How to Find a Good SEPTA Attorney
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority (SEPTA) is a blessing to many commuters who don’t own a car, or who want to avoid the traffic. This is one of the largest transit systems in America and is a top choice for the residents. Every day, thousands of commuters put their trust in the drivers and maintenance crew of the buses, trains, and subways within this network.
However, accidents happen each year and commuters sustain life-threatening injuries. Most of these accidents are due to errors on the part of the company and the crew. Most errors are due to negligence, and someone needs to be held responsible. SEPTA is a large corporation that will resist any attempts from you for compensation for losses or injuries sustained. This is why you need an experienced lawyer to help you out.
Start with Your Employer
Find out if the company you work for provides a discounted legal program that you can use. This can be a special program or a more general employee assistance program. The program won’t give you a SEPTA lawyer, but it will help you get access to fundamental legal documents. The legal program will also help you figure out whether you have a case. You will receive all of this advice free, because most companies offer a free 30-minute consultation. If you have a case, the company lawyer will help point you in the right direction. This should be a referral to an experienced SEPTA lawyer.
Get Recommendations from Acquaintances
After you have decided to get a lawyer, you need to talk to friends, family, and colleagues. Lawyers that someone else knows may be useful even if they practice in a different state or locality. Lawyers work through professional networks, and a lawyer in another state can recommend a SEPTA lawyer who is in your state. The most important thing is that the lawyers will recommend you to reputable sources.
Use a Lawyer Referral Service
Local and state bar associations have set up referral services that you can use to find a SEPTA lawyer. The association will help you find the lawyers that practice in your area. The referral service only works with lawyers that are registered with the association and who have a valid license to practice in the area.
Once you locate a lawyer, you can check the qualifications and credentials before contacting him or her. The referral service will help you find a lawyer, but it is up to you to meet the lawyer and assess him or her on your own. This is because the way you will relate with your lawyer during the first meeting will let you know if you can work with him or her. If you feel uncomfortable with the attorney, it is time to try another one.
Browse Online Directories
Online directories have become the yellow pages for professionals. Lawyers also have online directories that they join. A visit to such a directory will present you with various categories of lawyers. Here, you will find information you need to make a decision regarding a particular lawyer. You will check out the qualifications, area of expertise, fees, past clients, and contacts. You can get the contact information for a lawyer from his or her profile and schedule a meeting.
Consult Your Family Lawyer
As stated earlier, lawyers work closely with connections, and they always have reputable lawyers a call away. Ask for a recommendation from a trusted lawyer so that you are referred to a good attorney. Your family lawyer will give you several options and help you choose the best ones.
Final Thoughts
As you talk to various people regarding a good lawyer, you will end up with a list of potential attorneys. Don’t choose a lawyer because he or she is the first on the list, or was recommended by someone you trust. Choosing the wrong SEPTA attorney can end up wasting your time and money. Take your time and find the attorney that will work best for your case.
