If you have been injured because of another person’s negligence, you may have a claim for compensation. Victims can pursue compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance company or through a personal injury lawsuit. Plaintiffs in personal injury lawsuits can pursue damages for their medical expenses, lost income, Property damage, pain and suffering, and other damages. Knowing what questions to ask during your first meeting with a potential attorney can help you through the process.
1. Do You Have Experience Trying Personal Injury Cases Similar to Mine?
Hiring an attorney with experience is crucial. You should ask the attorney about his or her experience trying cases that are similar to yours. I suggest asking about the attorney’s success stories and success rate. Additionally, you should also ask whether the attorney has in-court experience. Although many cases are settled out of court, your case may go to trial, and you will need an attorney who knows how to navigate the court system.
2. What is Your Fee Structure?
Understanding the fee structure is also important. The majority of personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis. The client will not have to pay any fees or legal expenses unless and until the attorney recovers damages for them. You should ask what percentage the attorney will take in your case should you obtain a settlement or verdict in your favor.
3. If I Lose, Will I Have to Pay Out-of-Pocket Expenses?
Some attorneys will charge clients for specific types of case-related expenses in addition to the contingency fee percentage. You should ask the attorney responsible for out-of-pocket costs if your case is unsuccessful.
4. Who Will Be Handling My Case?
Some large personal injury law firms will assign cases to new attorneys or even have paralegals do most of the work. When you meet with an attorney, ask who will be working on your case the majority of the time.
5. How Much is My Case Worth?
It’s impossible to predict exactly how much your case is worth. Still, an experienced personal injury attorney can give you an estimate based on the severity of your injuries and other factors.
6. How Long Will it Take to Obtain a Settlement?
Predicting the future is impossible, but you can ask an attorney’s opinion on how long it might take to obtain a settlement. For example, if you have a complex medical malpractice lawsuit, the process may take longer than a rear-end accident case. You should verify that the attorney will begin working on your case as soon as possible.
7. Can I Settle My Case Out of Court?
Ask specific questions about the attorney’s ability to settle cases out of court. Most personal injury cases settle out of court. However, some attorneys have a reputation for settling cases for far too low amounts. You will benefit from an attorney who will negotiate for the best settlement for you, not necessarily settle the case as quickly as possible.
8. How Soon Will My Questions Be Answered?
A law firm’s communication practices will have a big impact on your case. in fact, one of the main complaints of clients relates to a lack of communication between their attorneys and themselves. Will the attorney wait weeks to get back to you? or will the attorney answer you within 24 hours? It is important to discuss your and the attorney’s communication preferences.
9. What is My Role in the Process?
You should also ask about your role in the process. is the attorney willing to work with you and ensure you are informed about your legal options so you can make strategic decisions? What are the attorney’s expectations for how you will help them during the discovery process? How often will you and your attorney need to meet together? Understanding how you and your attorney will work together can help you make an informed decision and know whether the attorney and his or her law firm will be a good fit.
10. Do You Offer Free Initial Consultations?
Hiring a personal injury attorney is an important process. When you contact a law firm, ask them about their initial consultation process. At Heninger Garrison Davis, we understand that costs can mount up when personal injury victims have to pay to meet with potential attorneys. We provide potential clients with a free, no-obligation case evaluation. During your complimentary case evaluation, we will answer questions and help you understand whether you have a valid claim and how much your case is worth. If another person’s negligence has injured you in Alabama, contact the skilled attorneys Heninger Garrison Davis to schedule your complimentary case evaluation.
