If you’ve been injured in an accident in Missouri, you may be considering hiring a lawyer but aren’t sure what to expect from that first meeting. Most personal injury attorneys offer a free consultation, but what does that really mean?
This meeting is your chance to share your story, ask questions, and decide whether the attorney is the right fit for you. Here are nine important things you should know before scheduling a free consultation.
1. Consultations Have Time Limits
Even though it’s free, your consultation won’t last all day. Most attorneys schedule 30 to 60 minutes for this meeting. That’s usually enough time to cover the basics of your case. Come prepared with questions and key details so you don’t miss anything important.
2. Free Really Does Mean Free
A free consultation won’t cost you anything. Attorneys provide them as an opportunity to meet potential clients and assess whether they can help. Likewise, it gives you a chance to see if you feel comfortable with the lawyer before moving forward.
3. Be Honest About Your Case
When talking to the attorney, share the full truth about what happened—even the details you think may hurt your case. Missouri law, for example, follows a pure comparative negligence rule. That means even if you are partly at fault, you may still recover damages, but your honesty helps the attorney prepare the best strategy.
4. You Should Ask About Fees
Most Missouri personal injury lawyers charge on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay upfront; instead, the lawyer takes a percentage of any settlement or verdict. Ask about the exact percentage, as well as other possible costs like expert witness fees or court filing expenses, so you aren’t surprised later.
5. Experience Matters
Not all attorneys have handled cases like yours. During your consultation, ask about the lawyer’s experience with car accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, or whatever type of case you have. An attorney who has worked on cases similar to yours will better understand Missouri courts and insurers.
6. You’ll Learn About Your Case
One of the biggest benefits of a consultation is that you get legal insight. The lawyer can explain how Missouri law applies to your situation, what damages you may be entitled to, and what obstacles you might face. This information helps you decide how to move forward.
7. Ask Who Will Handle Your Case
Sometimes, the attorney you meet at the consultation won’t be the one managing your case day to day. Ask whether your case will stay with that lawyer or be assigned to someone else in the firm. Knowing who your main contact will be helps set expectations.
8. The Lawyer Might Decline Representation
Not every case is one that an attorney can take. A lawyer may decline if the evidence is weak, the damages are small, or if there’s a conflict of interest. Don’t get discouraged. If one lawyer turns you down, it’s worth meeting with others to see if someone else can help.
9. You’re Under No Obligation
After the consultation, you don’t have to hire the lawyer. Take your time to think it over, compare different attorneys, and make the choice that feels right for you. A free consultation is meant to give you options, not pressure you into a decision.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Free Consultation
To prepare for your consultation, it helps to come organized.
You should bring the following to the consultation:
- Copies of accident or police reports
- Photos or videos of the scene and your injuries
- Medical bills and records
- Insurance information and correspondence
- A list of questions you want answered
Having this information ready helps the attorney give you clearer advice during your meeting.
What to Expect After the Consultation
Once your free consultation is over, you might wonder what comes next. Typically, the attorney will review your information and let you know whether they can take your case.
If you decide to move forward, you’ll sign a fee agreement, and the lawyer will begin gathering evidence, contacting insurance companies, and building your claim. If you choose not to hire that attorney, you can use what you learned to guide conversations with other lawyers.
Contact the St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyers at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been hurt in an accident in St. Louis, a free consultation is your chance to get answers and explore your legal options. At Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers, our St. Louis personal injury attorneys are here to listen to your story, explain how Missouri law applies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
For more information, contact the best personal injury lawyer in St. Louis, MO at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers. We proudly serve all throughout Missouri, including St. Louis County, and we have offices in St. Louis, Chesterfield, Clayton, and Creve Coeur.
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – St. Louis Office
1010 Market Street, Suite 1605
St. Louis, Missouri
(636) 519-0085
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Chesterfield Office
400 Chesterfield Center Suite 600
Chesterfield, MO 63017
(636) 999-9587
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Creve Coeur Office
11628 Old Ballas Rd, Suite 320
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
(314) 557-2869
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Clayton Office
7733 Forsyth Blvd, Suite 1100
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 804-4569
