If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Montgomery, choosing the right lawyer can be one of the most important decisions you make. With so many law firms advertising their services, it can be difficult to know which attorney will truly fight for your best interests.
Many law firms promise “aggressive representation” and “maximum compensation,” but how do you determine who will actually deliver? The reality is that not all attorneys are equal—some may prioritize quick settlements over your long-term financial and medical needs. Others might lack the trial experience needed to stand up to big insurance companies.
This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a car accident lawyer in Montgomery, how to avoid common pitfalls, and why Strickland & Kendall stands out as a trusted choice for local accident victims.
1. Experience in Alabama Car Accident Cases
The most important factor when choosing a lawyer is their experience handling car accident cases in Alabama. Personal injury law is complex, and Alabama’s contributory negligence rule makes it even more challenging to secure compensation.
Why Alabama Law Experience Matters
- Strict Contributory Negligence Rule – Alabama is one of the few states that follows a pure contributory negligence system. If you are found even 1% at fault, you may be completely barred from recovering compensation. An experienced lawyer knows how to build a strong case proving the other driver was entirely responsible.
- Understanding Local Courts – Each county in Alabama may have slightly different procedures and tendencies. A lawyer familiar with Montgomery judges, court systems, and local insurance adjusters can better navigate your case.
- Negotiating with Alabama Insurers – Insurance companies know which law firms fight for their clients and which ones settle quickly. Choosing an attorney with a track record of winning Alabama car accident cases ensures insurers take your claim seriously.
Questions to Ask About Experience
Before hiring an attorney, ask:
- How many years have you practiced personal injury law in Alabama?
- How many car accident cases have you handled?
- Do you have experience taking car accident claims to trial?
- Can you provide examples of settlements or verdicts you’ve won for clients?
How Strickland & Kendall Stands Out
The attorneys at Strickland & Kendall have spent over 30 years fighting for Alabama car accident victims, securing millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. Lead attorney Michael Strickland has tried over 100 cases to verdict, while Ed Kendall has obtained some of the largest settlements in Montgomery history, including a $15 million verdict in an insurance dispute. Their deep knowledge of Alabama’s laws and court system ensures that your case is in experienced hands.
2. Track Record of Successful Settlements and Verdicts
A lawyer’s past results can give you an idea of how effective they are at winning compensation for clients. While no attorney can guarantee an outcome, a strong history of high-value settlements and trial verdicts is a good indicator of legal skill and negotiation ability.
What to Look for in Case Results
- Large settlements and verdicts – Have they won substantial compensation for car accident victims?
- Experience with severe injury claims – Have they successfully handled cases involving traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, or wrongful death?
- Trial success rate – Are they willing to take cases to court if needed, or do they only settle?
Why This Matters for Your Case
Some law firms operate on a high-volume, quick-settlement model, meaning they accept lower offers from insurance companies instead of fighting for maximum compensation. While this may be easier for the attorney, it leaves accident victims with less money for medical bills, lost wages, and future expenses.
A lawyer with a strong trial record is more likely to secure fair compensation, as insurance companies know they are willing to take a case all the way to court.
Strickland & Kendall’s Proven Results
- Over $1 billion recovered for clients
- $15 million verdict in a disputed insurance case
- Hundreds of cases successfully tried in Alabama courts
Unlike some firms that avoid trial, Strickland & Kendall aggressively litigates cases when insurers refuse fair settlements, ensuring their clients get the best possible outcome.
3. Client Reviews and Reputation in Montgomery
Injury claims are often stressful, so choosing a lawyer with strong client reviews and a reputation for compassion and communication can make a big difference in your experience.
Where to Find Honest Reviews
- Google Reviews – Look for law firms with consistently high ratings and detailed reviews about the client experience.
- Avvo and Martindale-Hubbell – These legal directories offer peer and client reviews for attorneys.
- Testimonials on Law Firm Websites – While these are often curated, they can still provide insights into how a firm treats clients.
- Referrals from Past Clients – If someone you trust has worked with an attorney, their recommendation can be invaluable.
What to Look for in Client Testimonials
- Responsiveness – Did the lawyer communicate clearly and keep the client updated?
- Personalized Attention – Did the client feel like they were just another case number, or did the attorney truly fight for them?
- Case Outcome – Did the client receive fair compensation?
What Clients Say About Strickland & Kendall
Strickland & Kendall has hundreds of satisfied clients in Montgomery and throughout Alabama. Their reviews highlight their dedication, legal knowledge, and compassionate approach.
