Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Attorney (Before You Hire Them)
If you’ve been injured, you know how overwhelming it can be to figure out where to start your search for the right personal injury attorney. In this blog, we’ll help you figure out where to start your search, how to choose the right firm for your injury type, and the questions you should ask before deciding which firm to hire.
Remember: if you're asking yourself whether you need a lawyer...you definitely need a lawyer.
Where to Begin Your Search for a Personal Injury Attorney
Yes, searching for a personal injury lawyer can seem like a lot, especially when you’re trying to navigate your recovery. Not to mention that finding the right personal injury lawyer can make all the difference.
Narrow down your search for the perfect law firm by consulting:
- Friends
- News articles
- Websites
Do Your Research: How to Find a Personal Injury Attorney
Unsure of where to start? You might find yourself asking these types of questions:
Is it best to work with a firm that focuses on my particular type of case?
The short answer is yes. Each type of case is unique and is often governed by a specific type of law; for example, if you were injured while working in a specific field like the offshore oil and gas industry, you will be best served by finding a law firm that focuses on maritime law. After all, an attorney who has experience in that exact area of law will understand the intricacies of your type of case and will therefore be better positioned to achieve the kind of results that will help you on the road to recovery.
Do bigger firms have more experience and resources, or will they forget about my case because they are so busy?
Typically, larger law firms have access to more resources, and they, ideally, also prioritize experience when growing their numbers. When you find a promising law firm, it’s important to get to know the people that would be working with you on your case. Do they have the experience and track record that puts your mind at ease? How do they approach your case? When a law firm strikes the right balance, your case will be handled with the utmost respect for your time, your situation, and the results you’re hoping for.
Should I choose the firm I see on billboards? Is a nice website a good sign or just good marketing?
In the end, it’s all about the level of service and the results. The dedication a firm puts into its marketing—whether through billboards or a website—can be a good indicator of who they are as a firm. However, sometimes, good marketing is just that: good marketing. Don’t take anything at face value. It’s important to get to know the firm you’re considering to see if they’re the right fit for you.
Should I go with the attorney everyone else is using for the same issue, or find my own?
The results that an injury attorney can achieve for people who are facing similar issues can be a good bellwether for how well they might perform for your case. In fact, seeking positive reviews from others in your situation can be a great indicator that you’re on the right path in your search. However, since every case is different, it’s important to speak to the firm that you’re considering and ask them questions about how they can specifically help you.
Questions to Ask an Attorney Before Hiring Them
Once you’ve narrowed down your search, you can get an idea of the next steps to expect with a firm by asking a few questions before you sign on the dotted line. Ask these questions before you hire a firm:
- What documents should I sign? You can get a head start on your case by being prepared with documents like medical records, the accident report, car insurance policies for all involved, a breakdown of your lost wages, and, of course, pictures. Be sure that, before you send any original documents associated with your case, you make copies for your own records.
- How long should I expect my case to take? Different types of lawsuits have different time limits, also known as the “statutes of limitation.” Regardless of how much time you have, it’s important to act as quickly as possible. How much time your case may take once it starts can also vary based on who is involved, how much damage has been done, etc.
- How often will someone be available to answer my questions? Will I be billed each time? Just as different law firms approach payment in unique ways, how they approach working with you will vary. Ask your lawyer to explain the process beforehand so that you know what to expect from your interactions throughout the case.
Call Our Personal Injury Attorneys
Are you still on the hunt for the perfect personal injury lawyer for your case? Arnold & Itkin has been fighting for people injured at work, in motor vehicle accidents, offshore, and more for decades. Our firm has recovered more than $20 billion for our clients and is committed to getting them the justice they deserve for their suffering.
When you need the best representation, call Arnold & Itkin. We fight for what’s right. No matter what.
