How to Know If You Are Dealing With a Settlement Mill Law Firm

If you’ve been in an accident and need legal help, the last thing you want is to end up with the wrong kind of lawyer. Unfortunately, many accident victims unknowingly sign up with what’s known as a “settlement mill” law firm. While these firms promise quick results, they often leave clients with far less compensation than they deserve.

In this article, we’ll explain what settlement mills are, how to recognize them, and why choosing the right attorney matters for your case.

What Is a Settlement Mill?

A settlement mill is a law firm that takes on as many personal injury cases as possible, often spending huge amounts on advertising. As a business, their focus is on settling quickly with insurance companies and collecting their fees as fast as possible. This puts their clients at a disadvantage because, instead of carefully fighting for each client’s maximum compensation, these firms focus on settling quickly with insurance companies.

Naturally, insurance companies love settlement mills.

If I’m Getting a Quick Settlement, What's Wrong With That?

Settlement mill law firms rarely have any intention of going to trial, so they may not adequately prepare your lawsuit. Since they are focused on a quick settlement, the lawyer may not prepare your case effectively, nor need to research all the facts -- which can affect your settlement. A well-prepared case can get you more substantial compensation. Some cases have much better chances of being awarded the maximum compensation by going to trial. A settlement mill lawyer won't want to do that.

Settlement Mills Are Not There for You Personally

Settlement mills are a volume-based business, and they rely on the volume of cases to achieve their business income objectives. When the endgame is to settle quickly, there'll be no need for strategy, research, or much preparation -- what for? Settlement mills actually do very little work on behalf of clients and are notorious for wanting to close cases quickly so they can move on the the next one. Remember, they make their money by dealing in volume, not in helping you with your injuries.

How to Spot a Settlement Mill

Here are some common red flags that may signal you’re dealing with a settlement mill:

1. Heavy Advertising – If a firm is on every billboard, bus bench, or TV ad, you can be sure that they are handling thousands of cases at once.

2. Little Attorney Interaction – You meet with an “intake specialist” or case manager instead of an attorney. There's a high likelihood that a lawyer may never speak to you directly.

3. Pressure to Settle Quickly – Instead of preparing your case for trial, the firm pushes you to accept the insurance company’s first or second offer.

4. Cookie-Cutter Service – Every case is treated the same, without considering your unique injuries, medical costs, or long-term needs.

5. High Case Turnover – The goal is to close files fast, not maximize recovery.

How Can I Avoid a Settlement Mill?

When you are injured, you may want to move quickly if you believe you have a case. It's easy to feel pressure to get things done and over with. One of the most important things you can do is to fight the urge to hire the first lawyer you find simply so you can move forward. Settlement firms know this, which is why they bombard the public with advertising to keep their name top of mind. Don't hire an attorney simply because you've seen their ads all over.

It’s better to interview several personal injury attorneys, check the attorney's background, and any history of complaints with the state bar. It's also a good idea to research their results (settlements and jury awards). Take advantage of the free consultation that most personal injury lawyers offer to ask questions about your case, who will handle it, and how you will receive updates and other important communication.

Aksidente.com has done the necessary due diligence on your behalf. Lawyers on our network have 10+ years of personal injury experience, are in good standing with the state bar, have a track record of success, and provide excellent client service. We'll connect you with a lawyer who will represent you well and fight for your maximum compensation.

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