In order to file a claim for a personal injury, certain elements must be met that involve negligence, injury and causation. In most cases, it is in the best interest of the injury victim to have competent legal representation. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can help ensure that a claim or lawsuit is handled properly, and that the arguments on the part of the prosecuting party are communicated effectively to the court. Fortunately for injury victims seeking to file a claim, almost all personal injury attorney work on a contingency basis, meaning the injured person does not have to pay out of pocket for the legal fees.