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Last updated August 11, 2023

How do I get the best personal injury lawyer for my claim?

The one simple fact smart clients know to get the best injury lawyer for their case...

The most important decision you can make in your claim is the lawyer you choose to represent you.

Let me say that again so it sinks in… the most important decision in your claim is the lawyer you choose to represent you.

You only have one chance to obtain proper compensation. If you don’t get the best result the first time you can’t come back and try again. If you don’t get the right lawyer you will not get the best result.

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A man with a smile in front of a tree in a shirt and suit jacket with the caption “How Do I Get the Best Personal Injury Lawyer for My Claim”

You only have one chance to obtain proper compensation.

The loss of your ability to earn an income to support your family is a stressful and frightening time. You need to secure your family’s financial security in case you can’t return to work or to work that can earn you enough money to support your family.

You have only one chance to secure your financial future by obtaining the best possible settlement of your claim, choose the wrong lawyer and you could lose everything.

One simple question

Congratulations, by reading this guide you have separated yourself from all those who are looking for a lawyer and who will make the critical and costly choice of choosing a compensation lawyer to represent them without knowing how to make sure they have the best lawyer for their case.

There are lots of lazy lawyers who charge large fees without much result and can ruin the one chance you have of obtaining proper compensation.

The internet has allowed lots of hype and grand claims to be made. Most compensation lawyers offer the same things on their websites:

  • Free consultation
  • No win no fee agreements
  • Years of experience

For most people there is really no way to tell which lawyer or website is “the best”.

You may ask a friend but their recommendation may not work out.

The best way is to make sure for yourself that the lawyer you hire knows what they are talking about.

There is one simple question you need to ask any lawyer before you get them to represent you in an injury claim.

Here it is…

Are you a NSW Accredited Specialist in personal injury law?

That’s it… a very simple question.

If the answer isn’t yes then you have the wrong lawyer for your claim.

It is a simple question and should be answered yes.

If your lawyer does not answer this question directly, or tells you it is not important, you should immediately get up and walk out of his or her office or hang up the phone because your claim is far too serious to be dealing with a lawyer who is not straightforward with you.

You have one chance to get the right lawyer for your claim and it’s the most important decision you will make.

You must choose a lawyer who is an acknowledged expert in compensation law

The Law Society of NSW gives specialist accreditation to those personal injury lawyers who have passed an independent exam demonstrating their skill and expertise and have also passed a peer interview with other expert compensation lawyers. Only lawyers who are really experts in this area are accredited by the NSW Law Society.

If the lawyer you are consulting is not an Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law by the NSW Law Society then you have the wrong lawyer.

This is the same principle as seeing a medical specialist for treatment. Would you trust your GP to perform knee surgery? NO, you would consult with an orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in knee surgery.

It’s the same in law, don’t use the local solicitor in your suburb who says he has experience in injury claims, only use an accredited specialist personal injury lawyer.

If I had a family law issue I would see a family law accredited specialist and if I had a criminal charge I would see a criminal law accredited specialist and so on.

I see too many people make the mistake of believing that any lawyer can handle an injury claim, that all lawyers know what they are doing. The truth is the complete opposite. The law is so complex these days that a lawyer must specialise in one area of the law.

You can only become a NSW Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law if you have experience, know what you are talking about and are trustworthy.

Another question which should be asked is…

Who in the office will actually be handling my case on a day to day basis and are they a NSW Accredited Specialist in personal injury law?

This is the probably the second most important question that you must ask. The lawyer you might be speaking with at the initial consultation, who could be a partner and an Accredited Specialist may not actually be the lawyer handling the case.

Most of the larger law firms use the approach where you will initially speak to a partner who seems impressive and is an Accredited Specialist but then your case will be handed to a more junior lawyer. This junior lawyer will not be an accredited specialist and will be inexperienced and will make errors on your claim. The junior lawyer may be using your claim to gain experience.

You need to know the name of the lawyer who is actually doing the legal work on your claim and if that lawyer is an accredited specialist in personal injury law. If not, you have the wrong lawyer.

This issue is simple – do you want a lawyer that you can call with experience who knows what they are doing and will provide value or do you want to be treated like a commodity or a number. The larger law firms tend to farm out cases to junior lawyers. You will have difficulty ever speaking to a senior lawyer, you will probably never hear from the Partner again and you will not get the result you deserve.