One client wrote:
“Michael Strickland handled my case with professionalism and integrity. I was overwhelmed after my accident, but he guided me every step of the way. In the end, I received a settlement that truly covered my medical bills and lost wages. I couldn’t have done it without him.”
By choosing a lawyer with a strong reputation and positive client feedback, you can feel confident that you’re in good hands.
4. Personal Attention vs. Big Firm Treatment
Many accident victims assume that hiring a large law firm with extensive advertising is the best choice, but bigger isn’t always better. Large firms often handle hundreds of cases at once, meaning you might get less personalized attention.
The Difference Between Local and Big Firms
Why Personal Attention Matters
A dedicated attorney will:
- Take time to understand your case and injuries
- Keep you informed throughout the legal process
- Personally negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf
- Be available when you have questions
Strickland & Kendall’s Commitment to Clients
Strickland & Kendall is known for providing one-on-one attention to every client. Unlike large firms where cases are passed between different attorneys, when you hire Michael Strickland or Ed Kendall, you work directly with them throughout your case.
5. Resources and Ability to Take Your Case to Trial
Not all personal injury law firms have the resources to take cases to trial. Some firms rely on quick settlements and may not have the financial backing, staff, or expertise to handle complex litigation.
Why Trial Experience Matters
- Insurance companies pay more to firms with a strong litigation record. If your attorney has a history of winning trials, insurers are more likely to offer fair settlements to avoid going to court.
- Some cases require court intervention. If an insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney must be prepared to present your case before a jury.
- A strong legal team can make or break your case. Trial cases require expert witnesses, accident reconstruction specialists, and extensive preparation. Your lawyer should have access to these resources.
Questions to Ask About Trial Experience
- How many personal injury cases have you taken to trial?
- Do you have a history of winning verdicts in Alabama courts?
- Are you prepared to take my case to court if needed?
Strickland & Kendall’s Trial Success
Michael Strickland has tried over 100 cases to verdict, and Ed Kendall has led major litigation efforts, including a $15 million verdict in an insurance dispute. Their firm has the resources, experience, and determination to take cases to trial when necessary.
6. Fee Structure and Why Contingency Fees Matter
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case. However, the percentage they take and any additional costs can vary between firms.
Understanding Contingency Fees
- No upfront costs – You don’t pay anything out of pocket.
- The attorney’s fee comes from the settlement or verdict – Usually between 33% and 40% of the final amount.
- You should not pay case expenses if you lose – Some firms charge clients for expenses even if they don’t win the case.
What to Ask Before Signing a Fee Agreement
- What percentage of my settlement will go to attorney fees?
- Are there any hidden costs I could be responsible for?
- Will I owe anything if my case doesn’t win?
Strickland & Kendall’s No-Win, No-Fee Policy
Strickland & Kendall operates on a pure contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless they win. Unlike some firms that charge additional case expenses even if they lose, they cover all upfront costs so clients never risk financial loss.
7. Comparing Montgomery Car Accident Lawyers: A Checklist
Before making a decision, use this checklist to compare different law firms and ensure you choose the best attorney for your case.
If a law firm cannot confidently check all the boxes above, they may not be the best choice for your case.
8. Final Steps Before Hiring an Attorney
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, take these final steps before making a decision.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Most personal injury lawyers, including Strickland & Kendall, offer free consultations. This is your opportunity to ask questions and determine whether they are the right fit.
Prepare Questions to Ask During Your Consultation
- What is your experience with car accident cases in Montgomery?
- What challenges do you foresee in my case?
- How often will I receive updates on my case?
- Who will be handling my case directly?
- Have you handled cases similar to mine, and what were the outcomes?
Trust Your Instincts
Your lawyer should make you feel comfortable, respected, and confident in their ability to represent you. If they rush the conversation, avoid direct answers, or seem uninterested in your case, they may not be the best fit.
Contact a Montgomery Car Accident Lawyer Today
Choosing the right attorney after a car accident can make all the difference in your financial recovery. Insurance companies will look for any reason to reduce or deny your claim, and Alabama’s strict contributory negligence law makes it even harder to recover damages without strong legal representation.
At Strickland & Kendall, we are committed to fighting for car accident victims and securing the maximum compensation they deserve. Our proven results, extensive trial experience, and client-first approach set us apart.
Call Strickland & Kendall today or fill out our online contact form for a free case review.
With no upfront costs and a no-win, no-fee guarantee, there is no risk in getting the legal help you need.