What questions should I ask a personal injury attorney before hiring?
There are many reasons why you should research the personal injury attorney you are considering. You can check out their reputation by asking past and current clients and professional organizations. Check their awards, testimonials, and media attention. Find out who is represented by them and how many personal injury cases they have won. You can also research the case results of previous cases they have handled and whether they have any disciplinary records. Visit this website for experienced attorneys you can trust.
One important question to ask is how long they have been practicing. The more years an attorney has been practicing law does not necessarily mean that they are better than others. You can also check their bios to learn more about their education, important cases, and areas of concentration. Most attorneys have a website with this information. If you have any questions, you should feel free to ask them. You will be glad you did.
Communication is vital in any relationship. When it comes to personal injury cases, communication is essential. Some clients want regular updates, while others prefer to be on the sidelines throughout the process. Make sure that your attorney is willing and able to communicate your preferences. You should also know whether your attorney will charge a flat fee or bill you on a contingency basis. A contingency fee means that you pay only if they win your case.
How many verdicts have they won? Ask your personal injury attorney how many times they’ve been successful in settling a case for their clients. While a personal injury attorney won’t be able to provide a specific number, they should be able to give you a rough estimate of your chances of winning. Your attorney should be able to give you a general idea of how much they can expect to win if you hire them.
Which attorney will handle my case? A good personal injury attorney will give you a free consultation. If an attorney charges you for the consultation, that’s a red flag. Ask if the attorney is the primary case handler. If the attorney is transferring your file to a paralegal or associate, make sure you ask them if the attorney will be your primary case handler.
How experienced is the firm’s staff? Some personal injury firms float a senior partner in front of a potential client to sell them their services. In reality, however, the lawyer may be a less experienced associate handling your case. Make sure you find out who handles your case and who handles your calls. Then, you can ask whether or not you’ll be working with an experienced attorney.
Lastly, what will the attorney charge me? Generally, attorneys charge a percentage of the settlement amount. It is not uncommon for them to charge a higher fee if the case doesn’t win. However, you should ask if their firm will charge you a fixed fee if they lose. This will depend on your financial status and the strength of your case. If the answer is “no,” then it’s likely you’ll want to find another attorney for the case.