Don’t get delegated to a junior lawyer

Here are 3 more things to think about when choosing your lawyer:

  1. Make sure you are getting straight answers and make sure you like your lawyer. You will be spending a lot of time talking to your lawyer so make sure it is someone you will be able to get along with and someone your trust. This is very important
  2. Don’t choose your lawyer because his or her office is close to home and is convenient. This is one of the best ways to get a lawyer who is not a specialist personal injury lawyer. The best lawyers usually work in the CBD as this is where the Supreme Court is located and where they spend their time. Whilst a lawyer may be convenient, make sure they are an accredited specialist in personal injury law.
  3. An experienced lawyer even if they charge more will always be more worthwhile over a less expensive, inexperienced lawyer. You only have one chance to obtain proper compensation and it must be done well. The more experienced lawyer whilst charging more will get you a result which more than makes up for the added expense and in less time. An inexperienced lawyer will be charging you to learn on the job, that’s not who I would want handling my case.

The most important decision you can make in your compensation claim is choosing the lawyer to represent you. Don’t just go for the first lawyer you find or the large firm. All lawyers are not the same. There are good lawyers and bad lawyers. If necessary you need to interview a number of lawyers before deciding on the one you want to represent you.

Make sure the lawyer who is actually handling your case on a day to day basis is a NSW Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Garling & Co Lawyers

Matthew Garling

Matthew Garling is an Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law approved by New South Wales Law Society. He is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia. Matthew is also a member of...
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04/04/2023

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Alina S.
03:51 26 Mar 26
I can’t thank Mr Garling and his team enough for the incredible support they provided throughout my case. From the very beginning, they showed genuine compassion, professionalism, and a strong... commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me - and the result they achieved in the end was far beyond my expectations!What stood out most was their clear and prompt communication, customer-focused approach and kindness. At every stage, they made sure I understood what was happening and what to expect. This made a very difficult and emotionally challenging process a lot more manageable. Whenever I had questions or felt anxious they were responsive, patient, and reassuring.Thanks to Mr Garling, I felt empowered and confident navigating the complex, opaque and overwhelming workers compensation system. His dedication and expertise, along with the hard work of his entire team, helped me achieve an outstanding outcome.I cannot recommend Garling & Co highly enough, to anyone in need of personal injury legal assistance, and especially those dealing with a workplace injury / workcover. You’ll be in very capable and caring hands!read more
sidney C.
02:14 05 Mar 26
From the Moment we seek out a lawyer all we expect from them is Honest,Efficient,Competentce,and Dedication.I Found All of That in These Lawers.
YKHADZ
00:11 25 Feb 26
I can’t thank Garling & Co lawyers enough!they turned what felt like an impossible situation into a life changing result.After my back injury forced me to stop working, I was terrified about how... I’d support my family.Kerry, Myriel and the team kept me updated every step without me having to chase. If you’re considering a TPD claim and feel like the insurer is making it deliberately hard, do yourself a favour and call these guys first. They know exactly what evidence matters and they fight hard without ever making you feel like just another file.Highly recommend worth every single star!!!Thanks again Kerry, Myriel & the team absolute legends 🙏read more
Howard P.
00:54 23 Feb 26
So thrilled with Garling & Co. Particularly Kerry Byrnes. Right from the first time I called for some advice to our favourable outcome she has had a listening ear, empathy and on the money with all... of her advice. I would gladly recommend their services.read more
Fiona C.
05:55 19 Feb 26
