Ambulance chaser

Ambulance chaser is a derogatory term used primarily in the United States to describe a type of lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases and pursues victims of accidents to represent them, often immediately after the accident has occurred. The term is often associated with unethical or unprofessional behavior in the legal profession.

Origin of the term

The term "ambulance chaser" originates from the stereotype of lawyers following ambulances to the emergency room in order to solicit business from injured victims or their families. While this is largely a stereotype, there have been reported cases of such behavior, leading to the term becoming a pejorative for personal injury lawyers.

Legal and ethical implications

The practice of soliciting clients immediately after an accident, often at the scene or in a hospital, is generally considered unethical by legal professionals and is prohibited by many state bar associations in the U.S. This is due to the potential for exploitation of victims who may be in a vulnerable state following an accident.

In addition to being unethical, ambulance chasing can also be illegal. Many states have laws against solicitation of clients within a certain time period following an accident. Violation of these laws can result in penalties including fines and disbarment.

In popular culture

The image of the ambulance chaser has been perpetuated in popular culture, often portrayed as a sleazy, opportunistic lawyer who takes advantage of victims for personal gain. This stereotype is frequently seen in films, television shows, and literature.

See also

• Legal ethics
• Personal injury lawyer
• Solicitation (law)