Should I hire a lawyer in the state where my slip and fall accident occurred?

A slip and fall accident can happen at any time and place, including when you are in another state for business, vacation, or visiting friends or family. If your accident happened in Virginia, you may have a right to compensation for your injuries if a property or business owner’s negligence caused your fall. To achieve the best outcome in your case, you will need to retain an experienced premises liability lawyer.

However, it can be confusing to know whether to hire an attorney in the state where you live or in Virginia where your accident occurred. Here are four reasons you should retain a lawyer in our Commonwealth.

Why it Is Best to Retain a Local Attorney

There are many benefits to hiring a lawyer in the state where your slip and fall accident occurred. They include:

• Licensed in Virginia. While many slip and fall claims are settled out of court, not all are. Only a lawyer licensed to practice law in Virginia can file your lawsuit for you and litigate your claim.
• Knowledge of the law. Your right to compensation for your injuries will be governed by Virginia law. A local attorney will have a better understanding of the laws that apply to your case than a lawyer who practices law in another state.
• Understanding of local rules and practices. Even if an attorney in your home state is licensed to practice law in Virginia, they will not have as good of an understanding of the local court rules and practices where your lawsuit would be filed. An understanding of these procedures will make your case go smoother and be resolved quicker.
• Consistency in your claim. You may be considering hiring an attorney where you live to try to settle your claim and then retain a lawyer in Virginia if you have a lawsuit. However, this is not the best approach for your case. You are more likely to settle your case for all the damages you are entitled to if you retain one attorney to represent you. While trying to negotiate your settlement, they would also collect the evidence you need and develop a consistent strategy to win your case.

Were you injured in a slip and fall accident in Norfolk or Virginia Beach? Do you live in another state? At Tavss Fletcher, we will make it as easy as possible for you to pursue your claim as an out-of-state resident. To learn more about how we can assist you and your rights under Virginia law, call our office at 877-960-3441 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation today.