IL
Free Consultation | No Fee Unless You Win
Interesting Reads:
5 Reasons to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
How to Choose a Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Find A Car Accident Lawyer Near You
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