Think you might have a personal injury case? Most personal injury cases in the U.S. settle out of court, with only 4-5% going to trial. Even then, around 90% of cases that go to trial result in losses for the plaintiff. This is why finding the right lawyer is crucial.
To improve your chances of finding the right lawyer, you’ll need to know what to ask. Here are nine key questions to help you evaluate personal injury lawyers and choose the best fit for your case.
Questions to Ask Your Potential Personal Injury Lawyer
There are over 1.3 million practicing lawyers in the U.S., but finding the right one takes work. Use these questions to help narrow down your options.
1. How Much Do You Charge?
Most personal injury lawyers charge fees on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win. Contingency fees are usually 40% or more of the settlement amount. Be cautious; a lower percentage fee doesn’t guarantee a higher payout.
If a lawyer charges a lower percentage but isn’t experienced, you might end up with a smaller settlement than expected.
2. What Experience Do You Have with Cases Like Mine?
Experience in personal injury law is important, but you also want a lawyer familiar with cases like yours. Personal injury law covers various scenarios, including:
- Medical malpractice
- Slip and fall incidents
- Dog bites
- Product liability
- Car and motorcycle accidents
- Wrongful death cases
Ask if the lawyer has worked with cases that are similar to yours to ensure they have relevant expertise.
3. Who Will Be Working on My Case?
When you hire a lawyer, you’re also hiring their team. Many attorneys work with partners, paralegals, and assistants. Clarify who will handle different aspects of your case, especially if it’s a large firm. Ask about the team’s credentials and experience.
4. What Case-Related Costs Am I Responsible For?
Some costs may apply even if you don’t win, like fees for witnesses or evidence collection. Make sure you understand all potential costs, including who pays these expenses, to avoid surprises later.
5. What Is Your Track Record with Personal Injury Cases?
Experience matters, but so does success. Find out if the lawyer has a strong record of winning cases. If they can’t demonstrate successful results in personal injury cases, consider other options.
6. How Much Compensation Do You Expect for My Case?
Ask what the lawyer expects in terms of compensation. While they may not have an exact number, experienced lawyers can provide an estimate. Compare estimates if you’re interviewing multiple lawyers. If one figure is much higher than others, ask why.
7. What Do Others Say About You?
Reputation is key in law. Ask for references or read online reviews to learn about a lawyer’s past cases. Good reviews from former clients and peers can be a strong indicator of a lawyer’s quality.
8. What Do You Need from Me?
Find out what information and documents the lawyer needs from you. This may include evidence, witness contacts, or personal details. Providing necessary documents promptly can help move your case forward.
9. What Are the Next Steps?
If you hire the lawyer, ask about the next steps. You may need to sign paperwork or attend additional meetings. Knowing what to expect helps you stay informed and prepared.
Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?
If you need a personal injury lawyer, look for one with the experience, reputation, and dedication to fight for your case. You deserve a lawyer who is committed to getting fair compensation for your injuries.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation. We’re here to offer guidance, expertise, and support to help you through this challenging time. Don’t wait—get the legal help you need.