I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this workers Compensation team. When I first reached out, I was completely overwhelmed and unsure about the process. I hit rock bottom - unable to... return to work, struggling emotionally, and feeling like I had no direction. From the very beginning, the solicitors were nothing short of amazing. They were patient, understanding and incredibly supportive at a time when I needed it most. They took the time to explain every step in a way I could understand, never making me feel rushed or alone. Their professionalism was matched only by their compassion and that combination made all the difference.Throughout the entire journey, I felt heard, respected and genuinely cared for. They fought for me when I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself and thanks to their dedication, I was able to get the outcome I needed to rebuild my life. If you’re unsure, scared or feeling lost like I was, I can confidently say you will be in the best hands with this team. They helped me through one of the hardest chapters of my life, and I am truly grateful. I can’t thank or recommend Garling & Co Lawyers enough.read more
E.B
01:02 04 Feb 26
We initially contacted Matthew after my husband’s injury, he was so helpful and gave us all the information about my husband’s workers comp situation, he took the time and explained where my husband... was at with his claim and what we needed to do moving forward. This was even before we became a client which was refreshing and honest… Navigating a workers compensation claim is hard and really confusing, the team at Garling and co are so helpful and professional they really make the process easy and smooth!! We knew we could always call or email and ask questions about anything at any time. My husband doesn’t speak English fluently and Allison and Matthew catered to that in any ways possible.My husband was happy with the outcome of his claim, and he felt like he ended up with best possible outcome thanks to Matthew and the team.Thankyou Garling and Coread more
Alyssa F
08:02 31 Dec 25
Matthew Garling and his team have provided incredible support and guidance throughout my MVA damages claim this year, and I can’t thank them enough for making this journey feel like such a breeze.... When I initially engaged Garling & co, I had no understanding of what was ahead. I was anxious and unsure about the process, while also navigating the physical challenges of my injuries. With assurance that my matter was being handled with high level of expertise, professionalism and integrity, I was able to focus on recovery instead. Throughout the process, Matthew and Allison have been honest, straightforward and efficient in all communication; being a supportive buffer in all dealings with the insurer, and consistently committed to a successful outcome. The outcome was excellent, and it is with huge relief and great thanks that I can put this matter behind me. I would highly recommend the services of Garling and co for any injury claims of a similar nature, and I’m forever grateful to Matthew and his team.read more
David Y
21:33 15 Dec 25
A big thank you to Matthew for his expertise, dedication, and genuine care in handling my matter. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I am truly grateful for the excellent work of his entire... team. Outstanding results - highly recommended.read more
Richard R.
07:58 02 Dec 25
I needed urgent, clear advice regarding a Workers Compensation claim and "cold-called" Garling & Co.I was put through to Kerry Byrnes, and from that moment, my stress began to lift.I explained my... scenario which was causing me huge anxiety and Kerry listened intently. She provided simple, clear, and authoritative advice on my legal standing, the correct next steps, and what to realistically expect.Crucially, she reassured me that everything I had done to that point was correct.This initial consultation, which I later learned was provided at no cost, gave me perfect guidance and an immense sense of relief.There is truly no price you can put on that level of reassurance and peace of mind from an expert and Kerry delivered both instantly.Should my claim proceed and I need further legal insight, I will choose Kerry and the team at Garling & Co without hesitation.Their focus is clearly on the client and getting the right outcome.I recommend Kerry and the firm 100%.Thank you, Kerry!read more
Graeme M.
04:22 29 Oct 25
Matthew Garling and his team have been excellent in dealing with my case. I am very happy with the result and the process to guide me through everything over the last two years. Most importantly... happy with the payout. Highly recommend if you’re thinking of claiming for an injury caused by another party.read more
READ ALL TESTIMONIALS

