What’s the Difference Between an Attorney and a Trial Attorney in Florida?

JAMES D. PAYER | July 26, 2024 | Personal Injury

If you are considering hiring a lawyer after an accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options and confusing terms you may encounter. You may see personal injury attorneys described with different terms: lawyer, attorney, trial attorney – what’s the difference? 

There is essentially no distinction between the terms attorney and lawyer in Florida. However, when an attorney is advertised as a “trial attorney,” it means they have courtroom experience and may even specialize in cases likely to go to trial. Here’s a more in-depth look at what makes a trial lawyer different from a regular lawyer in Florida. 

Trial Attorneys Have Courtroom Experience

Just 2% to 4% of personal injury cases go to trial. The vast majority are settled before that stage. However, it can still benefit you to hire a trial attorney for your case.

Many personal injury lawyers go years without going to court for their clients, and some go their entire careers without stepping into the courtroom. Trial lawyers, on the other hand, have extensive experience presenting cases before a jury or judge, making persuasive arguments, and examining witnesses. 

Insurance companies and other at-fault parties notice when an accident victim has an experienced trial lawyer on their side.

A Trial Attorney Will Be Prepared To Go to Court

An attorney without courtroom experience may be more comfortable settling out of court and hesitant to proceed to a trial. They may be more likely to settle for a lower amount than you could recover otherwise. Unfortunately, avoiding court is a major motivator for some lawyers, even if it could be in your best interests. 

From the beginning of your case, a trial lawyer will invest effort to prepare your case for the possibility of a trial. This includes looking for specific types of evidence that may be more compelling to a jury. If negotiations stall or the insurance company refuses to make a fair settlement offer, your lawyer will be prepared to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Trial Lawyers Have a Focus on Litigation

A trial attorney specializes in litigating cases in a courtroom. They focus on preparing cases and presenting them to a judge or jury at trial. In the courtroom, a trial attorney advocates for their clients by making compelling arguments, presenting evidence, and explaining complex facts in a way a jury can understand.

This focus means a trial lawyer will take a case that will likely end up in court, even if other attorneys do not feel comfortable handling the case.

A Trial Lawyer May Be More Comfortable With Risk

One reason a trial can be intimidating to less experienced attorneys is the exposure to risk. Taking a case to court comes with risk because the jury and judge can be unpredictable. 

However, remember that settlement negotiations can still take place after a lawsuit is filed – your case still won’t necessarily have to go to trial.

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a Qualified Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. Most attorneys in this area of the law offer free consultations, so you can receive initial legal advice at no cost.

Contact Our Orlando Personal Injury Law Firm For Help Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Orlando, Florida, and need legal help, contact our experienced personal injury lawyers at Payer Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

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