The Importance of Hiring a Trial Lawyer for Your Personal Injury Case

After a serious accident, your focus is rightly on healing—physically, emotionally, and financially. The last thing you want is to get caught in a prolonged legal battle or be shortchanged by an insurance company that’s more interested in protecting its bottom line than making you whole. That’s where the decision to hire the right kind of attorney becomes critical. It’s not enough to hire any personal injury lawyer—you need a trial lawyer, someone who is ready, willing, and experienced enough to take your case to court if necessary.

At McLemore, Reddell, & Story, P.L.L.C., we believe that trial experience makes all the difference. Our Houston personal injury attorneys are seasoned litigators who prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, even if most cases settle. That preparation, coupled with our willingness to go to court, often leads to stronger settlement offers and better outcomes for our clients.

What Is a Trial Lawyer—and Why Does It Matter?

A trial lawyer is a personal injury attorney who is not only skilled at negotiating with insurance companies but also has extensive experience presenting cases in front of judges and juries. While some lawyers focus primarily on settlements and rarely set foot in a courtroom, trial lawyers build cases with litigation in mind from the start.

This distinction matters because insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to fight and which ones will fold. If the attorney handling your case has a reputation for avoiding the courtroom, insurers are more likely to offer a lowball settlement, betting that your lawyer won’t push back. On the other hand, if your attorney has a strong record of success in court, that pressure can lead to higher settlement offers and a more favorable resolution of your claim.

Preparation Is Power

The difference between a trial lawyer and a settlement-focused attorney often lies in the level of preparation. Trial lawyers take the time to thoroughly investigate the facts, preserve evidence, consult with expert witnesses, and build a compelling case that can stand up in court. This type of preparation is powerful—not only for trial but also during settlement negotiations.

When the insurance company sees that your lawyer has done the groundwork, understands the medical records, and has strong evidence to support your damages, they’re more likely to treat your claim seriously. That thorough preparation also means that if your case does need to go before a jury, your lawyer is ready to advocate effectively on your behalf.

Settling vs. Trying a Case: What’s Best for You?

Most personal injury cases do settle out of court, and in many situations, that’s the best outcome. Settlements can provide a faster resolution and avoid the stress of a trial. But not every case should settle—especially if the insurance company isn’t offering fair compensation.

If your case involves complex injuries, disputed liability, or significant future medical expenses, you need a lawyer who is ready to take your case all the way. A trial lawyer can weigh the risks and benefits of settlement versus trial and give you informed, strategic advice based on experience—not fear of the courtroom.

It’s also worth noting that some cases only settle for their true value once a lawsuit has been filed and the defendant sees that your attorney is serious. Simply hiring a trial lawyer—someone with a proven ability to win in court—can influence the entire course of your case for the better.

What to Look for in a Trial Lawyer

If you’ve been injured and are searching for legal representation, here are a few signs that an attorney is a true trial lawyer:

• They have a history of taking personal injury cases to trial, not just settling them.
• They approach each case as if it may go to court, with a strong emphasis on evidence gathering and legal strategy.
• They have experience with jury trials and understand how to present your story in a compelling way.
• They are confident in front of a judge and jury and can explain complex medical and legal concepts clearly.
• They have earned respect from insurance companies and opposing counsel through their courtroom success.

How McLemore, Reddell, & Story Can Help

At McLemore, Reddell, & Story, P.L.L.C., we are committed to providing every client with top-tier representation, whether your case settles or goes to trial. Our team of experienced trial lawyers has a deep understanding of Texas personal injury law and a proven record of success in the courtroom. We handle a wide range of serious injury cases, including car accidents, truck crashes, workplace injuries, and catastrophic injury claims.

We understand that this is more than just a legal matter—it’s your life, your health, and your future. That’s why we take the time to understand your story, gather the right evidence, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. Whether through strategic negotiation or aggressive litigation, we stand by your side every step of the way.

Ready to Fight for You

When your health and financial security are on the line, don’t leave your case in the hands of a lawyer who avoids trial. Choose a legal team with the skills, experience, and determination to go the distance for you.

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Houston or anywhere in Texas, contact McLemore, Reddell, & Story, P.L.L.C., today for a free consultation. Let us put our trial experience to work for you.