Questions to Ask an Injury Attorney Before You Work Together
Hiring a personal injury attorney can speed up the claims process and help you recover the damages you're entitled to. While working with a lawyer generally leads to better outcomes, finding the right attorney for the job is still important. Ask these questions before hiring an attorney.
Have You Handled Cases That Went to Trial?
Most injury cases are resolved out of court. According to the United States Department of Justice, somewhere between 4%-5% of personal injury claims go to trial. It's unlikely that a judge will hear your claim, but it's still wise to work with an attorney with trial experience. Find a lawyer that has won cases in court for their clients.
What Is My Claim Worth?
Many factors can influence the total value of a personal injury claim. Talk to an attorney about what your case is worth, and find out how they'll handle negotiations with an insurance company. The right attorney will fight to secure the maximum compensation on your behalf. When asking about the value of your claim, it's also wise to ask about an attorney's fees.
Have You Handled Cases Like Mine Before?
Different types of accidents and injuries are classified as personal injury claims, including auto accidents and medical malpractice cases. It's common for a personal injury attorney to focus on a specific area of the law. See if the lawyer you're speaking with has represented clients with similar claims. You'll want to work with an attorney that has relevant experience.
What Is Your Estimated Timeline?
People often assume a lawyer will quickly resolve their personal injury claim. Unfortunately, the claims process is often long and drawn out. An experienced attorney can give you a timetable for your case. Figuring out how long it will take to resolve your claim will help you decide how to proceed.
What Will You Need From Me?
Chatting with an attorney about what they'll expect from you is wise. While lawyers typically ask clients for evidence relevant to the case, such as photos or medical records, some attorneys will expect a level of involvement beyond that. Ensure that you and the attorney you're speaking with are on the same page when it comes to your participation.
Asking the right questions can help you find the personal injury attorney that's the best fit for your case. Seek out a lawyer that you can trust to handle your claim. Contact our team at Wood & Gresham, P.C. to schedule a consultation!
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