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I went through this without a lawyer. A dumptruck ran my wife and a cherry 1973 450SL into a jersey wall. I fought for years to have them pay the diminished value claim and repair the car, got a local TV reporter involved and was featured in Changing Times magazine.
State Farm did, grudgingly and eventually, pay the amount in full. They also had to buy new MB parts- not reman and not used (as the latter aren't very available). But it took two years.
Get a neutral, well respected, assessor. Find ads for your car that show the price (or higher) to justify your request. Be reasonable, polite and professional when dealing with the company. Take your car to a shop that understands it and insurance companies and has the patience to let it sit there until all is worked out. Be prepared to fight for what you think is right and expect to hear twenty five "no's" before you hear even a peep of yes.
If you don't have the time or the skills- and you have a very good case- get the lawyer. But make sure he or she works on a contingent basis or you'll lose more than you make in aggravation and money. If they won't take the case on that basis I would do it myself or pass. The insurance company lawyers have to go to work every day and make a salary no matter whose case they're working on. They've got all the time in the world.
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