Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Re: Defense vs Plaintiff lawyer -- which is best?

The defense attorney will typically have more experience billing on hourly basis and being accountable for his or her time. Plaintiff's attorneys typically work on a contingent fee basis and don't track their time as closely. If you have ANY thpe of insurance, notify the carrier right away.

Re: Defense vs Plaintiff lawyer -- which is best?

According to Martindale-Hubbel itself, Mr. Moerbeek's explanation of the various ratings needs some clarification:

"What does it mean if a lawyer is not rated? Some lawyers request not to have any rating published, while others may not be rated due to the length of time in practice, the size of the Bar, or other reasons unrelated to their competence or ethical standards. Lawyers also undergo periodic rating reviews during their career; lawyers who have reached the "retired" status will no longer be included in the review process and their rating will be removed. Therefore, the absence of a rating should not be construed as unfavorable."

http://www.martindale.com/xp/legal/About_Martindale/Products_and_Services/Peer_Review_Ratings/ratings.xml

Re: Defense vs Plaintiff lawyer -- which is best?

Yes, side has some bearing, not no bearing. But, a defense attorney may be hired by insurance companies and may not be used to be hired by indviduals, they may be used to billing and working for insurance companies. I would be more concerned with how they will defend the case, and attitude.

Re: Defense vs Plaintiff lawyer -- which is best?

The issues raised by the other responding attorneys are valid. I would suggest that you check two additional sources on line: First, contact the State Bar and use their attorney locater service (i.e. it tells you his/her basic information, as well as whether he/she has any discipline problems [if so, it should be a "no go"]); and, second, use the Martindale Hubbell online service to determine what type of a rating each counsel has regarding the quality of their work and their ethical standing in the legal community. In descending order these ratings are av, bv, cv and no rating. You cannot get an a,b, or c rating without also being ethical (i.e. the "v"). Good luck, and if I can be of any service contact my office.