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If an unfortunate accident strikes you or your loved ones, it’s important to make sure the insurance company holds up their end of the bargain. Alas, not all insurance companies are as honest as they claim, and sometimes they’ll withhold the financial settlements you deserve.
When cases like this happen, you’ll want to suit up with a personal injury lawyer. But how can you make sure this lawyer is the best fit for you and your case?
Well, you’re in luck. We’re here to give you the top 5 questions to ask before you hire a personal injury lawyer!
But enough talk, right? Let’s get to the good stuff.
1. Know the Cost Before You Hire
Before you sign a lawyer on to your case, it’s important to learn more about how they get paid. A general rule of thumb is that your lawyer’s pay equals around a quarter to just below half of whatever financial settlement you get. They will either use a gross pay system (they take the flat rate and internal costs need to get negotiated separately) or a net pay system (where the lawyer takes the flat rate plus what they spent on the case but skips all the tedium of negotiations).
These systems vary by state, so make sure you’re up-to-date on what’s required. But if you ask upfront what the payment method is and get a clear picture from the start, it will be much easier to decide whether that lawyer is right for you.
2. Check Their Track Record
While it may seem rude to ask a lawyer how “good” they are upfront, it’s well within your power (and a good idea) to ask that question. Lawyers with a strong list of victories and experience in the personal injury field of law are strong candidates. Those who lean more towards other kinds of law or have lousy track records should be avoided.
At the same time, see how they feel about you. Do they think your case is winnable? If they hem and haw answering that question, it’s time to find a different attorney.
3. Who Handles the Case?
Another important question to ask is who at the firm will be the one handling the case. The multi-case winning superstar you meet with to talk about your case could very well not be the lawyer you get once it comes to the actual case. So, make sure you know exactly who you’re getting on your team.
4. Let Them Know Your Preferences
When interviewing lawyers, ask them how involved you will be with the case. Will you be getting regular updates, or only called once a month or as needed? Some lawyers will want you on the front lines of stuff like depositions, while others prefer to work more solo. Find the lawyer that fits your needs and comfort level.
5. Time Expectations
Finally, make sure you find out how long the lawyer estimates your case will take. All they can do is give you their best guess, but this projection will let you know what to expect.
You should also ask how much time your lawyer has to give your case. After all, some firms have tons of clients, and you don’t want your case to get left in the dust in favor of other cases.
Fight for Justice
So now that you know the top 5 questions to ask before you hire a personal injury lawyer, it’s time to get out there and secure justice for yourself! And if you want to learn more about staying safe and the law, check out the other articles on our blog!
