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7 Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Attorney

man holding sign that says questions to Ask a Personal Injury Attorney

If you have been injured in an accident, you may have many questions running through your mind. When you meet with an attorney, it helps to jot down some of those questions and come prepared to discuss the details of your accident and your future. How your attorney answers these questions could help you decide whether or not to hire them to represent you. This is an important decision and one that should not be taken lightly.

Here are 7 questions to ask your personal injury attorney before you hire them:

  • How long have you practiced law?

You need an attorney who has the experience and resources needed to handle your case. A new lawyer who is fresh out of law school may not be able to do so.

  • What is your experience handling my type of case?

Experience matters and your attorney should have extensive experience representing individuals who have been injured in accidents just like yours. If you have a specific type of injury, such astraumatic brain injuryor spinal cord injury, your lawyer should also have experience representing individuals with those injuries.

  • What is your track record?

You want an attorney that has a proven track record of success. How many cases has your attorney won? How many cases have they litigated? How many have they negotiated? It is best that you choose an attorney that can take your case to trial, if that is what is needed.

  • What are your attorney fees and costs?

You need to know exactly how much this will cost and what fees you are responsible for. Many personal injury lawyers operate on acontingencybasis. This means that they do not get paid unless they win your case or reach a settlement. You should determine what percentage of your settlement is their fee and what other expenses you may be responsible for.

  • What is your approach when representing a case?

Some attorneys are aggressive negotiators and some are skilled litigators. Determining how your attorney handles insurance companies and what their approach is to winning your case, can help you determine if they are the right fit for you.

  • What alternatives to lawsuits do I have?

If there are any other alternatives to filing a lawsuit, your attorney should be able to tell you all of your options. A good attorney will inform you of all the ways your case could be handled so you can choose the one that is right for you. Often there may be less expensive and time consuming means.

  • How will you communicate with me?

Communication is very important when you are filing a claim. Your lawyer will need to be easy to talk to and someone who can be reached easily. How will your lawyer keep you informed of important dates and ensure that you are kept in the loop during negotiations.