Key Takeaways

• Not all personal injury attorneys have the same level of experience or qualifications.
• Board certification in personal injury trial law is one of the strongest indicators of proven expertise.
• Insurance companies take board-certified attorneys more seriously during negotiations.
• The right attorney can protect you from costly mistakes and maximize your compensation.
• Choosing a lawyer should be a careful decision—not one made under pressure or fear.

A Story Too Many People Recognize (Names Changed)

When Angela was rear-ended on her way home from work, she thought the worst part would be the pain in her neck and back. What she didn’t expect was how confusing and intimidating everything else would be.

The insurance adjuster called within days, speaking confidently and quickly. Medical bills started arriving before she even understood what her diagnosis meant. Friends told her to “just get a lawyer,” but no one explained how to choose the right one—or why it mattered.

Angela had never dealt with the legal system before. She didn’t know the difference between attorneys who handle injury cases occasionally and those who focus on them every day. She didn’t know that some lawyers advertise heavily for the purpose of referring the case to another attorney to handle it. Most importantly, she didn’t know that there was a distinction called board certification—and that it could have a major impact on her case.

Angela’s experience is far from unique. For many injured people, the hardest part isn’t just healing—it’s knowing who to trust.

Why Choosing the Right Personal Injury Attorney Matters

After a serious injury, your future may depend on legal decisions you’re not prepared to make. Medical treatment, lost income, long-term care, and pain and suffering all come into play. At the same time, insurance companies are working quickly to minimize what they pay.

This is why choosing the right personal injury attorney is so important.

While many attorneys can legally handle a personal injury case, very few have demonstrated a high level of skill, experience, and commitment to this area of law. That difference often shows up in case strategy, settlement negotiations, and—if necessary—trial.

What Does “Board-Certified” Actually Mean?

Board certification is not a marketing term. It is a formal designation awarded by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization to attorneys who meet strict standards in a specific area of law.

A board-certified personal injury trial lawyer must:

• Have substantial, real-world experience handling injury cases
• Meet the requirements for in-courtroom experience that includes trying enough cases to verdict
• Pass a comprehensive examination focused on personal injury trial law
• Be evaluated by judges and fellow attorneys
• Commit to ongoing education in their specialty

In Texas, less than 2% of attorneys are board-certified in personal injury trial law. That rarity matters.

Board certification signals to clients—and to insurance companies—that an attorney has proven their ability to handle complex injury cases and is prepared to take a case to trial if necessary.

Why Insurance Companies Care About Board Certification

Insurance companies keep detailed records. They know which attorneys settle quickly and which ones are willing and able to go to court.

When a board-certified personal injury attorney is involved, insurance companies are more likely to:

• Take the claim seriously
• Conduct a more thorough evaluation
• Offer fairer settlements earlier
• Avoid unnecessary delays and lowball offers

This doesn’t mean every case goes to trial—but it does mean your case is treated with the seriousness it deserves and will be tried to verdict if a fair resolution cannot be reached.

Common Mistakes Injured People Make When Choosing a Lawyer

Many people hire an attorney during one of the most stressful moments of their lives. That makes it easy to fall into common traps, such as:

• Choosing a lawyer based solely on advertising
• Choosing an attorney simply because a friend or family member has used them for some purpose
• Hiring the first attorney who answers the phone
• Assuming all personal injury attorneys have the same experience
• Not asking about trial experience or certification
• Feeling pressured to sign paperwork quickly

These mistakes can limit your options later—and sometimes reduce the compensation you ultimately receive.

What to Look for in a Personal Injury Attorney

When deciding who should represent you, consider asking:

• Are you board-certified in personal injury trial law?
• Will you personally handle my case or hand it off to a new lawyer in the firm?
• How many cases do you routinely handle so that I will not be lost in the mix?
• Have you handled cases similar to mine?
• How will you communicate with me throughout the process?

A qualified attorney should welcome these questions and answer them clearly, without legal jargon.

Why the Law Office of David M. Kennedy Stands Apart

The Law Office of David M. Kennedy brings decades of experience to injury cases across Texas. David M. Kennedy is board-certified in personal injury trial law, a distinction that reflects both proven skill and professional respect. He is also certified as a civil trial specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

Clients benefit from:

• Direct access to an experienced attorney
• Strategic case preparation from day one
• A firm that understands insurance company tactics
• Clear communication at every stage of the case

Most importantly, clients gain an advocate who understands that behind every case is a real person trying to rebuild their life.

Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is Power After an Injury

If you’ve been injured, you don’t need to understand every legal rule or insurance tactic—but you do need to choose the right advocate.

Board certification is one of the clearest indicators that an attorney has the experience, discipline, and commitment required to protect your interests. When so much is at stake, that distinction matters.

If you’re unsure where to turn, the Law Office of David M. Kennedy offers guidance rooted in experience, professionalism, and a proven record of standing up for injured Texans.

Call us at (903) 819-0720 or Email today for your free consultation, and let us stand up for you — so you can focus on healing and getting your life back.