Questions to Ask When Interviewing a Personal Injury Attorney

Suffering an injury in an accident can be devastating, impacting every aspect of your life While no amount of money can undo the harm, pursuing compensation through a personal injury lawsuit can provide critical financial support during recovery and rehabilitation. Finding the right attorney to handle your case is crucial.

Here are some important questions you should ask potential lawyers during their first meetings with you to help you decide if they are the right fit for you:

1. What experience do you have handling my type of injury case?

One of the most critical factors is choosing a lawyer with extensive experience dealing specifically with cases like yours. Personal injury law is vast, covering automotive accidents medical malpractice workplace injuries, defective products, and more. Make sure to ask

• How many years have you been practicing personal injury law?
• What percentage of your caseload involves this type of injury?
• Have you taken similar cases to trial before? What were the outcomes?

Their answers will show how well they know the laws, rules, and strategies that apply to your case.

2. What is your success record in securing settlements?

Understanding an attorney’s background securing favorable compensation for clients is important. Ask:

• What is your track record obtaining settlements for past clients?
• What is the average settlement amount for cases similar to mine that you’ve handled?
• Have you ever lost cases that went to trial? How many?

High settlement amounts and rates in similar cases are good signs. Think about the fact that most cases are settled outside of court, so having trial experience is not as important.

3. Who in your office will be handling my case?

It’s important to understand exactly who will be working on your case:

• Will you personally be handling my case from start to finish? If not, who?
• How will you supervise and oversee my case?
• How involved will associates, paralegals, and other staff be?

Ideally, your lead attorney will play an active role with support from an experienced team.

4. What is your availability and responsiveness?

Dealing with an injury disruption already causes plenty of stress and delays. You need an attorney who will be readily available, responsive and timely. Ask:

• How quickly do you typically return calls and emails from clients?
• If I need to reach you urgently, can I contact you directly via cell phone?
• How much time can you personally commit to my case?

Gauge their commitment to making themselves accessible and dedicating ample time to you.

5. What strategies will you use to build my case?

It’s important to understand how an attorney develops strong cases for clients. They should utilize diverse strategies like:

• Gathering evidence: police reports, medical records, eyewitness statements
• Consulting medical experts: physicians, accident reconstructionists
• Outlining case merits and settlement ranges
• Negotiating aggressively pre-trial
• Thoroughly preparing for trial if necessary

Ask them to elaborate on their process to assess their diligence and creativity.

6. What logistical support can you provide?

Beyond legal services, you need assistance with logistics like:

• Navigating insurance policies and claims
• Coordinating treatment and medical evaluations
• Facilitating evidence gathering
• Managing travel and accommodations if trial is necessary

Make sure prospective attorneys have robust resources and connections to provide such support.

7. How do you charge for your services?

Most personal injury attorneys work on contingency, taking a percentage of your settlement if successful but nothing if the case fails. Typical fees range from 30% to 40%. Understand exactly:

• What are your contingency fee percentages?
• What case expenses might I be responsible for reimbursing?
• Are there any extra charges or retainers I should be aware of?

Gaining fee clarity upfront prevents misunderstandings down the line.

8. What differentiates you from other attorneys?

With so many lawyers to choose from, you want to know what sets your prospective representative apart. Listen for unique advantages like:

• Membership in invitation-only attorney associations
• Special recognitions, awards or certifications
• Notable trial experience and settlement results
• Cutting-edge technological resources
• Strong working relationships with medical experts
• Favorable reputation with claims adjusters

These can often translate into better outcomes for you.

9. Can you share reviews, references and credentials?

It’s prudent to request credentials validating an attorney’s expertise and professional standing. Ask for:

• Client testimonials and references
• Proof of licensure and disciplinary records
• Membership in legal associations like AAJS
• Martindale-Hubbell peer review ratings
• Educational background

This information paints a fuller picture of their qualifications.

10. Do you feel confident my case will have a positive outcome?

A reputable attorney will provide an honest assessment of your chances of success. Be wary if they make exaggerated promises or absolute guarantees. Pay attention to their analysis of:

• Case merits based on evidence and circumstances
• Viability of legal arguments and tactics
• Likelihood of settlement vs trial
• Their record obtaining favorable results in similar cases

Their measured feedback can help set realistic expectations.

Listen to Your Gut

Above all, pay attention to instincts when meeting with attorneys. Look for these positive indicators:

• They listen attentively and answer directly.
• They express genuine commitment and empathy.
• You feel comfortable asking questions and sharing details.
• They clearly explain issues rather than use complex legal jargon.
• Their support staff seem competent and responsive.

Trust your gut feeling during initial consultations. Combined with the attorney’s expertise and track record, it will steer you toward the best legal representative. With the right counsel, you can pursue the maximum recovery possible and regain your quality of life after suffering an unfortunate injury.