When we’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident, hiring the right legal help can be one of the most important decisions we make. It’s not just about finding someone with legal knowledge; it’s about finding someone who communicates, works with integrity, and understands how to move a case forward efficiently. Asking the right questions early on helps avoid confusion down the road and builds confidence in the process.
How Long Have You Been Handling These Types Of Cases
Experience matters. One of the first things to ask is how long a personal injury lawyer has worked on injury claims like yours. This isn’t just about the number of years they’ve practiced; it’s about how often they’ve worked with similar injuries, case timelines, and insurance company negotiations. An attorney who frequently handles car crash claims, for instance, might approach a slip and fall or workplace injury differently than someone who only takes those on occasionally.
What Is Your Process For Keeping Clients Informed
Clear and regular communication can make a stressful situation more manageable. That’s why it’s helpful to ask how the attorney will keep you updated. Will they call you weekly? Will you be hearing from a paralegal? Will they give you timelines for the steps ahead? If they’re vague or if they downplay the importance of communication, that’s worth considering before signing any agreement.
How Do You Charge For Your Services
Cost is always a factor when deciding who to work with. In most personal injury matters, attorneys work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if your case is successful. But that still leaves room for questions: What percentage will they take from your settlement? Are there any upfront expenses you’ll be responsible for? Will you owe anything if the case isn’t resolved in your favor? These questions can help avoid surprises later on.
Can You Share Results From Similar Cases
While no legal professional can guarantee an outcome, they should be able to speak to the kinds of results they’ve achieved in similar matters. It’s reasonable to ask about recent cases they’ve handled that involve similar injuries or claim types. You’re not looking for promises—just patterns that show they’ve handled situations like yours before and achieved solid results.
What Is Your Initial Assessment Of My Case
Ask for their honest opinion about your situation. A reliable personal injury attorney will offer a clear, measured perspective on your claim’s strengths and weaknesses. If they rush to make promises or talk only about large settlement numbers, it might be worth seeking a second opinion. A thoughtful, realistic assessment often reflects a more deliberate and trustworthy approach.
Attorneys like those at our friends at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. can attest to how much these early conversations matter. When clients ask the right questions upfront, it leads to better alignment, more realistic expectations, and stronger outcomes overall.
If you’re starting to look for legal support after an accident, we encourage you to prepare a list of questions and approach the process with confidence. The more you ask, the more informed you’ll be, and that can make a meaningful difference in your recovery.
