The answer is simple.

The reason some people seek out a big city law firm for their malpractice case is because they feel that only a New York City law firm can handle their type of case. Or, the injured victim feels that a certain firm has a stellar reputation that other, smaller firms just don't have.

Why go into the City when you don't have to?

This brings us back to the question of why someone would seek out a lawyer in the City. People have impressions of lawyers and doctors and professionals. There are some very good large malpractice firms in New York City. There are some excellent small malpractice firms on Long Island. Where you choose to go should not rest on your impression of an office at a fancy address in the City.

Rather, your decision about what lawyer or firm you choose should be based on what the lawyer can do for you.

1. What is the lawyer's experience handling your type of case?

2. Is the lawyer a solo practitioner who can give you undivided personal attention, with a track record of successfully helping his clients?

3. Is the firm you're going to a 'mill' where you're just another file number?

4. How many attorneys in a big firm will work on your case?

In all probability, even solo practitioners have the same access to electronic, online legal research that big firms do. So what's the difference? Personalized, individualized attention.

In a big firm, the lawyer who you meet with at your first meeting, most probably will not be the one who tries your case. In fact, that trial attorney may never have met you before getting your case ready for trial.

When you call the office, how many secretaries, paralegals, associates and junior partners do you need to go through to finally reach the senior partner handling your case?

With a solo practitioner, one call does it all.

So, to answer the question, why do some people need a big city New York malpractice firm?

They don't. They just think they do. Wherever you choose to go, just make sure your attorney is right for you.