The questions you should ask a personal injury lawyer during a free consultation relate to their experience, track record of success, how they will handle fees and communication, and more. It’s important to hire an attorney who is qualified to help you make the most of your claim, including taking your personal injury case to court if needed.
Your initial consultation is also your chance to evaluate whether you feel comfortable working with the attorney. Here are some of the most important questions to ask before deciding who to hire.
How Much Experience Do You Have With My Type of Case?
Not all personal injury cases are the same. Car accidents, slip and fall cases, and wrongful death claims each have their own legal complexities. Asking about the lawyer’s specific experience with your kind of case can help you understand how familiar they are with the process and what strategies they might use.
You can also ask about their past results or examples of cases similar to yours that they’ve successfully resolved. A lawyer’s track record says a lot about their ability to deliver results.
Who Will Handle My Case Day to Day?
Some law firms assign cases to junior attorneys or paralegals after the initial consultation. It’s important to know whether the lawyer you meet with will be the same person handling your claim or if it will be passed to another member of the team.
Ask how the firm communicates with clients and how often you can expect updates on your case’s progress. Reliable communication helps prevent frustration later on.
What Fees Do You Charge, and How Are They Paid?
Most personal injury lawyers in Tennessee work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything up front, and your lawyer only gets paid if they recover compensation for you.
However, you’ll still want to clarify things like:
- What percentage of the final recovery will be taken as fees
- Whether you’ll owe anything if your case is unsuccessful
- Who pays for expenses such as expert witnesses or court filings
Understanding these details in advance will ensure there are no surprises down the line.
How Long Do You Expect My Case To Take?
While no lawyer can predict the exact timeline, they should be able to give you a general estimate based on your situation. Straightforward cases may settle in a few months, while more complex ones could take a year or longer, especially if litigation becomes necessary.
That said, sometimes it is in your best interest to take your case to court even if that means it will take longer to resolve. In some situations, filing a lawsuit may be the only way to recover the compensation you need and deserve.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Tennessee Personal Injury Lawyer
The best way to find the right lawyer for your case is to come prepared and ask thoughtful questions. A good personal injury attorney will be open and honest in explaining how they can help, allowing you to make a fully informed decision that sets you up for success.
Call Woodard Injury Law today or contact us online to get started with a free consultation. We’re confident that we can help you maximize the value of your claim.