Alejandro Figueroa | June 29, 2021 | Personal Injury

When you search for a personal injury lawyer to handle your case, you may wonder whether there is a difference between a lawyer and an attorney? Traditionally, lawyers and attorneys both received training and education in the law. However, an individual was considered an attorney only after being admitted to practice law. Until then, he was a lawyer.

Today, the terms “lawyer” and “attorney” are used interchangeably to refer to someone who practices law. We do not require individuals to distinguish themselves by using the terms strictly by their traditional definitions. Regardless, the person you choose to represent you should be admitted to practice law in Florida. 

Requirements to Practice Law in Florida

Attorneys and lawyers who want to represent clients must be admitted to practice law in Florida. Practicing law without a license in Florida is a crime, which can be up to a third-degree felony.

Individuals may work in the legal field without a law license. However, representing clients in court, giving legal advice, and drafting legal documents generally requires the person to be admitted to the bar. Each state sets the requirements for being admitted to the bar.

An attorney who wants to practice law in Florida must meet the following requirements:

  • Have a law degree (Juris Doctor) from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association 
  • Take and pass all sections of the Florida Bar Examination
  • Meet the fitness and moral character requirements to be admitted to the bar
  • Take an oath confirming that the person will perform the obligations and responsibilities required to practice law

Being a resident of Florida is not a requirement to practice law in Florida. An attorney may reside in another state and obtain a license to practice law in Florida. However, it can be beneficial to choose an attorney who lives and practices law in Florida to handle your personal injury case.

Local lawyers are more familiar with the courts within their jurisdiction. They also focus their practice on Florida cases, so they have a comprehensive understanding of Florida laws. Furthermore, you may find that it is easier to communicate with local law firms. 

What Do Personal Injury Attorneys Do?

There are many different areas of the law that an attorney may practice. Personal injury law covers a wide variety of cases involving injuries caused by negligence and wrongdoing. 

Examples of personal injury cases include:

Under Florida personal injury laws, a person may recover compensation when another party causes them injury. Compensation may include money for their financial losses, pain, and suffering. 

A personal injury lawyer investigates the cause of the accident or injury to gather evidence proving the other party caused your injury. The attorney also works with your physicians to document the extent of your damages to maximize the value of your personal injury claim.

How Do I Locate a Personal Injury Lawyer in Florida?

You can search online for personal injury lawyers close to your home. However, you want to make sure that the attorney you choose is licensed to practice law in Florida.

The Florida State Bar Association has an online search engine that allows you to confirm whether a lawyer has been admitted to the bar and is in good standing. When you research an attorney through the Find a Lawyer tool, you can also obtain information about the attorney’s law practice, years of experience, certifications, and history of complaints. 

Some questions to ask an attorney during your first consultation include:

  • How long have you been practicing personal injury law?
  • Do you handle cases similar to my case?
  • How much trial experience do you have, and how often do you settle cases instead of going to court?
  • Do you accept cases on a contingency fee basis?
  • Will you be the attorney handling my case, or will I work with someone else?
  • Does the law firm have the resources and staff necessary to handle my case?
  • How will I receive updates about my case?

Most personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation to discuss your case. The consultation allows you to get to know the attorney and determine whether the attorney is the right person to handle your claim. 

An attorney should be willing to address your concerns and answer your questions. If not, you might want to meet with another lawyer before deciding which law firm to hire.

Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Tampa, FL

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Tampa, FL, and need legal help, contact our Tampa personal injury lawyers at Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.

Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers
Bank of America Plaza
101 E Kennedy Blvd #2400
Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 222-8656

We also provide legal assistance throughout the Tampa Bay Area including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, and Bradenton.