What to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer
When you have been injured by someone else’s negligence, you deserve to fight for compensation. To do this, it is wise to consult an experienced personal injury attorney; however, there are many lawyers from which to choose. How can you ensure that the attorney you choose is right for you?
During your first consultation, which many personal injury attorneys offer for free, you should have a prepared list of questions for your potential lawyer. You need to evaluate the attorney so that you know exactly what kind of representation you are acquiring. Here is a list of several questions to ask your personal injury lawyer:
- How many personal injury cases have you handled?
- How many have you won?
- What percentage of your practice is dedicated to auto accidents (or the specific type of accident for which you need representation)?
- How long have you been in practice?
- What kind of trial experience do you have?
- What problems do you foresee in my case?
- What are my options?
- How will you handle my situation?
- Can you guide me through the process?
- How long will the process take?
- How much will you charge for you services?
- Do you offer a contingency fee?
- Will you advance out-of-pocket costs?
- Will you call expert witnesses for my case?
- If so, what kind?
- Is there a statute of limitations within which we need to file a lawsuit?
- Do you handle the case personally or will it be handed off to a paralegal or other attorney?
- Can I meet this person?
- How will you inform me of the progress you are making on my case?
- What is the best way to communicate with you throughout this process?
- Do you have any references from former clients and other professionals in the legal community whom I can contact?
It is important to ask these and other questions pertaining to your attorney’s legal philosophy and work ethic before you actually hire them. If you feel uncomfortable with one attorney, it is perfectly acceptable to work with another firm. This is your personal injury claim—be happy with your attorney. In Tampa, Florida, consider Barker, Rodems & Cook, P.A. among those firms that you choose to interview.