While there are many legal specialties, personal injury and criminal lawyers are the most sought-after lawyers in the United States. This is because most lawsuits revolve around personal injuries and criminal cases.
There is a difference between a criminal lawyer and a personal injury lawyer. This guide will help you understand the difference and make informed decisions when looking for a lawyer.
What Is A Criminal Defense Attorney?
A criminal lawyer is a legal practitioner that defends either a defendant or plaintiff in court. One can either hire an attorney or use the one appointed by the court. The clients of a criminal defense lawyer can be individuals, entities, or corporations.
Some criminal defense lawyers specialize in various criminal cases, while others specialize in specific areas. The cases range from a misdemeanor or felony offenses.
Types of Cases Handled by a Criminal Lawyer
• Domestic violence
• Theft
• Burglary crimes
• DUI defense
• Arson charges
• Traffic violation offenses
• Drug possession charges
• Felony offenses
• Fraud charges
There are many other cases that a criminal lawyer handles. When accused of any of the above cases, you can seek help from a criminal defense lawyer, whether innocent or guilty.
A personal injury lawyer is a legal practitioner who represents a person injured due to negligence from someone else. The injuries could be physical or psychological.
What Is A Personal Injury Lawyer?
If you get involved in an accident at work, on the road, or someone’s property, you have the right to file a lawsuit for compensation from the accused party.
Working with a personal injury lawyer can make things easier for you. The attorney will guide you through and help you handle your case for possible settlement.
If the ruling is in your favor, you may receive compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, wage loss, and trauma.
Types of Cases Handled by a Personal Injury Lawyer
• Car accidents
• Truck injuries
• Whiplash accidents
• Motorcycle injuries
• Slip and fall injuries
• Bicycle accidents
• Pedestrian injuries
• Burn accidents
• Dog bites
• Train accidents
• Medical malpractice
• Negligence
A personal injury lawyer will investigate the claims and gather adequate evidence such as the accident cause, location, time and provide concrete details to the court. The lawyer will also contact the insurance companies and send demand letters for settlement.
The Difference Between a Criminal Lawyer and a Personal Injury Attorney
Overall Goals
A criminal lawyer defends their client, whether guilty or innocent, to protect their constitutional rights. This is because every individual or corporate organization has a right to accept or deny unreasonable charges against them.
On the other hand, a personal injury lawyer defends their clients in ensuring that they get their rightful claims based on the injuries or damages incurred. The lawyer provides proof of negligence by the accused.
Specialization
A criminal lawyer specializes in criminal cases and defends their clients to get a favorable ruling by the court. As mentioned above, a criminal lawyer may specialize in one area or cast their net wider.
A personal injury lawyer handles personal injury lawsuits about different accidents such as slip and fall, car accidents, and many others.
Lawsuit Output
There is a significant difference between the output given by a criminal lawyer and that of a personal injury attorney. A criminal lawyer fights for the defendant or plaintiff to get a fair ruling.
A personal injury lawyer focuses on helping their clients get higher compensation from the accused. The aim is to help the victim get what belongs to them to settle losses and injuries incurred from the accident.
Choosing the Right Lawyer for Your Case
Whether you need a criminal or personal injury lawyer, it is imperative to do due diligence and choose an experienced lawyer to handle your case smoothly. Have you suffered personal injuries, offshore-related injuries, or do you have a business dispute? We can help. Contact us today to advise you and help you handle your case.