If you have suffered an injury as the result of someone else’s negligence, finding the right personal injury lawyer is the most important factor in receiving the compensation you deserve. Since most attorneys offer free consultations to prospective clients, you are encouraged to meet with and interview a number of potential attorneys.
The following are the most important questions that you should always ask to find a good legal match to achieve a favorable outcome for your case.
Personal Injury Law Experience
When you begin the meeting, it is recommended that you start asking about the lawyer’s professional legal experience in personal injury background, education, and skills. It is essential that you have a qualified and experienced lawyer on your side through the complex legal process.
Some important questions to consider asking are:
• From which college and law school did you earn your law degree?
• What year did you graduate from law school?
• How long have you been practicing personal injury law?
• Are you a member of any bar associations or professional organizations? If yes, which ones?
• What percentage of your practice is dedicated specifically to personal injury law?
• About how many personal injury victims do you represent annually?
Style and Philosophy for Personal Injury Law
In order to guarantee that the lawyer’s style of practicing law aligns with your case goals, it is important to ask questions about his or her professional style.
Questions you should ask include:
• How would you describe your own style or personality as a personal injury lawyer?
• What is your approach to handling cases similar to mine? What is your philosophy?
• What is your style when working with an accident in the workplace?
• Will you personally be handling all of my settlement negotiations, court hearings and/or trial appearances? Who else will be working on my case?
• What is the best method for contacting you? How quickly will you respond?
Legal Fees and Costs
Of course, it is highly important that you inquire about all the associated legal fees upfront before getting involved in a contract situation. Make sure that the payment methods are satisfactory for your individual budget and payment means.
You are encouraged to ask the lawyer:
• Do you bill clients on a contingency fee or an hourly-rate?
• How much will it cost if we win the case, settle the case or lose the case?
• If a monetary award is not rewarded in the settlement, will I owe money?
• What other expenses and fees will be charged? What is the estimated amount?
• Are there required-retainer-fees?
• Do you offer repayment plans? Do you accept check, cash, or credit cards?