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Alternatively, we are available to talk through phone and email. Please contact our experienced workers compensation lawyers to find out how we can help.

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Alina S.
03:51 26 Mar 26
I can’t thank Mr Garling and his team enough for the incredible support they provided throughout my case. From the very beginning, they showed genuine compassion, professionalism, and a strong... commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me - and the result they achieved in the end was far beyond my expectations!What stood out most was their clear and prompt communication, customer-focused approach and kindness. At every stage, they made sure I understood what was happening and what to expect. This made a very difficult and emotionally challenging process a lot more manageable. Whenever I had questions or felt anxious they were responsive, patient, and reassuring.Thanks to Mr Garling, I felt empowered and confident navigating the complex, opaque and overwhelming workers compensation system. His dedication and expertise, along with the hard work of his entire team, helped me achieve an outstanding outcome.I cannot recommend Garling & Co highly enough, to anyone in need of personal injury legal assistance, and especially those dealing with a workplace injury / workcover. You’ll be in very capable and caring hands!read more
sidney C.
02:14 05 Mar 26
From the Moment we seek out a lawyer all we expect from them is Honest,Efficient,Competentce,and Dedication.I Found All of That in These Lawers.
YKHADZ
00:11 25 Feb 26
I can’t thank Garling & Co lawyers enough!they turned what felt like an impossible situation into a life changing result.After my back injury forced me to stop working, I was terrified about how... I’d support my family.Kerry, Myriel and the team kept me updated every step without me having to chase. If you’re considering a TPD claim and feel like the insurer is making it deliberately hard, do yourself a favour and call these guys first. They know exactly what evidence matters and they fight hard without ever making you feel like just another file.Highly recommend worth every single star!!!Thanks again Kerry, Myriel & the team absolute legends 🙏read more
Howard P.
00:54 23 Feb 26
So thrilled with Garling & Co. Particularly Kerry Byrnes. Right from the first time I called for some advice to our favourable outcome she has had a listening ear, empathy and on the money with all... of her advice. I would gladly recommend their services.read more
Fiona C.
05:55 19 Feb 26
I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this workers Compensation team. When I first reached out, I was completely overwhelmed and unsure about the process. I hit rock bottom - unable to... return to work, struggling emotionally, and feeling like I had no direction. From the very beginning, the solicitors were nothing short of amazing. They were patient, understanding and incredibly supportive at a time when I needed it most. They took the time to explain every step in a way I could understand, never making me feel rushed or alone. Their professionalism was matched only by their compassion and that combination made all the difference.Throughout the entire journey, I felt heard, respected and genuinely cared for. They fought for me when I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself and thanks to their dedication, I was able to get the outcome I needed to rebuild my life. If you’re unsure, scared or feeling lost like I was, I can confidently say you will be in the best hands with this team. They helped me through one of the hardest chapters of my life, and I am truly grateful. I can’t thank or recommend Garling & Co Lawyers enough.read more
E.B
01:02 04 Feb 26
We initially contacted Matthew after my husband’s injury, he was so helpful and gave us all the information about my husband’s workers comp situation, he took the time and explained where my husband... was at with his claim and what we needed to do moving forward. This was even before we became a client which was refreshing and honest… Navigating a workers compensation claim is hard and really confusing, the team at Garling and co are so helpful and professional they really make the process easy and smooth!! We knew we could always call or email and ask questions about anything at any time. My husband doesn’t speak English fluently and Allison and Matthew catered to that in any ways possible.My husband was happy with the outcome of his claim, and he felt like he ended up with best possible outcome thanks to Matthew and the team.Thankyou Garling and Coread more
Alyssa F
08:02 31 Dec 25
Matthew Garling and his team have provided incredible support and guidance throughout my MVA damages claim this year, and I can’t thank them enough for making this journey feel like such a breeze.... When I initially engaged Garling & co, I had no understanding of what was ahead. I was anxious and unsure about the process, while also navigating the physical challenges of my injuries. With assurance that my matter was being handled with high level of expertise, professionalism and integrity, I was able to focus on recovery instead. Throughout the process, Matthew and Allison have been honest, straightforward and efficient in all communication; being a supportive buffer in all dealings with the insurer, and consistently committed to a successful outcome. The outcome was excellent, and it is with huge relief and great thanks that I can put this matter behind me. I would highly recommend the services of Garling and co for any injury claims of a similar nature, and I’m forever grateful to Matthew and his team.read more
David Y
21:33 15 Dec 25
A big thank you to Matthew for his expertise, dedication, and genuine care in handling my matter. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I am truly grateful for the excellent work of his entire... team. Outstanding results - highly recommended.read more
Richard R.
07:58 02 Dec 25
I needed urgent, clear advice regarding a Workers Compensation claim and "cold-called" Garling & Co.I was put through to Kerry Byrnes, and from that moment, my stress began to lift.I explained my... scenario which was causing me huge anxiety and Kerry listened intently. She provided simple, clear, and authoritative advice on my legal standing, the correct next steps, and what to realistically expect.Crucially, she reassured me that everything I had done to that point was correct.This initial consultation, which I later learned was provided at no cost, gave me perfect guidance and an immense sense of relief.There is truly no price you can put on that level of reassurance and peace of mind from an expert and Kerry delivered both instantly.Should my claim proceed and I need further legal insight, I will choose Kerry and the team at Garling & Co without hesitation.Their focus is clearly on the client and getting the right outcome.I recommend Kerry and the firm 100%.Thank you, Kerry!read more
Graeme M.
04:22 29 Oct 25
Matthew Garling and his team have been excellent in dealing with my case. I am very happy with the result and the process to guide me through everything over the last two years. Most importantly... happy with the payout. Highly recommend if you’re thinking of claiming for an injury caused by another party.read more
University of Technology, Sydney
Member of Law Society of New South Wales
Law Society of NSW Specialist Accreditation
University of Sydney
Legal Profession Admission Board of New South Wales
The law society of nsw professional standards scheme logo.
University of Technology, Sydney
Member of Law Society of New South Wales
Law Society of NSW Specialist Accreditation
University of Sydney
Legal Profession Admission Board of New South Wales
The law society of nsw professional standards scheme logo.
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