Important Questions You Should Ask When Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney

Most people will go through life without hiring a lawyer. But after suffering a personal injury, an attorney can help you get fair compensation from the person or business responsible for your injuries and their insurer.

Before you entrust a lawyer with your injury claim, you will talk to several lawyers. These consultations allow you to gather the information needed to choose a lawyer. During these meetings, you should inquire about the lawyer’s experience with various types of personal injury cases. Understanding their track record and approach can significantly influence your choice. Additionally, consider how well they communicate and whether you feel comfortable discussing your case with them. During these discussions, pay attention to how well each attorney communicates and whether they demonstrate a genuine understanding of your situation. Additionally, consider the personal injury attorney contact timing; reaching out early in the process can significantly impact the progression of your case. Making the right choice can greatly influence the outcome of your claim, so take the time to assess your options carefully. During these meetings, pay attention to how each lawyer communicates their approach and experience in handling similar cases. It’s crucial to assess not only their qualifications but also their understanding of when to seek legal representation, as this can greatly influence the outcome of your claim. Taking the time to find the right legal support can be the difference between a successful resolution and a prolonged battle. Take this opportunity to evaluate their experience, approach, and success rate with similar cases. Prepare a list of key questions to ask injury lawyers, such as their fee structure, communication style, and how they plan to handle your specific situation. This will not only give you clarity but also help you feel more confident in your choice.

Here are some important questions you should ask when hiring a personal injury attorney.

Questions About the Lawyer

You should always ask questions about the lawyer so you know what the lawyer will do and the fee you will pay.

How Much Will I Pay in Legal Fees?

This is the top issue you should discuss in the initial consultation. Neither you nor the lawyer benefits from any misunderstandings about fees.

Most injury lawyers charge a contingent fee. This means that you do not need to pay anything upfront. It also means that you do not need to pay unless you settle or win your case.

But make sure you understand what percentage of your compensation will be used to pay your contingent fee. And ask about who pays for costs like court fees and stenographers.

Do You Have Experience with Cases Like This One?

Lawyers handle a lot of cases. But not every case is the same. A lawyer will handle a rideshare accident differently than an ordinary car accident. You should ask the lawyer about prior experience with similar cases to make sure the lawyer can handle your case.

Questions About the Claim

Most lawyers will answer general questions about your claim at an initial consultation. They might not get into specifics because they will not have reviewed all the evidence. But you will still be able to talk about your case in generalities.

Can I Get Compensation for My Injuries?

A lawyer will always give you unbiased advice. The answer to this question will usually include both the strengths and weaknesses of your case. If it only includes the strengths, you should consider talking to another lawyer.

How Much Is My Case Worth?

Lawyers cannot guarantee an outcome of a case. If a lawyer assures you during an initial consultation that you will get a certain amount, you might want to keep looking. Instead, seek out a lawyer who explains the factors that go into a settlement or damage award and gives you a range of what they were able to get in similar cases.

Hiring a Lawyer

Choosing a lawyer is a consequential decision. Make sure you fully understand who you are hiring before you make the decision.

Contact us for a free phone consultation. Harlan Law Firm has over 25 years of legal experience to help you with your case. We are also licensed to serve Portland, OR!