Can I Tell My Injury Lawyer to Ask for More Money Even If They Think the Case Should Settle?
When you hire a personal injury attorney, that lawyer works for you — not the other way around. While it’s important to listen to their professional advice about what your case may be worth, you always have the final say when it comes to whether your case settles or goes to trial. Your attorney can never legally or ethically accept a settlement without your approval. That means if you believe the insurance company’s offer is too low or your lawyer isn’t being aggressive enough, you have every right to tell them to push for more.
Sometimes lawyers recommend settling because they believe the offer reflects what a jury might award based on the evidence. However, other times, an attorney might be encouraging a quick settlement simply to close the case faster or avoid going to trial — which could mean you’re leaving money on the table. You are entitled to a lawyer who’s willing to fight for the full value of your injuries, even if that means filing a lawsuit and taking the case in front of a jury.
If your lawyer seems unwilling to negotiate higher or refuses to take your case to court when you want to, that’s a major red flag. In that situation, you have several options. You can demand that your attorney continue negotiating, refuse to authorize settlement, or even replace them with a lawyer who’s prepared to take your case further.
It’s also critical to understand that communication with your lawyer is key. If you disagree about the settlement amount, ask your attorney to break down how they calculated the value, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future treatment costs. A good lawyer should take the time to explain the pros and cons of rejecting a settlement and what steps can be taken to strengthen your claim.
Ultimately, your attorney is there to advise, but you are the decision-maker. If you believe your case deserves more and your lawyer isn’t willing to fight for it, it might be time to find an attorney who will. Personal injury cases are about more than just numbers — they’re about accountability, justice, and making sure you’re not left paying the price for someone else’s negligence.
