After an accident, finding the right lawyer can feel overwhelming. If you have never hired a lawyer before, you may be unsure what to even look for when hiring an injury lawyer.
The best place to start is scheduling a free consultation. During the consultation, you have the opportunity to discuss your case, ask questions, explore your options, and find out if you even have a case. It’s also your chance to see if they’re the right fit for your case.
But what should you ask?
Here are six important questions to bring with you to the consultation.
1. Have You Handled Cases Like Mine Before?
Every personal injury case is different. A car accident isn’t the same as a slip and fall or a dog bite. Some types of cases are inherently complex and require knowledge of complicated case law, such as medical malpractice and defective products.
You want a lawyer who knows your type of case. Ask about their experience with similar cases and the results they have achieved. You can also ask how much of their practice involves similar injury cases, and how many have gone to trial.
Remember that relevant experience is one of the most important things to look for in an attorney, particularly with a complex case.
2. What Do You Think My Case Is Worth?
No lawyer can promise a certain amount. But an experienced lawyer can give you an idea of what you may be able to recover based on the details of your case, your injuries, and your expenses so far.
They will consider things like:
- Your medical bills
- Time missed from work
- The injuries you sustained
- The circumstances of your accident
- Whether you might have contributed to the accident
- Whether there is good evidence proving liability
Based on these details, the lawyer can help you understand if you have a good case to pursue and explain the types of damages you may recover if your case is successful.
Remember to be honest during the consultation, even if you’re worried certain actions will make you look bad. Without knowing all the facts, the lawyer won’t be able to give you accurate advice. Even if you share some blame for what happened, you can still recover damages under Missouri’s comparative negligence rule.
3. What Are Your Fees?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee. This means you don’t pay anything upfront. They only get paid if you win.
However, not all contingency fee agreements are the same.
Ask about the details, like:
- What percentage do you take?
- Does the fee depend on how my case is resolved? It’s common for the fee to be higher for cases that require going to trial, for instance.
- Will I owe anything if we lose? You may be required to pay certain costs like court fees.
- Do I need to pay case expenses upfront, or do they come out of my settlement?
It’s important to understand the fee structure and what you may need to pay before you agree to anything.
4. Who Will Handle My Case?
Sometimes the lawyer you meet isn’t the one who will actually work on your case. In some law firms, cases are passed to junior lawyers, or other attorneys may be assigned based on experience. Many people may work on your case as a team, including paralegals.
Ask who will be your main contact. Will you be able to reach the lawyer directly? Will someone else be handling most of the work?
You want to know who’s in charge of your case, how easy they are to contact, and if you’re comfortable with the arrangement.
5. How Long Will My Case Take?
Some personal injury cases settle quickly. Others can take months or even years.
Ask the lawyer how long cases like yours usually take. While no one can give you an exact timeline for your case, they should be able to give you a general idea. They can also explain factors that may increase how long it takes to settle.
Also, ask what steps are involved and when you’ll hear from them next. Clear communication is key.
6. What Can I Do to Help My Case?
Your lawyer does the legal work, but you can help move your case forward. Ask what you should be doing while your case is open.
This may include keeping doctor appointments, saving receipts and records, keeping a journal, or avoiding certain posts on social media. A good lawyer will guide you through what to do—and what not to do.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Choosing the right lawyer can make a big difference in your case. A free consultation is your chance to ask questions and get the information you need. Don’t be afraid to take notes or bring a list. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel moving forward.
At Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers, we’re ready to help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you need. Contact us today at (636) 519-0085 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer to discuss how we can help.