Certified Experience Matters
About JHLAW
JHLAW is an experienced, AV (Preeminent) rated law firm providing board certified legal help to businesses and those seriously injured or killed. If you are searching for answers after a serious accident, you probably know that no one has all the answers right now.
We do not pretend to have all of the answers, and it is too soon for a ready-made “fix everything” solution. But if you chose to let us help you, we make the following promises:
“We will always be honest with you.
We will always communicate with you.
We will aggressively work to get the best possible result for you.
We will always ensure that you and your family remain the focus of our work.”
Finding the Right Attorney
For most injury of death cases, this decision is the most important.
1. Board Certified?
If your case is a family law matter, a board certified tax attorney probably can't help you. But a board certified family attorney has proven that she is very knowledgeable in her speciality. So, does your state have a group that certifies attorneys? Is so, start your search there.
2. Trial Experience
If you sue someone, or have been sued, the ultimate question is "What would a jury do with this case?" Juries do (and don't do) things based on the skill of counsel. You want an attorney who has been in the trenches and has tried many lawsuits. Don't be afraid to ask this question. If a 25 year old attorney tells you he has tried 50 cases, consider doubting that attorney. The grey hair – at least some – matters in this business. Find an experienced attorney to handle your case. These can be in big firms or solo shops, but don't overlook trial experience and trial success.
3. The First Meeting
Go the office of the prospective attorney. Look around. First impressions matter, and most attorneys that can effectively handle your case will meet with you in a conference room. They will not rush you. They will listen to your story, look you in the eye, and then tell you what they think. Don't hire an attorney over the phone or based on a phone book ad. The decision is too important for that.
4. The Final Finesse—Former Clients
How did you feel after the meeting? Is this the kind of person you want assisting you with the death of a loved one or a serious injury? There are many high quality attorneys in Texas and beyond, but some are more about the beginning than the end. Talk to former clients.
Board Certification
Jeff Hightower holds attorney board certifications in both civil trial law and personal injury trial law.
Board Certification is a mark of excellence and a distinguishing accomplishment.
Within the Texas legal community, Board Certification means an attorney has substantial, relevant experience in a select field of law as well as demonstrated, and tested, special competence in that area of law.
The paralegal certification process closely parallels the attorney certification process. It includes a thorough assessment of the paralegal's experience under the supervision of a licensed Texas attorney as well as their record of Continuing Legal Education and specialty area duties. It requires the completion of Baccalaureate or higher degree, or completion of an accredited paralegal program or four additional years of relevant experience. References from attorneys, judges and other professionals associated with the specialty area are evaluated, and a passing score on a half day area examination is required. Only approximately 300 paralegals in Texas have distinguished themselves with board certification.
Three board certifications allow JHLAW’s clients to rest easy regarding the skill and competence of the team advocating for them.