Definition
The unsavory practice of lawyers immediately pursuing accident victims to solicit legal representation, often before the victim has even left the hospital. It's the legal equivalent of showing up to a party uninvited with a business card.
Example Usage
The bar association cracked down on ambulance chasing after three lawyers were caught literally waiting in hospital lobbies.
Origin
Early 20th century American legal practice, derived from the literal act of following ambulances to accident scenes
Fun Fact
Many jurisdictions now ban this practice entirely, with severe penalties including disbarment.
Source: Legal ethics and professional conduct standards
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “Ambulance Chasing” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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