Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer Before Hiring
When you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence (or worse, malice), it can be hard to know what to do next. How do you navigate the complicated legal system so you can get the compensation that you deserve?
Instead of trying to do it all alone, it’s time to hire a personal injury lawyer. That said, finding the best personal injury lawyer around isn’t easy. How do you know that you’ve found the right one?
We’re here to talk about it. Read on for a few questions that you should ask before you hire a personal injury lawyer.
1. What Do You Charge?
This is often the first question that people have for their personal injury attorney, and for a good reason. While you can’t necessarily price shop if you want a good lawyer, you do need to know that you can afford the lawyer’s services.
Discuss all fees and costs with the lawyer. How do they charge? Do they charge for short phone calls and emails?
Some personal injury lawyers won’t charge unless they win the case for you, while others charge regular fees. It’s important to know this ahead of time.
2. Have You Handled Similar Cases?
When you’re going over your case with your lawyer, ask them if they have experience with situations like yours. While most good personal injury lawyers can handle a wide range of cases, it’s in your best interest to choose one who has seen this type of case play out before.
If they haven’t handled a case that’s almost identical, ask about cases that gave them experience that they can apply to yours.
3. Do You Think I Have a Case?
When you consult with a lawyer, they may determine that you don’t have a viable case at all (at least based on the information that you’ve given them). Always ask if they foresee any troubles in your case or even if they think your case is worth pursuing.
They may need more information before deciding whether or not they’d pursue your case. Always bring as much information as possible to your consultation.
On this same note: be wary of any personal injury lawyer who tries to guarantee a win. Even if a case seems obvious on the surface, your attorney should always be realistic so you can set your expectations.
4. What Do I Need to Do?
What’s your role during the personal injury case? Different attorneys have different expectations regarding what they want their clients to do. It’s important for you to know your role.
If you’d prefer to sit on the sidelines while your attorney takes care of everything for you, that’s okay, but you need to know that your attorney is okay with that. If you’d prefer to be more hands-on, you’ll have to choose an attorney that prefers that as well.
Is It Time to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
With these questions in mind, it’s time to find a lawyer that aligns with your needs. Let professionals take care of your personal injury case so you can get the compensation that you deserve.
If you’re in need of a personal injury lawyer, the team at McGrath Law Firm wants to help. Contact us so we can start working together today.