If an accident has injured you, you might wonder what type of lawyer you need. You’ve probably seen the terms “lawyer” and “trial lawyer” used, but what’s the difference? More importantly, who is the right choice for your personal injury case?
The truth is, not all lawyers are prepared to fight for you in court. A trial lawyer has the skills and experience to take your case to trial. That makes insurance companies take your case more seriously—and often leads to bigger settlements.
What’s the Difference Between a Trial Lawyer vs Lawyer?
Many believe all lawyers handle cases the same way, but that’s not the case. While both lawyers and trial lawyers represent clients, their approach and level of preparation can be different. Here are the differences between a trial lawyer vs lawyer:
What Does a Lawyer Do?
The term “lawyer,” can refer to many different types of attorneys, each handling various legal matters. In personal injury cases, general lawyers primarily focus on negotiating settlements with insurance companies rather than taking cases to trial. Their goal is to resolve claims quickly and efficiently, avoiding lengthy courtroom battles.
While this approach may work for minor injury cases, it can sometimes result in lower settlements if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.
What Does a Trial Lawyer Do?
A trial lawyer is more than just a negotiator—they are legal advocates prepared to take your case as far as necessary to ensure you receive full and fair compensation. Unlike general lawyers, trial lawyers approach cases with courtroom strategy in mind, which gives them more leverage in negotiations.
Trial lawyers also command more respect from insurance companies because they are always ready to take a case to court if the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement. This can result in higher compensation for injured victims, even without going to trial.
A trial lawyer does the following:
- Prepares Every Case for Trial – A trial lawyer builds legal strategies with the expectation of going to court, giving them more leverage in negotiations.
- Argues in Front of a Judge and Jury – Trial lawyers present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and deliver arguments in a courtroom setting.
- Conducts In-Depth Legal Research & Case Investigation – An experienced trial attorney gathers extensive evidence, interviews witnesses, and works with experts to strengthen the case.
- Cross-Examines Witnesses & Experts – A skilled trial attorney challenges opposing witnesses and presents expert testimony to support the client’s claim.
- Presents Opening and Closing Arguments in Court – Trial attorneys deliver persuasive arguments to judges and juries to secure favorable verdicts.
- Navigates Court Procedures and Rules – An experienced trial lawyer understands procedural laws, evidentiary rules, and trial strategies that regular lawyers may be unable to handle.
- Prepares Clients and Witnesses for Trial: Trial lawyers coach clients and witnesses on how to testify confidently and respond to cross-examinations.
Why a Trial Lawyer is the Best Choice for Your Injury Case
Many personal injury cases are settled, but hiring a lawyer who avoids trial can cost you. Insurance companies offer less when they know a lawyer won’t fight in court. Trial lawyers negotiate from strength, ensuring better results and higher compensation. Here’s why trial lawyers get better results for injured victims:
→ They Ensure Insurance Companies Take Your Claim Seriously
Insurance companies don’t want to pay maximum settlements. If insurers know your lawyer won’t take the case to court, they have no incentive to offer a higher settlement.
→ When Insurance Companies Won’t Pay, We Take Them to Court
A trial lawyer builds your case from day one as if it will go to trial. To prepare, we will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build compelling arguments. We will not hesitate to take a case to trial to secure the best outcome.
→ They Handle Serious and Complicated Cases
If you suffered a severe injury, such as a spinal cord injury or brain trauma, you need strong legal representation. A trial lawyer can help secure maximum compensation for your medical care, lost wages, and long-term needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hiring a Trial Lawyer
1. Do I need a trial lawyer if most cases settle?
Yes! While most cases settle, a trial lawyer ensures you don’t get lowballed by insurance companies especially if dealing with serious injuries or complex cases. They negotiate from a position of strength because they’re always ready to take your case to court if needed.
2. How much does it cost to hire a trial lawyer?
At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, you pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid when we win your case.
3. Will I have to go to court if I hire a trial lawyer vs lawyer?
Hiring a trial lawyer often leads to better settlements without going to court because insurance companies know we mean business. However, if taking your case to court is the best way to secure fair compensation, we’re ready.
4. How long will my personal injury case take?
Every case is different. Some cases settle in a few months, while others take longer. A trial lawyer will fight to resolve your case as quickly as possible while still ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. We aim to obtain maximum compensation for our clients as quickly as possible without compromising their well-being and best interests.
Why Choose El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers?
El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers believes every client deserves personalized attention and a legal strategy tailored to their unique circumstances. Our experienced trial attorneys have a proven track record across the span of 21 years securing multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for injured victims. Unlike firms that rush to settle, we prepare each case as if it will go to trial.
From gathering evidence and negotiating with insurers to representing you in court if necessary, we are with you every step of the way. Your fight is our fight, and we won’t stop until we pursue the full compensation you deserve.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Experienced Trial Lawyers – At El Dabe Ritter, we have successfully challenged major insurance companies—and won. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and fierce courtroom advocates, ready to go to trial if insurers refuse a fair settlement.
- Higher Settlements – Our reputation as aggressive trial lawyers gives us the leverage to negotiate bigger payouts for our clients.
- No Fees Unless We Win – You never have to worry about upfront costs. We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means we only charge attorney fees if we successfully recover compensation for you.
- Personalized Attention—We treat every case with the care and attention it deserves. Our clients work with the same dedicated legal team throughout their cases, ensuring direct attorney access and clear, consistent communication. You’re not just another case number—you’re a person who deserves justice.
- Free Consultations – We offer 100% free case evaluations, to ensure you can get answers without any financial risk or obligation.
Ready to Consult With El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers?
Don’t settle for less than you deserve. At El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers, we fight to maximize compensation and protect your rights. Our team of trial attorneys has over 20 years of experience standing up for the rights of the injured against powerful insurance companies. We have recovered millions in verdicts and settlements for our clients, and are ready to do the same for you.
Whether through aggressive negotiations or taking your case to trial, we are committed to securing the best possible outcome. Schedule a free consultation with our personal injury lawyers today—there’s no risk or obligation, and no fees unless we win.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is not intended as legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. You should consult with an experienced attorney for advice on your specific situation.
