What Qualities Make the Best Jones Act Attorney?

Choosing a maritime accident lawyer following an injury can feel overwhelming for the victim and their family. Following the accident, the injured seaman may be facing pressure from either the company that he or she works for or their insurance company to make decisions and sign paperwork. Since mistakes made at this stage can be costly, it is essential to hire the best Jones Act lawyer possible.

What makes the best Jones Act attorney? The following is an overview of the qualities that the top maritime lawyers possess:

• Understands how to analyze the definition of a seaman under the Act to determine whether the client qualifies for protection. The answer is not straight forward, and inexperienced lawyers may stumble on this point. While the basic text outlined defines a seamen as someone who spends 30% of his time aboard a ship, sometimes the 30% test applies, and sometimes it does not
• Is capable of winning and knows to pursue the proper forms of damages
• Ability to prove negligence on the part of the company
• Is selective about the cases that he or she takes on, only accepting clients whose cases best suit the attorney’s strengths as a legal professional
• Allows clients to ask as many questions as they want to, and explains the answers until they are fully understood, without getting insulted or annoyed
• Encourages clients to educate themselves during the hiring process
• Experienced specifically handling Jones Act cases
• Complies with all Jones Act procedural requirements
• Understands the type of evidence needed to succeed in a Jones Act case
• Offers an overview of past results with several success stories that include large verdicts or settlements
• Has published articles or books about the Jones Act or maritime law
• Has an experienced support staff
• Carries adequate malpractice insurance
• Has no disciplinary record
• Has experience either representing or litigating against large companies, including insurance companies
• Offers straight forward answers to all questions
• Answers all questions even before asking for a signed fee agreement

For more information, review our free book, Insider’s Guide to Winning Your Maritime Injury Case. For a free consultation from one of the best Jones Act attorney, call Vujasinovic & Beckcom, P.L.L.C. at their toll free number (877) 724-7800.