10 questions to ask your potential lawyer
10 questions to ask your potential lawyer
By Jamal F. Allen
If you’ve been involved in a personal injury accident and have narrowed down your search for a personal injury attorney to a select few, it may be the right time to set up a consultation and get to know your potential attorney in person. It’s a great way to learn more about their background, experience, personality, and strategy they will take in handling your case.
Before you go to your meeting, print out this handy list of 10 questions to ask your potential lawyer. Most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations but be sure to ask before making your appointment.
Background and Experience
- How long have you been practicing law?
- Do you have prior experience handling cases like mine? Of those, how many did you win?
- How much of your firm is dedicated to handling personal injury cases?
- Do you usually represent defendants or people who have been injured?
With a personal injury case, it’s important to hire an attorney at a law firm that’s experienced in handling similar cases. Some law firms handle “general” cases; but just like you wouldn’t want your dermatologist to do your eye exam, you don’t want to hire someone who isn’t specialized in winning cases like yours.
Case Management and Fees
- Will you personally be handling my case? Or will others in the office be involved?
- What strategy would you recommend for my case?
- What are the potential outcomes of my case? What are my options?
- Do you have relationships with experts in other fields that may help strengthen my case?
- How long do you estimate it will take to resolve my case?
- What kind of legal fees can I expect?
When it comes to money matters, be sure all fees are clearly outlined and explained to you. For example, if a paralegal or junior associate will be handling parts of your case, their hourly rate may be lower. Also be sure to ask about possible out-of-pocket expenses and retainer fees.
It’s also important to come prepared to your first meeting with notes and documents about your case. Check back next week when we’ll go over all the details you should prepare and bring with you to your first meeting with your personal injury attorney.
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