In this episode of the Injury Pros Podcast, host Michael Saile of Cordisco & Saile is joined by John Onal, founding partner of Onal Gallant in New Jersey, for a candid conversation about the evolving future of personal injury law and what lies ahead as the industry approaches 2026.

From the shared perspective of two experienced injury lawyers, the discussion explores how empathy, accessibility, and service-first lawyering are becoming defining factors in successful practices. Michael and John reflect on real client experiences, emphasizing why frequent communication, responsiveness, and personalized care are no longer optional, but essential.

The conversation also looks forward, examining how technology and AI are reshaping intake, case management, and client communication, and how firms that adopt these tools thoughtfully will be better positioned to serve clients. They discuss emerging trends such as autonomous vehicles, changes in accident frequency, and how data-driven documentation can strengthen cases.

Finally, the episode highlights the growing importance of online reputation, reviews, and transparency in how injured clients choose their lawyers - underscoring that the future of injury law belongs to firms that combine strong advocacy with genuine human connection.

Whether you’re an injury lawyer, legal professional, or someone interested in how the legal industry is changing, this episode offers a grounded, forward-looking view of what injury law may look like in 2026 and beyond.

Michael Saile is a personal injury attorney and partner at Cordisco & Saile, where he focuses on client-centered representation and innovation in legal services. Michael is passionate about improving the client experience through communication, education, and the responsible use of technology, including AI. As host of the Injury Pros Podcast, he brings together industry leaders to discuss the future of injury law and best practices for serving injured clients.

John Onal is a founding partner of Onal Gallant, a New Jersey-based personal injury law firm known for its hands-on, compassionate approach to client advocacy. With years of experience representing seriously injured clients, John emphasizes accessibility, trust, and clear communication throughout the legal process. He is a strong advocate for using technology to enhance—not replace—the human side of law.