In a legal matter, it's important to know what questions to ask when getting a personal-injury attorney. Although most cases are settled before going to trial, it is still crucial to know how law experienced your lawyer is in court. A lawyer with trial experience will know the tricks of the trade and will be able to point out any unique issues in your case. Generally speaking, personal injury lawsuits settle in the first few weeks of trial, so don't expect your attorney to try to win every case.
Experience and results are critical when hiring a personal injury lawyer. Ask to see case results and look for testimonials from past clients. While past case results aren't necessarily indicative of your case's outcome, they do show that your lawyer has the necessary experience and attention to detail. It is best to avoid hiring a law firm with no prior testimonials, and to seek a different lawyer if the results of their past cases don't meet your expectations.
Communication. If you can't meet face-to-face, ask how frequently you can contact your attorney. If your lawyer prefers email or text communication, ask them about their preferred means of communication. Make sure that you have an open line of communication with your attorney, so you can ask any questions that come to your mind. If your case settles out of court, you will receive a much higher settlement amount.
Communication. If you're unsure how much communication you should expect from your attorneys, ask if they can provide you with client updates regularly. You'll want to know whether your lawyer will be available to answer any questions you might have. Communication is the cornerstone of any relationship, including a personal injury case. Ask how involved they're going to be in the case, and if they're comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions with you. If they don't communicate with you often, you're probably best to find another attorney.
Experience level is another important factor to ask when hiring a personal injury attorney. Though years of experience may indicate competence, they shouldn't be the sole criteria. A lawyer should be willing to show you their background by reading their bio. Their education, previous cases, and areas of concentration can give you a good idea of their work. You should also read through their website, as most attorneys will have a page detailing their credentials.
Experience is an important factor, as a solo lawyer may be less qualified or experienced than a larger firm. While it is important to hire a personal injury lawyer who has a strong reputation and is experienced in your area, you should also consider whether their experience matches the type of case you have. If the attorney you choose has handled cases similar to yours, they should have a strong understanding of the specific laws of the state where you were injured.
Fee structure is another factor to consider. A personal injury lawyer should be willing to discuss their fees with you upfront. Whether you will be paying out of pocket or having the attorney pay the costs of the case if you lose will depend on how strong your case is. If you are able to pay the fees out of your own pocket, you can negotiate for a lower fee. Once you've found an attorney who you feel comfortable with, you can then choose a lawyer.
