Whether hiring a personal injury lawyer or another type of attorney, some people find it difficult to ask questions about an attorney’s background and qualifications before hiring them. It would be best if you did not hesitate, as a good relationship with the attorney is based on communication. An initial consultation is free with personal injury lawyers because it is much like a job interview for the client and the personal injury attorney. Possible questions to ask before hiring a private injury law firm, a bankruptcy lawyer, workers compensation attorney, social security disability lawyer, or a real estate and business attorney may include:
- What are your primary areas of focus, concentration, or specialization?
- How many cases like mine have you handled in the past?
- How many cases like mine are you currently handling?
- What percentage of your cases are like mine?
- Will you be working personally on my case?
- What percentage of the work on my case will you handle?
- If other attorneys in your office will work on my case, who are they, and what is their experience?
- How long do you expect it to take before my case is resolved if it is settled out of court?
- How long would it take to resolve my case if it has to go to trial?
- Will you take my case on a contingency fee basis?
- Is your fee negotiable?
- Will you take my case for a flat fee?
- What are things that I can do to improve my case?
- What should I avoid doing so as not to hurt my case?
- What is the best way for me to keep myself informed about the progress of my case?
- How long will it take to return my call if I call your office?
- If you are on vacation or unavailable when I call, who can I speak to about my case?
- If I am happy with a settlement offer but you think we can win more at trial, will you follow my wishes?
- Do you regularly attend “continuing legal education” courses?
