It’s so unfortunate to get into an accident. Apart from physical pain, you have to deal with doctor visits and numerous calls from insurance companies. If the accident results from another person’s negligence, it’s only right to find yourself a lawyer.
A lawyer can assist you in filing your claim in court. The process ensures you get the maximum compensation for your injuries.
Even if it’s a free consultation, settling for professional and exceptional lawyers is necessary. You can get a free consultation from Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, LLP to see if your case is worth pursuing.
Different law firms have different procedures for the initial consultation. Also, the length of the consultation varies depending on the firm, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer. Knowing what to expect during a free consultation with your lawyer helps you make the right decision.
Here are some things to keep in mind when scheduling a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer.
Contents
1. Collect your Documents
Proper documentation is necessary to determine if a lawyer can take your case and give you the best legal representation. Thus, it’s essential to provide adequate information about your injury.
Most discussion will revolve around how the accident occured, your injuries, and the medical report.
For example, if you were involved in a car accident, you provide details such as the time and location of the incident. Carry police reports as well.
Other documents to carry are :
- Victim or clients statement recordings
- W2 formings to prove lost wages
- Paystubs and receipts
- Insurance information
- Pictures and videos of the scene if you have any
- Timeline and personal accounts.
1.Prepare to Answer Some Questions
To understand your grievances, your lawyer will ask you some questions. The questions help them determine the strengths and weaknesses in your case. Thus, you will have to explain the specific details of your accident.
e Some of the questions you might encounter
- Your employment status
- Details about the doctor’s prognosis
- Insurance information
- The details you’ve given other lawyers or the insurance company
Your answers will help them understand if you also face some blame. They might tweak the questions and ask the same questions to determine if you are truthful. Sometimes it’s to help you find elusive answers.
The questions also help the lawyers decide if they should take your case.
2. Ask your Lawyer Questions
You will find better representation by hiring a lawyer who has a good reputation. A good reputation is determined by the number of cases won, the amount of money recovered, and the number of years in business for the law firm.
A lawyer that has proven success in obtaining results for their clients will have a better chance of winning.
You need to trust the lawyer before entrusting a case to them. Ask your lawyers questions like
- Which attorney would be handling your case?
- Do they have experience handling cases like yours?
- How will the medical expenses get paid?
- What percentage do they charge if they accept the case
- What should you avoid doing?
- What should you bring along with you?
- What comes out of the settlement
- What should you expect when they take your case?
Asking the right questions will help you decide if the lawyers are right for you. You should be careful not to trust those who promise you quick cash and favors.
Here are some red flags to watch out for in some lawyers.
- A lawyer who promises that you can make your case would be quick and easy. They tell you you will get your cash in as little as 30 days.
- Lawyers that promise you millions of dollars.
3. Learn the Laws
You don’t have to understand all the laws concerning your case. Nevertheless, you must understand your rights and read up on what you’re entitled to. A free consultation with an attorney assists you in understanding the process.
During the consultation, the lawyer will present you with general information on the applicable laws that apply to your case.
4. Discuss the Fees and Co
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Most personal injury cases operate on a contingency basis. You don’t pay the lawyer unless you get the compensation. The lawyer normally depends on the outcome of the case. When you lose the case, the lawyer won’t make any money.
Some laws govern the percentage amount injury lawyers should take. Most contingency fee agreements leave the lawyer with 33 % to 45% of the total cash. Your lawyer may decide to send a sliding offer to the party. If they agree, the lawyer takes the cut from the cash.
If the case trial and the outcome favours the victim, the attorney deducts their fee from what the defendant pays.
Carefully review the contingency terms and answer the questions on areas you don’t understand. Let them explain to you in simple terms how everything works.
5. The lawyer Might not Take your Case.
Free consultation doesn’t guarantee you access to a lawyer. A conflict of interest may arise, and they might fail to consider the case. Here are some of the reasons that may prompt this decision.
- The attorney doesn’t handle cases like yours
- The recovery fee is small
- Several attorneys have rejected your case
- Your case statute of limitations has expired
- You are at fault
- Minor injury
- No insurance coverage
If an attorney doesn’t take your case, they might refer you to another lawyer to help you out. If they don’t, you can always ask for one.
Final Thoughts
A free consultation with a personal injury lawyer assists you in making the right choice in your case. Be as thorough as possible in describing your injury. Ask the right questions, answer truthfully. You want to ensure you are represented by the best attorney available to serve your interests.
Also, getting a free consultation doesn’t mean the lawyer will take your case. Different reasons may prompt them to make such a decision. You may be forced to visit several lawyers before getting one.
No matter the situation, settle for an attorney who looks out for your best interests.
