Source: Wikipedia
The time after an accident is a frightening and confusing one, and most people are left unaware of which steps to take. Personal injury attorneys guide their clients through the complexities of the legal system, but hiring a lawyer comes with its own difficulties. As you’re looking to hire an attorney, it’s crucial to know which questions to ask during the initial consultation.
Will You Be Handling the Case, Or Will It Be Passed Off to Someone Else?
One of the most important questions to ask is whether the person you’re meeting will be the one handling your case. Some firms allow potential clients to meet face-to-face with the attorney who will receive the case, while other offices pass consultations to paralegals or any lawyer who’s free. It’s important to meet the Hampton & Royce lawyer who’s handling your case to ensure compatibility and trust.
How Long Has the Firm Handled Personal Injury Cases?
The next thing to ask is how long the firm has been in the personal injury practice. Some attorneys have many years of experience with these cases, while others may be relatively new to the field. There’s no replacement for experience, as it will help the attorney in his or her efforts to achieve the fairest possible settlement.
Have You Handled Similar Cases in the Past?
Along with asking how long the attorney has handled injury cases, ask about their experience with your claim type. There are numerous types of injury claims, including animal attacks, auto accidents, product liability, and worker’s compensation. It’s crucial to find an attorney who has handled cases like yours, as every type of case is slightly different.
How Will The Firm Handle My Case?
As you’re asking the attorney these questions, they’ll be asking you a few as well. They’ll ask about the incident and how it happened, and they’ll also review police reports, witness statements, accident reports, and other information you’ve given them. As they review everything, ask them how they’ll handle the case. An effective injury attorney should be able to assess potential challenges and form a strategy to overcome them and bring the case to completion.
What Portion of My Settlement Will Be Taken as a Legal Fee?
The last question to ask an injury lawyer during a consultation is what percentage of the award or settlement they’ll take. Most injury lawyers work on contingency, which means that you don’t pay an hourly or upfront rate. Rather, they take a percentage of the settlement you receive. That percentage may vary from one firm to another, but most charge about 25-40% of the total award. Find a firm with fair and transparent fees, and before signing a contract, be sure to compare their fees with those of other local firms.
In Closing
Have you suffered an injury because of someone else’s intentional, reckless, or negligent behavior? If so, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your pain, suffering, and economic losses. A local injury lawyer will determine the validity of your claim, file the case, and either settle it or take it to trial. Don’t deal with the aftermath of an injury or an accident alone; ask these questions and find the right personal injury attorney.