Firstly, know that the best personal injury lawyer for one case may not be the best for a different case. For example, if you have a small car wreck claim with low medical bills and lost wages, you may want a lawyer who is good at negotiating with adjusters to get you enough to cover your medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses.
On the other hand, if a loved one was killed in a crash involving an 18-wheeler, you may not want that same lawyer. You want a trial lawyer who knows how to work a complex catastrophic personal injury or wrongful death case from start to finish, a lawyer who can afford to advance those costs and handle the case on a contingency fee agreement. You want a trial lawyer who will turn over every stone to make sure you get full value. You will want to be informed of what a fair and reasonable amount is to hold the at-fault party responsible for the damages caused.
What to Ask an Attorney You Are Considering
Before you choose an attorney, it’s a good idea to talk to a few of them and find out their experience handling cases like yours. Here are some of the questions you can ask an attorney before you hire them. The answers you want to hear depend on the type of person you are, the type of case you have, and the outcome you want.
Questions to ask a lawyer before you hire them:
● Have you handled this type of case before?
● Do you handle cases other than personal injury or wrongful death?
● How many cases does your firm handle at one time?
● How heavy is your current caseload, and do you have enough time to take my case?
● What do I need to have for you to evaluate my case?
● How quickly do you inform clients of developments in their case?
● How often can I expect to hear from you?
● What is the process of handling a case like this at your firm?
● Do I even need a lawyer?
● If you are not going to take the case, will you point me in the direction of someone who will?
● If I have no case, will you be honest and tell me as soon as you know it?
● Will you meet with me in person?
● Will you evaluate my case free of charge?
● Do you cover the expenses on the case as it progresses, and then get reimbursed for that amount at the end of the case from any money recovered?
● What is your contingency fee prior to filing the lawsuit?
● What is your contingency fee after filing the lawsuit?
● Is your fee based upon the size of the case?
● If I need help finding the right doctor, can you provide me with a list of physicians in my area that I can call who may treat me for my injuries?
● Are you willing and able to take my case to trial?
● If the case goes to trial and we lose, will you appeal?
● If you’re a trial lawyer, how often do you go to trial?
● Have you lost before?
Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, after you’ve asked these questions, trust your gut. When it comes to choosing the right attorney, it’s important that you feel comfortable and confident working with them. After all, you’re going to be in this together.
If you have any questions about the process of hiring a personal injury lawyer, what a typical attorney fee contract says, or whether you are about to hire the best lawyer for your case, let us know. We’re glad to answer any questions you have.
