If your veterinary practice needs legal assistance, there are several things you must consider. After all, choosing the right attorney can be difficult. Fortunately, however, if you enter your attorney search armed with the proper knowledge, the process doesn’t have to be painful. In fact, choosing a veterinary practice attorney can be a pleasant experience that results in a long-term professional relationship. In this article, we discuss some things you should consider when choosing a veterinary practice litigation attorney.
Track Record
The first thing you should consider when choosing a veterinary practice litigation attorney is his or her rate of success handling cases similar to your own. However, bear in mind that success can refer to both favorable settlements and courtroom judgments. So, when discussing this matter with a prospective attorney, be sure to ask about both. Ideally, the veterinary practice litigation attorney you choose will have a track record of both settlement and courtroom success.
Case Resolution Style
Some attorneys prefer to take cases to trial, while others lean toward settlement. Although there isn’t necessarily anything wrong with either approach, you should determine your prospective attorney’s preference in this area. Ideally, your attorney should be comfortable litigating cases at trial and settling cases. An attorney who is comfortable with litigation and settling is better equipped to make an objective determination regarding which route makes the most sense for your case.
Communication
Next, you should check with your prospective attorney about his or her preferred method of communication. In addition, you should determine whether the attorney you meet with during your initial consultation will be handling your case or whether most of the work will be performed by a junior associate. A good lawyer should be ready and willing to answer all questions you have about your case and the legal process in general.
Cost
Finally, although cost isn’t everything, it is certainly an important factor in your attorney’s decision. Therefore, you should determine your prospective attorney’s preferred billing method. Some attorneys charge by the hour, while others work on a contingency basis. Ideally, you should choose a lawyer who charges on a flat-fee basis, offers cost-effective services, and offers retainer plans with reduced rates for certain services.
Contact Our Experienced Veterinary Attorneys
Veterinary practice owners face unique challenges. So, if you own a veterinary practice, you need the assistance of an experienced veterinary attorney to help you face these challenges. At Mahan Law, we are longtime veterans of the veterinary business. Founded by veterinary hospital owner Anthony Mahan, our practice is dedicated to helping veterinarians avoid litigation by designing well-crafted agreements and proactive procedures and policies. We are as comfortable at the settlement table as we are in the courtroom, making us uniquely suited to address your legal needs. And if you are currently embroiled in litigation, we will provide you with powerful representation when you need it most. Please contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.